Hong Kong and international music lovers mourn the loss of a talented musician known for her impressive range and bright personality. On July 5th, 2023, renowned singer, dancer, and songwriter Coco Lee died at 48 following a long battle with depression. Her funeral service was held and met with tributes from mourning family, friends, and fans. In an article on CNN's website, writer Lau highlights comments from her sister Nancy Lee expressing her appreciation for the outpour of condolences: “Thanking guests for their support, Lee's older sister, Nancy, quoted the star. “My sister would often say this in her concert: ‘You could have chosen to go anywhere but today you chose to come here to be with me,'” Nancy Lee said during the memorial service, which was streamed online. “For that I thank you all,” she added, reminding visitors of the singer's “infectious smile and her kind heart.” A video tribute also featured a host of stars and movie directors whom Lee had worked with during her career” (Lau). The late singer worked with many individuals in the entertainment industry, including filmmaker Ang Lee and actress Michelle Yeoh.
Coco Lee's career notably began in Hong Kong, where she quickly received positive reception for her various albums and live performances. Her popularity and involvement in the music industry would expand to Taiwan and eventually internationally. Lee's recognized talents included her singing, songwriting, and dancing. She would even incorporate her dance skills when performing on stage. Those who worked with and knew Lee often cited her for her positive personality and kind demeanor. She quickly became a face of women's empowerment and inspired many to pursue a music career.
Coco Lee frequently contributed to music for various movies. Perhaps her most internationally recognized contribution is to the soundtrack of Ang Lee's martial arts film “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.” For the soundtrack composed by Tan Dun, Coco Lee would provide the striking vocals to the song “A Love Before Time,” a tune that she would even perform live at the 73rd Academy Awards in conjunction with the movie's various Oscar nominations, which it would win four. The melody has been hailed for encompassing the tone and atmosphere of the respective film featured, along with Lee's remarkable singing. Many audiences were introduced to her through this specific piece.
Coco Lee's legacy will continue to carry on. Her music career will remain celebrated, and those who knew her will remember the warm personality she was known for. Certainly, those who liked “A Love Before Time” from “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” should explore more of the renowned singer's work.
Bibliography:
Lau, Chris. “Singer Coco Lee Mourned by Family and Fans at Emotional Funeral.” CNN, Cable News Network, 1 Aug. 2023, www.cnn.com/2023/08/01/china/coco-lee-funeral-hong-kong-intl-hnk/index.html. Accessed 03 Sept. 2023.
