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 (131–140)
The Ironic Love Letter — The Irony of LoveTian Fuzhen Hebe Tien
Hebe Tien, who made her solo debut in 2010 after being part of the idol group S.H.E and is also active as an actress.
“Sarcastic Love Letter” is a medium-tempo ballad released in 2020.
It wraps you in gentle acoustic guitar tones and a laid-back melody.
In contrast to that sound, however, the song depicts being betrayed by a loved one, and that juxtaposition creates a curious feeling.
Facing the reality that someone changes—because of marriage or some other trigger—is incredibly painful, isn’t it? This song feels like it will stay by your side when you want something to accompany you through breakups and those inescapable truths that suddenly visit us in life.
Simon Says in a Big WindNo Party For Cao Dong
No Party For Cao Dong is an indie band from Taiwan that has performed at SUMMER SONIC.
Their track “Simon Says” is included on their acclaimed album of the same name, Simon Says.
It’s a wonderful work that fully showcases their distinctive style, with a strong emphasis on alternative rock.
Still hereChin Taku Ken
Hong Kong–born singer-songwriter Ian Chang’s expressive power creates a uniquely immersive world.
His musicality spans a wide range of genres—electronic, ambient, and experimental—and is marked by sounds that resonate deeply with the listener’s inner life.
His songs, woven with profound emotions and rich textures, spark curiosity about contemporary society and personal identity.
Released in September 2023, this track tenderly traces the sense of loss brought on by parting, while carefully preserving the memories of days filled with love—sure to strike a chord with listeners.
It’s a song you’ll want to face alone on a quiet night.
Playhouseie
She is a singer-songwriter from Taiwan.
Her real name is Chi Chia-ying, and she debuted in 2006 as part of Hao-en & Chia-chia.
In 2007, they won the Best Vocal Group Award at the 18th Golden Melody Awards.
This song was used in the soundtrack of the Chinese TV drama The Perfect Match.
a thousand timesJane Zhang
Jane Zhang is a powerhouse female singer.
In a 2020 release, the pipa (a traditional Chinese lute) is used, giving the track a fantastical, distinctly Chinese atmosphere.
Paired with lyrics that evoke a fantasy world, the song wraps you in a feeling like you’ve set off on a journey.
She’s a long-established diva, yet Jane Zhang’s voice remains eternally beautiful.
Not only on the studio track, but in live footage too, her rich tone and soaring high notes give you serious goosebumps! I really want you to listen to it at least once.
On the way of leavingrisō kontan Bestards
This song is by VASTERS, a four-piece band from Taiwan, included on their October 2023 album “Half-cooked Ideals.” It’s a moving ballad themed around breakups and heartbreak, marked by simple guitar and emotive vocals.
The lyrics look back on past relationships while expressing a resolve to move forward, resonating with many listeners.
Crafted by members with medical backgrounds, the track carries deep emotion and a powerful message.
Highly recommended for anyone trying to overcome the pain of a broken heart.
The you I lostKaren Mok
Karen Mok’s song “The You I Lost” centers on rediscovering a lost love.
It’s a love song that conveys the surprise reunion with a first love long separated, and the sense that a once-lost romance might begin again.
The track was also used as a movie theme song, notably aligning beautifully with the film’s story and the lyrics.
Karen Mok, a Hong Kong–born singer and actress active mainly in Taiwan, brings a distinctive vocal tone that perfectly matches the song’s mood and resonates deeply with listeners.
The piece captures the sense of loss after parting from a loved one, as well as the joy and relief of meeting again.
It’s a fine song that delicately portrays the subtleties of love.