Folk Song Master Han Zheng-hao Laid to Rest at Sea; Wife Shares Heartbreak

Taiwanese music has lost a pioneer with the passing of Han Zheng-hao, a veteran musician celebrated as the "master of folk songs." Han died on April 30 after a long battle with illness. His wife of many years, Zhong Shaolan, shared the news and details of his sea burial through their joint Facebook page, "Han Zheng-hao and Zhong Shaolan's Music Diary." Her poignant posts conveyed deep sorrow and love for her late husband. "I am so tired, my heart is so tired," Zhong wrote, describing the sea burial ceremony held under a clear sky. "The paper boat carrying him sails on the gentle waves... tears are surging in my heart." She expressed her profound sense of loss, stating, "He is truly gone. Alone, I truly feel that in this world, there is no longer the 'love' and 'pampering' he gave me." Han Zheng-hao was instrumental in popularizing the campus folk song movement in Taiwan. His notable compositions include "Mu Qing" (Longing), "Gu Xiang Qing" (Hometown Feelings), "Qing Ren Jie De Zao Chen" (Valentine's Morning), and "Tian Kong Yi Ran Xia Zhe Yu" (The Sky Is Still Raining). His contributions hold a significant place in the history of Taiwanese folk music. Han and Zhong were a renowned musical couple, often referred to as the "Condor Heroes" of the folk song scene, known for their long-standing creative partnership and joint performances. Zhong Shaolan's heartfelt farewell has deeply moved fans and colleagues, underscoring the enduring impact of Han Zheng-hao's musical legacy.

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I am so tired, my heart is so tired. Although the sea burial ceremony was held under a clear sky, with the beautiful sea scenery escorting him, I am grateful that heaven allowed the warm, sunny love to block the tears I wanted to shed. The paper boat carries him on the gentle waves... tears are surging in my heart.