The 2025 Ultimate Song Chart Awards Presentation is set to return with full force despite recent controversies, as Commercial Radio Hong Kong (CRHK) unveiled event details at a star-studded press conference on Monday (Oct 20) at Ngong Ping Village, offering a preview of what promises to be one of Hong Kong’s biggest music nights.
Hosted by Commercial Radio Hong Kong (CRHK), the awards ceremony will once again take place on New Year’s Day (Jan 1, 2026) at the Arena, AsiaWorld–Expo, celebrating local and Cantopop artists whose songs dominated the station’s airplay charts throughout the year.
A total of 81 artist groups attended the press conference, making it a star-studded affair. Among those present were Terence Lam, Kay Tse, Jay Fung, MC Cheung, Hung Ka-ho, COLLAR, and Gin Lee, who greeted fans and posed for photos.
One of the more entertaining segments saw the organisers invite a muscular performer named MC to the stage, followed by a tall, athletic performer who greeted the audience. He struck a series of poses, and each group of artists took turns mimicking him, creating a lively and humorous interaction that delighted fans.
The theme for this year’s awards, “Step Up to the Challenge,” echoes the recent controversies surrounding the ceremony, reflecting the resilience and ever-evolving nature of Hong Kong’s music scene.
Despite the absence of popular boy group MIRROR, the press conference remained vibrant. The venue, once dominated by MIRROR fans, was instead filled with colorful banners supporting other artists such as Terence Lam, MC Cheung, Hung Ka-ho, and COLLAR, highlighting the diversity of Cantopop fans today.
Concerns had also surfaced that MIRROR’s absence might affect sponsorships. However, sponsor boards at the venue appeared similar to previous years. Notably, McDonald’s continued its partnership, reassuring the public that major sponsors remain committed.
Established in 1989, the Ultimate Song Chart Awards is one of Hong Kong’s most prestigious music events, celebrating achievements in Cantopop and highlighting top-charting hits each year.
This year’s ceremony will present a total of 49 “Ultimate” awards, all based on radio airplay statistics. In addition, fan-favorite honors — including "My Favorite Male Artiste", "My Favorite Female Artiste", "My Favorite Group" and "My Favorite Song" — will be determined through public voting on CRHK’s online platform, opening on November 10.
With star-studded performances, surprise collaborations, and interactive fan moments expected, the 2025 Ultimate Song Chart Awards promises not only a celebration of top hits but a true Cantopop extravaganza.
