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Debut singer rejected for being 'too dark' faces ban! Guo Zhongyou reveals 6-year slump, turns to live streaming for comeback

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Singer Guo Zhongyou faced a six-year career slump after being rejected for being too dark-skinned, a situation he likened to the band Power Station.
  • His song "Bi Xun" unexpectedly went viral on Douyin, amassing tens of millions of views and topping KTV charts while he was ill.
  • Guo's career took off after he started live streaming, which led to acting roles and further opportunities.

Singer Guo Zhongyou described a six-year career slump after his debut, during which he was rejected by programs for his dark complexion. He likened his situation to that of the band Power Station, questioning if their skin tone would also be a reason for exclusion. Guo's breakthrough came unexpectedly while he was recovering from an illness. His song "Bi Xun," released over a year prior with little fanfare, suddenly became a massive hit on Douyin, garnering tens of millions of views and reaching the top of KTV charts.

Guo's journey began with a loss in a high school competition due to nervousness, but he later regained confidence by winning a local contest. After signing a contract, he endured a prolonged period of difficulty for six to seven years. When he sought advice on driving a taxi, a senior advised him against it and instead encouraged him to try live streaming in Taichung.

Did you also say they were too dark?

— Guo ZhongyouGuo Zhongyou questioning why he was rejected for his skin tone, comparing his situation to the band Power Station.

A red envelope, a traditional gift of money, marked a turning point. Guo started his own live streams, and within months, he was earning a six-figure income. He then proactively enrolled in performance and vocal coaching classes. His career truly took flight when he was cast in the popular eight o'clock drama "Golden Years."

The article also touches on the experiences of other singers. Zeng Weizhong competed for five years, facing multiple eliminations and military service, before winning "Star of Tomorrow." Zhang Wenqi was signed before completing twenty challenges and is the only singer on the show pursuing a dance-pop route. She unexpectedly found a path into hosting after a fan asked her to sign a non-album single, prompting her to engage the crowd. Later, during a performance where the music cut out, she humorously improvised to keep the show going.

This song "Bi Xun" became popular on Douyin, and the MV views exceeded 10 million. KTV song selection directly reached the championship.

— Guo ZhongyouGuo Zhongyou describing the viral success of his song 'Bi Xun'.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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