Veteran Hong Kong rock band Dear Jane marked their 20th anniversary on Saturday with a special Blu-ray signing event in Ma On Shan, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of long-time supporters. The gathering served as both a celebration of their enduring career and an official launch for the live concert recording of their highly successful four-show run at the prestigious Hong Kong Coliseum last year. The band also confirmed extensive touring plans across North America, Asia, and Europe starting in March, aiming to bring their music to a global audience.
Reflecting on Career Milestones
The four-piece band—comprising vocalist Tim Wong, guitarist Howie Yung, bassist Jackal Ng, and drummer Nice Lai—took the opportunity to reflect on their recent peak achievements. The unforgettable atmosphere generated by capacity crowds during their four-night residency at the Coliseum remains a powerful memory, they shared.
Vocalist Tim Wong expressed deep gratitude to the fanbase, referencing the lyrics of their song “Floating Bed” (浮床): “Thank you for accompanying me as I drifted through years of anxiety.” This sentiment underscored the band’s appreciation for two decades of steadfast fan support. Wong also offered a heartfelt public acknowledgment to his wife, Janine Yeung, crediting her with managing their children single-handedly during the concert period, allowing him to focus entirely on his performance.
Maintaining the Element of Surprise
In discussing highlights from the show captured on the new Blu-ray, which features 43 tracks, guitarist Howie Yung singled out the band’s traditional “instrument swap” segment. This impromptu exchange of roles injects a palpable sense of fun and spontaneity, a cherished hallmark of their live shows.
Yung recalled drummer Nice Lai and bassist Jackal Ng performing an impromptu drumming duet on the classic “Years of Friendship,” followed by Ng taking lead vocals and dancing on “Grass Ring.” Tim Wong even surprisingly jumped on the drum kit, while Yung temporarily took over on bass.
“This segment is a unique tradition for us,” Yung explained, noting the special effort made for the 20th anniversary to deliver unexpected moments. He expressed hope that future concerts would continue this element of mutual synchronicity and surprise for audience members.
Touring Aspiration and Creative Future
The signing event also served as the platform to detail Dear Jane’s ambitious itinerary for the coming year. Their grand global outing is set to begin in March, taking their music to multiple international cities including locations across North America, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Malaysia.
Bassist Jackal Ng projected confidence about the band’s longevity, expressing the hope of continuing together for another two decades. “We are determined to bring our music to every corner of the world, sharing it with the fans who have stood by us,” he stated, promising the creation of more “fiery” and inventive musical works.
Drummer Nice Lai confirmed the intensive preparation currently underway. “We are practicing diligently to ensure we are in peak condition when we meet our fans internationally,” he assured.
Along with performing popular hits and signing autographs for the assembled supporters, the band engaged in interactive activities, including a fai chun (New Year banner) game to test their synergy while penning Lunar New Year blessings. Pre-emptively celebrating the upcoming holidays, Dear Jane wished their fans health and great fortune for the coming year before concluding the event with a massive group photograph. The band’s global ambitions demonstrate a powerful drive to solidify their legacy beyond their foundational Hong Kong audience.
