My favorite pop idol

I attended a Joker Xue concert when I was just 8 years old. Back then, I was too young to fully grasp the meanings behind his performance. My memory of that night is hazy, with one vivid recollection of a man seated behind me enthusiastically singing along to nearly 40 songs. It wasn’t until the final song of the concert that something remarkable happened; I saw the man burst into tears, leaving me puzzled about the depth of his emotional connection with the singer.

Following that unforgettable concert, I became a devoted fan of Xue. Initially, it was his charismatic stage presence that drew me in, but it was his poignant lyrics, particularly those expressing a deep compassion and devotion to one’s beloved, that truly captured my heart.

I also learned about the challenges Xue faced, such as performing with an inflamed tonsil and a fever. Knowing he couldn’t continue singing, Xue took the stage, explained the situation to his audience, and arranged for another artist to step in. Not only did he reimburse fans for their travel expenses, but he also organized a special concert for those inconvenienced by the last-minute change.

He mentored a nobody into a renowned performer, emphasizing that in this digital age, anyone with true talent can achieve success. Xue’s acts of kindness extended beyond the stage; sometimes, he even arranged transportation for fans stranded at remote concert venues. It was his ritual to kneel on the stage at the end of each show, expressing gratitude to his supporters.

Eight years later, at another concert, I found myself seated near the stage. His presence ignited an indescribable feeling within me that was purely genuine. As the concert neared its conclusion, he approached our section and knelt down.

This time, like the man I met on my first live concert performed by Xue, I burst into tears myself and understood the impact of Xue’s music and performances.