I still feel nervous before every performance: Wu Bai

"I've always had a phobia of going up on stage to perform," Taiwanese rocker Wu Bai admitted. "And I still do."

Of course those words are surprising coming from the lips of a veteran singer-songwriter. With more than 15 music albums and countless sold-out concerts under his belt, it is hard to think that the rocker, often hailed as the 'King of live music', could still be facing the same struggles he did 20 years ago.

"I've asked myself many times if I'm really cut out to perform," the 44-year-old continued in Mandarin. "Why is it that others can seem so relaxed about it but I'm always this stressed?"

"It's a different story once I'm on stage though," Wu revealed. "I'll come face to face with that fear and while overcoming it, I'll retaliate. And the resultant explosive effect seems to have worked well… and that's been my style over the years."

"I've recognised the fact that making (non-mainstream) music is my 'mission' in life … I'm born to be a musician," he said matter-of-factly, when asked why he has never left the scene despite the many challenges.

"Even though I've always wondered if I'm indeed suited for this showbiz industry, I know that I've been very fortunate," Wu said. "I was so lucky to be given many opportunities, be it in making music, performing, inspiring people… many areas. And for that, I am very grateful."

Which sums up why the star and his rock band have decided to stage a Wu Bai & China Blue 20th Anniversary World Tour — to thank their supporters who have stood by them over the years, and more.

"The purpose of this concert is very different from my previous ones. I'm not just thanking my fans for where I am today; I'm thanking my many motivations too — my persistence, my enthusiasm, the love and anger in me… all of that that have inspired me to compose so many songs."

And fans of the rock band are certainly in for a treat because instead of the typical two-hour concert, they can expect double of that come 14 July at the Resorts World Convention Centre.

"We'll be doubling the contents of this concert, it'll be two combined into one," he announced, joking that his band mates weren't too pleased when they first heard the news.

"Dino (the drummer) might have to just stay seated for four hours," Wu laughed.

Would stamina pose a problem for the foursome then?

"Definitely," confessed the lead vocalist, before adding that there will not be any special guest performances for this concert, as he'd planned.

"I wouldn't have to worry if so, or if it's 20 years ago," he continued. "We haven't been able to imagine how the full rehearsal will be yet. I think it's better if we don't have one (laughs)."

"I won't be dancing, sorry!"

Those who were hoping to catch a spirited Wu grooving to his hit "You are my flower" will be disappointed though, as Wu has already set his mind on giving the dance segment a miss for the upcoming concert.

"Ever since the debut of the 'Flower Dance', well it's true I wanted to do it the first few years, but not so much after that," said Wu of the signature dance moves he choreographed to the chorus of the catchy song.

"But requests just kept flooding in concert after concert," he exclaimed, almost exasperated. "I won't be dancing this time, sorry!"

Wu also revealed his big plans to make a true return to his roots for the upcoming concert in Singapore.

"It will be pretty much like the album 'One Way Ticket' (in 2011)," he said. "This world tour will largely revolve around my original music."

"Revolving platforms, pyrotechnics displays… I don't need any of those special effects. All I wish is for my fans to be able to see me, hear my songs, and feel moved. And that's enough for me."

The Wu Bai & China Blue 20th Anniversary World Tour Singapore will be held on 14 July, 8pm at the Resorts World Convention Centre, Compass Ballroom. Tickets ranging from S$88 to S$188 (excluding SISTIC admin charges) are available at all SISTIC counters.