Abstract
Different channels of nonverbal behavior can serve important functions in live music performances. In this paper, we look at cross-channel nonverbal behavior in a Chinese freestyle rap battle, investigating what categories of nonverbal behavior are used and what functions these behaviors are serve. Using the theoretical frameworks of dyadic power theory and the coordination of verbal and nonverbal behaviors, we analyzed four video clips of two Chinese rappers in a freestyle rap battle. We found that nonverbal behaviors were crucial to helping them articulate the verbal content of their raps, displaying power and exerting dominance. Theoretical implications were discussed. © 2023 Western States Communication Association.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 1-25 |
| Number of pages | 25 |
| Journal | Western Journal of Communication |
| Volume | 89 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| Online published | 21 Dec 2023 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2025 |
Research Keywords
- Chinese Freestyle Rap Battles
- Coordination of Verbal and Nonverbal Behaviors
- Dyadic Power Theory
- Hip Hop
Publisher's Copyright Statement
- COPYRIGHT TERMS OF DEPOSITED POSTPRINT FILE: This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in WESTERN JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION on 21 Dec 2023, available online: https://doi.org/10.1080/10570314.2023.2257638.