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 Classics & Popular Songs: Recommended Tracks and Hit Songs from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan (141–150)
Not Rock feat. AccusefiveEighty-three Day
Following Mayday as one of Taiwan’s representative rock bands, Eighty-Eight Rising (831) released the song “Not Rock” on their September 2021 album [Life Is For XX] 2021 Online Birthday Party (Live Session).
It features Accusefive, who shot to fame with the hit “Lost You In This City.” The track wraps you in an emotional yet laid-back atmosphere that showcases the strengths of both bands.
A gentle, tear-tinged, beautiful melody seeps in, enriched by the harmonies of male–female twin vocals.
Kakuaiani Ippai Love You One More Timenasu tamago EggPlantEgg
A rock ballad by the popular Taiwanese band EggPlantEgg, released digitally in December 2021.
The title means “Love You Once More,” and it’s a love song that portrays the heartfelt regret of someone who keeps missing their chance, only to realize it for real just before their beloved ends up with someone else.
The music video even shows him setting out to go to her, which really turns up the heat.
It’s wistful yet powerful—the striking guitars and expansive sound amplify the song’s world, making you feel like you want to take off running.
Let romance take the lead — RomanticismSai Ken’ga Tanya Chua
Tanya Chua, a singer from Singapore, excels not only in Mandarin but also in performing songs in English.
Her track “Let Romance Take the Lead,” included on her 2021 album DEPART, tells a poignant love story set against a warm, interlacing guitar sound.
It vividly portrays the overwhelming emotions that follow the loss of a loved one.
The song depicts the slow, tentative steps of moving forward after a heartbreak so painful it’s hard to accept.
Be sure to check it out along with its dramatic music video featuring mannequins.
I rememberZhao Lei
Jiao Lei is a folk singer who creates warm, healing songs that soothe the heart.
His 2022 release “I Remember” (“Wo Jide”) evokes a heartwarming story about the interactions with people we meet throughout life.
Its sound weaves together the warmth of clean-toned guitar, harmonica, and his vocals.
It conveys a nostalgic atmosphere that brings to mind familiar scenes and faces.
As he confronts his own memories, the song delivers messages that resonate deeply.
Let yourself receive the kindness and compassion that flow through the entire track.
fragile heartO Aming Zhi & Chen Fang Yu
Glass Heart is a uniquely charming love song.
It’s a duet by Malaysian multitalent Namewee and popular Australian singer Kimberley Chen.
As soon as it was pre-released from the November 2021 album Ingenious Music, it became a massive hit, racking up 20 million views in two weeks and even charting in New Zealand, Canada, and the UK.
Set to gentle tones, the song says “I’m sorry for hurting you.” The lyrics, sung from her perspective, are adorably expressive.
It reminds us that while speaking your mind is important, sometimes it’s just as vital to wrap your words gently and deliver them with kindness.
thought; idea; sense; remembrance; desire; attention (depending on context)Xue Zhiqian
The melancholic arpeggios and falsetto-laced, beautiful vocals, along with the chorus that explodes into a dramatic development, will likely resonate with listeners who love Western-style emotional rock.
The track “Nian” was crafted by Jackie Xue, a popular Chinese singer-songwriter.
Its powerful lyrics—born of a seasoned artist who has tasted both the sweet and the bitter in life—draw on his own experiences to look back and declare a renewed resolve, creating a synergistic effect with the hard-edged guitar sound.
It’s probably no coincidence that the music video for this song was released on his birthday, July 17.
Umezoko: The Dark Plum SauceRonghao Li
A bittersweet love story spun by Li Ronghao.
Born in 1985 in China, he is a singer-songwriter who is also active as an actor.
Released in November 2022, this song is a heartwarming love ballad that portrays the peaceful moments shared by lovers.
It gently sings of two people spending time together under the setting sun and cherishing the little joys in life.
With a simple, melodic C-pop style, it carries a relaxed vibe.
It became a massive hit on social media in 2023, inspiring numerous covers and remixes.
It’s a perfect track not only for those in love but also for anyone who wants to unwind in a calm mood.