Five and a half years ago, I was tasked to produce全球华语歌曲排行榜。 It was an unprecented move to have a part time DJ take ownership of such a programme then, and I was obviously thrilled to take up the challenge.

I discovered very soon that it was a major challenge. Working with people whose first language is Mandarin, had me realise that even if you could host in the language, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it would be a breeze composing lengthy emails and making small talk in Chinese. Absolutely not, when you face true masters of the language. Although the initial barriers were demolished quickly, it was still a uphill task remind oneself that people in Shanghai do not operate in the same manner as their fellow countrymen in Beijing. And let’s not even bring in the Republic of China vs People’s Republic of China issue here.

I’ve learnt a great deal- from running a chart show, to organising an awards ceremony. The show brought me to places and gave me an inside look at how the music and radio industries functioned in different markets. I now have plenty of doors to knock on, should I turn up in Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Beijing, Shanghai or Guangzhou. The annual ceremonies also provided fantastic learning opportunities. Ultimate exhilaration was redefined when I was given the chance to represent Singapore on hometurf last year.

I had been in a bit of a dilemma actually. Since 2005, I wondered if I should host both 全球榜/ 龙虎榜 and enjoy the prestige of being the only person in town to produce two chart shows; or if I should just choose one, and devote all my time and attention to it. I guess, it’s not the quantity that counts, but rather the quality that matters. Much as I would like to, I’m afraid I wouldn’t be able to add further value to these two chart shows if I continue hogging the microphone.

I am absolutely thankful to have been a part of this.

People, 志勇同学毕业了!