Chinese-American singer-songwriter Coco Lee, who was famous for her incredible singing and catchy songs, has passed away at the age of 48. Her family announced the sad news on Wednesday, revealing that Coco had taken her own life at her home on Sunday after struggling with depression for many years.
Coco was born in Hong Kong and moved to the United States when she was a teenager. She became a sensation in Asia and the US with her powerful voice and captivating music. Unfortunately, her depression had worsened in recent months, despite seeking professional help and putting up a brave fight against her inner demons. On July 2, Coco took her own life at home and was immediately rushed to the hospital. Tragically, despite the hospital’s best efforts, she passed away on July 5, 2023.
In 1993, Coco made her debut with the album Love From Now On, which became a big hit in Hong Kong and Taiwan. She then signed with Sony Music and released her first English-language album, Just No Other Way, in 1999. The album featured the popular single “Do You Want My Love,” which reached number 21 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.
Coco gained international recognition for her performances of the theme songs for Disney’s animated film Mulan (“Reflection”) and Ang Lee’s martial arts film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (“A Love Before Time”). In fact, her song for Mulan earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song in 2001.
In 2016, Coco achieved further success by winning the fourth season of the popular Chinese reality show I Am a Singer. Her renditions of songs by iconic artists like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Adele impressed both the audience and the judges.
Coco’s sisters expressed their pride in her accomplishments, saying she had worked tirelessly to pave the way for Chinese singers in the international music scene. They described her as an excellent and outstanding sister, adding that they were grateful to have had such a kind angel in their lives. They believed that Coco had now found happiness in a better place, free from the burdens of depression.
Coco is survived by her husband Bruce Philip Rockowitz, whom she married in 2011, and her stepdaughter Brittany Rockowitz. Her family has requested privacy and understanding during this difficult time.
Fans and fellow celebrities have taken to social media to express their shock and sadness over Coco’s passing. Many have paid tribute to her incredible talent and her role as a trailblazer for Asian singers in the global music industry. People remember her as a charismatic artist who broke barriers and inspired generations. The loss of Coco Lee has left a void in the hearts of her fans worldwide.
Wiki & Bio
| Name | Coco Lee |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Ferren Lee |
| Chinese name | 李玟 (Lǐ Wén) |
| Born | 17 January 1975, Hong Kong |
| Died | 5 July 2023, Hong Kong |
| Cause of death | Suicide |
| Occupation | Singer-songwriter, record producer, dancer, actress |
| Years active | 1993–2023 |
| Spouse | Bruce Rockowitz (m. 2011) |
| Genres | Pop, C-pop, dance-pop, hip hop, R&B, soul |
| Labels | Capital Artists, Fancy Pie, Sony Music Entertainment, 550 Music, Epic, Sony BMG, Warner Music Group, Universal Music Group |