Hong Kong – Rising hip-hop artist KALAI (Yu Ka-lai) officially joined EAS Music, the record label founded by Cantopop superstar Eason Chan, during a press conference in Whampoa on Tuesday night. The 28-year-old becomes the first female signee under the banner, marking a significant step in her career.
KALAI opened the event with a 30-second original rap, written specifically for the occasion, candidly addressing her anxieties and ambitions. She then delivered a three-song set, including her debut single under the new label, “THAT’S HOW WE MOVE,” alongside “Like A Fool” and “Go Up.” Chan, visibly energized by the performance, applauded and embraced his new artist on stage.
The “Lonely Warrior” singer revealed that his wife, Hilary Tsui, first introduced him to KALAI’s talent. “I saw her perform at Ah Xu’s shop one year and was simply impressed by this young woman,” Chan explained. “Later, she worked as a salesperson at a friend’s store to make ends meet. Over time, I realized she handles every aspect of her creative work personally. That dedication deserves my support.”
Chan also shared an amusing anecdote, noting that his first impression of KALAI’s glamorous stage look gave way to discovering her tomboyish nature. He playfully dubbed her the “station master” after she joined his tour’s Xi’an stop and famously played mahjong until 8 a.m.
An emotional KALAI choked up while sharing her gratitude. “I feel incredibly fortunate that Eason and [manager] Barbara Kam believe in me. Many musicians in Hong Kong work extremely hard, and having my light seen makes me a lucky person,” she said.
The rapper disclosed a challenging health hurdle last year when she developed two cysts on her throat. Chan recommended an ear, nose, and throat specialist, and she subsequently underwent vocal cord surgery. “I received the invitation to join while recovering, but I wasn’t sure if I could still sing,” she said. “Thank them for waiting for me. Someone being willing to wait is deeply moving.”
KALAI also credited Chan for mentoring her on vocal delivery and emotional phrasing, adding that he produced one of her upcoming tracks. Chan, who surprised her with a birthday cake and flowers, offered advice: “Don’t ever forget your original self.”
Reflecting on her struggles, KALAI openly mentioned that her bank balance once fell to just HK$20. “I usually only share good news with my family. Those experiences taught me to cherish what I have now,” she said, adding that her goal is to earn more and deliver quality music.
When asked about working with Eason’s daughter, Constance, KALAI expressed admiration. “We are friends and share music recommendations. I think her musical taste is outstanding,” she said. “I’d love to collaborate with her someday.”
On potential duets with her boss, KALAI remained humble: “I haven’t considered asking him yet. I want to prepare myself first. When I feel I truly meet that standard, I’ll invite him.”
She also noted that her contract contains no restrictions on dating or marriage, and confirmed that pop diva Sammi Cheng, a past collaborator, has voiced support for the move.
KALAI’s signing signals EAS Music’s expansion into hip-hop and its commitment to nurturing independent voices, a move that industry watchers see as a strategic push to bridge mainstream Cantopop with emerging urban sounds.