Singer-songwriter Emma-Lee Moss, known to many as Emmy the Great, is set to release a new memoir that delves into her deep affection for Hong Kong's distinctive Cantopop music. The book, described as being 'rooted in her love' for the genre, explores the unique cross-cultural blend that defines the city's sound, often characterised as an 'east-meets-west' phenomenon.
Moss's personal connection to Hong Kong and its music is profound. Born in the city to an English father and a Hongkonger mother, she spent her formative years there until the age of 11. Her family subsequently relocated to England, a move common among many residents who left Hong Kong in the period leading up to the 1997 transfer of sovereignty from the United Kingdom to China. This personal history provides a rich backdrop for her exploration of Cantopop, a genre that often reflects the city's complex identity and history.
The memoir promises to offer readers an intimate look at the 'joy' embedded within Hong Kong's music, with Moss reportedly sharing her favourite tracks. This curated selection is expected to provide insights into the genre's evolution and its cultural significance, both within Hong Kong and for its diaspora. Cantopop, a portmanteau of 'Cantonese' and 'pop', has been a dominant musical force in Hong Kong for decades, influencing fashion, film, and societal trends.
For many, Cantopop is more than just music; it is a sonic representation of Hong Kong itself. Its lyrics frequently touch upon themes of love, longing, and social commentary, often delivered with a distinctive melodic flair that bridges traditional Chinese musical elements with Western pop structures. Moss's memoir is anticipated to illuminate how these elements coalesce to form a sound that she describes as the very 'story of Hong Kong'.
By focusing on Cantopop, Moss not only shares her personal journey and musical tastes but also offers a cultural lens through which to understand Hong Kong's vibrant past and its enduring influence. The book is likely to resonate with those familiar with the genre, as well as new audiences eager to explore the rich tapestry of Hong Kong's artistic heritage through the eyes of a celebrated British-Hongkonger artist.