This political control of the Chinese art scene was nothing new. Communist politicians had controlled art production and artists since the People’s Republic of China was established in 1949. Traditional Chinese art did not completely disappear during the Cultural Revolution, it simply adapted to the circumstances and political ideology of the time. Paintings, calligraphy, and music were used for propaganda by the reigning politicians.
During the Cultural Revolution all works of art were required to advocate the glory of Communist China and Mao Zedong. The lyrics in music and opera sang the praises of the communist ideals against a contemporary and sometimes military rhythm. Some of the more common themes were economic success, adulation of Chairman Mao Zedong and other prominent communists, anti-imperialist fight, the people’s happiness and the power of the Chinese army.