In a stunning display of fan power and enduring popularity, Cantopop sensation Keung To claimed two prestigious accolades at the annual 2025 Commercial Radio Ultimate Song Chart Awards Presentation (CRUCSA) on Monday, despite the absence of his group, MIRROR, due to a scheduled concert in Macau. The artist secured both the “My Favorite Male Singer” award and the highly coveted “My Favorite Song” Grand Award, marking a significant milestone in Hong Kong’s music history and demonstrating his formidable influence over the industry.
The widespread anticipation surrounding the “My Favorite” categories drew massive crowds of Keung To’s dedicated fanbase—known affectionately as the “Ginger Candies” (姜糖)—to the event’s voting area, even without the star’s physical presence. This intense support translated into an unprecedented victory: Keung To’s fourth overall win for Favorite Male Singer and his sixth consecutive triumph for Favorite Song. This sixth win for the song category officially breaks the long-standing five-time record previously held jointly by legendary singers Jacky Cheung and Eason Chan, establishing a new modern record for sustained success.
While physically unable to attend, Keung To followed the ceremony intently, streaming the event from a vehicle. Footage shared online captured the moment the awards were announced, revealing his visible joy as he alternated between clenching his fist in excitement and flashing a peace sign.
Following the broadcast, the star took to social media to express profound gratitude. “Thank you, Commercial Radio, and thank you to all the Ginger Candies,” he wrote. “I truly don’t know what to say—everything is felt deeply within my heart.”
He also dedicated specific acknowledgments to his production team, highlighting their essential collaboration. In a detailed series of messages, Keung To thanked composer James Wu, lyricist Chan Wing Him, and producer Edward Chan.
Addressing Wu, who penned the winning track’s melody, Keung To praised his talent: “Good melodies will always be heard by everyone. A very gifted young person; keep up the great work. Though your attention to detail during recording almost drove me crazy, you deserve it!”
He singled out lyricist Chan Wing Him, noting, “I knew instantly that this song had to be written by you, providing another tune that can make everyone happy, following [our previous hit] Blindfolded.”
Finally, Keung To reserved special praise for veteran producer Edward Chan. “You are not just my producer but a hugely important life mentor in my performing career,” he emphasized, adding a lighthearted observation about Chan’s formal attire at the ceremony.
Keung To’s historic sweep underscores the evolving landscape of Cantopop, where digital media and dedicated fan engagement hold growing sway over traditional industry metrics. His record-breaking six-year dominance in the fan-voted song category suggests a powerful shift in audience loyalty and preferences toward artists who successfully bridge traditional media performance with modern, authentic digital connections. Industry analysts suggest that this sustained level of fan activism will continue to set the benchmark for pop success across the Greater China region.
The victory not only cements Keung To’s status as a generational icon but also throws a spotlight on the collaborative talent elevating contemporary Hong Kong music. The achievements of Wu, Chan Wing Him, and Edward Chan demonstrate the crucial role behind-the-scenes professionals play in shaping mainstream auditory culture.
