![[2026] Popular Chinese Singers and Artists Active in the Chinese-speaking World [C-POP]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/NCuVko5Hw6w/maxresdefault.webp)
[2026] Popular Chinese Singers and Artists Active in the Chinese-speaking World [C-POP]
Asian music is attracting more and more attention every year.
In this article, we’re focusing on Chinese singers.
Curious about Chinese pop and which artists are out there?Take a look!
We’ve picked a wide range of artists—from legendary figures who’ve made history to promising newcomers and charismatic vocalists.
In recent years, many people may have discovered them through social media or via connections with idol groups.
You might even find some familiar names for Japanese audiences and plenty of new discoveries!
Enjoy exploring the Chinese music scene!
[2026] Popular Chinese Singers and Artists Active in the Chinese-speaking World [C-POP] (1–10)
Snow Distance (Ft. Raon)NEW!Capper
Capper is a rapper drawing attention as a leading young talent of the post-2000 generation.
Born in June 2000 in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, he is a singer-songwriter whose hallmark is a sound rooted in hip-hop that fluidly traverses trap and Asian pop.
He officially launched his career in 2017 with the release of a single.
That same year, he won the rap battle “Underground 8 Miles,” and he went on to take the overall championship on the 2021 show “The Rap of Youth,” proving his solid skills.
He has released numerous works, including the 2022-era album “Sword and Rose.” His rap, combining catchy melodies with a light, airy vocal tone, is easy on the ears and highly recommended for fans of pop music.
A Guide to a Boring LifeNEW!Songu Yaashuan
Song Yaxuan, born in 2004, is attracting attention as a young singer and actor.
He debuted in 2019 as a member of the idol group Teens in Times (TNT).
Highly praised for his vocal ability since childhood, he is a vocalist known for his clear, airy high notes and a soft, expansive tone.
Alongside group activities, he is active as a solo artist, skillfully performing a wide range of songs from gentle ballads to R&B-inflected pop.
In solo releases like “5:23PM,” which was unveiled to coincide with his birthday, he delicately conveys authentic emotions and the subtle fluctuations of everyday life.
His individual profile has also risen through appearances on Chinese music programs such as Infinity and Beyond: Family Harmony.
He’s an artist highly recommended for those drawn to the contrast between boyish charm and mature expression.
DeadmanNEW!Kun Cai Xukun
Cai Xukun is a singer-songwriter born in 1998 in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province.
In 2018, he won first place on the Chinese survival show Idol Producer and made a dazzling debut as the center of NINE PERCENT.
After the group disbanded, he focused on solo activities, and his 2020 release Lover drew significant buzz on social media.
In 2021, he released his first solo album, Lost.
His wide-ranging creativity—from music production to visual direction—is a major draw and has been highly recognized with numerous awards.
He also stands out as a fashion icon, serving as an ambassador for international brands like Prada.
He’s a recommended artist for fans of stylish, sophisticated R&B and dance-pop.
MantaNEW!Lexie Liu
Lexie Liu is an artist from Hunan, China, who crosses a wide range of genres.
She participated in an audition program in 2015, and in 2019 released the EP “2030,” themed around a near-futuristic concept.
Her 2022 album “The Happy Star” received high acclaim, earning her a nomination for Best Mandarin Female Singer at the Golden Melody Awards.
She has also drawn attention through collaborations, such as joining K/DA, the virtual group from League of Legends, and adding flair to the game’s world championship stage.
Her cool, cyberpunk-inspired visuals are wonderful as well.
With her cutting-edge sound and mysterious vocals, she’s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy next-generation music.
Don’t call me Da VinciNEW!Lil Ghost
Lil Ghost, who combines a rebellious spirit with approachability, is a rapper and singer-songwriter born in 1999 in Shandong Province.
After an audition program, he debuted in November 2018 as a member of NINE PERCENT with the album “TO THE NINES.” His solo track “Good Night,” released the same year, showcased his talent early on, being selected as a Song of the Year.
Centered on hip-hop while flexibly incorporating rock and punk, he is also known for personally crafting immersive live productions.
In 2025, his tour garnered a Platinum Award at an international ceremony, highlighting his top-tier production skills.
Highly recommended for those who want to savor diverse pop sounds.
Do not ask when I will returnNEW!Ryū U (Ryu Yu)
Liu Yu, known for his graceful body expression rooted in Chinese dance, is a solo artist born in August 2000 in Xuancheng, Anhui Province.
In 2021, he participated in an audition program, took first place, and debuted as a central member of INTO1.
After the group disbanded in April 2023, he fully launched his solo career, releasing the EP “Willow Leaf Saber,” and in 2024 unveiled his full-length album “Cosmic Poet.” His signature sound blends C-pop with guofeng (traditional Chinese) elements, and his stunning stages fuse traditional culture with contemporary pop—nothing short of breathtaking.
He has garnered high praise from many quarters, including being honored at the 2024 Weibo Night of Culture.
He is highly recommended for those who appreciate Eastern aesthetics and performance with strong artistic sensibilities.
Li BaiNEW!tan itsum? Wait.
Shan Yichun is a talented female singer from Zhejiang Province, born in 2001.
After winning the 2020 music audition show “Sing! China 2020,” she quickly rose to nationwide stardom.
Centered on Mandopop, R&B, and ballads, her music is characterized by a broad stylistic range that also incorporates elements of soul and jazz.
Her 2022 album “Brave Quota” showcased her delicate emotional expression and strong sense of rhythm, solidifying her status as a solo artist.
In 2023, she achieved great success with her first solo concert.
Her clear, translucent vocal timbre and a maturity beyond her years have a compelling appeal that resonates across generations.