‘Lyrical Maverick’ Peter Lai, who wrote multiple hits for Cantopop stars, dies at 76

Legendary Hong Kong lyricist Peter Lai Bei-dak, who wrote the lyrics to a string of hits for the city’s Cantopop stars in the 1980s, has died at the age of 76, triggering an outpouring of condolences from fans of “The Lyrical Maverick”.Sports commentator Eric Chung Chi-kwong, a close friend of Lai, announced his death on Wednesday. He told the media that Lai had moved into a nursing home earlier this year after suffering a stroke and collapsing at home. He remained bedridden until his death.Condolences flooded social media as people expressed gratitude for Lai’s contribution, calling him a “grandmaster” and a “legendary genius”.“Thanks, thanks, thanks, thanks, Peter Lai, who can replace your place?” one user wrote, paying tribute to an iconic line written by Lai in the classic song “Monica” by the late singer Leslie Cheung Kwok-wing.“Thank you for the outstanding performances and works you have brought us over so many years,” a user commented. “Your talent was exceptional and deeply touched our hearts. You will always be remembered, and we are grateful to have had you.”“His lyrics made the songs of Sam Hui and Leslie Cheung well-known to everyone and deeply embedded [them] in people’s hearts,” another user wrote.Peter Lai hosts a Youtube talk show organized by entertainment company WSM Entertainment Limited. Photo: Handout