20 Famous Chinese Singers

Chinese music has a rich and diverse history, and over the years, the country has produced many talented singers who have made a significant impact on the music industry both in China and around the world. From pop icons to rock legends, these singers have captured the hearts and minds of audiences with their unique styles, powerful vocals, and socially conscious lyrics.

In this article, we will take a closer look at 20 of the most influential Chinese singers of all time, each with their own unique sound and style. From Teresa Teng, the “Queen of Mandarin Pop,” to Jay Chou, the “King of Mandopop,” we will explore their music, their lives, and their legacies, and examine the ways in which they have shaped the Chinese music scene and influenced music globally.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Chinese music or just discovering the genre for the first time, this list of top Chinese singers is sure to provide you with a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of China and the amazing talents of its musicians. So sit back, relax, and get ready to explore the world of Chinese music with these incredible singers.

1. Teresa Teng

Teresa Teng was a Taiwanese singer and songwriter who became one of the most iconic and beloved performers in East Asia during the 1970s and 1980s. Known for her sweet and melodious voice, Teng was considered a pioneer of Mandarin pop music, and her songs have become timeless classics in Chinese-speaking communities around the world.

Born in 1953 in Taiwan, Teng began her music career at the age of 19, and soon became famous for her distinctive vocal style and her ability to connect emotionally with her listeners. She recorded more than 1,100 songs in Mandarin, Cantonese, and Japanese, and her music was popular not only in China and Taiwan, but also in Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, and other Asian countries.

Teng’s music was characterized by its simple and poetic lyrics, which often explored themes of love, longing, and nostalgia. Her songs were also known for their unique blend of traditional Chinese and modern Western musical elements, which helped to make her music accessible to a wide audience.

Teng’s career was cut short in 1995 when she suffered a fatal asthma attack while on vacation in Thailand. However, her music has continued to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans, and she remains one of the most beloved and influential figures in the history of Chinese popular music.

2. Cui Jian

Cui Jian is a Chinese singer, songwriter, and musician who is considered the “father of Chinese rock” for his pioneering role in developing rock music in China during the 1980s. Born in 1961 in Beijing, Cui grew up during the Cultural Revolution and was exposed to a wide range of music, from traditional Chinese music to Western rock and roll.

In the early 1980s, Cui began performing his own brand of rock music, blending Chinese folk music with Western rock influences. His songs often addressed social and political issues, and his music quickly gained a following among young Chinese audiences who were hungry for new and innovative forms of expression.

Cui’s most famous song, “Nothing to My Name,” became an anthem for China’s disaffected youth and helped to establish him as a cultural icon. The song’s lyrics, which criticized the materialism and corruption of China’s ruling elite, struck a chord with many young people who were disillusioned with the state-controlled media and the government’s policies.

Despite facing censorship and persecution from the government, Cui continued to push the boundaries of what was acceptable in Chinese music, and his influence on the Chinese music scene continues to be felt to this day. His music has inspired countless young musicians in China and around the world, and he remains a symbol of artistic freedom and creative expression.

3. Li Yuchun (Chris Lee)

Li Yuchun, also known as Chris Lee, is a Chinese singer, songwriter, and actress who has become one of the most successful and influential figures in the Chinese music industry. Born in 1984 in Chengdu, China, Li rose to fame in 2005 when she won the Chinese version of the reality singing competition “Super Girl.”

Li’s androgynous appearance and unique vocal style quickly made her a fan favorite, and she became a pop culture sensation in China almost overnight. She released her debut album, “The Queen and the Dreams,” in 2006, which was a critical and commercial success, selling over one million copies.

Li’s music is known for its genre-bending style, blending elements of pop, rock, and electronic music with traditional Chinese musical influences. Her lyrics often explore themes of self-discovery and individuality, and her music has become a rallying cry for young Chinese people who are seeking to break free from traditional gender roles and societal expectations.

In addition to her music career, Li has also become a prominent actress and fashion icon, and she has been featured in numerous films and television shows. She is known for her avant-garde fashion sense and has become a style icon in China and beyond.

