In 1994 Chen Yufan, a Beijing native, dropped out of school and started his career as a singer-songwriter. The same year, Hu Haiquan, who started composing at 11, came to Beijing from Northeast China and played keyboard for bands. Two years later, the two met for the first time and Chen came up with the idea to form a band.

"He told me that he had never thought about becoming a singer and his dream was always to be a backstage hero," recalls Chen, 38. "But to tempt him to form a band with me, I guaranteed to be the singer and all he had to do onstage was play keyboard."

Then they picked up one syllable from each of their names and became Yu Quan in 1998.

"Of course, I knew that he would be singing with me onstage because, in the world of music, there are no rules," Chen says, laughing.

In the years since, Yu Quan has developed a galaxy of devoted fans in the Chinese Mandarin music scene and swept the best pop duo honor every year over the past decade.

In 2013, they celebrate their 15th anniversary with a new album, Recyclable, a concert and a book, reviewing their past as one of the most successful pop duos in China.

The new album saw the duo celebrate their brotherhood, the transition from young adults to middle-aged men and their reflections about their lives.

"Music is always the core for Yu Quan," says Hu, 38, who with Chen, writes original material. "I sing about our lives, love, brotherhood, friendship, homesickness and everything. I guess that's why we reach so many fans' hearts."

With more than 6 million copies sold, the duo broke the conventional CD format and released the new album in digital flash disc online.

Ever since their debut album, The Most Beautiful, the duo has been known for their diversified music style and upbeat spirit. They have released 12 albums so far.

Their live shows have also cemented their reputation with an improvisational style and warm atmosphere.

Since 2010, Yu Quan has held a Christmas concert each year. On Dec 24, they will continue the tradition with their Life is Like A Playground concert.

"We are proud to be a pop duo that caters to both the old and the young. Every time, our concerts become a huge karaoke bar," Chen says.

Both agree that a common passion for music and brotherhood are at the root of Yu Quan's success.

"There has been no change in our attitude toward music. We still value our friendship and partnership as much as ever and we are filled with hope," Chen says.

chennan@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 12/15/2013 page9)