Taipei, June 24 (CNA) Pop diva A-mei on Saturday paid tribute to her friend, the late music legend Chang Yu-sheng, with moving performances of his songs at the Golden Melody Awards in Taipei.
A-mei, dressed in black, gave an emotional performance of Chang's popular songs, including "Miss You Everyday," "I Thought You Knew" and "Regardless" before the late singer-songwriter was posthumously awarded the Special Contribution Award at Taiwan's premier music awards.
"Although he (Chang) is no longer with us, his works live on. They have not only moved fans, but inspired musicians after him," Matilda Tao, a singer and TV host who was also a close friend of Chang's, said while introducing Chang's life on stage.
"Yu-sheng was never forgotten because he never gave up pursuing his dreams," she said.
Chang's mother Chang Hui-mei said the award was especially meaningful for her family and thanked everyone who supported her son.
"We hope that Yu-sheng will continue to be by everyone's side," she said.
Chang was one of the two recipients of the Special Contribution Award on Saturday. He was regarded as one of the most talented artists of Mandarin music, with a range of musical styles, wide vocal range and avant-garde music compositions.
His music is considered to be timeless and highly influential on the Mandarin music scene, inspiring performers such as the rock band Mayday.
The late singer was best known for songs such as "My Future is not a Dream" and "The Sea." His lyrics often highlighted his concern about social issues, disadvantaged people, animals and the environment.
He produced A-mei's first two albums and was credited with helping to launch the pop diva's successful music career. He died at the age of 31 in a car accident in 1997.
The Special Contribution Award was also awarded to 81-year-old Taiwanese singer Chi Lu-shyia, who thanked her fans for their love and support.
"Time has passed so quickly. I've been singing for 63 years now," Chi said. "Singing is the best exercise for our health. If you all don't mind, I hope to continue singing."
Chi has released more than 1,000 Mandarin and Hokkien-language songs since the 1950s and is known for her classic pieces such as "Longing For Your Early Return" and "Lonely Flower."