Li’s impact on Chinese popular culture cannot be overstated, and she remains one of the most innovative and influential artists in the history of Chinese music.

4. Lu Han

Lu Han is a Chinese singer, actor, and former member of the popular South Korean-Chinese boy band EXO. Born in 1990 in Beijing, Lu Han rose to fame in 2011 when he was selected to become a member of EXO, which quickly became one of the most popular K-pop groups in the world.

Lu Han’s music is known for its catchy melodies and upbeat pop sound, and his solo career has been hugely successful in China. He has released several albums and singles, many of which have topped the charts in China and other Asian countries.

In addition to his music career, Lu Han has also become a prominent actor, appearing in numerous films and television shows. He is known for his charismatic on-screen presence and has become a favorite among Chinese audiences.

Lu Han is also known for his philanthropic work, and he has been involved in numerous charitable organizations and initiatives. He has used his platform to raise awareness about issues such as environmental conservation and mental health, and he has been recognized for his efforts with numerous awards and honors.

Lu Han’s impact on Chinese pop culture cannot be overstated, and he remains one of the most popular and influential young artists in China today.

5. Sam Hui

Sam Hui is a legendary singer, songwriter, and actor from Hong Kong who is considered one of the most influential and beloved performers in the history of Cantopop, a genre of popular music that originated in Hong Kong in the 1970s.

Born in 1948 in Guangzhou, China, Hui moved to Hong Kong with his family when he was a child. He began his music career in the early 1970s, and quickly became known for his unique blend of Western and Chinese musical influences. His music often addressed social and political issues, and his lyrics were known for their wit and humor.

Hui’s songs have become classics of the Cantopop genre, and his influence on the Hong Kong music scene cannot be overstated. He has recorded more than 25 albums and has won numerous awards for his music, including the CASH Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013.

In addition to his music career, Hui has also had a successful acting career, appearing in numerous films and television shows. He is known for his comedic timing and his ability to connect with audiences of all ages.

Hui’s impact on Hong Kong popular culture has been immense, and he remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in the history of Cantopop.

6. Jay Chou

Jay Chou is a Taiwanese singer, songwriter, and record producer who has become one of the most popular and influential figures in the Mandopop music scene. Born in 1979 in Taipei, Chou began playing the piano and writing music at a young age, and his talent was soon recognized by music industry professionals.

Chou’s music is known for its fusion of Western and Eastern musical styles, and his songs often blend elements of R&B, hip-hop, and classical music with traditional Chinese instruments and melodies. His lyrics often explore themes of love, nostalgia, and social commentary, and he is known for his ability to connect with audiences of all ages.

Chou has released more than 15 studio albums and has won numerous awards for his music, including the Golden Melody Award, the most prestigious music award in the Chinese-speaking world. He has also become a successful actor, appearing in several films and television shows.

Chou’s influence on the Mandopop music scene cannot be overstated, and he has inspired countless young musicians in Taiwan, China, and beyond. He remains one of the most innovative and influential artists in the history of Mandopop, and his music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.

7. Andy Lau

Andy Lau is a Hong Kong singer, actor, and film producer who is widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential figures in the history of Cantopop, a genre of popular music that originated in Hong Kong in the 1970s. Born in 1961 in Hong Kong, Lau began his music career in the early 1980s and quickly rose to fame with his unique blend of pop and rock music.

Lau has released more than 40 albums and has won numerous awards for his music, including the prestigious Golden Needle Award. He is known for his ability to connect with audiences through his powerful vocals and his ability to write songs that address social and political issues.

In addition to his music career, Lau has also become a successful actor, appearing in more than 150 films and television shows. He is known for his versatility as an actor, and has played a wide range of characters in films ranging from action blockbusters to romantic comedies.

Lau’s impact on Hong Kong popular culture cannot be overstated, and he remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in the history of Cantopop. He has inspired countless young musicians and actors, and his music and films continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.

8. Jacky Cheung

Jacky Cheung is a Hong Kong singer and actor who is widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential figures in the history of Cantopop, a genre of popular music that originated in Hong Kong in the 1970s. Born in 1961 in Hong Kong, Cheung began his music career in the early 1980s and quickly became known for his powerful vocals and emotional performances.

