In a heartbreaking announcement that shook the world, the siblings of Hong Kong Singer Coco Lee, the extraordinary Hong Kong-born singer and songwriter, revealed on Wednesday that she had tragically taken her own life at the age of 48. However, amid the sorrow, we choose to celebrate her life, her immense talent, and the indelible mark she left on the music industry.
Throughout her remarkable career, Coco Lee graced stages across Asia, capturing the hearts of millions with her soulful voice and magnetic presence. Behind her radiant smile, however, lurked a silent battle with depression, a struggle her elder sisters Carol and Nancy Lee courageously shared in a heartfelt statement on Facebook and Instagram. They recounted how Coco’s condition had progressively worsened in recent months, despite her earnest efforts to seek professional help and overcome her demons.
This weekend, Coco Lee’s family faced a devastating turn of events as she attempted suicide at home. Rushed to the hospital, she clung to life in a coma, but, tragically, she succumbed to her inner demons on Wednesday, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of her fans.
Born as Ferren Lee in the vibrant city of Hong Kong, Coco Lee later embarked on a journey that would take her to new horizons. Settling in the United States, she pursued her education in San Francisco, laying the foundation for a future that would astonish the world. It was there that Coco’s dreams took flight, propelled by her exceptional talent and a relentless pursuit of her passion.
In 1994, at the tender age of 19, Coco Lee launched her debut album, setting the stage for an illustrious career that would span decades. Her meteoric rise began with a remarkable achievement, as she secured the first runner-up position in an annual singing competition hosted by the esteemed broadcaster TVB in her hometown of Hong Kong. From that moment on, Coco’s star shone brightly, captivating audiences far and wide with her mesmerizing performances and captivating vocals.
Hong Kong Singer Coco Lee enchanted the world with her brilliance in Mulan, and more
Her impact extended beyond the borders of Asia when she became the enchanting voice of Mulan, the iconic Disney heroine, in the Mandarin version of the animated masterpiece. Coco’s rendition of the film’s theme song, “Reflection,” further solidified her status as a musical force to be reckoned with.
In 2011, Coco Lee embarked on a new chapter of her life, uniting with Bruce Rockowitz, a Canadian businessman and former CEO of Hong Kong supply chain company Li & Fung. While her marriage with Rockowitz didn’t bring children of her own into the world, she embraced her role as a stepmother to his two daughters, nurturing them with the same love and passion that defined her musical journey.
In her final Instagram post, dated December 31, 2022, Coco shared a poignant glimpse into her inner world. Alongside pictures of herself, she revealed tattoos etched with the words “love” and “faith,” symbolic reminders that had carried her through the trials of an incredibly challenging year. Her words echoed with profound strength as she expressed her indomitable spirit, likening herself to a “female warrior” fearlessly facing life’s adversities head-on.
Coco Lee’s resilience was tested once again in March when she underwent surgery to address an old leg injury sustained during a dance practice mishap in October 2022. Despite enduring excruciating pain and having to relearn how to walk, she remained steadfast in her determination, confident that she would conquer this obstacle. Her unwavering spirit and unwavering belief in herself serve as lasting inspirations to all who face their own battles.
Mandopop Singer Want Leehom Pays Rich Tribute to Hong Kong Singer Coco Lee
As news of Coco Lee’s passing reverberated throughout the industry, Mandopop singer-song writer Wang Leehom took to Instagram to pay a heartfelt tribute to his dear friend and colleague. In an emotional post, he described Coco Lee as not just a star, but the “biggest star” that everyone aspired to collaborate with. He praised her unparalleled talent, her unwavering dedication to her craft, and the immense impact she had on the music world. Wang Leehom’s tribute serves as a testament to the profound admiration and respect Coco Lee commanded among her peers, cementing her status as a true legend in the annals of music history. Though she may no longer be with us, her spirit will continue to soar through the timeless melodies she gifted us, forever reminding us of the extraordinary talent and extraordinary person she was.