[ 16-06-2007 ]
After some two decades in the entertainment industry, veteran Taiwanese singer-songwriter Emil Chau Wakin talks about what’s most important to him in life and in his work. FOR Taiwanese singer-songwriter Emil Chau Wakin, nothing tops love. “It could be all sorts of love and care. Love between family members, friends, colleagues, and love for your work,” he said when met yesterday. Emil said love was very important in everyone’s life. “Without it, nobody functions well. The feeling of care and love that exists between people is what keeps them going. “It’s a great feeling to know that you’re loved and you have the ability to show your love for another being,” he said, adding that one such example would be his fans’ undivided and unconditional love and support for him over the years. “Without my fans, I would not be who I am today.” For Emil, it was highly important that colleagues got along fine. “Our lives revolve around family and work. Most of the time, we are at work. It is crucial for workmates to get along and care for each other,” he said. “I write, compose, and produce many songs. From music production, record performance, to song writing and so forth. There is a team that works with me. It is vital that a good bond exists between colleagues as only then can excellent outcomes can be achieved. You cannot come to work hating the people you work closely with,” said the 47-year-old. It is not easy for a singer to remain as one of the most-sought-after stars after being in the entertainment industry for two decades. But Emil, who is marking his 20th year in the industry, has proven that he has what it takes to remain popular all these years. “Explore new concepts but keep to your own original style. Never sidetrack from your forte. Try to mix and blend styles. I worked very hard over the years, especially when I first started off. I worked all day and slept only for very few hours. “I wanted to be the winner and king in all genres of music. I explored hip hop, R&B, jazz, basically everything that I found to be new,” he said, adding that anyone in the entertainment business would always want to be the top performer. “The pressure and the worries were just mountain high. It was never-ending but I am glad it all paid off well,” he said. “I’ve toned down a lot. Physically and mentally, I am not able to handle that enormous amount of work pressure any more.” Emil’s normal day now consists of sufficient sleep, exercise (jogging mainly), reading, spending time with his family, teaching his 12-year-old daughter Mathematics, and, of course, eating. “I still go to work and do all the necessary things, but I do just a little less than decades ago. I like to enjoy and live life now. Every moment is a memorable occasion, so live life to the fullest,” he said. Emil also mentioned that he was all for social work. “I feel strongly for the poor and needy, especially children. They are our future and it is sad to see all the negative social issues happening to them, in countries around the world. “When you look at your own children, you see your life extending, your future. You would never want anything bad to happen to your children. The people, government and those in the limelight should play their parts to help those in need,” said Emil, who once did social work for the Singapore National Kidney Foundation, and his wife’s social welfare centre in Taipei, Taiwan, to name a few. “I still contribute and do social work and I urge others to do so too.” Emil, who is well-known for such hits as Friends, Reluctant To Go, Sad Song and I Will Marry You Tomorrow, will be in Kuala Lumpur for his “Wakin 20th Anniversary Live in Malaysia 2007” concert on July 14. “The concert is not only meaningful but also has huge significance for my fans and me. I appreciate their undivided and unconditional support over the years. The concert is a reflection of my two decades in the industry. My fans and I will be sharing a lot of memories and a walk down memory lane on show day,” he said. The concert, organised by the Galaxy Group with Sports Toto and Ogawa as joint presenters, will be held at the Bukit Jalil Putra Indoor Stadium in Kuala Lumpur. |  
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