SHS in the News

Chinese New Year 2009: Bright Beginnings….

Jo Yee in action!

Bright Beginnings for 16 year old Sheffield singer/songwriter Joey Cheung as she released her debut EP on 26th January, timed to hit Chinese New Year. Arguably the most important event on the Chinese calendar, the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival (as it’s often referred to), signifies the arrival of luck, happiness and prosperity for the coming year. Awash with red packets, lion dance parades and fireworks, this festive event is not only celebrated in the East but, in recent years, has become increasingly popular in UK too.

26th January also was the release of Acoustic musician Joey Cheung’s self-titled debut EP. A fusion of folk, jazz and indie Joey, Year 11 pupil at Sheffield High School, cites a mixture of both modern and classical influences being primarily brought up in the classical tradition and has been gigging in and around Sheffield since the start of 2008, at venues that include The Green Room, The Grapes, The Pomona, Sanctuary and City Hall.

“I think it would be safe to say that I’m probably more British than most of my peers, which is both disadvantageous and fortunate in many ways” Said Joey, “It’s nice to have a mix, although I can’t really say my Chinese heritage has much of an influence on my music. In any case, I reckon Sheffield’s a good place to be growing up – there’s such a great music scene and I’ve met some of the most incredible and lovely musicians through it (you know who you are).”

Recorded in August of last year, the 3 track EP was produced by Sheffield based record label’s “Giant Hit Discotheque Albums” Jonathan Vidler.

Joey goes onto say “Recording was an interesting experience to say the least; mostly enjoyable, sometimes challenging, always exhausting. It gives you a lot of freedom to play about with instruments and harmonies that you can’t recreate on stage, and generally being a solo performer, I’ve always been somewhat limited in that sense. It’s ridiculously good fun.”

The launch took place on 26th January at The Green Room on Division Street and the EP is on sale for £2.50 at “Rare and Racy” and Sue Callaghan’s shop (both on Division Street), as well as at her gigs. Joey will also performed at Mish Mash on Ecclesall road on 4th February. Good luck Joey!