Strict training

Zhang Pengfei, general manager of Future Star Creator Culture Media, a Beijing agency that also trains young talent, said: "It's true that these reality shows, which give birth to young idols, are attracting more and more young Chinese to become lianxisheng. This brings hope to those who want to become stars.

"For the Chinese market, these young idols have to be versatile. Their fans want them to sing, dance and act. So they have to work hard." Zhang's company has recruited 20 trainees, selected from more than 1,000 candidates since March. The trainees, who are 17 to 22 years old, receive strict training based on their talent.

Besides training for 12 to 14 hours every day, they also attend a psychological counseling program every two weeks.

"Confidence is important for them because years of training can be boring. We want them to have a healthy mindset about fame," Zhang said.

Guo Xinbo, vice-president of JC Universe Entertainment, a Beijing company that manages young pop idols, said companies on the Chinese mainland hire teachers from Hong Kong, South Korea and the United States to train the youngsters. It often takes at least two years before a trainee is ready to perform in public.

Guo Ying, better known by her stage name Yamy, who is also one of the members of Rocket Girls 101, is one of those managed by JC Universe Entertainment.

Guo Xinbo said the young idols rely on the "fan economy", which refers to the value and revenue generated by the interaction between fans and idols.

"We want to recruit young people who not only dance, sing and act but also have their own skills, such as songwriting. The ability to write and produce songs on their own would be a great advantage to confront criticism about pop idols from large entertainment agencies. These multi-talented artists can make themselves unique."

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