It isn’t easy to make your mark in the entertainment industry. Nowadays, it’s easier to attract attention with the various streaming platforms online. However, back then, you had to hope your talent would get noticed and a company would pick you up. Artist Jordan Chan (陳小春) knows that very well.
Jordan has been experiencing a string of successes, thanks to ranking first on variety show “Call Me By Fire (披荆斩棘的哥哥)”. However, Jordan’s music career didn’t quite take off, at least until Taiwanese singer Jay Chou (周杰倫) stepped in.
Jordan debuted 30 years ago, not with acting or singing, but by dancing. In 1985, he enrolled in the TVB Dancers’ Training Class which was his entry into the industry. However, somewhere along the way, Jordan became known for his acting, rather than his other talents. Of course, Jordan tried his best to expand in other areas, such as music. He actually created a group with artist Jason Chu (朱永棠) and Michael Tse (谢天华) called “Wind, Fire, Sea (风火海)”. However, it was short-lived.
Shortly after they disbanded, Jordan went solo but he made less music. He started to believe he wasn’t a professional musician. He also felt his development in the music industry was limited by several factors. Jordan came close to giving up on the music scene completely. Yet, everything changed for Jordan, thanks to Jay Chou.
In 2003, the Taiwanese singer-rapper composed a song for Jordan, titled “Face the World (獻世)”. The Cantonese-Pop song became an instant hit. In fact, this was the song that won him an award during the Taiwanese Music Awards Ceremony. The song did more than win him an award however, it afforded him a break in his music career. He jumpstarted his career again and firmly decided against leaving the music world.
Jordan has thanked Jay Chou repeatedly in public. After all, without him, it is uncertain if Jordan would have stayed in the music industry. Additionally, Jay Chou has composed several other songs for Jordan since then, such as “Hug (抱一抱)”, “Er Leng Zhi (二愣子)” and “I love people (我爱旳人)”.
Their collaboration has brought much joy to many but most of all to Jordan himself. We look forward to hearing more from him now that “Call Me By Fire” is over! Check out Jay Chou performing Jordan’s song here:
Sources: China Press, Sina, YouTube
