Rocker Endy Chow Kwok-yin enjoyed a promising career in the local music scene following his return from New Zealand, where his family had emigrated. He signed to Warner Music in 2003 and released several albums, including Greenhouse Balloon and Light, which won him the gold prize for singer-songwriter at Commercial Radio's music awards in 2005.
Chow left his solo career for Zarahn, a band he formed with friends from his time in New Zealand. But he is on his own again after signing with BMA earlier this year. The 30-year-old is finishing off a yet-to-be-named record to be released next month. Among the new tracks is Hero's Courage, which he wrote as a declaration of his determination to make a comeback.
What prompted you to restart your career as a solo artist?
I'd put a lot effort into Zarahn over the past few years and vowed that we would produce some new work this year. I still want to do that, but it's just not the right time. Earlier this year, Raymond Chan (managing director of BMA's Artist Management, Movie and Records Divisions) talked about expanding Zarahn's base. But bassist Joey Pui returned to his family business and his brother, drummer Jerry, had become a financial analyst. Both have been doing very well and hesitated to take on extra commitments. I totally understand their decision. So, Zarahn is on hold.
The band has always been my biggest ambition, but at the same time, it has also been a hindrance. I was not serious about developing my solo career; everything I did was a manoeuvre to kick-start Zarahn. But after some serious thinking, I realised I need to grow up and stop using it as an excuse. I told my record company that I wanted to give my solo career another go before it's too late.
What will your new solo record offer?