Singer-actress Ella Koon Yan-na was better known as tabloid fodder than for her performances, with reports about her being mauled by a male fan and her allegations of sexual harassment at TVB. But the 31-year-old's stock has risen following an impressive duet recently with a contestant on TVB Jade's reality talent show The Voice. The rendition of Endless Love not only restored her image, but gave her a chance to release a new recording.
Born in Tahiti, she arrived in Hong Kong as a model 10 years ago and made her movie debut in the romance I Do, co-starring Gaile Lok. In 2004, Koon ventured into music with her debut album, Original. The sexual harassment claim led to her being suspended from TVB for about a year, but she has made a musical comeback with a new mini album, Being, her first recording in two years.
Can you tell us something about your mini album?
The record is all about how I live my life, doing the things I want to do, living every moment to the fullest, doing everything as positively as possible.
My previous album Stages is more about the different phases in my career. It's been about two years now, and I have learned a lot from all those ups and downs. Life can be very unpredictable. I'm not saying that you can do whatever you want without any responsibilities, or just sit around and do nothing. But I also believe that you shouldn't put yourself under too much pressure.
Your new album is co-produced by Yanagiman. What was it like working with the acclaimed producer? Dare to Be, a song on my album, featured Japanese-Chinese rapper Nycca, who later invited me to his album launch concert in Japan. While I was there, pop singer Ivan Wong Yau-leung and my manager introduced me to Yanagiman and arranged for us to make some music together.
To be honest I was truly stressed out. Yanagiman has worked with major artists such as BoA, Mika Nakashima and SMAP, so I was really nervous. At the same time, I was surprised to get the chance to work with such an amazing composer and producer. It was wonderful because he does not put you under any pressure. He leads by giving encouragement and advice. I don't recall him saying anything negative during the whole process. I love that positive energy you get working with optimistic people.