Hong Kong’s music elite gathered today, May 27th, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai for the highly anticipated Metro Radio Pop Hits Awards 2025, an event that celebrated outstanding achievements across the Canto-pop landscape and signaled a potential shift in the industry’s power dynamics. The ceremony awarded 10 coveted “Pop Hits Songs” prizes, recognizing both established stars and rising talents, while also providing a notable moment of reconciliation between the media giant and a major record label.
The Year’s Top Canto-Pop Tracks Recognized
The event confirmed the strength and diversity of the current Canto-pop scene, honoring records that resonated deeply with audiences in the past year. Among the ten distinguished tracks receiving the “Pop Hits Song” recognition were compelling entries such as “Dear” (《親愛的》) by Hung Ka Ho, “Sugar-Free Coke” (《無糖可樂》) by Vincy Chan, and “Deep Disinfection” (《深層消毒》) from Chloe Lam. Other notable winners included Jason Chan with “The Future I See” (《我所看見的未來》) and Terence Lam’s lyrical effort, “April Story” (《四月物語》). The list, which spanned ballads, rock, and synth-pop, also recognized Gin Lee for “Byakuya” (《白夜行》), MC Cheung Tin Fu for “The Liar” (《說謊者》), and Jeff Ngai with “White Tuxedo” (《白色踢死兔》).
Dear Jane Marks Major Milestone and Return
A significant element of the evening was the performance and recognition of the popular rock band Dear Jane, whose track 《你流淚所以我流淚》 (You Cry, So I Cry) secured a “Pop Hits Song” award. Their appearance was particularly meaningful amid swirling industry rumors suggesting a successful détente between Metro Radio and Warner Music Hong Kong, Dear Jane’s label.
Addressing the audience after receiving the honor, Tim Wong, the band’s lead vocalist, emphasized the nostalgia and camaraderie of the occasion. “It’s been many years since we have been at Metro Radio events,” Wong stated, adding that coming back felt like a reunion with many old friends.
Wong also took the opportunity to reflect on the band’s longevity and upcoming milestone. “We are currently planning our 20th-anniversary tour,” he confirmed. While avoiding specific reflections on past achievements, Wong described the two-decade journey as “a blessing,” thanking the dedicated listeners who have supported their music throughout the years. The recognition of established acts like Jason Chan and Dear Jane alongside newer chart-toppers highlights the station’s commitment to broad industry support.
Industry Reconciliation and Future Implications
The participation of artists associated with Warner Music at the annual awards is viewed by many industry observers as a positive sign of professional reconciliation. Publicized disagreements between major media outlets and record labels can limit exposure for artists, often frustrating both the performers and their fans. The apparent “thaw” suggests a more unified front for promoting Canto-pop music, which could lead to wider radio play and greater market visibility for top-tier acts.
As the Canto-pop industry continues to navigate digital shifts and regional competition, collaborative efforts between media platforms and record companies are crucial. The success celebrated at the Metro Radio Pop Hits Awards 2025 not only highlights the year’s best music but also encourages optimism for greater unity and expanded opportunities across Hong Kong’s vibrant music scene in the year ahead.
