[Yuan Weiren Passes Away] 'Conquer' Still Sung Today, Na Ying Mourns Deeply

Yuan Weiren began his early career as a member of a singing duo, and also participated in producing works for many big-name divas, including Na Ying, Faye Wong, Sammi Cheng, and others. The album 'Conquer' not only earned Na Ying her first Golden Melody Award nomination for Best Female Singer, but the song 'Conquer,' composed by Yuan Weiren, is still widely sung today. Now, with the shocking news of Yuan Weiren’s passing, Na Ying has also expressed her sorrow and mourning.

Yuan Weiren collaborated with Na Ying many times in the past — 'Conquer,' 'After Awakening from a Dream,' and 'A Dream' all came from his hand. His profound melodies and emotional lyrics shaped the style of “Na-style love songs.” However, 'Conquer' was actually inspired by Yuan Weiren’s own heartbreak. Unexpectedly, under the interpretation of Na Ying, who was experiencing similar emotions, the song received wide acclaim. Na Ying once summed up their connection: “When you (Yuan Weiren) wrote these lyrics, it was a time when your life had problems. When I sang your song and expressed your music, it was a time when I had problems in my life.” This illustrates how well matched they were musically.

Although Yuan Weiren had been ill in bed for over 7 years and 'Conquer' was released 28 years ago, the golden hits from their collaborations are still sung today. For this reason, Na Ying’s studio also posted its condolences on the 2nd: “Thank you for bringing so much wonderful music. In another world, keep playing the guitar and singing. Xiaopang (Little Fatty), have a good journey.”

In addition, Yuan Weiren was instrumental in forming the girl group “S.H.E.”, and Ella (Chen Chia-Hua) burst into tears upon hearing the bad news. Through sobs she said, “Mr. Xiaopang always held an important place in my heart. Back then, I even bought his album. I'm very grateful for all his care over the years.” Hebe (Tian Fuzhen) also paid tribute on social media by sharing Yuan Weiren's composition 'Merry-go-round,' adding candle and heart emojis.

Xue Zhiqian Once Admired Him from Afar

Yuan Weiren wrote countless moving melodies in his life. Although he has now left us, his works remain part of people's everyday lives. Chinese singer Xue Zhiqian also mourned him on social media: “We will miss you.” Xue Zhiqian shared Na Ying’s 'After Awakening from a Dream,' 'Conquer,' Zhao Chuan’s 'Be a Little Braver,' and Tao Jingying’s 'Leave Me,' all lyrics and melodies created by Yuan Weiren. He wrote: “The neatness of your lyrics and melodies, the imagery, the sorrow — there is so much I secretly learned from you.”

Fans also dug up an interview with Yuan Weiren during the 2016 promotion for the 'If I Were Lo Ta-yu' concert, in which he said: “I really like Xue Zhiqian,” and even smiled at the camera saying: “Love you, Zhiqian.” Although they never had the chance to collaborate, fans praise Yuan Weiren’s spirit and creations for continuing to inspire the Chinese music industry.

Yuan Weiren was not only the driving force behind the scenes, but also helped mentor newcomers on singing shows. When Jam Hsiao rose to prominence on 'One Million Star (Super Star Avenue),' Yuan Weiren was one of the key judges on the show, playing a role that was both mentor and friend. Jam also once covered 'A Dream.' In response to Yuan Weiren’s passing, Jam Hsiao mourned: “Thank you, Mr. Xiaopang, for all you contributed to music. You’ve worked hard. Heaven now has another lovely angel.”

Zhao Chuan also posted a tribute on Facebook, writing, “I will definitely be a little braver, even if you are no longer by my side,” directly quoting his own classic song 'Be a Little Braver,' which was written and composed by Yuan Weiren. For Zhao Chuan, this song is especially meaningful. He affectionately expressed, “Thank you, Mr. Xiaopang, for giving us so much beautiful music. The countless notes you left behind will become an eternal companion to everyone. Wishing you no pain in heaven, teacher, have a good journey.”