Li Shuangjiang talks to Xinhua reporter. (Photo credit: Xinhua)

(BEIJING, Feb. 29) -- In an exclusive interview with acclaimed Chinese vocalist Li Shuangjiang, a reporter with Xinhua News Service was able to elicit important information from him regarding the musical makeup of the Beijing Olympic Games.

According to Li, early on, the BOCOG decided to call upon the people to submit suggestions for Olympic-themed music. On April 15, 2003, the first round of the Olympic Songfest began. 2007 saw the start of the fourth and last round; all submissions must be postmarked by March 10, 2008.

In the four years since the start of these activities, over 2,000 music experts worldwide participated, along with 50,000 ordinary citizens, amounting to a staggering 70,000 songs submitted so far.

Li believes that Olympic songs should have unique Chinese characteristics, reflecting China's harmonious socio-economic development. They should also emulate the Olympic spiritual ideas of understanding, friendship, and equality. Only songs that incorporate both Chinese and international elements will be welcomed by people the world over.

The Olympic song will be decided upon through popular vote by Chinese and foreign experts. On the 100-day countdown to the Olympic Games, final decisions will be revealed.

Numerous famous musicians have put their skills in the mix. Andy Lau, Coco Lee, and Jay Chow, among other artists have composed or performed songs specifically created to celebrate the Games.