Taiwanese ‘pop tear-jerker of all time’ tries chick rock
Print Edition
Taiwanese singer Aska Yang has been called “pop tear-jerker of all time” by his fans. That’s a good thing.
Yang has been singled out by Johathan Lee, Taiwan’s “godfather of pop” for his charm and distinctive attitude. Singer songwriter Lee rediscovered Yang when he was in the doldrums and they cooperated on successful romantic albums. Lee produced Yang’s albums “First Love” and “Pure.”
Today 35-year-old Yang, who always seems shy and smiling, has received many awards. He is among the very few singers who performed at almost all major ceremonies in Taiwan, including the Golden Bell Awards, Golden Melody Awards and Golden Horse Awards.
Earlier this week in Shanghai, Yang released his new EP “Shining” performed in chick rock style. It’s described as a heartwarming description of Yang’s own efforts to pursue his music career.
Yang shot to stardom overnight in 2007 after appearing in the Taiwanese singing contest “One Million Stars.”
Shortly afterward he was involved in a contract dispute with his manager and he slipped from the public eye for almost two years. It was dark and confusing period in which Yang’s confidence also slipped.
In 2010 Yang’s talent was rediscovered by Jonathan Lee who relaunched his career. Yang’s romantic interpretation of Lee’s songs was praised.
Celebrated Taiwan music producer Yao Chien praised Yang, saying there are many singers with good voices and talent, “but few have a distinctive musical attitude, style and personality.”
Q: You studied guidance and counseling at college. When did you turn to music?
A: I was born into a traditional family. My childhood dream was to become an astronaut. But in middle school, I loved to listen to music. I wrote down the lyrics but I was too shy to sing in front of people. It wasn’t until college that I took part in singing contests with the encouragement of my teacher and classmates.
Q: What’s the message of “Shining?”
A: I used to sing a lot of romantic and sensational pop songs. “Shining” is very different in its inherent power and energy. It is a song about youth and dreams, and possibilities for anyone to achieve success. It also encourages people to be themselves, express themselves and face life’s challenges.
Q: “Youth is as splendid as fire” is a line in the song. What about your own youth?
A: Youth is usually the best time of one’s life. It is a pity that I didn’t have a lot of exciting memories and experiences at that time. That is a reason why I enjoy stage performance at my age. It gives me a strong feeling of youth. So for young people, it is a time to be cherished and to try new things.
Q: Do you have non-music goals?
A: A lot of things! I am considering learning diving and dancing. I will also present complicated dance moves on stage in my tour concerts next year.
Q: Jonathan Lee has praised you highly. How do you view him?
A: Lee is a mentor to me. I am grateful to him. His positive and strict attitude toward music has a big influence on me. I have learned from him that to be a good singer, you have to be very devoted and focused.
Q: What’s your attitude toward music?
A: Singing can affect the feelings and emotions of the audience. So I should be responsible for each of my songs. I don’t sing for awards. In the future I want to create classic songs that have the magic of healing emotional wounds and giving people new confidence.
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