Taipei, June 28 (CNA) Chinese singer-songwriter Li Ronghao took home the trophy for Best New Artist for his debut album "Model" at the 25th Golden Melody Awards on Saturday.

"Thank you very much to the Golden Melody Awards, for giving my first album such big encouragement," Li said during his acceptance speech.

The 28-year-old singer also thanked his parents, management company and record label.

"Thank you everyone for liking 'Model,'" Li said.

Li began composing music when he was a teenager, and wrote songs for many Mandarin singers over the past decade before releasing his own album.

He has been touted for his soulful singing style, and his music has been compared to that of American artist John Mayer.

The other nominees for the Best New Artist award and the albums that put them in the running were Jacky Chen ("Sam Ts'ap Tho'ng"), Simhanada ("1/84000"), Funky Brothers ("Funky Brothers"), Xiao Ren ("Kiddo Kingdom"), and Koala Liu ("Embrace").

"Model" earned five nominations at this year's Golden Melody Awards, the most of any album.

It was also nominated in the categories of Best Mandarin Album, Best Mandarin Male Singer, Best Album Producer, and Best Lyricist, but did not win the latter two categories.

The awards in the first two categories were to be announced later in the ceremony.

(By Christie Chen; click here for coverage of this year's Golden Melody Awards)
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