Pop star Alex To celebrates 40-year career with Hong Kong shows

Hong Kong singer Alex To will bring his "Get Up" World Tour to the Hong Kong Coliseum for two special edition concerts on Oct. 18-19, celebrating four decades in the music industry.

Pop star Alex To. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

"Coinciding with the significant milestone of my 40th anniversary in the industry, I have decided to present two 'Hong Kong Exclusive Edition' surprise extravaganzas at the Coliseum," To told China.org.cn. "For these special shows, I will perform numerous Cantonese classics, a unique treat reserved solely for my Hong Kong fans."

The "Get Up" world tour has completed more than 10 stops across China, Singapore, Malaysia and the Americas, earning praise for its energetic performances. The dates in China's Hong Kong mark the tour's return to the city after a two-year hiatus.

To emphasized the personal significance of performing at the Coliseum, where he last held a solo concert a decade ago. "This concert is not only a 'special edition' but also 'specially extended' — besides the original setlist, multiple classic Cantonese songs have been specially added for the Hong Kong stop, featuring carefully selected tracks with sincere dedication," he said.

Alex To poses at a press conference to announce his upcoming concerts in Hong Kong, Aug. 17, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Channy Dynasty]

To said the songs will be presented with their original arrangements, creating what organizers describe as a nostalgic musical journey for longtime supporters. The special edition concert will also feature 4D screen visuals, elaborate lighting effects and audience interaction features such as a kiss cam.

The veteran performer, who launched his career after winning the 1985 New Talent Singing Awards, has become a defining figure in Chinese popular music. He earned recognition as an early pioneer of R&B and soul in China, becoming the first Chinese artist to receive the Billboard Radio Icon Award.

To's extensive catalog includes Cantopop standards such as "Love Has Become This World's Lining," "Believe in Myself" and "Happy Searching," as well as Mandarin hits like "Lover" and "Feel So Sorry." Popular tracks, including "My Love" and "Marry Me," have maintained their appeal across generations of fans.

To has continued his creative output with the release of "Black Sun" late last year, a track that garnered critical acclaim and quickly became a fan favorite.

"In my latest dance track 'Black Sun,' I explore the search for utopia within a dystopian world," To said, confirming he will perform the song during the Hong Kong concerts. "The song may carry dark undertones, but it ultimately serves as a reminder to shape one's reality through mindset. How can we find light in the darkness? It all comes down to choice."

He added that he hopes the message resonates with audiences during uncertain times: "I hope that in their most confusing moments, everyone can find the right path — You got the choice!"

Alex To poses with fans after a press conference to announce his upcoming concerts in Hong Kong, Aug. 17, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Channy Dynasty]

The artist reflected on spending two-thirds of his life in the music industry, expressing gratitude for the creative freedom his career has afforded him. "I'm grateful to have a boundless musical space where I can freely express myself," To said.

To is currently in intensive rehearsals for the tour. Before the Hong Kong shows, he will perform in San Francisco on Aug. 31 and Los Angeles on Sept. 6.