Three alumni from the Chinese talent competition Middle-aged Good Voice gathered at a press conference on March 10 to launch their collaborative single “Midnight Ring Ring.” Cao Yue and Liu Xiaokun from the show’s third season, joined by Chen Yufei from the second season, presented the song to an audience of former rivals who came out to cheer them on. The track, which explores the theme of love scams, led the singers to open up about their own experiences with financial and emotional deception.
A Cautionary Collaboration
“Midnight Ring Ring” takes a creative stance against romantic fraud, using its title to evoke the typical late-night phone calls from scammers. The song serves as a warning in an era where online scams are prevalent. During the press conference, Chen Yufei shared how she lost nearly 200,000 yuan (approximately $27,000) to a phone scam early in her professional life. Liu Xiaokun admitted she was targeted by an investment scheme but avoided falling for it. Cao Yue said her experience was limited to emotional hurt from a past relationship, not financial loss.
The artists also discussed their personal lives. Cao Yue, who has been divorced for about a year, expressed openness to forming new relationships. Liu Xiaokun, also single, said she is waiting for the right partner. Chen Yufei did not comment on her own love life.
Post-Show Realities
The event also shed light on the varying career trajectories of the show’s participants. MISSY, a temporary girl group created after the second season, has disbanded. Former member Chen Qianwen, known as Chen Qianning on the show, stated that she has only been assigned three television performances by the network this year. To sustain herself, she relies on side businesses and personal savings.
Chen Yufei offered a contrasting perspective. She said she has little communication with Chen Qianwen and is content with her own workload. “The company is very good to us,” she remarked. “They cherish us and give us opportunities like this new song.”
Next Steps
The differing outcomes highlight the uncertainty of life after reality television. “Midnight Ring Ring” not only raises awareness about love scams but also allows these artists to maintain their momentum. The collaboration may inspire further joint projects, though no concrete plans have been announced. For now, the song serves both as entertainment and as a cautionary tale, encouraging listeners to stay alert against deception.
