The music industry is in a state of grief following the passing of Hong Kong pop star, Coco Lee, at the age of 48. Born in 1975, the multi-talented singer’s life was marked by exceptional moments that elevated her to international stardom. She battled depression, as shared by her sisters in a social media post, a struggle that eventually led to her untimely demise.
Lee was born in Hong Kong but moved to San Francisco at the tender age of nine. Even in her early years, Lee showed a flair for performance, winning the title of Miss Teen Chinatown San Francisco in 1991 when she was just 16.
After graduating from high school in 1993, she visited Hong Kong and entered the TVB New Talent Singing Contest on a whim. Singing Whitney Houston’s 1992 hit “Run to You,” Lee captured the judges’ attention and secured second place. A recording contract came her way the very next day, causing her to rethink her academic plans.
Originally set to study biology at the University of California with an ambition to become a doctor, Lee took a leap of faith and dropped out to chase a career in entertainment.
In 2001, Lee’s vocal prowess led her to the prestigious stage of the 73rd Academy Awards where she performed “A Love Before Time,” the soundtrack for Ang Lee’s popular movie “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.” The song was nominated for the best original song, marking the first time a Chinese-American had performed at the Oscars.
Adding another feather to her cap, Lee voiced the character Fa Mulan in the Mandarin version of the Disney blockbuster “Mulan” in 1998. Her rendition of the song “Reflection” for the movie only further cemented her popularity.
In 2002, Lee became the first Chinese-American singer to perform the US national anthem at a significant global sporting event during the NBA debut of Chinese basketball superstar Yao Ming.
Offstage, Lee’s personal life also drew public attention. In 2011, she married Canadian billionaire Bruce Rockowitz in a lavish, star-studded ceremony reportedly costing around US$20 million. The wedding featured performances by renowned singers Bruno Mars and Alicia Keys. The occasion was celebrated with the release of Lee’s song “I Just Wanna Marry You.”
Coco Lee’s life, filled with triumphant milestones, memorable performances, and personal battles, will be remembered in the heart of the music world. Her legacy lives on through her music, echoing the vibrancy and strength of her spirit
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