The Ripples Caused by a Vinyl Record: "V Music Library" Drives Change in the Music Industry – An Interview with Dr Wong Chi-chung

In recent years, a resurgence of retro culture has seen vinyl records embraced by a new generation. Dr Wong Chi-chung is a prominent local music enthusiast as well as a radio DJ, curator, university professor, and music producer. In the 1980s, he volunteered at Commercial Radio's second channel (now known as CR903) during his undergraduate years. He created music programmes showcasing local and international music and their backstories, establishing a nearly 40-year DJ career that has made him a pioneer in expanding the local music scene. Dr Wong collaborated with the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI) on the "V Music" initiative, which launched the "V Music Library" in October 2024. 

Hong Kong Design Institute24 Apr 2025

[The following content is provided by the Hong Kong Design Institute] 

 

The music industry has undergone numerous transformations alongside changes in formats, from vinyl to CDs and now streaming. However, Dr Wong's love for vinyl has remained constant. Many records in the library are part of his extensive personal collection. He acknowledges that while playing vinyl is not particularly convenient, its unique sound quality offers a humanised, raw texture that streaming cannot replicate. He explains that vinyl represents a lifestyle choice; just as some prefer the convenience of capsule coffee while others cherish hand-brewed coffee, some enjoy bespoke clothing or modified ready-to-wear items — each choice reflecting a shared joy in creative living. 

 

In the land-scarce context of Hong Kong, the concept of a music library is both novel and luxurious. The library features a diverse collection of music from various regions and styles, with regular opening hours allowing the public to explore music through vinyl records. To top it off is a series of workshops, exhibitions, and lectures. The "Timeless Ideas & Icons" exhibition, for example, shares Dr Wong's insights into the careers of The Beatles, David Bowie, and Ryuichi Sakamoto. He notes that students from various disciplines — design, photography, fashion, and interior design, among others — are welcome to participate. By using the music of these icons as a springboard, Dr Wong hopes to inspire students' creative thinking. 

 

The most valuable asset in the creative industry is active thinking. The exchange of ideas among creative individuals from diverse backgrounds often spurs new concepts. On the opening day of the "V Music Library", key figures from various sectors attended to show their support. Dr Wong envisions the V Music initiative as a pivotal platform that connects academic education with different parts of the industry, thereby influencing the overall development of the music sector. Dr Wong remarks, "Vinyl records may seem unfamiliar to the new generation. I do not expect students to immediately grasp their charm, but I believe 'V Music Library' can be a long-term initiative; students may develop curiosity over time. The library is a treasure trove, allowing students and locals to discover the joy of music, possibly becoming a 'gateway' for them to enter the music industry." 

 

As the starting point of modern music, vinyl holds symbolic significance for reflecting on contemporary music marketing. Dr Wong admits that witnessing the decline of vinyl was initially disheartening, but he believes change is inevitable, "I once thought that the rise of streaming would lead to the decline of cinemas, bookstores, and record shops. While many have closed, certain small shops have thrived for decades. Some people love Starbucks, but there are also loyal customers at independently run coffee shops; together, they create an interesting 'coexistence'." 

 

Dr Wong concludes by sharing his personal journey: "I have always understood my position. I never aspired to be the trendiest DJ; rather, I connect my life and love for music with my audience. The journey has been challenging, but there are always new generations who resonate with the music I play. Trends may come and go, but culture endures."