China’s music industry is one of the largest and fastest-growing in the world. Blending pop, traditional Chinese elements, R&B, hip-hop, and electronic sounds, Chinese singers are captivating audiences across Asia and beyond. From Mandopop legends to new-gen idols, here are the most famous singers in China in 2025:
1. Jay Chou (周杰伦)
Genre: Mandopop, R&B, Hip-Hop
Known as the “King of Mandopop,” Jay Chou remains an icon in Chinese-speaking regions. With his blend of classical Chinese influences and Western hip-hop, Jay has shaped the sound of modern Chinese music for over two decades.
2. Jackson Wang (王嘉尔)
Genre: Pop, R&B, Hip-Hop
Formerly of K-pop group GOT7, Jackson Wang has become an international solo star. Fluent in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Korean, he is known for his charismatic performances, sleek visuals, and global collaborations under his label TEAM WANG.
3. Lay Zhang (张艺兴)
Genre: Pop, R&B, Dance
A member of the Korean-Chinese boy band EXO, Lay has built a successful solo career in China. His music and dance-heavy performances have earned him massive popularity, and he’s also active in acting and producing.
4. G.E.M. (邓紫棋)
Genre: Pop, R&B, Ballad
G.E.M. (Gloria Tang) rose to fame with her powerful vocals and emotive ballads. She’s known for writing her own music and representing a new wave of female empowerment in Chinese pop. Her vocal range and stage presence have made her a household name.
5. Wang Yibo (王一博)
Genre: Pop, Hip-Hop
Actor, singer, dancer, and motorcycle racer — Wang Yibo is a modern Chinese superstar. As a member of the boy group UNIQ and now a successful soloist, Yibo dominates charts and social media platforms alike.
6. Kris Wu (吴亦凡) (Note: Currently inactive due to legal issues)
Genre: Hip-Hop, R&B
Kris was one of the most talked-about stars in Chinese entertainment until his 2021 legal case. While no longer active, his past influence on Chinese pop and hip-hop cannot be denied.
7. Hua Chenyu (华晨宇)
Genre: Rock, Alternative, Pop
Known for his theatrical, genre-defying performances, Hua Chenyu is one of the most creative forces in the Chinese music industry. His fanbase is deeply devoted, and he consistently sells out stadium shows.
8. Zhou Shen (周深)
Genre: Ballad, Classical, Pop
Zhou Shen is famous for his angelic voice and unique vocal tone. With classical training and emotional delivery, he’s beloved across generations and widely featured in film soundtracks.
9. Li Ronghao (李荣浩)
Genre: Pop-Rock, Ballad
A singer-songwriter and producer, Li Ronghao is known for his heartfelt lyrics and minimalistic sound. He’s also the husband of fellow singer Rainie Yang and a frequent guest judge on Chinese music shows.
10. Tia Ray (袁娅维)
Genre: Soul, R&B, Jazz
Tia Ray brings soul and groove into the Chinese music scene. She rose to international fame with her collaboration with Jason Derulo and has been praised for her rich voice and global appeal.
Honorable Mentions
- TFBOYS (Karry Wang, Roy Wang, Jackson Yee) – A youth sensation turned adult stars
- Xu Song (许嵩) – Internet pop pioneer
- Tan Weiwei (谭维维) – Powerful female vocalist known for socially conscious lyrics
- Nine Percent & INTO1 – Idol groups with rising soloists
Final Thoughts
From international crossover stars to domestic vocal powerhouses, China’s music scene is more diverse and globalized than ever before. These singers not only dominate charts but also shape the cultural and entertainment landscapes of modern China.
