From the chart of popular songs, can be sensed the pulse of a nation, to paraphrase an ancient Chinese musicological theory. Leaders should therefore be alert when uplifting tunes begin to give way to decadent melodies nationwide.

Chinese history books are never short of anecdotes about music-savvy individuals testing the theory with a kingdom's fortune.

Watch the video for the story of a wise man whose musical critique has enshrined him in the pantheon of ancient Chinese statesmen.