October 31,2007
Inspiration from leehom
I try not to discuss my relationships or personal life because I respect the other person. I don't want her to become the headline of some gossip news. I'm not the kind of artist who uses his personal life to promote himself. If some people think they can survive in the industry by utilizing these tactics, that's their decision. If it's the only thing they've got, they won't be able to last long in the business.
The fact that I like music is completely out of sync with my family background. My dad is a doctor. My older brother is a doctor. They hoped I would become a doctor too. But why do I like music? I guess there is no real “why,” no particular reason. I like it because I like it.
What is my expectation? I think it's freedom. Creative freedom. I understand that it's difficult for music that's too idealistic to find an audience. But on the other hand, I don't want my songs to be solely played in karaoke. There should be a balance. I'm not a just a singer. I'm a musician who composes and produces, for myself and others. I have introduced many different elements to my music that is not found in standard pop music. I don't want to sing a song when someone tells me to sing it. What I want to sing – is my own song.
After September 11, my attitude towards things started to change. I started seeing things farther into the future. I'm not sure why, but at the time I thought a lot about the environment, animals, and anti-war issues. So when I was invited by National Geographic last year to see the white dolphins, it felt especially meaningful.
Q: Ideally what do you consider the most enjoyable time to spend with your lover? “No pretence. I can be myself and be loved.”
Q: After becoming a public figure, there must be some unpleasantness behind all the glory. What is the most you have gained and lost after entering the industry? “The most I gained is that there are lots of ears listening to my songs, my music. This is the most important to me because I make music to share with others. What I lost is time. There is a high demand of time for this job. So I'm always traveling, so there is less time for myself or to see my family and friends.”
To me, music is like when a bee sees honey – there is a remarkable attraction. My parents supported me to learn instruments as a child. Lots of my relatives and friends also love music. For them, music can be a lifelong hobby. However that is not all I want. I want to specialize in music instead of medicine.
For Chinese in the American society, there is not always fair treatment. We need to be twice as strong as they are to be competitive. With the traditional value in mind, many young Chinese-Americans knew what they wanted to do, yet were afraid of letting their parents down. In the end they may not end up with a career of their choice.
I'm glad that I made the right choice. People must have dreams. Even if it's not close within reach, do not give up or settle with reality.
People have become more and more appreciative of my music. That's right, I shouldn't call you all fans anymore; it should be friends. And I remember the mainland China fan club is called
"Our Home.” It feels great. Although I don't care how many people appreciate my music, if my music can provide everyone a home, it makes me feel really happy.
Before my high school graduation, I faced such a struggle. My older brother studied medicine, and my grades were good enough to apply for medicine as well. “Why not?” My mom asked. She told me studying music is so unrealistic. I gave in and chose to major in medicine, while still electing courses in jazz piano.
My grades were ok in my freshmen year, but I felt forced. This is not what I wanted to do. I know if I put my mind to it, I can definitely finish these studies. But in the process I would have lost my happiness.
That year I had the chance to release an album in Taiwan . My parents were not against it. They looked at it as a part-time job and told me “not to have high expectations.” But my desire for music grew stronger and stronger. For my second album, I wrote 8 songs and participated in the arrangement. I felt excited like a fish back in the water.
In my sophomore year while confirming a major, I built the courage and told my parents I wanted to study music. I told them even if I cannot find a job and have no money in the future, I will accept it because I will be happy. Of course my parents did not immediately agree to such an important decision. They consulted uncle Lee Chen-Fu in detail. Uncle Lee said a lot. In particular he mentioned that “unlike the US , there is no big drug problem among the Taiwan music industry.” My parents felt less concerned and finally agreed.
After receiving my college degree, one day mom said to me, “I can finally stop worrying about you.” She saw that I had found what I wanted, and had some success. I felt relieved since she had done so much for me.
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