Cheung has released more than 50 albums and has won numerous awards for his music, including the prestigious Golden Melody Award. He is known for his ability to connect with audiences through his heartfelt ballads and his ability to write songs that address social and political issues.

In addition to his music career, Cheung has also had a successful acting career, appearing in numerous films and television shows. He is known for his range as an actor, and has played a wide range of characters in films ranging from action thrillers to romantic dramas.

Cheung’s impact on Hong Kong popular culture cannot be overstated, and he remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in the history of Cantopop. He has inspired countless young musicians and actors, and his music and films continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.

9. Faye Wong

Faye Wong is a Chinese singer and actress who is widely regarded as one of the most influential and successful figures in the history of Mandopop, a genre of popular music that originated in Taiwan in the 1970s. Born in Beijing in 1969, Wong began her music career in the late 1980s and quickly became known for her unique vocal style and her ability to connect with audiences through her emotive performances.

Wong has released more than 20 studio albums and has won numerous awards for her music, including the prestigious Golden Melody Award. She is known for her ability to blend elements of rock, pop, and folk music with traditional Chinese instrumentation and melodies, and her songs often explore themes of love, loss, and identity.

In addition to her music career, Wong has also had a successful acting career, appearing in several films and television shows. She is known for her ability to bring emotional depth to her roles, and has won critical acclaim for her performances.

Wong’s influence on the Mandopop music scene cannot be overstated, and she remains one of the most innovative and influential artists in the genre’s history. Her music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world, and she has inspired countless young musicians and artists with her unique style and emotive performances.

10. Jolin Tsai

Jolin Tsai is a Taiwanese singer, dancer, and actress who is widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential figures in Mandopop, a genre of popular music that originated in Taiwan in the 1970s. Born in 1980 in Taipei, Tsai began her music career in the late 1990s and quickly became known for her energetic performances and her unique blend of pop, R&B, and electronic music.

Tsai has released more than 15 studio albums and has won numerous awards for her music, including the prestigious Golden Melody Award. She is known for her ability to connect with audiences through her powerful vocals and her ability to write songs that address social and political issues.

In addition to her music career, Tsai has also had a successful acting career, appearing in several films and television shows. She is known for her versatility as an actress, and has played a wide range of characters in films ranging from romantic comedies to action thrillers.

Tsai’s impact on the Mandopop music scene cannot be overstated, and she remains one of the most influential and innovative figures in the genre’s history. Her music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world, and she has inspired countless young musicians and artists with her unique style and powerful performances.

11. Anita Mui

Anita Mui was a Hong Kong singer, actress, and entertainer who is widely regarded as one of the most talented and iconic figures in the history of Cantopop, a genre of popular music that originated in Hong Kong in the 1970s. Born in 1963 in Hong Kong, Mui began her music career in the early 1980s and quickly became known for her powerful vocals and her ability to connect with audiences through her emotional performances.

Mui released more than 40 albums throughout her career and won numerous awards for her music, including the prestigious Golden Melody Award. She is known for her ability to blend elements of pop, rock, and jazz music with traditional Chinese instrumentation and melodies, and her songs often explored themes of love, loss, and social commentary.

In addition to her music career, Mui also had a successful acting career, appearing in numerous films and television shows. She is known for her range as an actress, and has played a wide range of characters in films ranging from martial arts epics to romantic dramas.

Mui’s impact on Hong Kong popular culture cannot be overstated, and she remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in the history of Cantopop. Her music and films continue to be celebrated by fans around the world, and she has inspired countless young musicians and actors with her talent and her passion for her craft.

12. Gloria Tang/ G.E.M.

Gloria Tang, known by her stage name G.E.M., is a Hong Kong singer-songwriter who has become one of the most popular and influential figures in Mandopop, a genre of popular music that originated in Taiwan in the 1970s. Born in 1991 in Shanghai and raised in Hong Kong, G.E.M. began her music career in 2008 and quickly gained a following for her powerful vocals and her ability to write songs that address social and personal issues.

