Barbara K. Lee's Latest Documentary Sing My Song Explores the Absence of Asian Pop Stars in North America
notes from Fête Chinoise Editorial Team (Kayla Lo)
DIrected and Produced by Barbara K. Lee
Photo credit: Sing My Song Productions Inc.
Available on AAM.TV worldwide on October 11, 2024
In her latest documentary, Sing My Song, Barbara K. Lee delves into the pressing question: "Why are there no Asian pop stars from North America?" Originating from her aspiration for her songs to be performed by American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson, Lee embarks on a compelling journey that uncovers the complexities surrounding Asian American and Asian Canadian artists in the music industry. Through conversations with notable figures like Far East Movement, Alfa Garcia, Kevin So, and Umi Hsu, the film examines the intricate dynamics within Asian communities that often overshadow their musical talents.
Despite their celebrated abilities, many artists find themselves marginalized, labeled as not “cool” enough for mainstream success. Lee, a songwriter herself who doesn’t fit the conventional pop star image, reflects on her own pursuit of musical dreams while navigating an industry that frequently sidelines diverse voices. Spanning locations from Vancouver to Hong Kong and Nashville, this decade-long exploration promises to evoke thought, laughter, and tears as it shines a light on the untold stories of resilience and creativity within the Asian music landscape.
Far EaSt movement
“I always knew the story would be more than just a film about writing songs—it would be a testament to the power of reclaiming one’s voice, identity, and the courage to face one’s own internalized racism and break free from society’s expectation to be a model minority.”
Director, Writer, and Producer BArbara “Kayee” Lee
Barbara “Kayee” Lee
Barbara “Kayee” Lee is an independent filmmaker and singer/songwriter based in Vancouver, Canada. A former broadcast journalist, she has received regional and national RTNDA Awards, including Best Editorial for Mother’s Day. With over twenty-five years of advocacy for diverse representation in the arts, she founded the Vancouver Asian Film Festival (VAFF) and co-founded the Mighty Asian Moviemaking Marathon (MAMM).
As a community leader, Barbara established the Racial Equity Screen Office (RESO) and the East by Northwest (EXNW) Global Creative Summit, along with Elimin8Hate.org to combat anti-Asian racism. Emigrating from Hong Kong to Canada at fourteen months old, her journey began when her mother bought her first guitar from a pawn shop near Chinatown.
The Production Team
Executive producer: Quentin Lee
Producer: Barbara K. Lee
Writer and Director: Barbara K. Lee
Editor: Cindy Au Yeung
Kevin So
Hanjin Tan
Alfa Garcia
Umi HSu
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