Files
Download Full Text (22 KB)
Abstract
The Eightfold Path is an alternative hip-hop project by Ye Kang, inspired by the Buddhist philosophy of the Noble Eightfold Path, which emphasizes ethical living, meditation, and the cultivation of wisdom—principles believed to generate good karma and reduce suffering. This project uses this idea as a creative framework, merging it with personal storytelling to further explore themes of identity, spirituality, cultural duality, and inner growth. The project navigates through the life of a Chinese-born artist living in contemporary America. The music blends raw, emotional vocal delivery with a hybrid production style—integrating classic hip-hop sampling techniques with modern electronic production approaches and traditional Chinese instrumentation. The purpose of the project is to serve as a musical and cultural bridge between East and West, past and present, aiming to create an introspective and immersive experience for the listeners.
Publication Date
7-1-2025
Campus
New York City Campus
Specialization
Songwriting and Production
Recommended Citation
Kang, Yexin. “The Eightfold Path.” Master's thesis, Berklee College of Music, 2025. https://remix.berklee.edu/graduate-studies-cmat/144.