So in 2008, Qiao opened his Tiny Salt pub. “Tiny evokes slim and meager, but salt stands for strength,” he points out. “Tiny salt symbolizes modesty combined with effort. I don’t wield much power, but I am more than willing to work hard in order to help others.” He goes on to explain that Tiny Salt pub provides a performance platform for up-and-coming bands. He himself also helps original musicians produce their albums at low costs, and organizes charity events with local bands. Every month, Qiao provides a venue, free of charge, where university students can come and act out their musical dreams.

Qiao attributes his own musical success to commercial savvy. “You need to stand out, particularly when doing design,” he advises. “Most albums on the market are wrapped in plastic, but I put my albums in cloth covers. This gets attention.” Qiao is still very proud of his one hit album.

In recent years, Qiao has built on this strong business instinct. He has educated himself so that he is upto- date with the latest jargon, and understands the complexities of market research and speculation. From the day his band was founded, he had a rough idea of his own business development model – he wouldn’t launch too many albums, would reduce performances gradually, and the band would be dissolved without warning at the optimum time. Audiences would be left wanting more. “Scarcity means money,” Qiao smiles, speaking like a true economist.

Qiao says his friends within the musical circle are a little stubborn, refusing to make money from their songs. Though he admires their authenticity, he must keep himself more clear-headed. “I encourage them to hold on to their dreams. But a man at my age should be responsible for his family and needs to make a little money.”

Qiao’s other talent is that he can talk for hours, but his words relay fascinating stories and can really inspire younger generations. In this competitive world, many people are trying to do something to prove themselves. Qiao’s one hit album may be titled The Lost Years, but it is hard to see how he has wasted any time at all.