Singer-songwriter Joyce Jonathan, 21, is not your typical pop artist. She released her debut album, Sur Mes Gardes, in her native French, and included four remakes of her most famous songs - in Mandarin.
Sunday Young Post spoke to Jonathan via e-mail to find out more about her intriguing connection with all things Chinese.
Sunday Young Post: What do you think the most important thing is for a musician in establishing global appeal?
Joyce Jonathan: The language is very important in addressing other cultures, but I think the music ultimately surpasses everything. Music is a universal language. It is important for me to translate some of my songs into Mandarin because it is a beautiful language. During my concerts, especially at the one in Hong Kong, I will have the occasion to sing both in Mandarin and in French. I hope the music can overcome our language barriers and bring us all together.
SYP: I read somewhere that currently the population of French speakers grows by 100 every month in Hong Kong. Why do you think Hong Kong is so popular with French people?
JJ: Hong Kong is a very attractive city from the French perspective. I had the opportunity to visit Hong Kong five years ago, when I was 16, and I immediately fell in love with this city. It is impressive and [has a] warmth.
SYP: What motivated you to release Chinese versions of some of your tracks?