C-POP Classics and Popular Songs: Recommended Tracks and Hit Songs from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan
In this article, we’ll introduce many classic C-pop songs that have been growing in popularity year by year!
C-pop is widely loved.
As an umbrella term for music from the Chinese-speaking world—centered around Mandarin-based Mandopop, along with music originating from Taiwan and Hong Kong’s Cantopop—you’ll find yourself captivated by its many styles.
You’ll surely be drawn in by the high level of musicality and the powerful, skillful vocals.
There are popular theme songs as well as singers and bands who have collaborated with Japanese artists, so keep an eye on those connections too, and be sure to check them out.
C-POP Classics and Popular Hits: Recommended Songs and Chart-Toppers from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan (1–10)
Like a sunny day, like a rainy dayŌ Soron Sairensu Uangu
A song by Rex Wang Sulong that showcases his multifaceted talent in China.
Released in February 2025, the piece was entirely handled by Wang himself, from songwriting and composition to production.
It beautifully captures the fluttering joy of sunny skies and the bittersweet feelings of a rainy day as love’s emotions intertwine, brought to life by Wang’s crystal-clear vocals and a dramatic melody that truly moves you.
Featured as part of the OST for the Chinese romance drama “Hard to Coax” (Nan Hong), the track conveys the exhilarating beat of new love.
It’s perfect for nights when thoughts of someone special deepen, or when you want to rekindle that sense of excitement—wrapping you in a gentle, heart-tingling warmth.
What’s wrong?Shuu Koute Tetsu Eric Chou
A ballad released in 2019 by Taiwanese singer-songwriter Eric Chou.
It’s become a long-running hit that people keep listening to year after year.
Chosen as the ending theme for the drama “Do You Have a Degree?”, this song is a breakup tune that stands out for its beautiful melody.
Being told it’s over is heartbreaking—especially when you’re given no reason.
The lyrics, reflecting the title’s meaning of “What’s wrong?”, layer a poignant sense of Why did things have to end up like this? over a lyrical rhythm that really hits home.
So bittersweet.
There is a kind of sadness.A-Lin
A-lin, a powerhouse singer from Taiwan often referred to as a “born diva,” delivers a gem of a ballad that serves as the theme song for the film More Than Blue, released in October 2018.
Carried by a gentle, subdued melody, A-lin’s commanding vocals—reaching nearly three octaves—evocatively capture the film’s heartrending world.
The song was nominated for Best Original Film Song at the Golden Horse Awards in 2019, and its music video has surpassed 100 million views, winning the hearts of many.
When you’re thinking of someone dear or carrying a sorrow too deep for words, her voice seeps gently into your heart.
If possible, Red ScarfIrei An WeiBird
“If Only,” the theme song for the Taiwanese fantasy film Till We Meet Again, which was a massive hit in 2021.
The track is by male singer-songwriter Wei Li’an (William Wei), whose delicate expression moves listeners to the core.
With its strikingly beautiful cover art, this love ballad revolves around a red scarf as its key motif.
It celebrates timeless love with a beautiful melody.
A Japanese-language music video has also been released—be sure to check it out.
It’s a love song that tugs at the heartstrings, unearthing that universal feeling of “If I could just go back to that day…”
A Twig of Plum BlossomsHiyokusei
Fei Yu-ching, a Taiwanese-born legend of the Chinese pop scene who sadly retired in 2020.
Released in 1983, One Plum Blossom (Yi Jian Mei) is one of his signature songs and was a staple at karaoke back in the day.
A catchy TikTok video of someone singing the song helped it spread, and it even charted on Spotify in places like Norway, becoming a hit in Europe and the U.S.
in 2020.
Its enka-like melody and wistful lyrics may have resonated with the social climate at the time.
Fei Yu-ching’s vocal prowess pairs beautifully with the grandeur of nature depicted alongside the music.
23/17Ou ADEN, Kou Nosen OSN
Rooted in R&B and hip-hop, ADEN Wang also plays guitar and delivers soulful vocals and storytelling, while OSN Gao Er Xuan captivates with mellow, emotive rap.
Together, they weave a track that’s a mid-tempo R&B number with a pleasantly light groove.
ADEN’s refreshing vocals are vividly colored by OSN’s rap, making your heart lift as you listen.
It’s perfect when you want to connect with the authentic feelings of young people or experience the moment when two talents truly shine!
Every Single TimeKioto Keung To
This song blends sweet vocals with a modern sound.
It’s a solo work by Keung To, a member of the popular Hong Kong boy group MIRROR.
Released in August 2024, the track combines pop elements with an alluring R&B flavor.
The lyrics, themed around love and emotion, portray a heart swaying between longing and the border of illusion and reality.
Keung To’s delicate vocals further elevate the song’s world.
The production is lavish, featuring strings performed by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra.
It was also performed at Keung To’s solo concert, “Waves: In my sight 2023,” captivating fans.
It’s a song that resonates with those in love, perfect for a quiet night of relaxed listening.