On May 8, 2025, fans from across the globe gathered to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the legendary Taiwanese singer Teresa Teng's passing at the "Teresa Teng 30th Anniversary Zhongyuan Concert," held at Jinbaoshan Zhongyuan in New Taipei City. This poignant event was organized by the Teresa Teng Cultural and Educational Foundation, which aims to keep the memory and influence of Teng alive through music.
The concert, which began at 10 AM, attracted a diverse audience, including fans from the United States, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Thailand, and Taiwan. Among the attendees was Teng's 92-year-old Japanese agent, Minoru Funaki, who traveled to Taiwan specifically to honor the late star. Funaki expressed his ongoing emotional connection to Teng, stating, "Even after 30 years, I still often dream of her."
Joining Funaki were Teng's brothers, Teng Changfu and Teng Chang'an, along with nearly the entire Teng family. Teng Changfu, who is also the chairman of the foundation, reiterated the family's commitment to preserving Teng's legacy, emphasizing that they would continue her spirit of love through charitable efforts and music. He remarked, "Every song of my sister's is like her own child, but she held a special affection for 'I Only Care About You' because it helped her achieve three consecutive championships in Japan."
The concert featured the "Qin Ai Ai Yue" orchestra from Nantou, which performed a selection of Teng's timeless hits, including "Small Town Story," "Sweet Honey," and "I Only Care About You." The atmosphere was electric, and when the orchestra played the encore, "The Moon Represents My Heart," the audience erupted into a heartfelt sing-along, a testament to Teng's enduring popularity.
In a significant announcement during the event, Teng Changfu revealed that a previously unreleased song titled "Love Song is Best When the Night is Misty" would be released in June 2025. This discovery was made in the Japan Universal Music warehouse and has been a source of excitement for fans. Teng Changfu expressed his surprise and anticipation upon learning about the song last year, stating, "I can't wait for everyone to hear it." The song was created by Japanese composer Takeshi Miki and lyricist Yuka Aramaki, who were known for their work with Teng during her lifetime.
The concert was not only a celebration of Teng's music but also a gathering of fans who have continued to cherish her legacy since her untimely passing in 1995. Teng passed away at the age of 42 due to acute respiratory failure caused by asthma, a loss that left a profound impact on the music world. Since then, fans have gathered annually on May 8 to commemorate her life and work.
In addition to the concert in Taiwan, similar memorial events were held around the world, including in Singapore, Taipei, and Chiang Mai, where fans shared their memories and love for the iconic singer. Teng's songs have recently gained renewed attention, appearing in various films and television shows, further solidifying her status as a cultural icon.
During the concert, the foundation also organized an online flower offering activity titled "Love Like a Flower," inviting fans worldwide to participate and express their remembrance of Teng. This initiative highlights the foundation's goal of maintaining Teng's influence in today's fragmented cultural landscape.
Minoru Funaki, who worked closely with Teng for 13 years, shared his fond memories of the singer. He recalled a phone call he received from her shortly before her death, where she expressed her desire to record new music. Funaki noted, "I was shocked when I heard the news of her passing. I thought it was a false report at first." He continues to honor her memory by participating in memorial events every year, reinforcing her lasting impact on fans and the music industry.
The concert also featured a digital restoration of the 1979 film "Story of a Small Town," which won the Golden Horse Award for Best Feature Film. The film's theme song, performed by Teng, has touched audiences worldwide and will be screened again at the Taiwan National Audiovisual Center in June 2025. This screening is expected to further introduce Teng's music to new generations of fans.
As the concert concluded, the atmosphere was filled with nostalgia and warmth, with fans reflecting on the memories and emotions that Teng's music evokes. The gathering served as a reminder of the powerful connection between artists and their audiences, a bond that transcends time and continues to inspire.
In summary, the 30th anniversary of Teresa Teng's passing was marked by heartfelt tributes and celebrations of her life and music. The events not only honored her legacy but also reinforced the ongoing influence of her artistry in contemporary culture, proving that her songs remain a cherished part of the global music landscape.
