Back on song

"It's really exciting to have more and more people listen to my songs. It's the biggest wish for all singers, isn't it?" he adds.

Born in Chuzhou, Anhui province, Zhang graduated from Nanjing University of Finance and Economics. His parents were both civil servants and they hoped that their only child would have a regular and stable job. Apparently, being a singer was the least favorable option for them. Zhang didn't plan to become a singer though he was aware that he could sing. In 2008, he joined a four-member boy group, Top Combine, as its lead singer. The group achieved commercial success with songs, such as Marshmallow. However, in 2017, the group started to withdraw from the limelight after commercial failure.

"I didn't have many job opportunities but I stepped up to every job I had. I remember that there was a time whenever I met my manager, I would ask if I had any job. It was hard time," recalls Zhang, who has also gone through a heartbreaking breakup.

"When I was younger, I always tried my best to go after my goals. Now, after all the things I've been through, I feel lucky that I still have the opportunity to sing. I am much more relaxed," says Zhang, adding that he is planning to perform in musicals and to hold more concerts.

The idea of making the reality show, Go For Happiness, stemmed from fans who enjoyed their appearance on another reality show on Mango TV, titled Welcome to the Mushroom House. This gathered celebrities in the countryside to experience the "simple lifestyle" and live away from bustling city centers. One of the episodes of that show had the six singers as "guest visitors". Their appearance appealed to nostalgic fans, who called for more performances from them.

"I don't think the word 'hit' ever crossed my mind," says Su, 37, who won the second place at Super Boy competition in 2007, referring to both Go For Happiness and Welcome to the Mushroom House.

"We all have been in this business for 15 years and went through lots of things together. When we are together, we just want to be ourselves."

Born in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, Su was signed by a major record company and won awards after launching his music career in 2007. He also expanded his career hosting music shows. Though many of his peers slowly left music and took up regular jobs, Su stayed with music.

He says some of his songs, which were released years earlier and were unsuccessful commercially, have gained popularity among listeners, thanks to the attention he got after appearing in the reality show this year.

"For those who may not be familiar with us but are interested in finding out more, listening to our songs will help," says Su.