I’ve been fascinated by new pop-singer Alan Dawazhuoma’s single “Ashita He No Sanka” which I’m assuming means “Song for Tomorrow.”

Alan hails from Tibet, but studied at the China National Chinese Opera and Dance Drama Company. She was scouted by Avex, the Japanese label for which Koda Kumi sings, and released her first single at the end of last year.

You have to get through the very J-pop beginning to the song, and then, when she wails (starting around 2:25), she really goes for it in that chilling, classical Chinese opera way (the effect of her voice at 5:30 and onward is almost visceral). The blog Channel-Ai gives a lovely, detailed review of the track. In the opening, she invokes the elements—-land, sea, nature—-then proceeds to point out disasters—-global warming—-before pointing out that music is shared by all people.

Yes, she has an accent because he is just learning Japanese. And frankly, she’s a hell of a lot more talented than that other foreign import, Leah Dizon. Lest you think Alan’s high notes are fully processed, here she is live.

Considering the struggles between China and Tibet, perhaps you’ll consider supporting Alan’s music in some way. Yes, I know it’s a very small thing to do in the face of a life and death struggle. One suspects that with her dual heritage, she’ll be in agony over the violence.

If you haven’t had enough, here she is in her comrade outfit and showing off her virtuosic musical skills. The scenery is also gorgeous.

Finally, here is Alan with comrade Han Hong, also ethnically Tibetan. There are so many fascinating things about this video–from the enthusiastic uniform wearing youths, to Han Hong’s freakishly musical voice . . . it feels like a rare peek into a true cultural experience.

Please listen to Han Hong at 2:48 and again at 3:51. Her embellishments are virtuosic.