Tragically, the music industry mourns the loss of Coco Lee, a renowned singer and songwriter from Hong Kong. At the age of 48, Coco Lee succumbed to the depths of depression, leaving behind a legacy of musical brilliance. Despite her struggles, she had enjoyed an illustrious career in Asia during the 1990s and 2000s, captivating audiences with her exceptional talent.
Coco Lee’s battle with depression had spanned several years, as revealed by her siblings, Carol and Nancy Lee, in a heartfelt statement. Sharing the devastating news on social media platforms, they disclosed that her condition had worsened significantly in recent months, despite seeking professional help. Tragically, the inner demons Coco fought against ultimately overwhelmed her.
Born as Ferren Lee in Hong Kong, she completed her high school education in San Francisco, United States. Her journey to stardom began when she secured the first runner-up position in a reality show on the TVB channel in Hong Kong. This pivotal moment propelled her into a successful singing career, leading to the release of her debut album in 1994 when she was just 19 years old.
With expertise in Mandopop, Coco Lee captivated audiences with her mastery of both Cantonese and English. Not only was she an extraordinary vocalist, but also a mesmerizing performer, renowned for her captivating live shows across the globe. Her groundbreaking achievements paved the way for other Chinese singers, breaking barriers and making a lasting impact in the US music industry. One of her notable English songs, “Do You Want My Love,” climbed to an impressive No. 4 on Billboard’s Hot Dance Breakouts chart in December 1999.
Coco Lee’s talents extended beyond singing, as she lent her voice to the Mandarin version of Disney’s beloved film ‘Mulan,’ voicing the heroic character of Fa Mulan herself. Additionally, she recorded the Mandarin version of the film’s 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 they did not have children of their own, Coco embraced her role as a stepmother to Rockowitz’s two daughters.
Throughout her life, Coco Lee expressed her thoughts and emotions through social media. On December 31, 2022, she shared a poignant Instagram post showcasing tattoos of the words “love” and “faith” etched on her skin, symbolizing her unwavering strength during a challenging year. Furthermore, in March, she documented her journey of overcoming a leg surgery, displaying her resilience and determination to overcome adversity.
Today, we remember Coco Lee not only for her incredible musical contributions but also for her courage in battling her personal struggles. Her legacy as a trailblazing Chinese singer and performer will forever inspire future generations in the world of music. May she rest in peace, leaving behind a timeless imprint on the hearts of her fans.