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.
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[C-POP Masterpieces & Popular Songs] Recommended Tracks and Hit Songs from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan (71–80)
PORTALZani
This is a track from the Taiwanese indie band ZANI’s 2020 album “PORTAL.” The stylish, sensibility-rich sound and Roxi Chen’s vocals make you feel as if you’re floating along—maybe more like walking through the sky.
The lyrics carry the mood of searching for light, and it feels like a song that will stay close to you when you’re feeling stuck.
Especially recommended if you like city pop or laid-back R&B!
ButZani
Zani, a Taiwanese indie band that’s been gaining momentum in the city pop scene.
While they do sing city pop, they also often perform pop songs with an R&B vibe.
Their track “可是” is also crafted with an R&B flavor.
It’s a richly atmospheric, beautiful ballad.
I am sad.5566
5566, the idol group known as the “SMAP of Taiwan.” Hugely popular in the Taiwanese entertainment scene, they made headlines when they reunited in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic to deliver a song of encouragement.
Their signature track “Wo Nan Guo” (“I’m Sad”) was used as the ending theme for the idol drama MVPLover and is included on their first album, First Album, released in 2002.
Be sure to take your time and listen to this beautiful ballad woven by the harmonies of all five members.
Not afraidAngela Chang
Angela Chang is a Taiwanese bona fide female singer who has been active in contests since her student days living in Canada.
“Not Afraid” was included on her 2016 album Complete Surrender.
The title means “There’s nothing to fear” in Japanese, and it’s a pop number that puts you in a lighthearted mood.
While the piano tone is striking, the way the song opens up rhythmically in the chorus is wonderfully pleasant.
It’s an empowering track where an uplifting message harmonizes with the accessibility of pop music.
actor / performerXue Zhiqian
A singer-songwriter, actor, and hotpot restaurant owner from Shanghai.
After reaching the semifinals of an audition hosted by Shanghai Oriental TV, he was scouted and debuted as a singer.
He wrote both the lyrics and music for this song, which is included on the 2015 album “Gentleman.”