Li Jian, former singer in the pop duo Shui Mu Nian Hua, announced plans for his first solo concert at a press conference in Beijing on Wednesday, March 26, 2008. [Photo: Beijing Evening News]

Li Jian, former singer for the pop duo Shui Mu Nian Hua, will hold his first solo concert in Beijing on April 29, the Beijing Evening News reported on Thursday.

Li also revealed at a Wednesday press conference that Veteran singer Na Ying will be featured as a guest performer in her return to the entertainment industry after a long break.

Li Jian, who graduated from Tsinghua University with a degree in electrical engineering, is a fan of classical music and learned Peking Opera as a child.

He is reserved in his public appearances and keeps such a low profile that people consider him born in the wrong time period.

He and Lu Gengxu, who also graduated from Tsinghua, founded the duo Shui Mu Nian Hua in 2001. Their harmonious duets quickly made them the most successful campus ballad duo.

In 2002, Li Jian split from Lu Gengxu because he was tired of frequent commercial performances and endless praise, and didn't agree with a decision shift their style from folk to rock.

Since the split, Li Jian has released three albums in his own musical style: soft and warm.

The third album, "Missing You" moved several of his peers in the entertainment industry, including record producer Zhang Yadong, anchorwoman Chen Luyu and singer Na Ying, who introduced Li Jian's songs to wider audiences.

In a show of her respect and support, Na Ying will perform at Li Jian's concert in April.

Although Li is not a hot commercial prospect and national idol, he has proven his talent. In January, Li Jian shot a TV program for the Travel Channel that attracted more than 1,000 fans from around the country. The response encouraged Li Jian to accept the company's advice and hold a solo concert.

(CRI March 28,2008)