This study examines the transformative dynamics of ‘localism’ in the intersection with the burgeoning sociopolitical landscape of Hong Kong, as manifested in the politically satirical derivatives of Cantopop lyrics and music videos by a local artist and YouTuber, Sunny Lam (晴天林). In the wake of the implementation of the National Security Law since 30 June 2020, increased scrutiny of public discourse has potentially rendered outspoken support or even mere discussions of localism as unconstitutional and politically sensitive (Adorjan et al., 2021; Hargreaves, 2019). This heightened surveillance has led to a tangible reticence in online expressions aligned with localist views.

Against this backdrop, this research employs a case study approach to explore Sunny Lam’s artistic outputs as exemplars of ‘neo-localism’. I propose that ‘neo-localism’ represents a refreshed form of localism where innovative voices profoundly resonate, celebrating the autonomy and self-reliance of local communities while simultaneously mocking political authorities and satirising their decisions in response to the tightened freedom of expression. My data analysis discerns recurring themes of sociopolitical commentary in Lam’s lyrics, music videos, and media interviews. Reviews and discussions of Lam’s works on his YouTube channel are also analysed to explore the audience’s role as ‘prosumers,’ gauging their perception, engagement, and the ways they shape and are shaped by the neo-localist ideology expressed in his artistry.

The primary objective of this study is to deepen our understanding of how Cantopop secondary creations adapt and flourish in today’s restrictive environments by acting as channels for sociopolitical expression. More notably, the study seeks to unveil the evolving trajectory of identity politics in Hong Kong, moving beyond the paradigm outlined by So and Ip (2019) – from civic localism, anti-mainland localism, and independence – towards neo-localism.