'Glory to Hong Kong' protest song disappears from Apple Music and Spotify
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Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement in 2019 was marked by the emergence of a powerful and poignant protest anthem titled "Glory to Hong Kong." This unofficial anthem became a symbol of resistance and hope for the people fighting for democratic rights in the city. However, recent developments have seen the song gradually disappearing from major streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
The removal of "Glory to Hong Kong" from these platforms is not limited to China alone but has also been observed in certain overseas locations. The cause behind this removal stems from an injunction filed by the local Hong Kong government seeking to ban the song. The move is seen as a direct response to the Chinese government's decision to blacklist the song for alleged security reasons after the song played in several events.
The protest anthem gained significant popularity during the mass demonstrations that took place in Hong Kong throughout 2019. It became a rallying cry for protesters and was often sung at various gatherings and events. However, the Chinese government's recent action against the song has led to its disappearance from popular streaming platforms, leaving many supporters and activists concerned.
Critics view this anticipated ban as another step in Beijing's ongoing crackdown on dissent and efforts to suppress voices of opposition in Hong Kong. The government's application for an interim injunction aims to prohibit the performance, dissemination, and even online sharing of the song, including its melody and lyrics, as well as any adaptations.
Under Hong Kong's controversial National Security Law, any individual involved in broadcasting, performing, selling, or distributing "Glory to Hong Kong" could face legal consequences. This has created a chilling effect on the freedom of expression in the city and adds to concerns about the erosion of civil liberties promised under the "one country, two systems" framework.
The local government's writ also identifies 32 YouTube videos related to the song, including instrumental and sign-language versions. The High Court is scheduled to hear the application for an interim injunction on July 21. In response to the government's actions, individuals who oppose the ban have been urged to contact the police by June 21, providing their personal details.
"Glory to Hong Kong" dominated Apple's Hong Kong iTunes Store chart as people rushed to purchase the song following the government's announcement of its intent to ban it. However, major streaming platforms such as Apple, Spotify, Google, and "ThomasDGX & Hong Kongers" have remained silent on the issue, while Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has declined to comment.
The disappearance of "Glory to Hong Kong" from streaming platforms highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding freedom of expression and the exercise of democratic rights in Hong Kong. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by activists and protesters who continue to advocate for greater democratic freedoms in the city.