HONG KONG – The highly anticipated competitive singing program, Midlife Voice 4 (The Voice equivalent for middle-aged contestants) on TVB, is set to heat up with its seventh episode tomorrow, November 11th, marking the third round of the Hong Kong regional auditions. Show producers have teased exceptional performances, including the emergence of three new “Five-Light” contestants—those unanimously approved by the judging panel—and multiple “Four-Light” recipients, signifying a surge in high-caliber talent this season.
A spotlight is already fixed on one confirmed Five-Light recipient, Fan Zirui, a 35-year-old vocalist. His passionate rendition of the Mandopop classic “Song for Myself” captivated the judges, who praised his nuanced vocal technique and deep commitment to the performance.
“Head Killer” of the Season Delivers Emotional Punch
Fan Zirui’s performance was hailed by veteran industry observers as a benchmark for the competition. Judge Chow Kwok-fung described Fan as the season’s “head killer,” offering exceptionally high praise.
“Performing songs by Li Zongsheng [Jonathan Lee, the original artist] usually spells certain doom in competitions, yet the finalists this season attempting his work are extraordinarily strong,” Chow noted. “[Fan] truly sang the human element of the song. While we’ve had many formidable ‘Arch-Demons’ in the past, this one is the ‘head killer’ of the current season.”
Fellow judge Hai’er was equally impressed, commending Fan’s powerful storytelling ability through music, admitting she was rendered “prostrate in admiration.” Acclaimed producer Peter Cheung Chi-tim highlighted the elevated standards of this year’s contestants.
“This season of Midlife Voice is genuinely competitive; there is a real fight for victory,” Cheung remarked. “This song was previously performed by [another top contestant] Anya He, who scored very highly, but Fan added an extra layer of his own raw emotional power.”
Beyond his magnetic stage presence, Fan Zirui demonstrated a gentler side immediately after his performance, sharing a heartfelt kiss with his wife backstage—a tender moment contrasting his powerful delivery.
Deep Musical Roots Fuel Fan’s Success
Fan Zirui’s strong foundation in music is extensive. He previously underwent professional training in pop piano improvisation and contemporary pop vocals, which culminated in advanced studies in Beijing upon the recommendation of his instructors. He currently works as a popular music vocal coach and holds a respected position as a director on the Guangdong Pop Music Association. His impressive credentials include winning a national merit award at the 8th China Music Golden Bell Awards Pop Music Competition, underscoring his established reputation in the vocal arts community.
Super Seniors Bring Decades of Experience
Episode seven also introduces a fascinating trio of “Super Seniors” to the stage, showcasing that musical passion knows no age limit. Joining the already announced 71-year-old Singaporean contestant, Marco Kok, are two other experienced individuals: Lam Sau-sheung (74) and veteran film director Sung Ho-fai (72).
Lam Sau-sheung, affectionately known as “Uncle Lam,” performed “A Handful of Love.” His emotional performance was timed perfectly, as the audition day happened to coincide with his 30th wedding anniversary. Lam’s musical journey began in secondary school, where he played in a band, gaining proficiency across a range of instruments including lead vocals, backup singing, piano, drums, saxophone, and guitar.
Sung Ho-fai brings a strong entertainment pedigree to the competition. A graduate of TVB’s second acting training class, Sung worked as an actor for both TVB and RTV (Rediffusion Television, precursor to ATV). In 1978, he pursued film studies in the U.S. before returning to TVB as a director and producer. His directing credits include celebrated films such as Beyond’s Diary and The Golden Days, and he notably directed the TV series The Shell Game (1989), which starred the late superstar Leslie Cheung and actress Sheren Tang.
The inclusion of these highly experienced seniors alongside polished professionals like Fan Zirui suggests a dynamic and diverse season, promising viewers compelling battles rooted in both raw talent and years of artistic dedication.
