" Never Want To Give You Up" (Cantonese: 放不低) is the ninth Cantonese studio album by Hong Kong singer Sammi Cheng. Released on May 29, 1996, by Warner Music Hong Kong,[2] the album features a mix of Earworm Dance tracks and Catchy Sad ballads, showcasing Cheng's versatility and emotional depth. In Hong Kong,The album was a commercial success, achieving double platinum status shortly after its release.[3] A few weeks later, it almost achieved triple platinum.making it the best-selling Cantonese album by female artist that year.[4][5]
The album incorporates a range of contemporary Cantopop styles, blending sentimental ballads, Dance pop with up-tempo tracks. Cheng worked with several prominent producers and songwriters, including Alvin Leong,Mark Lui,Mahmood Rumjahn,Stanley Leung ,Vicky Fung,C.Y. Kong and Andrew Lam, to create a diverse and engaging collection of songs.
Dance-pop " Beware Of Woman" is a powerful opener of this album with a catchy melody and strong beats. The lyrics warn about the complexities and unpredictability of women, delivered with Cheng's confident and dynamic vocal performance. It's a song that immediately grabs attention and sets the tone for the album. Cantopop Ballad " Never Want to Give You Up "is a poignant ballad that explores themes of love and heartbreak. Sammi's emotive delivery captures the pain of not being able to let go of a past relationship. The orchestral arrangement adds a layer of melancholy, making it a standout track.Ballad "Space" is an introspective song with lyrics that delve into the need for personal space and freedom. The gentle melody and soothing vocals create a reflective atmosphere, allowing listeners to connect with the song on a deeper level.Synth-pop "Colour ... Scent"is a unique track that uses vivid imagery to describe emotions and memories associated with different colors and scents. The experimental arrangement and Sammi's expressive vocals make this song a sensory experience.Pop "Goodbye Summer Love" is a nostalgic track that reminisces about a past summer romance. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus contrast with the bittersweet lyrics, creating a song that is both fun and emotionally resonant.Cantopop Ballad "Disagreement" addresses conflicts and misunderstandings in relationships. The lyrics are honest and relatable, and Sammi's powerful vocal delivery conveys the frustration and sadness that come with disagreements.Pop "Owe You Nothing" is an empowering anthem about moving on from past relationships without any regrets. The upbeat melody and strong beats make it a motivational track, encouraging listeners to embrace their independence.Ballad "Asking Me" is a heartfelt ballad where Cheng's vocals shine. The lyrics express a willingness to be open and honest in a relationship, asking the partner to communicate and share their feelings.The simple yet beautiful arrangement complements the sincerity of the song. Cantopop "Red Wine,White Wine" is a sophisticated track using the metaphor of red and white wine to describe different aspects of love and relationships. The smooth melody and elegant arrangement make it a standout piece. Ballad "To Live For You For One Night Only" is a romantic ballad capturing the intensity of love and the desire to cherish every moment with a loved one. Cheng's emotive performance and lush orchestration create a powerful ending to the album.
In Hong Kong,Six singles were released from the album. The first three, "Beware Of Woman," "Never Want to Give You Up," and "Owe You Nothing" (from Feel 100% 1), are commercial singles intended for radios, TVs, and karaoke bars. The last three, "Asking Me" (from Feel 100% 1), "Colour ... Scent," and "Disagreement," are promotional singles intended solely for karaoke bars.
"Beware Of Woman" was chosen as the album's lead single, topping four major charts. "Never Want to Give You Up" was released as the second single, peaking at number one on three major charts. "Owe You Nothing" (from Feel 100% 1) was released as the third and final commercial single, reaching number one on one major chart. It was also so popular in karaoke bars that it shot straight to the top of the karaoke charts for eight weeks.
Never Want To Give You Up debuted at number one on IFPI (Hong Kong Group),It maintained that position for one week,[11]and it stayed in the chart for 12 weeks.
^- 26 Oct 1996 - Page 50 " Her first two albums for the label in Cantonese, including her last, "Never Give It Up," did a tidy 100,000 each, says Warner VP of marketing David Gilchrist"
