Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution and current state of the Chinese folk music scene, particularly focusing on the impact of popular songs like "South of the South" and the artists behind them, highlighting the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success [4][11][20]. Group 1: Popularity of Folk Music - The peak popularity of folk music occurred between 2013 and 2017, largely due to the "Folk Music Three Illusions" represented by songs like "South of the South" [6][14]. - The rise of folk music was significantly influenced by television shows, with "South of the South" gaining fame through performances on "The Voice of China" [8][11]. - Folk music's mainstream success has led to a perception that it lacks depth, with artists like Ma Di expressing discomfort with their most popular works [11][19]. Group 2: The Dichotomy of Folk Music - The article contrasts the concepts of "circulation" and "popularity" in folk music, suggesting that while folk music has become popular, it may not reflect the true essence of the genre [12][13]. - Artists like Ma Di and Zhao Lei have moved away from their earlier hits, seeking to create music that resonates more deeply with their artistic values rather than commercial trends [20][19]. - The influx of new artists into the folk scene has led to a proliferation of songs that mimic earlier hits, further complicating the genre's evolution [18][19]. Group 3: Challenges Facing Folk Music - The article notes that while folk music has enjoyed periods of popularity, it faces challenges in maintaining relevance against genres like rock and rap, which have seen a resurgence [24][25]. - The technical aspects of folk music are often criticized, with the genre perceived as easier to produce compared to rock or rap, leading to a decline in its artistic credibility [27][29]. - Despite efforts to revitalize folk music through various platforms, such as the "Our Folk Music" show, the genre struggles to capture the same audience engagement as other music styles [26][30].