Tai Chi 40th Anniversary Concert to Honour Late Bandmate Gary Tong: Brothers Reserve a Spot – "The Show Will Always Belong to Him"
When you talk about legends of the Hong Kong music scene, Tai Chi is a name that always stands tall. Together for four decades, these mates who grew up together have been hard at rehearsal for their upcoming Tai Chi 40th Anniversary Concert. But this time around, the concert is more than just a milestone; it's a heartfelt tribute to a lost friend. Because on that stage, they'll be missing the quiet but indispensable presence behind the keyboards: Gary Tong.
The brotherly bond within Tai Chi has always been legendary in the industry. Gary's sudden passing last year was a shock to them and all their fans. After some time, the bandmates have pulled themselves together, deciding to channel that grief into strength and, in the best way they know how, "share the stage" with Gary once more through their music.
Curating a Special Setlist: Deep Cuts to Honour Their Brother
Core members Joey Tang, Patrick Lui, and Edde Sing started planning this concert early on. Alongside the guaranteed classics like "Red Sports Car" and "Crystal," they wanted to take fans back to their old band rehearsal studio days, digging up some hidden gems they haven't played in ages. Insiders reveal that during rehearsals, Patrick mentioned how Gary, before he passed, often talked about wanting to perform some of their old B-sides. He felt those tracks truly represented Tai Chi's musical experimentation. "He talked about songs like 'After the Cold Wind' and 'Don't Want to Love Foolishly' – maybe newer fans wouldn't know them, but he really missed that feeling." So, for this concert, they've made a point of including these songs in the setlist, a final gift for Gary, and a way to fulfil one of his wishes.
"We've Permanently Reserved a Spot for Him at the Show"
Regarding the stage design, someone involved in production shared that Joey Tang emotionally insisted that even though Gary can't be there in person, they have to keep a spot on stage just for him. "Maybe put his favourite keyboard there, or use projections, so he can jam with us. This show will always be the seven members of Tai Chi. That spot is permanently reserved for him."
Long-time friends who've collaborated extensively with Tai Chi, like Paul Wong and the recently active group OneWeekStAr, are also likely to appear as guests. A close friend recalled Paul mentioning how they used to mess around backstage, with Gary always watching with a smile. He especially misses that friendship forged in those underground band rooms.
Concert Highlights at a Glance:
- Tribute Segment: A special selection of Gary's favourite non-hit tracks, including deep cuts like "Never Say Goodbye Again."
- Star Guests: Friends like Paul Wong and OneWeekStAr will join on stage, sharing memories and stories about Gary.
- Archival Footage: The stage screens will show rare documentary footage and behind-the-scenes moments from Tai Chi's early years, including clips of Gary creating in the band room.
- Memorial Display: A special area in the venue will feature Gary's instruments and personal items, allowing fans to pay their respects.
A brotherhood of forty years isn't something you just let go. The remaining six members of Tai Chi have chosen to continue their connection with Gary Tong through music, transforming their loss into the most genuine and moving performance on stage. For fans who've been listening since the 80s, this concert is probably more than just hearing the songs. It's a chance to witness a bond in the Hong Kong music scene that transcends life and death, and to properly say to this quietly brilliant musician: Gary, thank you. We'll never forget you.