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)
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.
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.
I will wait.Shōkan
Released in February 2023 and surpassing 18 million streams on Spotify within about six months, this song “I Will Wait” (“我会等”) is by Sun Huang, a rising Chinese American singer who began releasing music in 2022.
It’s a standout classic ballad reminiscent of vintage J-pop, showcasing his beautifully wistful vocals.
While the title translates to “I’ll wait,” the lyrics never explicitly reveal the current situation of the beloved person the protagonist is waiting for.
The lyrics, which interweave changing seasons with poignant inner landscapes, are also excellent—so be sure to check them out using a translation feature.
A Little LuckHebe Tien
Hebe Tien, a member of the idol group S.H.E and a highly popular solo singer known for her expressive ability to master a wide range of genres.
Little Happiness was released in 2015 and became an enduring C-pop classic after being chosen as the theme song for the Taiwanese film Our Times.
Its gentle melody and Hebe Tien’s vocals wrap you in a bittersweet yet warm emotion.
It’s a love song about realizing the importance of someone only after losing them, while wishing for their happiness at the same time.
It’s a tear-jerker.