G.E.M. has released several studio albums and has won numerous awards for her music, including the prestigious Golden Melody Award. She is known for her ability to blend elements of pop, rock, and R&B music with traditional Chinese instrumentation and melodies, and her songs often explore themes of love, identity, and personal growth.

In addition to her music career, G.E.M. has also had a successful acting career, appearing in several films and television shows. She is known for her ability to bring emotional depth to her roles, and has won critical acclaim for her performances.

G.E.M.’s impact on the Mandopop music scene has been significant, and she has inspired a new generation of fans and musicians with her unique style and powerful vocals. She remains one of the most innovative and influential figures in the genre’s history, and her music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.

13. Liu Huan

Liu Huan is a Chinese singer and songwriter who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of Chinese pop music. Born in 1963 in Tianjin, China, Liu began his music career in the late 1980s and quickly gained a following for his powerful vocals and his ability to write songs that address social and political issues.

Liu has released several studio albums and has won numerous awards for his music, including the prestigious Golden Melody Award. He is known for his ability to blend elements of pop, rock, and folk music with traditional Chinese instrumentation and melodies, and his songs often explore themes of love, patriotism, and cultural identity.

In addition to his music career, Liu has also had a successful career as a music producer and composer, and has collaborated with a wide range of artists and musicians from around the world. He is also known for his philanthropic work, and has been involved in a number of charitable organizations and initiatives over the course of his career.

Liu’s impact on the Chinese music scene has been significant, and he remains one of the most respected and admired figures in the industry. His music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world, and he has inspired countless young musicians and artists with his talent and his dedication to his craft.

14. Jane Zhang

Jane Zhang, also known as Zhang Liangying, is a Chinese singer and songwriter who has become one of the most popular and influential figures in Mandopop, a genre of popular music that originated in Taiwan in the 1970s. Born in 1984 in Chengdu, China, Zhang began her music career in 2005 and quickly gained a following for her powerful vocals and her ability to perform a wide range of musical styles.

Zhang has released several studio albums and has won numerous awards for her music, including the prestigious Golden Melody Award. She is known for her ability to blend elements of pop, rock, and R&B music with traditional Chinese instrumentation and melodies, and her songs often explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth.

In addition to her music career, Zhang has also had a successful acting career, appearing in several films and television shows. She is known for her ability to bring emotional depth to her roles, and has won critical acclaim for her performances.

Zhang’s impact on the Mandopop music scene has been significant, and she has inspired a new generation of fans and musicians with her unique style and powerful vocals. She remains one of the most innovative and influential figures in the genre’s history, and her music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.

15. Hua Chenyu

Hua Chenyu is a Chinese singer and songwriter who has gained a huge following for his powerful vocals and unique musical style. Born in 1990 in Hunan, China, Hua began his music career in 2013 after winning a singing competition in China. Since then, he has released several studio albums and has become one of the most popular and influential figures in Mandopop, a genre of popular music that originated in Taiwan in the 1970s.

Hua is known for his ability to blend elements of pop, rock, and electronic music with traditional Chinese instrumentation and melodies, creating a sound that is both fresh and innovative. His music often explores themes of love, self-discovery, and social commentary, and his lyrics are known for their depth and complexity.

In addition to his music career, Hua is also known for his charismatic and dynamic stage presence, and his live performances are highly sought after by fans around the world. He has won numerous awards for his music, including the prestigious Golden Melody Award, and his influence on the Mandopop music scene has been significant.

Hua’s music has inspired a new generation of fans and musicians, and he remains one of the most innovative and influential figures in the genre’s history. His talent, creativity, and dedication to his craft continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

16. Jody Chiang

Jody Chiang is a Taiwanese singer known for her distinctive vocals and powerful stage presence. Born in 1962 in Hsinchu, Taiwan, Chiang began her music career in the 1980s and quickly gained a following for her emotional performances and her ability to convey a wide range of emotions through her music.

Chiang’s music is known for its blend of traditional Taiwanese music with elements of pop and rock, and her lyrics often explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth. She has released numerous albums throughout her career and has won many awards, including the Golden Melody Award, the most prestigious music award in Taiwan.

