Chongqing - In 2023, a group of individuals in their fifties and sixties in Chongqing reignited their passion for music by forming a band called "Futu." The name "return journey," in English, symbolizes their return to the musical path they had set aside for many years.

These musicians, once professional performers at nightclubs and dance halls in the city's main districts, had their moments of stardom in their younger years. However, as the entertainment industry evolved, they set aside their musical ambitions for more practical, everyday pursuits. Decades later, these "old hipsters," now working in various fields, reunited through their shared love for music, embarking on a new chapter.

What inspired them to chase their musical dreams again in their later years? How do they balance life, work, and their passion? Let's hear their musical journey.

Band founder: reviving the dream after 24 years

The "Futu" band was founded in 2023 by 59-year-old guitarist Wang Zhiping. In his youth, Wang was a professional guitarist, performing with various bands. As local entertainment styles shifted and nightclubs and dance halls gave way to new leisure activities, the music scene faded, and he had to put down his guitar. 

The "Futu" band founder, 59-year-old guitarist Wang Zhiping. (Photo provided by the interviewee)

"I had no choice but to put the instrument aside and find another job," he recalled. "That was 24 years ago."

His decision to return to music was sparked by a personal loss. "Three years ago, both my parents passed away within six months, and it hit me hard. I fell into a deep depression," Wang shared, his tone turning somber. "One day, at a friend's house, I picked up the guitar, and suddenly, it felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders. All the stress and worries faded away. Music healed me, and I slowly began to climb out of my sadness." With a faint smile, he added, "That experience inspired me to start the band again."

After three years of searching, a group of like-minded musicians in their fifties and sixties came together to form "Futu." Wang explained, "'Futu' means picking up our instruments again and embarking on a new musical journey. It's about continuing a lifelong passion and embracing the joy that music brings."

From top performer to new beginnings

59-year-old bassist Tan Wei explains, "The bassist controls the rhythm of the entire band, giving the music its fullness." 

Tan's journey into music began in his childhood in Jiefangbei, Chongqing downtown area. From being inspired by the sound of a yangqin (Chinese hammered dulcimer) to playing guitar in his youth, he eventually became a bassist for a factory band. He proudly recalled his peak years in the early 1990s: "In 1991-1992, I was performing in nightclubs in Jiefangbei, earning nearly 10,000 yuan (about $1,372) a month, and carrying a mobile phone worth 10,000 yuan." 

59-year-old bassist Tan Wei. (Photo provided by the interviewee)

"Back then, I could perform three shows a night, earning 200-300 yuan. It was a good living." However, the nightclub scene began to change in the mid-90s, and Tan was forced to put his bass down to pursue a more stable career. "I realized that playing bass might not support a family, so I had to look for a different job," he said.

But his love for the bass never faded. Now, he practices relentlessly and learns new techniques from younger bass players to keep up with modern music. "Young bass players are much more skilled than we were. I'm still learning from the 'little teachers,'" he said.

Reconnecting with the stage

For 59-year-old drummer Wang Cheng, who spent 13 years in the music scene in Shenzhen and Dongguan, returning to music after 18 years away has been a dream come true. After returning to Chongqing in 2006, Wang put down his drumsticks for a stable job, but the itch never went away. "Now I finally get the chance to play again. It feels amazing!" he said with excitement.

Unlike the laid-back style of the musicians, the three lead singers of the band have a more fashionable and charismatic presence. At 55, Han Feng is the center of attention wherever he goes. "When I was younger, I was full of energy, performing every night," he grinned. "Now, coming back to the stage, that same feeling is back. It's like I've come full circle."

Han vividly recalls his 49th birthday, when he turned his celebration into a solo concert. "I fulfilled a dream of mine from when I was younger," he said, beaming with pride. "Now, being part of this band and singing on stage again, every day feels fulfilling and joyful."

61-year-old Wan Haiyang, once a Chongqing Yue Opera Troupe member and one of the city's earliest pop singers in the 1980s, returned to singing after a long hiatus. "After retirement, I finally have time to sing again, and I cherish the opportunity to stand on stage once more," he said.

For 56-year-old Zhou Mei, who balances her music career with yoga, singing is now more of a personal joy than a job. "When I was younger, singing was my work. Now it's my hobby, and with yoga, my life feels rich and fulfilling," she said with a serene smile.

As these musicians embrace their passion for music in their later years, they are writing a new chapter in their lives, proving it's never too late to follow your dreams.