Who was Khalil Fong? Renowned Hong Kong musician 'Fang Datong' dies at 41

Hong Kong musician Khalil Fong passed away at 41 on February 21 after a five-year illness. His music company stated that his legacy lives on through his art.

Famed Hong Kong musician Khalil ‘Fang Datong’ Fong passed away on February 21 at the age of 41 after battling with “relentless illness for five years”.

Khalil Fong, the renowned Hong Kong musician, died on February 21 at 41 after a prolonged illness. His music and graphic novels are considered an eternal legacy.(Khalil Fong/Instagram)

“Fong will continue his mission and dreams in another realm of life. The music and graphic novels he left behind are an eternal spiritual legacy,” his music company, Fu Music, shared on Sina Weibo on Saturday.

Who was Khalil Fong?

Fong was born in Hawaii in 1983 as a Hapa (the offspring of an Asian mother and a white father) raised with a variety of musical influences. With the release of his debut solo album ‘Soulboy’ in 2005, he won recognition in theMandopop scene by bringing his blend of R&B and soul music to the public.

Other works of his include 'Love Song', 'Special Person', 'Spring Breeze' and 'Love Love Love'.

With his unique blend of Western, such as the likes of Stevie Wonder and Musiq Soulchild, and traditional Chinese elements, he was different and became known by his loyal following.

Fong has released several hit songs over the years, including Love Song, Special Person, Spring Breeze and Love Love Love. He was a beloved figure in the industry, being able to create deep emotions within his music.

Why Khalil Fong left music in 2010

Back in 2010, he was hospitalized multiple times due to pneumothorax, a condition commonly known as a collapsed lung, which was reportedly brought on by overwork. This led Fong to take a step back from the public eye, particularly after his 2016 album, ‘Journey to the West.’

Fong made a remarkable return to music in 2024 with his album ‘The Dreamer.’ “Hello everyone, long time no see! ‘Thank you for your birthday wishes! I have finally started to recover from my illness,” he posted just before the release.

When he made his long-awaited return in 2024, he shared that he was improving, though not yet fully recovered, per Malaysian media outlet Oriental Daily.