HONG KONG - AFTER 14 years in showbiz, Leo Ku won his first Most Popular Male Singer prize at broadcaster TVB's Jade Solid Gold Top 10 Awards.

The 36-year-old was in tears last Saturday as he thanked his record company, manager Paco Wong, lyricist Lin Xi, as well as his assistant and rumoured long-time love, Lorraine, said Ming Pao Daily News.

Ku, who beat last year's winner Eason Chan to the prize, said he forgot to thank his assistant when he won a newcomer award years ago.

'There was a time I didn't have a record label and I disappeared. I didn't know whether I would have a chance to stand on the podium again. Today, it has come true and I think she is excited backstage. Many thanks to my assistant, Lorraine.'

Also in a shocker, Miriam Yeung was named Most Popular Female Singer, ending Joey Yung's five-year domination in the category.

Yeung, who last won the prize in 2002, was teary and speechless for minutes.

She then said: 'Since the last win six years ago, I really had become discouraged and frustrated. There was a time I was mentally abnormal. But I have understood the need to learn from failure.'

Chan and Yung went home with consolation prizes. He won the Asia-Pacific Most Popular Male Singer and she, the female equivalent.

Kay Tse took the Gold Song award for the best song of the year for her hit, Invitation Street.