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Coco Lee, a Chinese-American singer known for her rendition of the "Mulan" theme song "Reflection" and for being the first Chinese American performer at the Oscars, has tragically passed away at the age of 48.
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Coco's sisters, Carol and Nancy Lee, confirmed the news on Weibo, revealing that she had been battling depression and had made a suicide attempt on July 2. Despite the hospital's efforts, Coco succumbed to her condition on July 5.
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Coco's 30th debut anniversary in 2023 held great significance, as she had brought immense joy and surprise through her powerful songs and dances. She also played a vital role in opening doors for Chinese singers in the international music industry.
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Born in Hong Kong in 1975, Coco Lee moved to San Francisco at the age of nine with her mother and sisters. She later returned to Hong Kong, where she began her music career.
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Coco gained global recognition in 1998 when she performed the song "Reflection" for Disney's animated adaptation of the Chinese folktale "Mulan."
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In 2001, Coco Lee made history as the first-ever Chanel brand ambassador of Chinese descent for the Asia region. However, her appointment faced criticism from some loyal Chanel fans in Hong Kong who believed her style to be too provocative.
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Coco attended Chanel's fall 2001 fashion show in Paris and wore a colorful sequin dress from the brand during the red carpet event at the 73rd Academy Awards. She performed the song "A Love Before Time" from the film "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon."
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Throughout recent years, Coco remained active in mainland China and served as a judge on various singing competitions and reality shows.
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Coco Lee was married to Bruce Rockowitz, the former CEO of Li & Fung, a Hong Kong-based supply chain company. She had two step-daughters from Rockowitz's previous marriage.
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Sensen Lii, founder of the fashion label Windowsen, expressed that Coco Lee would serve as the inspiration for his upcoming spring 2024 ready-to-wear collection, as he aimed to pay homage to the Asian Divas of the early 2000s.