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Gong Linna, the celebrated Chinese singer known for her unique vocal style, has announced her divorce from her German husband, Robert Zollitsch, known in China as Lao Luo. The news, shared on Gong's social media, has sparked widespread discussion about cross-cultural marriages and the unpredictable nature of long-term relationships.
In her poignant announcement, Gong wrote, "Music begins, music ends..." referencing their 20-year-old collaboration on the song "Free Bird," which initially brought them together. She noted that their relationship began in China and concluded in Germany, symbolizing the cross-cultural journey of their marriage.
The tone of Gong's message suggests an amicable separation. She expressed gratitude to those who supported their marriage over the years and even shared a video of a performance with Lao Luo, where she sang while he played the guqin, a traditional Chinese string instrument. This gesture of goodwill has been praised by many as a mature and respectful way to handle a public divorce.
Gong and Zollitsch's love story began with their shared passion for music. Zollitsch, born in Germany, had a deep appreciation for Chinese music from a young age. He came to China to study the guqin, where he met Gong. Their romance blossomed, leading to their marriage in 2004, which lasted 20 years and produced two sons.
The couple's relationship had been widely admired in China. They frequently appeared on television shows, where Zollitsch, nine years Gong's senior, often expressed his love and admiration for his wife. Their marriage was often described as a "match made in heaven" by the media, making the divorce announcement particularly surprising to many fans.
Gong's career trajectory adds an intriguing dimension to their story. She was already a rising star in China's folk music scene when she met Zollitsch, known for her song "Zou Xikou" which earned her the title of "Folk Song Champion" from the Ministry of Culture. Despite her promising career, Gong chose to move to Germany with Zollitsch, where they lived for five years and raised their children.
The couple's unique wedding in Gong's hometown in Guizhou province is still remembered by many. Zollitsch invited over 30 German friends, many of whom were artists and architects, to help build a castle-like wedding venue, brick by brick.
Interestingly, it was Zollitsch who composed Gong's breakthrough hit "Tante," which catapulted her to nationwide fame in 2010. This collaboration showcased not only their personal bond but also their artistic synergy.
Netizens have responded to the news with a mix of surprise and understanding. One popular comment read, "It's rare to see such a peaceful end to a marriage, especially a cross-cultural one. They've set a good example." Another noted, "Their story shows that even the most seemingly perfect relationships can change. It's a reminder that we should cherish our loved ones."
Some fans expressed sadness, with one writing, "They were the epitome of a cultural bridge between East and West. It's a shame to see it end." Others focused on the positive aspects, commenting, "They gave us beautiful music and showed us the power of cross-cultural understanding. That legacy remains regardless of their marital status."
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