Hong Kong’s jazz & soul pioneer DJ Kulu passes away at 79

Hong Kong’s music scene has lost a truly iconic figure with the passing of DJ Kulu at the age of 79.

Widely regarded as the godfather of jazz and soul DJing in the city, Kulu’s contributions transcended generations, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.

Raised in Wan Chai, Kulu’s passion for music began in childhood, inspired by the lively sounds of neighbourhood bars. His early love for jazz was nurtured by icons like Stan Getz and Paul Desmond, whose music shaped his artistic sensibilities.

Back in 2009, Kulu mentioned to South China Morning Post, "Wan Chai was just as sleazy then as it is now. I lived right on Lockhart Road where the action was. It’s hardly changed."

Kulu’s creative journey initially led him to photography, where he captured luminaries such as Chet Baker, Dizzy Gillespie, and Boy George. However, at 50, he pivoted to what seems to be his true calling—music.

Returning to Hong Kong in 1999 after years in the UK, Kulu quickly became a fixture in the city’s nightlife, curating vibrant sets of jazz, funk, soul, and hip-hop at institutional venues like Kee Club and Amnesia.

Together with DJ Ivan Sit, Oliver Smith and MC Chuck, he formed Ultralounge — a hybrid performance outfit that not only toured the world, but ran one of Hong Kong’s best Sunday sessions. Their sets and parties at Liquid were legendary, as was his work promoting Hong Kong’s burgeoning jazz-funk scene.

Kulu also co-founded the jazz ensemble Brothers’ Keeper and launched Jazz Joint UK in Edinburgh, championing live music and creativity.

Beyond his performances, he was a community builder, uniting artists and audiences with his infectious passion and deep knowledge. His sartorial elegance and personal charm were as much a part of his legacy as his musical talents. With that charm, he was able to nurture and support young and promising talent, and was always held in high regard for this.

Notably, he frequented the city's hip neighbourhoods, often cruising in souped-up fast cars.

Performing at festivals like Clockenflap and CT Music Fest, playing for local and global fashion brands, and holding down a residency at MO Bar well into his later years, Kulu remained a vibrant force until his passing.

Tributes pour in, celebrating his stylish charm, deep passion, and the transformative mark he left on Hong Kong’s music scene.

Masaya Fantasista of Jazzy Sport reflects on DJ Kulu with Mixmag Asia: "I think the first time I met Kulu was around 2004 when I first DJed in Hong Kong. I didn't know his real age, but I had the impression that he was already an elderly DJ at that time. Over the past 20 years, he remained a symbolic figure in Hong Kong’s music community—someone who loved and was deeply loved by people of all ages and backgrounds. As you know, he was always stylish, with a look entirely his own."

He continues: "A little over 10 years ago, an artist named Nathan Haines was performing at a small club in Hong Kong. Nathan's album was produced by the late Phil Asher—a very dear friend to me and Jazzy Sport—so I went to the club to meet Nathan after my own gig at another venue. KULU was there, and after Nathan's live performance, he brought along Nathan's record that Phil had produced and got Nathan's autograph. I still remember the happy expression on the boy's face from Kulu at that time. I believe Kulu's greatest wish was for peace and equality, and I am committed to honouring that vision by dedicating my efforts to the realisation of Asia United."

Image: Alex Maeland via Hong Kong Tatler

Amira Waworuntu is Mixmag Asia’s Managing Editor, follow her on Instagram.

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