In addition to her music career, Chiang is also known for her philanthropy work. She has donated large sums of money to various charities and has been recognized for her efforts to support the less fortunate in Taiwan.

Chiang’s impact on the Taiwanese music scene has been significant, and she is considered one of the most influential and beloved figures in Mandopop. Her music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, and her legacy as a pioneering Taiwanese singer and cultural icon remains secure.

17. A-Mei

A-Mei, also known as Zhang Huimei, is a Taiwanese aboriginal singer-songwriter who has made significant contributions to the Mandopop music industry. Born in 1972 in the mountains of eastern Taiwan, A-Mei’s career began in the early 1990s as a member of the band “Blacklist”. She later launched her solo career in 1996 and has since released numerous successful albums.

A-Mei’s music blends traditional aboriginal music with elements of rock, pop, and R&B, creating a unique sound that has captured the hearts of fans in Taiwan and across Asia. Her lyrics often explore themes of identity, self-discovery, and social justice, and she has become known for her powerful, emotional performances on stage.

In addition to her music career, A-Mei has been recognized for her philanthropy work, including her efforts to support education and cultural preservation in Taiwan. She is also a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has spoken out about the importance of acceptance and equality.

A-Mei’s influence on the Mandopop music scene has been significant, and she is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and successful singers of her generation. Her talent, creativity, and dedication to her craft continue to inspire and uplift fans around the world.

18. Peng Liyuan

Peng Liyuan is a Chinese folk singer and the current First Lady of China, married to President Xi Jinping. Born in 1962 in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province, Peng started singing at an early age and became a famous folk singer in China during the 1980s and 1990s.

Peng is known for her beautiful voice, graceful stage presence, and elegant style. She has performed at numerous public events and charity concerts, showcasing her talent and passion for music. Her repertoire includes both traditional Chinese folk songs and modern pop ballads.

In addition to her music career, Peng is also a prominent advocate for education, health, and poverty alleviation in China. She has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization and as the Vice President of the All-China Women’s Federation. She is also a major supporter of Chinese traditional culture and has helped to promote the country’s rich artistic heritage both at home and abroad.

Peng’s popularity and influence in China have made her a beloved figure and a symbol of elegance, grace, and humanitarianism. Her dedication to promoting the arts and improving people’s lives has earned her widespread respect and admiration both in China and around the world.

19. Wong Ka Kui

Wong Ka Kui was a Hong Kong musician, singer, and songwriter who is best known as the founder and lead vocalist of the rock band Beyond. Born in 1962, Wong began his music career in the 1980s and quickly rose to fame with his powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics.

Wong’s music was deeply influenced by the political and social issues of his time, and his songs often addressed topics such as democracy, freedom, and human rights. He was also a talented songwriter, and many of his songs are still considered classics in the Chinese rock music genre.

Sadly, Wong passed away at the young age of 31, following a tragic accident while filming a TV show in Japan in 1993. His death was a great loss to the music industry and to his fans, who continue to remember and honor his legacy to this day.

Despite his short career, Wong Ka Kui’s impact on the Hong Kong music scene was significant, and he is remembered as one of the greatest Chinese rock singers of all time. His music and his message continue to inspire generations of fans and musicians, and his influence can still be felt in the rock music of China and beyond.

20. Kris Wu

Kris Wu is a Chinese-Canadian rapper, singer, and actor who has gained international fame for his music and acting career. Born in Guangzhou, China in 1990, Wu moved to Vancouver, Canada at a young age and later returned to China to pursue his music and acting career.

Wu began his music career as a member of the popular K-pop group EXO before leaving the group in 2014 to pursue a solo career. He has since released several successful singles and albums, showcasing his unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop music.

In addition to his music career, Wu has also acted in numerous films and television dramas, both in China and Hollywood. He has received critical acclaim for his acting performances and has become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Wu’s music and acting career has garnered him a huge following, particularly among younger generations in China and around the world. He has won numerous awards for his music and acting, including the Best Supporting Actor award at the 55th Golden Horse Awards, and continues to push boundaries and innovate in both fields.