The historic rise of Khmer hip‑hop: ‘Rise for Khmer’ takes over the legendary stage of Salle Pleyel in Paris
- Editorial team
- 11 minutes ago
- 3 min read
"Paris, the world cultural capital, is preparing to host an event of historic significance: for the first time in contemporary Cambodian history, the new Cambodian artistic generation is set to take the legendary stage of the Salle Pleyel.
This iconic venue, which previously hosted the illustrious Royal Ballet of Cambodia, will open its doors to the vibrant and avant-garde energy of Khmer youth through the concert event 'Rise for Khmer.'
Far from clichés, this event is part of an ambitious international outreach effort, aiming to project onto the global stage the exceptional dynamism and creativity of contemporary artistic scenes in Cambodia.
The New Voices of the Kingdom: Vannda, Vanthan, and the New Urban Scene
Featured are a constellation of talents redefining urban music in Southeast Asia: Vannda, Vanthan, Norith, Yuuhai, and Suzana.
Driven by a wave of hip-hop and pop that skillfully fuses traditional influences with impactful modern sounds, this new generation embodies boldness and cultural rebirth. Vannda, as the leader, is already an essential figure whose popularity surpasses borders.
He notably performed on major platforms, such as at the closing ceremony of the recent Olympic Games in Paris, showcasing the global impact of modern Khmer music.
These artists, often stemming from a dynamic production ecosystem like Baramey Production and supported by major event players like Sabay, use their art to build a bridge between generations and establish a dialogue between Phnom Penh and the rest of the world.
A Cultural Offensive Supported by Pillars of the Khmer Economy
The scale of the event is reinforced by the engagement of Cambodia's economic elite and diaspora. The 'Rise for Khmer' concert benefits from the support of major sponsors, illustrating the convergence between the private sector and cultural diplomacy.
Supporting entities include:
Royal Group: one of Cambodia’s most dynamic and diversified conglomerates, whose backing confirms the strategic importance of the event for the Kingdom’s image.
OCIC (Overseas Cambodia Investment Corporation): a key player in infrastructure development (airports, new cities, bridges), seeing in this concert an extension of its commitment to building and promoting 'today’s Phnom Penh' on the global stage.
Chip Mong Land: a leading real estate firm, partnering in this project to emphasize modernity and quality of life in a growing Cambodia.
The involvement of these economic giants, alongside important diaspora figures in France and the United States, gives this initiative legitimacy and power that go beyond mere spectacle. It is recognition that soft power and artistic expression are now essential drivers of national influence.
A Launch Commensurate with National Ambition
The official announcement of this event took place during a spectacular press conference in the heart of Phnom Penh, on the top floor of the Wing Tower. The choice of this venue, offering an impressive panoramic view of the modern capital, was no coincidence: it perfectly symbolizes today’s Cambodia, looking towards the future, dynamic, and ready to rise.
The conference brought together leaders of sponsor entities, diaspora representatives, and key media players, all united by the same ambition: to make this concert a success and to inscribe Khmer contemporary art durably in the international cultural landscape.
The 'Rise for Khmer' concert at the Salle Pleyel is not just a show, it is a manifesto. It testifies that, strong in its history and heritage, the Cambodian youth is more determined than ever to shape the future and to make its voice heard on the world’s greatest stages."
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