It’s been a sad week in Hong Kong music with the passing of one of the indie scene’s most loved characters. In both his role as frontman of the freak-folk band Milkteeth and in pretty much everything he did, Basha captivated everyone he met. Eccentric, colourful, endlessly witty, uniquely talented and wonderfully articulate, he had a vibrancy that buoyed whoever was around him. As a tribute, we asked friends and admirers from the Hong Kong music community how he’ll be remembered. 

‘My first show was played with Joey's band Milkteeth. He came to me afterwards and told me that my cover of No Doubt's 'Don't Speak' was weird. He said he loved it and gave me not only a hug, but also a second show. Joey, you are everlasting in the people you have touched, through your music and through being you. Thank you.’ Janice Ngiam, Sun Eskimos

‘One of the first convos I had with Joey was about ectrodactylism, more commonly known as "lobster-claw syndrome". For a while we had an in-joke where we'd make the Vulcan sign and "high-three" each other. A legit eccentric genius, I'm proud to count Joey Milk among my closest friends. High three!’ Arthur Urquiola, Tigerbombers

‘Joey, no words can describe my grief over losing you as a good friend, a talented music companion and a patient teacher. Your passion for music and eagerness to create has always been impressive. I will never forget your smile, the songs we covered, and our music trip in Macau (with all good food!) Goodbye pal, miss you so much.’ Erik Piece, singer-songwriter and Innisfallen

‘Joey was a true character who made a true mark on the people and place around him. Through his personality and music he came across as a catalyst for joy, and will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.’ Justin Sweeting, Untitled Entertainment and Clockenflap

‘I was never lucky enough to meet Joey but was very much a fan of the truly unique music he made with his band Milkteeth. He lived life on his own terms and has deeply touched the lives of those that knew him here in Hong Kong.’ David Harris, Hong Kong Gig Guide

‘The last time I saw Joey he talked about constantly experimenting with new instruments and sounds. I saw Milkteeth perform half a dozen times in the last year or so and they were different every time. Joey was a great songwriter, who could really connect with the listener. He had a unique energy – intense and joyful.’ Stuart Lennon, singer-songwriter

‘Joey had so much energy and creativity. His music and passion inspired all of us - it's a sad to think where we will be without him. He will be dearly and truly missed.’ Sherin, Ciosa and Gabe of 9 Maps

‘Over the years I knew Joey not only as Hong Kong’s best Diva, but as a friend who shared the same passion for music. Milkteeth quickly became established here and started to reach out around the rest of the world, with their infectious hooks and lyrics. Joey was a genius waiting to happen and it's a sad loss, not only personally, but to the Hong Kong music scene. Totally cool guy. RIP my friend. You will not be forgotten.’ Simon Griffin, Sushi Robot

We were big Joey fans, a huge talent and a sweet guy, we'll miss him a lot. We also got this rather lovely quote from Greg Saunier from Deerhoof [who Joey's band Milkteeth played with recently]: 'We all watched Milkteeth... Couldn't take our eyes off Crazy Joey. Not one to hide his feelings. I never knew whether to laugh or cry when he was singing about how "people in Hong Kong don't know how to have sex properly!" or when he was telling me how many time he's seen Deerhoof and how moved he was to be playing the show. Within seconds of meeting him you just felt swept up in his whirlwind of energy that nothing could jade or tame.' Mike Middleton and Jane Blondel, Songs from Children

A tribute to Joey Basha will be held on Thursday December 29 at Hidden Agenda from 7.30pm. More info here.

Words: Mark Tjhung

Photo: Gene Tsz Kin Chan