Last weekend marked a triumphant return of F3 to our local shores as Jerry Yan, Vanness Wu, Vic Chou, together with Mayday’s Ashin, held their “F✦FOREVER First World Tour” in Kuala Lumpur. It’s been 23 years since F3 last performed here together as a quartet.
As the lights dimmed, it was clear that F✦FOREVER wasn’t just another reunion concert. Rather, it was a meeting point of who F3 once were, the men they’ve grown into and the generation that journey alongside them.
Coincidentally, Vanness turned 48 on 7th August. The night kicked off with “Always Be My Bro” and “Waiting Here For You”. As the singers slowed down to interact with fans, Ashin asked, “I sensed extra excitement from the audience today. Is there something you’d like to express?” Fans joined in as a chorus to sing “Happy Birthday” before Vanness blew out the candles on the large birthday cake.
The elaborate set featured a four-directional star-shaped stage that allowed the stars to move beyond the traditional front-facing concert setup. Cutting-edge lighting and expansive visual sequences transformed Unifi Arena into something resembling a celestial theatre. Yet, the most precious and memorable moments were when Jerry, Vanness, Ashin, and Vic came down stage to interact with fans at the VIP zones.
The four members generously offered multiple fan services as they shook hands, made hand hearts, obliged for selfies, hugged fans and blew kisses to the camera. At one point, fans even spotted Vanness showing affection to his newly-wedded wife, Emi Aramaki, by using both hands to form a heart shape above his head.
Seated in the VIP box, the Japanese beauty spotted her hubby’s lovely gesture and playfully sent a heart right back. It was one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments, but eagle-eyed fans were quick to catch the sweet exchange between the couple. It was subtle, spontaneous and utterly endearing.
Emi has quietly made her presence felt on the tour before, too, making a low-key appearance when F3 recently performed in Bangkok. So when it came to Vanness’ birthday, we had a feeling she wouldn’t be celebrating from afar. Some moments are simply too special to miss.
The concert works because F✦FOREVER doesn’t try to compress four personalities into one nostalgic package. Each star gets his moment to shine. Vanness Wu brought the electricity with dance-heavy performances, swagger, and high energy. Vic Chou occupied a quieter space. He drew the audience in with songs associated with his acting career and solo work.
Jerry Yan remained the emotional centre of gravity. It seemed like the 49-year-old hunk is less interested in recreating the idol image than in connecting to the longtime fans who have remained loyal. Then there was Ashin. Having just performed here with Mayday a few months ago, it was satisfying to witness the frontman add his rock flair to F✦FOREVER. Together, the contrast worked.
There was an ease between the four performers. They teased one another. They shared the stage. They gave each other space. Beyond the screams, singalongs, and spectacle, it was such a joy to see Vanness, Vic, and Jerry sharing one stage again. “Forever Forever” and the nostalgic “Meteor Rain” felt less like an ending than a gentle goodbye to a chapter that never quite closed.
