A report released by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) earlier shows that in the first 6 months of 2020, vinyl record music sales reached $232.1 million USD, while CDs only accounted for $129.9 million USD. For the first time in nearly 35 years, vinyl record sales have surpassed CD sales. It is clear that vinyl records are set to become another global retro trend.
As the saying goes, "Hong Kong singers never die." While there are countless famous foreign-language vinyl records, many Hong Kong singers across generations have also released vinyl records with high commemorative value. Let Linko walk you through 5 Cantonese vinyl records with a market value of over ten thousand dollars. All of them are rare survivors—are you by any chance hiding one of these in your home?
No.5: Priscilla Chan - "Coming Back"
Market Price HK$18,000 1992 | PolyGram | Source
"Coming Back" is Priscilla Chan's eighth Cantonese album, released by PolyGram on March 26, 1992. It features recordings made during her studies in the United States. The album can be considered a major success; despite Priscilla being unable to promote it in person at the time, it still achieved triple-platinum sales. It contains many hit songs, including "Drifting Snow," "Tea House," "Coming Back," and "The Moon," allowing Priscilla, who had announced a two-year hiatus for overseas studies, to continue her singing career.
No.4: Danny Chan - "Hidden Heart" - Picture Disc (Signed Edition)
Market Price HK$18,800 1987 | EMI Universal | Source
The "Hidden Heart" vinyl album was Danny Chan's 1987 Lunar New Year release. It consisted entirely of Danny's favorite songs, including his own composition "Dream Talk" and the cover "Frozen Heart." It also features the theme song of the TV drama "Diamond Bachelor," "Hidden Heart," and "How Magical We Are," written by James Wong. This specially printed deluxe picture disc was released on February 20. Danny donated 500 signed copies for a charity auction to benefit UNICEF, making these editions extremely rare.
No.3: Jacky Cheung - "Loving You More Every Day Concert" - (2XLP)
Market Price HK$18,800 1991 | PolyGram | Source
"Loving You More Every Day Concert" was Jacky Cheung's second concert album and his first concert tour, with performances in Hong Kong, China, the United States, and Canada. To meet the demands of numerous fans, Universal Music decided to reissue several PolyGram vinyl series from 1991. This record was remastered by the world-renowned Abbey Road Studios, capturing the essence of the "Golden Age" of vinyl. It was manufactured in Japan and includes a 10x10 inch autographed print, making it highly collectible.
No.2: Beyond - "Rock and Roll"
Market Price HK$22,000 1993 | Warner Music | Source
"Rock and Roll" is the 9th Cantonese album released by Beyond and the final album that lead singer Wong Ka Kui participated in before his passing. This record embodies the spirit of rock and musical capability; the band members were very satisfied with this album, as it better reflected a sense of freedom in its recording and arrangement. 1993 marked the 10th anniversary of Beyond's formation, and they had planned a large commemorative concert in Hong Kong for the end of that year. Unexpectedly, Wong Ka Kui died after an accident in Japan in June of the same year. The album contains the hit song "Boundless Oceans, Vast Skies," which traces Beyond's 10-year journey and became Wong Ka Kui's most iconic posthumous work, as well as an anthem for many local social movements.
No.1: Leslie Cheung - "Star" White Label (45rpm)
Market Price HK$25,000 1997 | Cinepoly | Source
Before discussing this record, let us explain what a "white label" is. A white label refers to a radio test pressing—a version specifically provided to media such as radio stations for promotional purposes. They are usually pressed directly from the master disc, skipping many intermediate steps. Consequently, radio test pressings often have superior sound quality, making them highly sought after in the market. This white label vinyl of "Star" is a 45rpm single radio test pressing. The cover is marked with "©MAN CHI," which refers to Hong Kong's Man Chi Records. The record contains only one song; audio data is present on only one side, while the other side is blank, further emphasizing the importance placed on this track. It is extremely precious. This "Star" radio test pressing was co-produced by Leslie Cheung and Alvin Leong. It is now very difficult to find on the market and is truly a rare treasure among vinyl records.
Want to listen to vinyl but don't know which turntable to choose? Why not start with an entry-level, lower-priced turntable? If it comes with built-in speakers, Bluetooth functionality, and a stylish look, you won't have to worry about the player gathering dust once your initial excitement fades~
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Cantonese vinyl record is the most valuable?
Among the five listed in the article, the Leslie Cheung "Star" white label 45rpm radio test pressing is the most expensive, with a market value of approximately HK$25,000. Released by Cinepoly in 1997, the disc only has audio on one side, making it a rare collector's item.
What is a white label record, and why is it so valuable?
A white label refers to a radio test pressing, intended for promotion by radio stations and other media. They are mostly pressed directly from the master, skipping intermediate steps, which often results in superior sound quality. Combined with their extremely limited numbers, they are highly favored by collectors.
As a beginner, how should I choose a turntable?
You can start with a lower-priced entry-level turntable. Choose a model with built-in speakers, Bluetooth functionality, and a good aesthetic design. You can always upgrade later once you get into it.
