Tragic Loss: Coco Lee, Renowned Hong Kong Singer and Songwriter, Passes Away at 48

 

 

HONG KONG — In a tragic turn of events, Coco Lee, the renowned Hong Kong-born singer and songwriter who achieved international success, has passed away at the age of 48. According to a statement posted on Facebook and Instagram by her siblings, Carol and Nancy Lee, Coco had been battling depression for several years, and her condition had significantly worsened in recent months.

Despite seeking professional help and putting up a valiant fight against depression, Coco's inner demons ultimately overwhelmed her, as stated in the heartfelt message. Over the weekend, she made a suicide attempt at her home and was immediately rushed to the hospital. Tragically, Coco remained in a coma and passed away on Wednesday.

Born as Ferren Lee in Hong Kong, Coco later relocated to the United States, where she attended middle and high school in San Francisco. Her singing career took off after she achieved first runner-up in a prestigious annual singing competition held by broadcaster TVB in Hong Kong. At the young age of 19, Coco released her debut album in 1994.

Throughout her nearly three-decade-long career, Coco ventured beyond Mandopop and released albums in Cantonese and English. She gained recognition for her exceptional vocal prowess and captivating live performances. Her accomplishments extended to breaking into the American market, becoming the first Chinese singer to achieve such a feat. In December 1999, her English song "Do You Want My Love" reached #4 on Billboard's Hot Dance Breakouts chart.

Coco's influence also extended to the world of film, as she lent her voice to the Mandarin version of Disney's "Mulan" as the heroine, Fa Mulan. She also performed the Mandarin version of the movie's iconic theme song, "Reflection."

In 2011, Coco Lee married Bruce Rockowitz, a Canadian businessman and former CEO of Hong Kong supply chain company Li & Fung. Although she didn't have children of her own, Coco had two stepdaughters from her marriage.

In her last Instagram post dated December 31, 2022, Coco shared images of herself, including tattoos of the words "love" and "faith," as well as a photo of what appears to be a drainage bag attached to her body. The caption reflected her enduring spirit and determination to confront life's challenges fearlessly, adopting the mindset of a "female warrior."

Coco's untimely passing has deeply saddened the music industry and her fans. Mandopop singer-songwriter Wang Leehom paid tribute to her on Instagram, hailing her as the "biggest star" whom everyone aspired to collaborate with. He acknowledged Coco's groundbreaking achievements, noting that she shattered international barriers for Chinese singers. Taiwanese singer Jolin Tsai also expressed her condolences on Facebook, honoring Coco's memory and cherishing her radiant smile.

The loss of Coco Lee leaves a void in the world of music, but her legacy as a courageous trailblazer and a significant musical legend will forever be remembered.