Live4MusiC

Someone wise once said that if you want to learn anything, learn from the best. So, if you're interested in putting on a show, take a few tips from Jay Chou. 

He's arguably the hottest ticket in Chinese pop at the moment, with tickets to all three shows which took place over the weekend at the Singapore Indoor Stadium sold out in less than two hours. And his show on Friday was proof of why the singer - who celebrates his 10th anniversary in showbiz - is still on top of his game.

Jay didn't put on a concert as much as an entire multi-media production. Here are lessons to learn from the man.


#1: Always project a wow factor.

In his case, the stage set was anchored by a huge LED wall, which looked like U2's Popmart back wall, complete with similar arch. The holographic image of Jay projected inside a plexi-glass pyramid was a great show-opener, too.


#2: Clothes maketh the man.

Maketh him look good, that is. Okay, it's true that some of the costumes Jay wore were questionable, but at least you kept your eyes on him - even if your mind was wondering if that bejewelled necklace wasn't too girly.


#3: Bigger is always better.

More dancers, big stage props, more pyrotechnics, bigger band. No complaints here.


#4: Always engage the audience.

Jay often replaced place names in his songs with "Singapore", which naturally drew loads of cheers. Crowds love that stuff. He even jumped down from the stage to shake hands with fans. 


#5: Guest stars are welcome. Well, mostly.

Label mate Cindy Yen popped up - quite literally, she appeared on a riser playing the piano - as well as The Drifters, a duo that Jay himself put together. Unfortunately, for the duo, only Darren Drifter sounded any good and seemed to be having fun. The other bloke looked way too nervous and stiff. 


#6: And always make sure you show off your musicality. 

Jay showed how well he could beat box, play the piano and even do some fancy finger tapping on the acoustic guitar. Seriously, say what you like about him, this guy's got talent. 

There you have it. Jay Chou's 6-Step Guide To Putting On A Great Gig. Anybody want to book the Indoor Stadium?

- Christopher Toh