In a historic moment for music fans in Hong Kong, the Taiwanese band Mayday kicked off their "#5525 Go Back to That Day" concert series on May 9, 2025, at the newly opened Kai Tak Sports Park Main Stadium. This marked a significant milestone as Mayday became the first Asian band to perform at this state-of-the-art venue, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of 45,000 fans eager to celebrate the band's 25th anniversary.
The excitement was palpable as concertgoers began arriving at the stadium shortly after 4 PM for the security checks, despite light rain that did little to dampen spirits. Fans, reminiscent of previous high-profile events such as Coldplay and Eason Chan's concerts, adhered to the venue's strict policy prohibiting drinks and umbrellas. The atmosphere was electric as the audience prepared for what would be an unforgettable night.
The concert officially began at 7:15 PM, with Mayday launching into their opening number, "OAOA." The crowd responded with fervor, waving glow sticks in unison, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Following this energetic start, the band performed a series of beloved hits including "Sun Wukong," "Entering the Battle," and "Cheers," igniting a chorus of voices from the audience.
As the concert progressed, lead vocalist Ah Xin addressed the crowd, expressing his joy at returning to Hong Kong. "Mayday is back in Hong Kong. In 2025, today, we will once again accompany Mayday to spend the 25th anniversary of the May Appointment!" he exclaimed, eliciting cheers from the fans. Fellow band member Stone also shared his excitement, stating, "This is my first time seeing so many Hong Kong people at once. I believe the energy will remain high until the very end!"
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, band members interacted with fans from a smaller stage set up on the opposite side of the main stage, allowing for a more intimate experience. The concert was not just a musical performance; it was a heartfelt reunion with loyal fans, many of whom have followed Mayday throughout their journey.
Richie Jen, known as Mayday's biggest benefactor, made a surprise appearance, further elevating the night's significance. The presence of other notable figures in the audience, such as Jacky Cheung, Andy Lau, and Jackie Chan, who sent flower baskets to congratulate the band, underscored Mayday's impact on the music scene.
In a light-hearted moment, during a segment where fans could request songs, the band engaged in a playful guessing game with the audience. Ah Xin asked, "Who was here last year to see Mayday?" Hands shot up in response. He then quipped, "Why are you back this year? Is it the same show?" to which Monster replied, "Because the venue is different!"
As the night unfolded, the band members shared their thoughts on the new venue. Bassist Masa expressed gratitude for the air-conditioned environment, contrasting it with the previous year's performance, which was marred by rain. He said, "Thank you, Hong Kong, for giving us such a venue to perform in. We look forward to meeting you every May!"
The concert was not just about music; it also featured a vibrant array of food options at the Kai Tak retail complex, allowing fans to continue the celebration post-show. With 13 restaurants and a food market offering delicious late-night snacks, the festivities extended beyond the concert itself.
Throughout the performance, the camaraderie and chemistry among the band members were evident. Guanyou humorously remarked, "We will all be sweating tonight, and so will the 45,000 of you!" This light-hearted banter kept the energy high, as fans reveled in the shared experience.
As the concert drew to a close, Ah Xin reflected on the journey Mayday has taken over the years. He fondly recalled the early days when their recognition in Hong Kong was less than that of common household brands. "We did a lot of promotions back then. If it weren't for this king of the music scene bringing Mayday along, we might not be here today, performing for all of you," he said, acknowledging the support they have received from fans and fellow artists alike.
The concert series is set to continue with three more performances, promising to unlock the full potential of the new venue and engage an expected total of 180,000 fans over the course of the events. The excitement surrounding Mayday's concerts in Hong Kong is a testament to their enduring popularity and the deep connection they have forged with their audience over a quarter-century.
In a heartfelt closing statement, Ah Xin expressed his gratitude to the fans, saying, "Thank you for accompanying us through the storms and sunny days. Perhaps one day, Mayday won't have as many fans, but as long as there is one person willing to listen, the May Appointment will continue!" This sentiment resonated deeply, leaving fans with a sense of unity and nostalgia as they exited the venue, already looking forward to their next encounter with the beloved band.
