This week, Jukebox Republic takes the opportunity to introduce some old classics of Taiwan. What would be some of the most representative ones of Taiwanese pop music? To name off one that’s a household name, among others, would be Ye Lai Xiang which is the Chinese name for evening primrose. It is most well-known sung by the late Teresa Teng, who was Taiwan’s cultural icon and considered as one of the most influential singers in Asia.

Brian Newell who is a long time listener of RTI’s English language programs from Logansport, Indiana, USA, agrees on the song Ye Lai Xiang. He also has a liking for an a cappella version of the song performed by Taiwanese singer/songwriter David Tao. He thanked the invention of Google Translate to finally make him realize what the lyrics to the love song are all about.

Brian also said how he has a liking for the Puyuma aboriginal singer Samingad for her absolutely captivating voice. He even read from the notes that he jot down at the time when he heard her voice for the first time. He mentioned another song by Samingad, a harvest song which I also played in the show. He said it is a song that inspires him get up and get moving, when he doesn’t feel like it.

In an email, Brian also mentioned another favorite though sad song called Ring the Bell by Samingad. He said it was a song in remembrance of Samingad’s grandmother when Samingad moved to the city. “Ring the Bell” had something to do with treasuring every phone call she made to her granny. Brian’s thoughts on Samingad’s voice were that it’s very moving and authentic.

Along the line of Taiwanese indigenous singers, Brian also appreciates the music from the Amis singer/songwriter Ilid Kaolo. The music program this week ends with two songs from the winner of three categories at the Golden Melody Awards in 2012.