Renowned Chinese jazz musician and co-founder of the “Seven-Panel” rock band along with Cui Jian, Liu Yuan, passed away in the early hours of December 22 at the age of 64. The band’s manager and music blogger, Chi Bin, announced the news on Weibo immediately, leading to an outpouring of tributes from colleagues in the industry. Liu Yuan’s family, Cui Jian, and the band issued an obituary.
Public records show that Liu Yuan was a well-known saxophonist and composer in the industry, honored as the “Father of Chinese Jazz.” In 1984, Liu Yuan and seven others, including Cui Jian, formed the “Seven-Panel” band, releasing the first album by a Chinese band. In 1986, Liu Yuan was also involved in establishing the ADO band, which started collaborating with Cui Jian in the second year of its formation, releasing China’s first original rock album in 1989.
According to insiders, Liu Yuan’s death was due to pancreatic cancer. Following his diagnosis, Liu Yuan had to reduce his performances, leading to a decrease in his public appearances. His last public appearance was in January this year when he attended an event by the Beijing Go Foundation, showing his good spirits and well-being in photos.
Last month, at the Chinese Jazz Awards ceremony, Liu Yuan was bestowed with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Due to health reasons, he could not attend the event to receive the award. Cui Jian, on behalf of his friend, admitted at the event that Liu Yuan was ill and expressed hopes for his speedy recovery. Recently, during a concert, Cui Jian prayed for Liu Yuan using his voice on stage. Industry insiders disclosed that upon learning of his illness, Liu Yuan refused Western medical chemotherapy treatments.
It is poignant to note that of the seven members of the once-popular “Cui Jian Band,” three have now passed away. Apart from Liu Yuan, keyboardist Zang Tianshuo died of liver cancer in 2018 at the age of 54, and drummer Zhang Yongguang (Drummer Zhang) died in December 2014 due to depression, at the age of 52. Liu Yuan’s passing has left many fans deeply saddened and mourning.
Reports from “Cover Tender” revealed that before the 2024-2025 concert tour, Cui Jian visited Chengdu to communicate about rehearsal arrangements. Cui Jian and the team were deeply concerned about Liu Yuan, insisted on same-day round trips, and hastily returned to Beijing after the event concluded. Liu Yuan’s condition remained a concern for Cui Jian, as the band, after finishing the Chengdu concert, hurried back to Beijing without taking a break.