With his singing prowess, Jeffery Ngai has shown everyone that he truly deserves his recognition as a singer. From his first song and “Before Sunset”, to every hit song that followed, it was evident that Ngai had undeniable talent and charisma. Since Ngai’s debut in 2022, the 25 year-old has shown his limitless potential in singing, acting and performing. Over the years, he’s revealed his true self – someone with a rare clear-headedness and an optimistic outlook on life. Major fashion brands have taken notice, recognising his captivating allure and unique appeal.
What do you think of today’s shoot location at Kong Ha Wai mansion? Are you interested in history, historical architecture, and traditional customs?
I really like it — it has a vintage charm and I like its special elements of Chinese architecture. My only regret is not climbing to the roof during the shoot, I liked the vibe up there. Since everything happens in a cycle and the past can inform the future, I’m really interested in history. People can take past historical figures as reference to adjust their mindset and attitude. I actually really like the Sheung Wan area as it holds so many traces of history. Past architecture tends to mix elements of the ‘East’ and ‘West’ and they are so different from the skyscrapers that characterise Hong Kong now.
Is there a moment in your career that you find most important?
Last year’s award ceremony was a huge challenge. I had to perform not long after releasing my first song and nobody recognised me as a singer back then. To perform on such a huge stage in front of so many people, I thought that viewers would never let it slide if I mess up. They’d think that I should just stick with variety shows or acting. So the pressure was immense and it was an important moment. I’m happy that it’s been going well so far.
Is there anyone who has influenced your music the most?
Jacky Cheung. Because of my family, I listened to his songs a lot. We were all taken by his music and would sing his songs together. Music is a companion that I listen to whether at work or at rest, when I’m happy or down. Immersing myself in music puts me at ease.
What do you hope to achieve with your music?
I want my singing to be like storytelling. I hope that everyone can understand the lyrics and the messages I’m trying to convey. I’m more concerned about sharing my feelings than using intricate or technical singing skills. Someone with that storytelling effect is Eason Chan who has touched and resonated with the audience through every song.
What kind of music inspires you? How did you find your own style?
I like music that’s more laid back and chill. Next up, I’m going to experiment with different genres of music. I originally thought I didn’t have a particular style, but it turns out my style is quite prominent. I found this out from radio DJs who told me that I have a deep voice. I didn’t know this before, nor did I realise that ‘deep’ is a kind of ‘texture’ too. Knowing that I have my own uniqueness actually makes me quite happy.
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What’s your biggest source of stress since becoming a singer?
My biggest source of stress are the performances. Actors have the time to get in the zone and let those necessary emotions surface, but singers only get a couple minutes to perform without a chance for ‘take two’. It doesn’t matter to the audience whether the singer is in the right headspace, because they’re just there to listen to your music. Your emotions, stress level, health and a whole plethora of factors could affect your performance on the day so it’s important to always take care of your voice. Unlike working out at the gym where muscles can be trained, maintaining my voice is the biggest source of stress.
What expectations have you set for yourself?
I want to improve time after time, meet my own expectations, and continuously strive for growth. These are the standards I set for myself and being just “ok” every time doesn’t cut it. Perhaps some people are devastated with a score of 98 because they’ve lost two marks, but I’m the complete opposite. I’d be happy with an 85, even if an improvement is just 0.5 marks, I’m stoked. Society is filled with too many stressors. If you’re too harsh on yourself and unaware of how to love yourself, you’ll become unhappy. This negativity leads people to do silly things, but life’s purpose is to be happy. I was once filled with negative emotions, sometimes overthinking things that wouldn’t even happen. It was rough and people didn’t get why either. So to me, happiness is most important, don’t overstress yourself.
What’s your favourite spot in Hong Kong? How do you feel towards this city?
Besides its fast pace, I associate Hong Kong with neon lights, and walking along Temple Street Market. I love these things that are unique to Hong Kong. Since my primary school was in Yau Ma Tei, I’m very familiar with Temple Street Market and my memories are filled with fond experiences of exploring Tsim Sha Tsui and Yau Ma Tei. I’ve loved strolling around since I was a kid and that’s nostalgia to me… Perhaps nostalgia for my past self (laughs).
What’s a Cantonese song that can represent the Hong Kong tale?
My Happy Time.
What does “Hong Kong spirit” mean to you? How does one carry it forward?
What you want to do can always be achieved, stay strong, add oil! Don’t give up easily, strive for growth; don’t think that you’re so small, it takes confidence to achieve big things. Hong Kong needs confidence in itself. I hope everyone can watch more Hong Kong movies and listen to more Hong Kong music. I don’t think it’s necessary to distinguish between ‘global’ music and ‘Hong Kong’ music, music has no boundaries.
What do you want to say to Hong Kong people?
Being happy is enough, yeah!
Translated by Karrie Lam
Photography: Hong Jang Hyun
Fashion Director: Jonathan Yee
Makeup Artist: Amy Lee
Hair Stylist: Holam Chong
Creative Producer: Marina Fairfax
Executive Producer: Second Li
Artist & Creative communication: Lee Kyung Kim @ BL Creative House
Senior Fashion Editor: Kyle Tang
Production Manager: Jacky Liu
Fashion Assistants: Mama Yiu & Naoki Li
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Fung Hiu Kwan