Jace Chan Hoi-wing, a rising star in Hong Kong’s music scene, has taken control of her artistic journey after parting ways with Universal Music. Known for hits like “Quarantine” and “I Wish”, Chan experienced a setback early in 2023 due to conflicting values with her label. This period of uncertainty, however, marked the beginning of a new chapter in her career as she embraced the role of an independent artist.
Discovered by Universal Music after various stints, including as a dance teacher and a stylist for the Hong Kong singing competition series King Maker, Chan signed as an artist in 2018. She found initial success with the label, but the end of her contract led her to a self-reflective phase and a decision to go solo.
Chan’s recent work, a five-song EP titled ‘Hatching’, symbolizes her transformation during this hiatus. She describes this phase as a period of waiting and growth, akin to an egg hatching. The EP represents her progress, warmth, and the unseen efforts behind her development as an artist.
The past year saw Chan traveling extensively, including a significant stay in Los Angeles. This journey was crucial for her self-discovery and understanding of what she truly wants, leading to a shift in her approach to music. Chan’s new songs, notably different from her earlier work, showcase a funkier, hip-hop influenced style, reflecting her true artistic identity.
‘Hatching’ is unique in that all five songs were written by Chan, a departure from her previous practice of performing songs written by others. She overcame her initial hesitation towards songwriting, allowing her creativity to flow freely. The EP features a diverse mix of musical influences, including hip hop, R&B, jazz, and pop.
“Calm Down”, a standout track from the EP, combines boom bap with Cantonese, English, and Mandarin lyrics. The song embraces Chan’s multicultural background and represents the blend of Eastern and Western influences in Hong Kong’s culture. “Bye Bye”, another track on the EP, captures Chan’s vulnerability and her journey towards self-validation.
Chan’s experiences in California and Mexico inspired “Earthly Fairy”, a song about embracing the simplicity of life and living in the moment. The EP also includes songs with Spanish lyrics, influenced by her newfound interest in the language and culture.
Produced in just two months after her return to Hong Kong, ‘Hatching’ is Chan’s gift to her supporters who have eagerly awaited her return. This new phase of her career is a testament to her resilience and commitment to her craft, showcasing a renewed and authentic version of herself. As she continues to evolve and grow as an independent artist, Jace Chan invites audiences into her new world of music and self-expression.
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