The night before pop megastar Eason Chan announced the release of his new album, "Chin Up!" and the renewal of his record contract with Universal Music Group, he gave the final performance of his concert series in Macao, China.

Pop star Eason Chan performs at a concert in Macao, China, on Nov. 1, 2023. [Photo/China.org.cn]

Chan's concert was a symphony for the senses, a feast of opulent visuals, intricate stage design, and poignant storytelling. The performance wove tapestries of imagery and symbols that delved into the world's most pressing social, human, emotional, and environmental issues. Amid this profundity, Chan sprinkled peculiar, twisted, and surreal visuals, each more enigmatic than the last, reminiscent of dreams born on the darkest nights. Throughout, Chan's compassion and commitment to humanity shone through, drawing occasional comparisons to the classics of Pink Floyd and Michael Jackson.

"I want everybody to chin up, even though the world is chaotic and frustrating, and my songs are heavy. Therefore, I used the term for the title of my new album," Chan said at the press event the day later. "I tried to be positive and sing for hope, and I want my fans, even those who didn't buy my album, to be uplifted. When they get or hear about the album, the term 'chin up' springs out!"

Four years in the making, "Chin Up!" features eight new tracks, each composed by acclaimed songwriter and composer Terence Lam. The album includes contributions from both Lam and the renowned singer-songwriter Li Ronghao in the musical arrangements, in collaboration with various lyricists. Among its highlights is the single "Homo Sapiens," which earned Chow Yiu Fai the Best Lyricist award at the 34th Golden Melody Awards and Song of the Year at the 1st Wave Music Awards.

Pop singer Eason Chan and children pose for a photo at a press event to promote his new album, "Chin Up!" and the renewal of his recording contract with Universal Music Group in Macao, China, on Nov. 3, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Universal Music Group]

Chan's creative journey doesn't stop here. He is slated to release a new single and music video, "Don't Mind Me," on Nov. 5. The initiative is a heartfelt attempt to draw public attention to individuals struggling with severe social anxiety disorder. The accompanying 11-minute short film, released as a prelude to the music video, surprised fans with a feature from award-winning actor Tony Leung. Recounting the invitation, Chan said, "I just called him to see if he was interested, and he said yes seconds later. I couldn't believe it!"

To ensure the project's authenticity, Chan immersed himself in the subject matter. He engaged in numerous discussions with director Mark Cheung, conducted comprehensive online research, and watched countless videos to gain a deeper understanding of social anxiety disorder. His goal is to inspire empathy, particularly among city dwellers, urging them to care for and support those struggling with this condition while recognizing the critical importance of mental health.

A still image from the music video "Don't Mind Me" shows the character portrayed by actor Tony Leung looking at the character played by Eason Chan. [Photo courtesy of Universal Music Group]

Chan's dedication to his art and his partnership with Universal Music Group have been steadfast over the years. The 49-year-old singer is celebrating 19 years of collaboration with the label. The renewal of their partnership was marked by a heartwarming ceremony where a children's choir performed classics from Chan's extensive catalog. Reflecting on this enduring relationship, Chan said, "This has been an unforgettable journey. Every step on this path fills my heart with gratitude. Let's keep moving forward! I look forward to creating more wonderful memories in the future, and we will continue to push boundaries, just as we always have."

Throughout his illustrious career, Chan has achieved remarkable milestones. Since signing with CinePoly under Universal Music Hong Kong in 2005, he has released a staggering 22 albums and EPs, won numerous awards, and amassed 154 No. 1 hits on various charts. Moreover, his songs have garnered more than 75 billion streams worldwide. Some of his tracks have become timeless anthems for generations, including "Pompous," "King of Karaoke," "Mount Fuji," and "Ten Years." In a testament to his enduring relevance, his Mandarin theme song "Warrior of the Darkness" for the animated series "Arcane: League of Legends" went viral in 2021, amassing an astounding 8.4 billion streams in less than two years and solidifying its status as the most-streamed Chinese song ever for Universal Music Group.

Pop singer Eason Chan (center) and Asian regional executives of Universal Music Group pose for a photo with a scroll featuring Chan's portrait and text celebrating his achievement of amassing over 75 billion song streams worldwide at a press event in Macao, China, on Nov. 3, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Universal Music Group]

"The long-term partnership between Universal Music Group and Eason Chan represents the most valued aspect of our industry — the deep trust and mutual achievements between the artist and the record company," said Timothy Xu, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China. "This renewal of our deal once again affirms our mutual commitment to music quality and a long-term partnership. We will wholeheartedly support Eason Chan's future music career and, together, create new successes in the Chinese music market and broader markets around the world."

As Chan's "Fear and Dreams" tour is set to arrive in Shanghai, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and Xiamen from November 2023 to January 2024, he has already begun intensive rehearsals. He is particularly eager to make it up to his Shanghai fans since his 2020 concert in the city was canceled due to COVID-19. Many fans opted not to seek refunds and still held their tickets, anticipating his return.

Pop singer Eason Chan (center), his manager Lisa Kan (right), and Timothy Xu, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China, announce the renewal of Chan's recording contract at a press event in Macao, China, on Nov. 3, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Universal Music Group]

The singer compared his album to a supermarket, humorously stating that fans with different preferences could pick and choose whatever they liked. However, there is one song that holds special significance for him, resonating deeply with his own sentiments: "A Dance for Tomorrow." He hopes this track will provide relaxation and inspiration to young people during challenging times.

"Pain and tears taught me to remember what touches my heart... I will embrace you, even when it rains; let's treat it like a breeze," Chan sang to a tearful audience at his final Macao concert. "The anxious journey has not yet reached its destination, but I wish to witness all kinds of beauty, like a dance. As our voyage unfolds, it will grow warmer and brighter. You and I will watch each other, forever together."

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