As a member of Hong Kong’s most important rock band ever, Beyond, Wong Ka-keung is an inextricable part of our music history. After his older brother Ka-kui’s tragic death in 1993, Ka-keung worked with band mates Paul Wong Koon-chung and Yip Sai-wing to prolong the band’s lifespan and popularity for another eight years. Last year, Ka-keung organised a series of seminars, an exhibition, and a large-scale concert to pay tribute to his brother on the 15th anniversary of his death. He now owns his own label, Picasso Horses, and mentors rising young Canto-rock band Kolor.

Insight

Ka-keung expressed delight at discovering there is a vibrant heart to indie music in a city so dominated by Cantopop. “I never thought that they’d like to play this kind of music – I’m surprised,” he said of the bands that entered the competition. “I’m so glad to hear about these kinds of bands that can keep rocking in Hong Kong.” He reserved special praise for Chochukmo, who he heard for the first time without realising he was listening to Chinese Hongkongers. “I’d never think they were a Chinese band – they have an international sense of music.”

The Winners

Judge profile: Anthony Wong Yiu-ming

Judge profile: Steve Wong Ka-keung

Judge profile: Kelvin Avon