Hong Kong lost a major figure in its music scene on Friday with the passing of Ray Cordeiro, aged 98.
How Ray cordeiro die
Reynaldo “Uncle Ray” Cordeiro passed away at the age of 98 on Friday, January 13, 2023. Throughout his life, he touched many hearts in Hong Kong as a popular radio host and showed people that they are never alone. To honor Uncle Ray’s beloved status among the local community and beyond, his funeral committee announced his death on Saturday and concluded with a rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” which seemed especially fitting for the occasion. As a legendary figure in Hong Kong, he will always remain in people’s hearts and minds even after his untimely death.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Reynaldo Maria Cordeiro, also known as Uncle Ray, at the CUHK Medical Center on January 13, 2023, at the age of 98. His dearest family and friends bid him farewell with a performance of You’ll Never Walk Alone.
What is the cause of his death?
Ray Cordeiro, the world’s longest-serving DJ with a career spanning more than six decades in Hong Kong radio, where he interviewed some of music’s biggest acts, including The Beatles, has died. The cause of death has not been given, according to Radio Television Hong Kong, where he worked until 2021. Cordeiro had a unique ability to connect with his listeners and create great conversations between artists. Since his death, tributes have poured in on social media sites honoring the many memories Cordeiro left behind.
Ray Cordeiro, who interviewed music acts including the Beatles during a six-decade career on Hong Kong radio that earned him the title of world’s longest-serving DJ, has died aged 98. https://t.co/6ELAoZsnLB
— Associated Press (@AP) January 14, 2023
Who was Ray Cordeiro ?
Rey Cordeiro was born on December 12, 1924 to a family of descendants of Portuguese immigrants in Hong Kong. He had an impressive education having studied at St. Joseph’s College and later joined Stanley Prison as a warden and worked as a clerk in his father’s bank. On the broadcasting side, Ray Cordeiro started at Radio Rediffusion as a writer and then progressed to become the host of the popular Progressive Jazz radio program. By 1960 he had taken over as head of light music at RTHK and over the next seven decades he worked hard to interview notable names and launch the careers of many young Hong Kong bands.
All the Way with Ray, hosted by Ray Cordeiro until 2021, was a groundbreaking radio show that held the record as the longest running in Hong Kong. Uncle Ray has introduced countless famous international stars during his concerts, including legendary musicians such as The Beatles, The Bee Gees and The Rolling Stones. It features Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Cliff Richard, Elton John and Don McLean. Unfortunately, Elvis Presley was the only celebrity that eluded him, as he never got a chance to interview him. Cordeiro was identified by groups of loyal fans due to his gentle voice coupled with his signature look which included a flat cap, glasses and a beard. Upon learning of Ray’s death, many expressed their grief in various tributes, recognizing his immense contribution to the cultural landscape in Hong Kong while sharing stories of how he shaped their lives with his unique radio show.
Tributes are poured out to the death rays
We lost another Hong Kong icon Uncle Ray Corderio! He was one of my oldest friends! I played my request to my then-girlfriend Peggy almost 50 years ago when I was wooing her with Lobo’s “I’d Love You To Want Me,” which she played for me at midnight so Peggy could listen with me. Of course, it touched her heart and the rest is history. Here is Anniemaria’s biography of Uncle Ray after his retirement
I’m reading his book now! Wonderful inspiration and wonderful music ! Thank you Uncle Ray!!
Rest in peace Uncle Ray Cordeiro. My first boss in Hong Kong finally went all the way – the legendary Uncle Ray Cordeiro quit.
Oh no !!! He was a big part of my teenage life!! I listened to it often!!! REST IN PEACE !!
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