Jason Chan: Must-Hears for the New Year

After spending nearly two decades in Canada from age 7, Jason Chan returned to Hong Kong to develop his musical craft in 2006. Songs like “Stubborn” quickly catapulted him to fame in the Cantopop world. Known for his comforting, bittersweet ballads, the prince of healing love songs is frequently found at the top of music charts and award shortlists in Hong Kong and beyond. Lunar New Year has always been a busy time for Jason’s family, especially when he spent it in Canada—an experience he fondly recalls. “My family used to make Chinese food in Canada. Whenever Chinese New Year rolled around, we’d launch a special series of festive foods just for the occasion, and as I always helped my family with preparations, we were all often working during Chinese New Year. That said, I was happy because I always got paid! That money was better than what you’d get in any red envelope.” For a young person working alongside their family throughout the holiday, what kind of music defined the experience? “Happy music!” answers Jason, naming Paula Tsui’s “Xi Qi Yang Yang” as an example. “This playlist is mainly composed of upbeat songs, I want everyone to be happy!” The lively and festive holiday atmosphere is unmissable in this collection. Jason Chan’s New Year’s blessing is as direct as he is: “Gong Xi Fa Cai—wish you all fortune and wealth! Blessings all round for you, me and everyone else!”