“Coat Brother” Responds to Comeback Buzz — Says He’ll Return to Farming If Fame Fades, Refuses Livestream Selling

(Jining, Shandong, April 18) The phrase “You are Zhu Zhiwen” has recently gone viral online, sparking a wave of imitations and bringing Zhu Zhiwen—also known as “Da Yi Ge”—back into the spotlight.

On the same day, Zhu performed at a music festival. Facing a younger audience, he candidly admitted that he isn’t suited for dancing or high-energy songs, but promised to continue performing the songs he does best, expressing gratitude for the support from younger fans.

Speaking about his renewed popularity, Zhu remained humble: “It’s not because I’m outstanding—it’s because young people are excellent, and they choose to appreciate someone ordinary like me.”

When asked why he doesn’t pursue livestream selling, he explained that he prefers singing and interacting with audiences to bring joy. “If one day people feel I’m no longer relevant, I’ll just go back to farming. That’s normal,” he said.

Zhu first rose to fame in 2011 through a talent show, where he appeared in a worn military-green coat and won with his performance of Rolling Yangtze River Eastward. His simple and authentic image earned him the nickname “Da Yi Ge.”

However, his identity as a “farmer singer” has been both a blessing and a burden. He has faced criticism for lacking professionalism and has been the subject of online mockery. With the rise of short video platforms, his daily life has been constantly filmed and shared, often without context.

Zhu once expressed that if the internet were to forget about him and his family, life would feel “like heaven.” He rarely uses the internet and has even asked his family not to post about him online. Regarding rumors, he said he feels confused and frustrated: “We don’t even know each other—why spread false things?”

Amid the noise of online fame, Zhu Zhiwen continues to remain grounded—perhaps the very reason he continues to resonate with audiences.