Hong Kong musician Eman Lam talks love and why she doesn’t celebrate Christmas

Singer-songwriter Eman Lam Yee-man, one half of former indie music duo at17, talks to us ahead of her concerts at the Udderbelly Festival about singing with a message and the worst Christmas gifts she has received.

What was your most memorable Christmas?

I don’t usually celebrate Christmas, but the one time I did try, it didn’t turn out well. I was travelling in Europe with friends and we cooked a festive meal in this house with a fireplace and all [the Christmas stuff]. But we got into a heated debate over some social issues we had. That experience taught me a lesson: instead of celebrating specific festivals and occasions with certain expectations, treat every day like it’s special.

How are you spending Christmas this year?

I’m very glad that I’ll be performing three concerts with a four-piece band [at the Udderbelly Festival]. Two of the musicians, I’m not too familiar with, but I grew up with the other two, whom I met back in my at17 days. We used to spend all our time together. They are a reminder of the unconditional love that comes with a strong friendship. We have meaningful discussions and we have fun. I’m grateful they’re spending their Christmas with me.

Why the decision to use “love” as the theme for this concert?

I try to give my audience positive energy in each concert. My last one, at Shouson Theatre, was about self-love and this time I wanted to broaden the theme and explore interpersonal love. Love and relationships is actually one of the topics I write about most in my newspaper column. To make one work, we must learn to forgive and accept another person’s shortcomings. Nobody is perfect. It’s only through learning to accept a person as they are, will you become a better person as well.