New Zealand music stars who deceased at age 37

Here are 2 famous musicians from New Zealand died at 37:

Gu Cheng

Gu Cheng (September 24, 1956 Beijing-October 8, 1993 Waiheke Island) also known as Cheng Gu was a New Zealand poet, essayist and novelist. His child is Gu Mu Er.

Gu Cheng was a prolific writer who gained popularity in China during the post-Mao era. His poetry often explored themes of love, personal identity, and social commentary. He also wrote several novels, such as "The Peacock Flies Southeast" and "The Tidal Barrage," both of which were widely praised. In 1987, he and his wife, Xie Ye, defected from China to New Zealand, where they continued to write and publish their work. Tragically, their life in New Zealand was cut short when Gu Cheng committed suicide in 1993 at the age of 37. Despite his untimely death, his legacy as a talented and influential writer continues to inspire readers and writers around the world.

Gu Cheng's literary career began in the late 1970s and early 1980s, during which he became associated with the Misty Poets, a group of poets who challenged the conventions of Chinese poetry and advocated for greater artistic freedom. His poems were noted for their introspective and emotional qualities, as well as for their lyrical use of language.

Gu Cheng's works were translated into several languages and received international recognition, winning awards such as the Friedrich Hölderlin Prize in Germany and the Australian Cultural Award. Some of his most famous poems include "A Generation," "The Striped Shirt," and "The Red Candle."

Gu Cheng's wife, Xie Ye, was also a writer, and the couple collaborated on several books, including "A Boat to Myself" and "Chinese Lives."

Gu Cheng's tragic death has been the subject of much speculation and analysis, with some attributing it to his struggles with depression and alienation in his adopted country. However, his writings continue to be celebrated for their beauty, originality, and insight into the human experience.

Gu Cheng's life was not without controversy, however. In 1989, he was accused of sexually assaulting a woman in New Zealand, and while he denied the allegations, they caused a great deal of controversy and contributed to the deterioration of his mental health. Despite this, his legacy as a writer remains important, and his work has continued to be an inspiration to many. In recent years, there has been renewed interest in his life and work, with new translations and critical studies being published both in China and abroad. Overall, Gu Cheng's contributions to Chinese literature can be said to be truly significant, and he remains an important figure in the history of Chinese poetry and prose.

In addition to his poetry and novels, Gu Cheng was also a prolific essayist and critic, known for his sharp insights and observations on literature and society. He wrote extensively on topics such as the role of the artist in society, the challenges of living in a changing China, and the search for personal identity in a globalized world. Many of his essays were published in leading literary and cultural journals, and he was widely respected for his intellectual and creative gifts.

Despite the controversies and tragedies that marked his life, Gu Cheng remains an important figure in Chinese literature, and his work continues to inspire readers and writers around the world. His contributions to the Misty Poets movement helped redefine the boundaries of Chinese poetry, and his novels and essays offer powerful insights into the complex forces shaping contemporary Chinese society. Through his art, Gu Cheng created a lasting legacy that reflects his unique vision and voice, and his influence continues to be felt today.

He died as a result of suicide by hanging.

Read more about Gu Cheng on Wikipedia »

Robert Holden

Robert Holden (December 17, 1958 Norland, West Yorkshire-May 31, 1996 Glen Helen, Isle of Man) was a New Zealand personality.

Holden was a professional motorcycle racer who competed in various events such as the Isle of Man TT and the New Zealand Grand Prix. He achieved numerous victories and podium finishes throughout his career, making him one of the most successful racers from his country. Apart from his passion for racing, Holden was also known for his charismatic personality and his easy-going nature. He was beloved both by his fans and peers, who remembered him as a talented and friendly individual who brought joy to their lives. However, his life was tragically cut short when he died in a racing accident at the Isle of Man TT in 1996. Despite his untimely death, Holden's legacy as a skilled racer and a kind-hearted person lives on.

Holden began his career as a motorcycle racer in his teenage years, and quickly established himself as a top rider in New Zealand. He made his debut in the Isle of Man TT in 1987, and went on to win several races at the event in the following years. Holden's success as a racer earned him a loyal following of fans, who appreciated his skill and his approachable personality. In addition to his racing career, Holden was also involved in charity work, supporting various causes and organizations in his home country. After his death, the Robert Holden Memorial Scholarship was established in his honor, providing financial assistance to students pursuing a career in motorcycle racing. Holden's legacy has also been celebrated in documentaries and books about his life and career, highlighting his dedication and passion for his sport.

Holden was born in Norland, West Yorkshire, England, but moved to New Zealand with his family at a young age. His father was also a motorcycle racer, and this sparked Holden's interest in the sport. Throughout his career, Holden competed in various types of motorcycle racing, including road racing, motocross, and speedway. He won multiple New Zealand Grand Prix titles and also competed in the Australian Grand Prix.

Holden's competitive spirit and natural talent on the track made him a force to be reckoned with, but his kind and humble nature off the track made him a beloved figure in the racing world. Even his competitors spoke of him in glowing terms, praising his sportsmanship and positive attitude.

Holden's death at the Isle of Man TT was a huge shock to the racing community, and tributes poured in from around the world. His legacy has lived on through the Robert Holden Memorial Scholarship and the Robert Holden Trophy, which is awarded each year to the New Zealand rider who achieves the most success on the international stage.

Holden's impact on motorcycle racing in New Zealand and beyond cannot be overstated, and his memory continues to inspire new generations of racers to pursue their dreams.

Holden's approach to racing was one that emphasized the importance of control and precision. He often said that being smooth on the bike was the key to success, and this philosophy served him well throughout his career. Holden was also known for his strong work ethic and his dedication to his craft. He spent countless hours practicing and honing his skills, and this commitment to improvement is what set him apart from his peers.

Despite his success, Holden remained a down-to-earth individual who remained close to his roots. He was a role model to many young riders and was always willing to lend his support and advice to those looking to follow in his footsteps. His passing was a great loss to the racing community, but his legacy serves as a reminder of the impact that one person can have on the world.

In addition to his racing achievements and charitable work, Holden was also a devoted family man. He was deeply committed to his wife and children, and his death was a profound loss to them as well as to his fans and colleagues. Today, he is remembered as an iconic figure in the world of motorcycle racing, and his contributions to the sport continue to be celebrated and honored.

Read more about Robert Holden on Wikipedia »

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