Here’s a list of the 10 most popular singers from China. These artists have made their mark in the music industry, both in China and internationally, with their unique talents and diverse musical styles:
1. Faye Wong:
Often referred to as the “diva of Asia,” Faye Wong is one of the most iconic Chinese singers. She blends pop, rock, and alternative music in her work, and her ethereal voice has captivated audiences for decades. Known for her unique fashion and enigmatic persona, she has had numerous hit albums and is beloved throughout China and beyond.
Genre: Pop, Alternative Rock
Popular Songs: Red Bean, Eyes on Me (from Final Fantasy VIII)
2. Jay Chou.
Jay Chou is one of the most influential Mandopop artists, credited with popularizing the genre in the early 2000s. His music fuses traditional Chinese elements with modern pop, R&B, and hip-hop. Chou is also a prolific composer, actor, and director, widely regarded as a trailblazer in the Chinese music scene.
Genre: Mandopop, R&B, Hip-hop
Popular Songs: Simple Love, Qing Hua Ci (Blue and White Porcelain)
3. Li Yuchun (Chris Lee)
Li Yuchun rose to fame after winning the 2005 season of Super Girl, a popular Chinese singing competition. She is known for her androgynous style, and her music spans pop, dance, and electronic genres. Li Yuchun has broken many boundaries in the Chinese music industry and is known for her unique voice and bold public image.
Genre: Pop, Dance
Popular Songs:The Queen and the Dreams, A Magical Encounter 1987.
4. Kris Wu:
Formerly a member of the popular South Korean-Chinese boy band EXO, Kris Wu is a multitalented artist who transitioned into a solo career. He gained popularity for his rap and hip-hop music and has collaborated with international artists. Wu also works as an actor and fashion icon.
Genre: Hip-hop, Pop
Popular Songs: Like That, Deserve (ft. Travis Scott)
5. G.E.M. (Gloria Tang):
Known as the “Adele of Asia,” G.E.M. (Get Everybody Moving) is famous for her powerful voice and emotionally charged ballads. Born in Shanghai and raised in Hong Kong, she gained international recognition through her performances on the show Singer. Her music blends pop, R&B, and rock.
Genre: Pop, R&B
Popular Songs:Light Years Away, Goodbye.
6. Eason Chan:
Eason Chan is one of the most versatile and well-regarded singers in the Cantopop and Mandopop genres. He has a broad vocal range and an impressive ability to switch between genres such as ballads, rock, and pop. Chan has a loyal fan base in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.
Genre:Cantopop, Mandopop
Popular Songs:Ten Years, K Song of Love.
7. Jackson Wang:
A member of the K-pop group GOT7, Jackson Wang has also carved out a successful solo career. Born in Hong Kong, he is known for his dynamic rap, singing, and dancing skills. His solo work showcases a blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop, and he has a massive international following.
Genre: Hip-hop, R&B
Popular Songs:100 Ways, Pretty Please.
8. Jane Zhang:
Jane Zhang gained prominence as the third-place winner of Super Girl in 2005. She is known for her soprano voice and dolphin vocal technique, a rare ability to hit high-pitched notes. Her music blends pop with traditional Chinese styles, and she has earned the nickname “The Dolphin Princess.”
Genre: Pop
Popular Songs: Dust My Shoulders Off, If This Is Love.
9. Lay Zhang (Zhang Yixing):
Lay Zhang, also known as Yixing, is another former member of EXO who has found success as a solo artist. He is known for his skill in blending traditional Chinese music with modern pop and dance genres. Lay has a dedicated fan base in China and across the globe, and he continues to innovate in his music career.
Genre: Pop, EDM, Hip-hop
Popular Songs: Honey, Lit.
10. Teresa Teng:
Although she passed away in 1995, Teresa Teng remains one of the most beloved and iconic singers in Chinese history. Her soothing voice and heartfelt ballads are still adored across generations. Teng was known for her ability to sing in multiple languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese, and English.
Genre:Pop, Ballads
Popular Songs: The Moon Represents My Heart, When Will You Return?
These singers represent the diversity of China’s music industry, blending traditional elements with modern genres like hip-hop, pop, and R&B. They have not only conquered the Chinese music scene but also gained international acclaim, breaking boundaries and reaching audiences around the globe.
