Pop Singer Coco Lee Has Passed Away

TV & Film

Jul 9

Coco Lee, best known for providing the singing voice for Mulan (in Mandarin), sadly passed away on 5th July 2023 at age 48.

Family announced that she had taken her own life. Coco Lee had a singular singing voice and was the first Chinese American to perform at the Academy Awards after receiving a nomination for A Love Before Time (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon). The Beijing Olympics provided her with another opportunity to receive international attention singing Forever Friends with fellow Mandopop star Sun Nan.

The Hong Kong-born star made twenty-seven albums over her life in four languages. Her music was like her personality, vibrant, soulful, and exuberant. Coco Lee broke onto the U.S billboards, reaching number 4 with her upbeat dance number, Don’t You Want My Love, before being cast as the Disney Princess. Coco Lee was a staple on the reality TV circuit in China, appearing as a contestant and judge in various singing and dancing competitions. She was a consummate professional and always eager to share her extensive knowledge.

Lee was an advocate for Chinese singers around the world, breaking through doors so others could walk through them. Her philanthropic streak did not stop there, as she was a youth ambassador for UNICEF and supported a whole host of other charities.

Her loss has shocked her two sisters, Carol and Nancy, but it is hoped that it will spark a much-needed mental health debate in China.