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1. Lee was a versatile and accomplished singer

Before all, back in her hometown, Lee’s big break in the music industry came after she finished first runner-up in an annual singing competition held by Hong Kong broadcaster TVB. In 1994, at just 19 years old, she released her debut album, ushering in a career that would go on to span nearly three decades.

Lee was a highly versatile and accomplished singer, whose impact on the music industry is undeniable. While she initially gained prominence as a Mandopop artist, she later expanded her repertoire, captivating audiences with albums released in Cantonese and English too.

Lee’s powerful vocals and electrifying stage presence were her trademarks, earning her a devoted fan base. Her talent and dedication propelled her to become the first Chinese singer to break into the US market. One of her most notable achievements was the success of her English song “Do You Want My Love”, which reached No 4 on Billboard’s Hot Dance Breakouts chart in December 1999.

2. Lee’s influence extended to the world of film

Lee also lent her voice to the Mandarin version of Disney’s 1998 hit film Mulan, providing the vocals for the film’s heroine, Fa Mulan. She also recorded the Mandarin version of the film’s iconic theme song, “Reflection”.

3. Lee dedicated time and effort to charitable causes

Despite her demanding schedule, she actively contributed to organisations such as Unicef, serving as a youth ambassador, and advocating for the rights and well-being of children worldwide. She also supported the Make-A-Wish Foundation, bringing joy to children facing critical illness by granting their wishes.

As an ambassador for the Organisation for World Peace in China, Lee supported initiatives and projects aimed at fostering harmony within and between communities. Furthermore, her involvement as a Youth Aids ambassador at a global Aids conference in Thailand in 2004 highlighted the importance of youth education and awareness in combating the spread of HIV/Aids.

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4. Lee needed surgery after a tragic injury

While practising dance moves in October last year, Lee sustained an injury significant enough to warrant a re-learning process to regain her ability to walk.

She shared her determination and resilience in a Facebook post, stating that despite the pain and the need to start from scratch, she was confident in her ability to overcome this setback. She wrote, “Successful surgery. Even though I’m in a lot of pain and I have to re-learn how to walk again, I know I can do it. Yes, I can and I will!”

5. Lee shared personal thoughts in her final Instagram post on NYE

Lee often shared insights into her life and experiences with her followers. In her final Instagram post, dated December 31, 2022, she expressed the significance of the words “love” and “faith” by sharing photos of tattoos adorning her body. She described these words as carrying immense personal meaning, serving as pillars of strength during an incredibly challenging year. Despite her hardships, Lee was fearless, confronting difficulties head-on with unwavering determination.

“Life seemed unbearable at times but I adapted the attitude of a female warrior to face them head on fearlessly but always had the biggest smile and big fat laughters!” she wrote.

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Mandopop singer-songwriter Wang Leehom took to Facebook to pay tribute to her, describing her as the best and an artist that everyone wanted to work with. He wrote, “In the music industry, Coco Lee broke down international barriers, before any other Chinese singer did. Let’s always remember her, as a brave pioneer, and an important musical legend.”

Lee’s sister Nancy also penned a heartfelt message in the Facebook statement. She wrote, “We hope that everyone will not only miss Coco, but also share her bright smile, treat people with sincerity, and convey kindness and love to everyone around us, and continue Coco’s wish to let everyone around feel her love and happiness.”

If you are having suicidal thoughts, or you know someone who is, help is available. For Hong Kong, dial +852 2896 0000 for The Samaritans or +852 2382 0000 for Suicide Prevention Services. In the US, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on +1 988.