Veteran Singer Bao Shan Shares Deep Reflections on His Retirement Years

Bao Shan, the legendary "Treasure Island Singer" who rose to fame with the hit "Tears of a Flower," is reflecting on his enduring music career at the age of 81. Even after an injury led him to step back from the stage, singing remains his sole focus.

His journey began not with pop music, but with a dedication to classical vocal training, an unusual pursuit for a young man earning a modest salary. This rigorous training, however, provided him with a solid foundation for his singing. A pivotal moment arrived during his military service when he was asked to sing for a film. This led to a recording session and an introduction to a record label. His initial meeting with the label's boss was famously clumsy, ending with him needing stitches after walking into a glass door, a scar that marked the dramatic start of his entertainment career.

After his military service, Bao Shan began performing at a popular歌廳 (singing hall), where his income significantly increased. His hit song "Tears of a Flower" propelled him to stardom, making him a prominent singer on the "Stars Gathering" show and a pioneer in overseas tours for Chinese music. His performances across Southeast Asia, Europe, and Australia drew massive crowds, comparable to today's top pop stars.

Despite signing a lucrative eight-year contract with a Hong Kong film company and starring in over ten movies, Bao Shan prioritized his voice. He chose to forgo acting, which often required late nights that could affect his singing, even if it meant losing money by breaking his contract. This unwavering commitment to his craft has ensured his music's lasting appeal. He remains passionate about old Mandarin songs, cherishes fan interactions, and, despite physical limitations from a past fall, expresses a desire to return to the stage, stating he would perform even without pay for a good band and venue.

“

If there is a good band and venue, I am willing to sing even without remuneration!