Taipei: Weng Xiao-liang, a renowned figure in Taiwan’s music industry, and the late singer-songwriter Ma Chao-chun were honored with the Special Contribution Award at the 36th Golden Melody Awards (GMA) held at the Taipei Arena on Saturday.

According to Focus Taiwan, in his acceptance speech, Weng Xiao-liang expressed gratitude to lyricist Chen Chia-li for collaborating with him on “My Future is Not a Dream,” a song that played a pivotal role in launching Tom Chang’s music career. Weng attributed his success to his family, who exposed him to various musical styles from an early age, and expressed heartfelt thanks to his mother for her unwavering support throughout his musical journey.

Weng’s career began in the 1960s as a studio guitarist, where his exceptional skills earned him the moniker “No. 1 Guitarist” of Taiwan. His musical prowess extended throughout the industry, leading him to perform in bands for television programs before becoming a celebrated producer. In the 1990s, Weng was appointed manager of BMG Music Taiwan, where he worked with prominent artists, including Tom Chang. His influence in Taiwan’s music industry, from a humble studio guitarist to a record company manager, is substantial and enduring.

The posthumous Special Contribution Award for the late singer-songwriter Ma Chao-chun was accepted by his younger sister, Paula Ma. She described the award as “the shiniest medal to certify my big brother’s lifelong devotion to music.” Ma Chao-chun began his career as a singer, later creating memorable songs with his writing partner Hung Kuang-ta during Taiwan’s campus folk songs era, including hits like “Silk Cotton Avenue” and “July, at Liang Mountain.”

Later in his career, Ma Chao-chun shifted focus to producing and invested his efforts in developing albums for several of Taiwan’s musical greats. He also played a significant role in mentoring a new generation of talent in Taiwan, taking on roles such as a judge on music shows. Ma Chao-chun passed away in 2007 at the age of 47, and he was posthumously honored with a cultural broadcasting commendation at the 18th GMA, four months after his death.