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 and hit songs from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan (11–20)
Snow DistanceCapper Ft. Rageng
A captivating song from China by Capper and Luoyan.
The lyrics, which express the distance and heartache of love through the motif of snow, leave a strong impression.
Blending contemporary hip-hop and R&B into a melodic sound, it has become popular especially among younger listeners.
Released in March 2023, it was widely shared on social media platforms like TikTok.
The track is included on the album “Uniconfication” and stands as a symbol of Capper’s artistic growth.
Its heartfelt lyrics and catchy melody are especially appealing, making it a great recommendation for anyone feeling the pangs of love or loneliness.
It might be perfect to listen to while feeling the chill of winter.
Confession BalloonJay Chou
A Taiwanese actor and singer-songwriter.
He’s never short of headlines, from marrying model Hannah Quinlivan in 2014, who is 14 years younger, to gaining 13 kg from “happy weight” after the wedding.
This music video was filmed in Paris and simply watching it will put you in a romantic mood.
Hold OnKō Gakusen OSN & Hai I Shun Patrick Brasca
This work is a collaboration between Taiwan’s powerhouse artists, OSN (Gao Erxuan) and Patrick Brasca (Pai Weijun).
Released in June 2024, the track is a ballad that delicately depicts the bittersweet memories of love.
It features a soothing sound that fuses melodic hip-hop and R&B.
OSN’s powerful rap and Patrick Brasca’s sweet vocals create an exquisite harmony.
The lyrics, which portray lingering feelings for an ex and the emotional turbulence stirred by glimpses of their life on social media, seem to resonate with many listeners.
It’s a recommended song for anyone struggling with matters of the heart.
greenChen Xuening
A guitar balladeer—like how we’d say YUI in Japan—Chen Xue Ning.
Her hallmark is that clear, translucent voice! There’s nothing particularly novel about the sound or approach, but her straightforward, heartfelt musicality resonated with fans and didn’t let go.
By the way, this song is a heartbreak tune about a love that’s ended.
It poignantly sings of loneliness, pleading, “Why you?”
Because I promised not to cry / We Said We Wouldn’t CryJay Chou (Shū Shōrin) with Mayday Asshin
Jay Chou (周杰倫) and Mayday’s Ashin’s hit song, “Won’t Cry” (說好不哭).
The music video drew attention for featuring popular model Ayaka Miyoshi and actor Keisuke Watanabe.
Many of you may already know it.
This song is crafted as a classic ballad.
profile (side face)Yuguo
A ballad pop song that captures the bittersweet feelings of a teenager exhausted by love.
It was released in 2018.
The composer is Shu Jinglin, and the arrangement and recording were handled by Feng Cong.
The theme is a rainy scene—its gentle, subdued mood is sad, but it matches beautifully and is truly lovely.
[C-POP Classics & Popular Songs] Recommended Tracks and Hit Songs from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan (21–30)
Always On The RoadSorei Ki Sury Su
Rising Chinese pop singer Xu Ruoqi has released a new song that chronicles her personal journey and story of self-discovery.
It’s a track filled with courage and hope, reflecting her life philosophy of always moving forward and continually embracing the unknown.
Her voice, which seems to stay close to the listener’s heart, and her message about facing forward in life are deeply encouraging.
収録曲である本作は、彼女の多才さと成長を示している。2023年10月のEP『Tidal Atlas（潮汐図鑑）』に収められている。
It’s an anthem of support that we hope everyone standing at a crossroads in life will listen to.