Three petals left in the Flowers

(CRI)
Updated: 2008-07-22 14:01

Chinese pop-punk band The Flowers are seen in a file photo. Guitarist Shi Xingyu is leaving the band, the group's agent confirmed Monday. [File Photo: kuyue.com]

The guitarist of leading Chinese pop-punk band The Flowers says he has had enough of show business and is leaving the band, the group's agent confirmed Monday.

"Shi Xingyu has ceased all promotions and will leave The Flowers when his contract ends," sources from EMI told Sohu.com.

The three remaining band members say they are upset by Shi's departure, but will respect his decision. "We are not splitting up, after all. We will be good buddies forever," they told Sohu.

Shi has already found a job in a fast-food restaurant, the report says. The 25-year-old says he is looking forward to a simple, pressure-free life.

The news came amidst The Flowers' preparation for their tenth anniversary show later this year. Shi Xingyu promises that he will be there.

Da Zhangwei, the band's front-man, says they haven't decided whether or not to look for a new member.

The Flowers, influenced by bands such as Green Day and Nirvana, have been a leading boy band on the Mandopop scene for the past decade.

The remaining members are set to make their silver screen debut in a comedy film that began shooting in Beijing on Monday.