Taiwanese 'Golden Song King' Fang Datong Passes Away at 41

Fang Datong, the “Golden Song King” of Taiwan, passed away on February 21, 2025, at the age of 41. His record label released a statement, noting that “with a positive outlook, Fang Datong battled his illness for five years. On the morning of February 21, 2025, he peacefully departed from this world.” Fang Datong was born on July 14, 1983, in Xiaweiyi. His father, a professional drummer, often performed with him during his childhood.

In 2017, Fang garnered the Best Mandarin Male Singer Award at the Taiwan Golden Melody Awards for his album “JTW Journey to the West,” making him the third Hong Kong male singer to win the award after Jacky Cheung and Eason Chan. Reports indicate that in 2010, Fang suffered a lung collapse due to overwork and was hospitalized multiple times. In 2024, he made a comeback, stating he was on the road to recovery, with significant improvements in his health, though he had not fully recuperated.

On February 13 of the same year, he shared a new song, “Water in the Desert,” from his upcoming album “The Dreamer,” set to be released in October 2024. This song was his last on social media. Fang shared New Year’s wishes on Facebook on February 14, expressing hope that everyone remains healthy. His sudden demise just 7 days later left many in shock and sorrow.