Musician Huang Ta-wei dies at 61; friends recall his support for Taiwanese films

Veteran musician Huang Ta-wei, known for his passionate support of Taiwanese cinema and his musical talent, died in Honolulu, Hawaii, on June 2 at the age of 61. While the family has not disclosed the specific cause of death, Huang had a history of heart problems, having been hospitalized for heart failure four years ago.

His passing has prompted widespread mourning within the entertainment industry. Golden Bell Award-winning host Chen Kai-lun shared his grief, recalling his interactions with Huang not through frequent private meetings, but through Huang's involvement in stage musicals and his enthusiastic support for Taiwanese films. Chen remembered Huang frequently buying out entire screenings for directors like Tsai Ming-liang and Qu Chuan-li, which led to their encounters.

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I never imagined that this small gesture of goodwill I treasured then would become the most precious farewell gift.

Chen Kai-lun shared a photo from their last movie outing a year ago, along with a rare, non-sale single CD titled "Jia Wu" (甲午) that Huang had given him. "I never imagined that this small gesture of goodwill I treasured then would become the most precious farewell gift," Chen said, expressing his heartbreak and the need to accept that his friend had completed his life's journey.

Beyond mourning Huang, Chen Kai-lun also expressed concern for Huang's girlfriend, Vicky, who is also navigating recovery from cancer. Chen noted that Vicky had consistently read his articles and offered encouragement via WeChat over the years, developing a friendship through their shared experiences with illness. He stated that his immediate concern is for Vicky's health and emotional well-being, and he is praying for her. Chen offered his final respects to Huang, wishing "May there still be music in heaven. And on Earth, may people still remember your singing and your loyalty."

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May there still be music in heaven. And on Earth, may people still remember your singing and your loyalty.