China's rock pioneer is set to rock the Beijing Pop Festival. That's right. Cui Jian is the latest addition to the festival's star-studded lineup.

The celebrated "godfather of Chinese rock music," has decided to call off an August concert to better prepare for the festival, the Beijing Times reported, citing the event's organizer who revealed the performance list on Monday.

It will be the Beijing musician's first time to play an outdoor music gala held at his home, the festival's website claims.

The two-day pop festival, opening on September 8, will feature a "Rock for China" stage.

Cui Jian will head a slew of Chinese rock musicians. Among them are Grunge veteran Xie Tianxiao, and leading Chinese punk bands Brain Failure and Joyside.

Meanwhile, US industrial rock gurus Nine Inch Nails are set to lead a galaxy of international acts.

Festival organizer said Trent Reznor, lead member of Nine Inch Nails, "cannot wait" to share with Chinese fans their latest music, by bringing a mega-amount - 15 tons - of equipment for the show.

Other international performers include: New York Dolls, Brett Anderson, ex-member of the British rock band Suede, and Marky Ramone, ex-drummer of the highly influential punk rock band The Ramones.

Tickets are on sale, with a one-day entry of 200 yuan (US$26.4) and a 2-day pass 380 yuan.
 
(CRI.cn July 31, 2007)