Gareth.T
Gareth.T 湯令山 | |
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Background information | |
Birth name | Gareth Tong Ling-san |
Born | Hong Kong | 7 April 2000
Origin | ![]() |
Genres | R&B, Pop music, Soul music, Hip hop music, Indie pop |
Occupation(s) | Singer-songwriter, Record producer |
Instruments |
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Years active | 2020–present |
Labels | Warner Music Hong Kong |
Gareth.T, born Gareth Tong Ling-san (Chinese: 湯令山 on 7 April 2000), is a Hong Kong singer-songwriter and record producer. He is known for his blend of R&B, pop, and soul music, often incorporating English and Cantonese lyrics. Gareth.T gained prominence through his distinctive musical style, honest songwriting, and online presence, leading to a record deal with Warner Music Hong Kong.[1][2]
Early life and education
[edit]Gareth Tong was born on 7 April 2000 in Hong Kong.[3] His interest in music began at a young age; he reportedly started playing piano at age three, followed by violin, cello, guitar, and drums.[3] He attended Po Leung Kuk Choi Kai Yau School in Kowloon.[1] He later studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, majoring in songwriting and production.[1]
Career
[edit]Gareth.T initially gained a following by sharing his original music and covers on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. His unique blend of R&B and pop, combined with his raw and honest lyrical approach, quickly resonated with listeners. He is noted for self-producing much of his early work.[1]
He signed with Warner Music Hong Kong in 2020.[2] His debut single under the label was "boyfriend material." He continued to release successful tracks, including "honest" (featuring Moon Tang), which became a major hit with over 17 million streams on Spotify.[1][4]
In 2022, Gareth.T released his debut album, gareth.t 2.0. The album continued to explore his signature sound, blending R&B, pop, and soul.[2] He performed his first headlining concert, "The CUTIE Tour," in 2022, which quickly sold out.[5] He has collaborated with various artists, including Dear Jane and his girlfriend, Moon Tang.[1]
Musical style and image
[edit]Gareth.T's music is primarily categorized as R&B and pop, with strong influences from soul and hip-hop. He is recognized for his smooth vocal delivery, intricate melodies, and self-produced beats. His lyrics often delve into themes of love, relationships, self-discovery, and the realities of modern youth. He is particularly noted for his candid and relatable songwriting, often using everyday language to express complex emotions.[1]
His public image is characterized by a "boy-next-door" authenticity and a refusal to conform to conventional pop idol aesthetics, often sporting a buzzcut and casual attire. This approach has resonated with a younger audience, who appreciate his genuine portrayal and focus on music rather than manufactured image.[2]
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]- gareth.t 2.0 (2022)
EPs
[edit]- TIRED (2020)
Singles
[edit]- "boyfriend material" (2020)
- "honest" (feat. Moon Tang) (2021)
- "勁浪漫 超溫馨" (Super Romantic, Super Sweet) (2022)
- "speed limit" (2022)
- "trust me" (2023)
- "flossy" (2023)
- "你是我最愛的" (You Are My Favorite) (2024)
References
[edit]- ^ a b c d e f g Fung, Kelly (2021-09-24). "Making honesty a living: Hong Kong rising R&B artist Gareth.T on expressing his true self through his music". Young Post (South China Morning Post). Retrieved 2024-05-29.
- ^ a b c d Wei, Sarah (2022-09-22). "Gareth.T Is Making 'Boyfriend Material' Pop For Buzzcut Asian Kids". Vice. Vice. Retrieved 2024-05-29.
- ^ a b Or, Kristy (2021-09-21). "Meet Gareth Tong, the Hong Kong-Born Singer-Songwriter Who Is Revolutionising Cantopop". Tatler Asia. Retrieved 2024-05-29.
- ^ Thiele, Jaz (2023-03-28). "Gareth.T on loneliness, Sonica Music Festival & more: "I'm bringing something totally unexpected"". umsu.unimelb.edu.au. Retrieved 2025-05-29.
- ^ Hall, Amalissa (2022-09-22). "Gareth.T on His Headlining Concert and Coping with Fame". Tatler Asia. Retrieved 2024-05-29.