Singer Chen Shuping once disappeared from the music scene and took on a variety of jobs to make ends meet, including selling clothes, working as an accountant, and even running a stationery stall.
Taiwanese singer Chen Shuping, known as a leading voice in Taiwanese pop music, once quietly stepped away from the spotlight and embraced a series of unconventional jobs to support herself. The artist, who first gained recognition as a child contestant on the television show 21st Century New Singer Competition, reportedly sold clothing, worked as a bookkeeper, and even operated a morning stationery stall.
Chen, who debuted on the show at age 13, has released 13 albums throughout her career. Her return to the music scene with her new album, Rouge Flower, comes after a period of nearly eight years of hardship. Reflecting on that time, she admitted to once considering a complete career change.
According to reports, Chen’s time away from the public eye was partially due to being stalked by a fan, which led to a serious car accident. She recalled a period where “no one recognized you” as she grew older, describing it as an “awkward stage” where she wasn’t achieving the fame she once had. She also struggled with body image issues, leading to self-doubt about her future in the music industry.
Before joining “豪記唱片” (Hao Ji Records), Chen experienced a low point lasting almost eight years. To ensure a stable income, she worked at a clothing store in Wufenpu, served as an accountant, and partnered with friends to sell stationery at an early morning market. She noted that given that her childhood fame had faded, she was able to work without being recognized.
Chen spent one to two years getting up at 5 a.m. To set up her stall, describing the work as both demanding and fulfilling. She made a conscious effort to only share positive news with her mother, “just reporting the good and not the subpar.” While she considered seeking a more stable, nine-to-five job, she ultimately decided to balance her stall work with occasional performances and gigs, driven by her passion for singing.
“It was a time of self-doubt and self-struggle,” Chen said. From her beginnings as a child star to navigating a period of hardship and ultimately returning to the stage, Chen Shuping’s story is one of perseverance. She now embraces the years she spent away from the spotlight, expressing gratitude for the early mornings that taught her to appreciate her career.
