By Zoey SUN

"Is Cantopop dead?"—this is a question that has lingered in recent years, one that Mango TV's "Infinity and Beyond S4" (聲生不息·大灣區季) posed during its promotional launch. Now, with the final episode airing on Feb. 14, the answer to this question has become clear. As a devoted fan of the show, standing in the recording studio and listening to melodies that transcend time, I felt the heartbeat of Cantopop and realized that the singers from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and the Mainland had already responded—in music.

The golden era of Cantopop was once the soundtrack of countless lives. From the humor-laden ballads of Sam Hui to the soulful tenderness of Leslie Cheung, from Anita Mui's unmatched charisma to the emotional depth of Eason Chan, Cantopop not only accompanied generations as they grew but became a cornerstone of Chinese cultural identity. It is undeniable, however, that Cantopop's influence in the Chinese-speaking world has waned compared to its peak in the 1980s and 1990s. The rise of the Mainland's music industry, coupled with fierce competition in the global music market and a shift in media consumption habits, has gradually eroded Hong Kong's share of the stage.

But the fact that Cantopop is no longer in the spotlight does not mean it has lost its vitality. Today's Hong Kong music scene may no longer produce "Four Heavenly Kings"-level megastars, but it is brimming with rising "little stars" who shine brightly. A new wave of talented artists, such as Michael Cheung Tin-fu, Gareth.T, and Gigi Yim Ming-hay, has emerged. Their work resonates not only locally but also across the mainland and even internationally, where their concerts often sell out. The current Hong Kong music landscape is fresh, diverse, and exciting.

The success of "Infinity and Beyond S4" is also a powerful testament to the enduring vibrancy of Cantopop. Featuring performances by singers from different generations, the show breathed new life into classics and amplified the voices of the younger generation. Notably, it highlighted recent works from the Hong Kong music scene, with some songs released post-2020. Even newcomer artists like 2003-born Felix Lam Chi-lok took the stage. In addition, in one standout performance, Leo Ku and Huang Zihongfan reimagined Ku's classic Love And Sincerity (愛與誠), bridging generations and infusing the song with fresh meaning. The program also introduced Cantonese Pinyin subtitles, allowing non-Cantonese-speaking audiences to appreciate the unique charm of Cantopop.

The enduring appeal of Cantopop lies not only in its melody but also in its cultural and social significance. The genre's roots in Hong Kong music, cinema and television, combined with its intimate reflections on urban life, local identity, and the human condition, give it a relatable and timeless quality. Cantopop songs often explore themes of societal change, personal struggles, and philosophical reflection. For instance, songs like "Beautiful Life" (終身美麗) captures the societal shift brought about by Hong Kong's economic boom, including women's increased participation in the workforce and their confidence—a phenomenon mirrored in the independent, professional women portrayed in Hong Kong films. The lyrics of "Brighter Future" (前程錦繡) convey a heartfelt message of resilience and mutual support, encouraging listeners to face challenges without fear: "Dry your tears, dare to climb the highest peak, and look far beyond (淚下抹乾 敢抵抗高山 攀過望遠方)."

The times have changed. The people and stories that matter, as well as the eras we yearn to revisit, are no longer the same. This shift has shaped both the direction of creative works and the audiences they resonate with. Some see Cantopop as nostalgia-driven, while others believe that music born from civil society and postmodern urban life, however unconventional, can also be great works. These listeners seek to explore and imagine new possibilities from worlds beyond their own.

Yet, while eras may change and mediums may evolve, the essence of Cantopop remains steadfast: it is a reflection of everyday life, local culture, identity, and the urban human experience. For those who continue to care about Cantonese music and culture, the rise and fall of Cantopop is more than a cycle of nostalgia—it is a mirror of societal change and a source of inspiration. The ebb and flow of its popularity carries with it stories of transformation, offering insights far more profound than mere sentimentality.

Whether it's Cantopop, Hong Kong dramas, or the city's broader cultural identity, the focus ultimately returns to the people—their lives, their stories, and their spirit. As long as these stories endure, as long as this spirit persists, and as long as the unique character of Hong Kong continues to thrive, Cantopop will never die.

As veteran singer George Lam once remarked while witnessing the rise of a new generation of artists: "If one day no one sings the songs of our era anymore, we will still feel honored because we know there will always be new voices, forever by your side."

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