2026/09/30
Is there anyone who grew up in Taiwan who hasn't sung karaoke?
For overseas Taiwanese, the pop hits we grew up with are our strongest shared memories and cultural DNA. Recently, Director General Jason Ma and his wife, Anne Yang, attended the "Intercollegiate Cup Popular Song Karaoke Singing Contest" hosted by the Joint Chinese University Alumni Association of Southern California (JCUAA). Make no mistake—this is no small singing competition. Held for 32 consecutive years, it is essentially the "Golden Melody Awards" of the Southern California Taiwanese community.
On the day of the finals, the venue was packed with hundreds of passionate community members and cheering squads, creating an atmosphere that rivaled a major concert. This competition holds an unshakable status in the community. Over the past three decades, it has birthed countless legendary vocalists hidden across all walks of life. The competition even features a strict "Hall of Fame" rule: "Once you win a championship, you can never compete in that same category again." This fiercely honorable rule is exactly why the competition remains so thrilling every year, constantly bringing brilliant new talents to the stage.
As avid music lovers, DG Ma and Mrs. Ma were completely captivated by the performances. While striving overseas, a familiar melody is often all it takes to instantly transport us back to our beloved hometown. JCUAA has persisted for 32 years, uniting the Southern California community through the power of music and song—a dedication that commands immense respect.
Featuring categories like Social, Newcomer, Duet, Men’s, and Women’s divisions, every contestant showcased astonishing talent and stage presence. At the grand finale, the entire audience witnessed the newly crowned champions receive their trophies as the cheering squads erupted in deafening roars.
How many ways are there to celebrate National Day? Familiar melodies, passionate applause, and cross-generational friendship—this is the moving and incredibly creative way the Southern California community celebrates. When it comes to honoring our nation's birthday, the only limit is your imagination!
