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Russian expat exudes positivity through songs during lockdown in Guangzhou, China

Xinhua | Updated:2021-06-23

As Amosov Gennady plucked the guitar strings, his heart seemed to heal in no time.

"My test is negative. That's why I'm staying positive," the 29-year-old Russian hummed these lines with a look of relief on his face.

"My test is negative, green as a grass. What about yours?" He continued.

Due to the recent resurgence of COVID-19 cases in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, Gennady has been in home quarantine for more than 10 days. During this time, he has developed a passion for writing songs in Chinese and English to buck himself up.

"I'm now working from home, reading and playing music," Gennady said in a recent interview with Xinhua.

His songs cover themes that resonate with the times -- loss and confusion, as well as hope for the future and reunion.

The songs have gone viral after Gennady posted them on social media.

Praise and gratitude for Gennady flooded in from many netizens. "I also live in Guangzhou, and I feel a lot better after listening to your songs," one follower named Aiqi commented.

Echoing similar thoughts, another netizen Xiaoman said she was "touched by the positive energy."

Talking about his songs that have gained traction recently, Gennady said he "did not have a plan on writing music, let alone became famous." "I was just sitting there, playing the guitar and singing."

Gennady, who works as a representative of a Russian winery, also shared glimpses of his personal life. During his work in China, he fell in love with a Chinese girl and they got married in 2018.

"My wife is my first audience, and she gives advice on polishing the songs," he said.

Gennady added that his favorite line in the songs is what he believes to be the most positive message for anyone listening.

While his residential compound was locked down, Gennady said he was "not nervous" as the "orderly management of the community" made him feel at ease.

"There is a supermarket in our compound, and it sells food online," he said. "I've been living in Guangzhou for more than seven years and I am familiar with shopping online."

To contain the spread of the virus, Guangzhou has conducted over 36 million nucleic acid tests, with many people undergoing tests multiple times.

Gennady said he was really impressed by the orderly arrangements.

"When you see the huge line, you think that it will take hours. But, it takes you less than 15 minutes. I think it is efficient," he said. "The Chinese government is doing its best to support people here."

Inspired by many volunteers, Gennady joined a community volunteer team to help with epidemic prevention and control efforts.

"Volunteers often stand for a whole day. They work very hard. And I want to join them, hoping that my contribution could help others as well," he said.


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