Songs have always played an essential role in Chinese culture and history. Not only do they represent the culture on a musical level, but on a personal level, they retain so many great memories of the past whether it’s from Chinese karaoke or even from personal trips to China. Some of these songs are considered “classics” due to their iconic message, sound, or timelessness. Here is my list of top five timeless Chinese songs!
- 听妈妈的话 (tīng māmā dehuà) – Jay Chou
Jay Chou, a Taiwanese musician and songwriter, often referred to as the “King of Mandopop,” has released innumerable hit records, but by far one of the most well-known is “听妈妈的话”. “听妈妈的话” is a classic in many ways, as it’s still played in many Chinese schools today. Additionally, it has accumulated over 13 million plays on Spotify, and over 29 million views on YouTube!
Overall “听妈妈的话” has a very wholesome message; it conveys the idea that children should be very grateful for what their mothers have sacrificed and provided for them throughout their childhood so that they could succeed, and thus they should grow up quickly to protect and take care of them.
- 月亮代表我的心 (yuèliàng dàibiǎo wǒ de xīn) – Teresa Teng
Perhaps one of the most iconic Chinese karaoke songs, or Chinese songs in general, is “月亮代表我的心” by Teresa Teng. Teresa Teng was a Taiwanese singer and superstar, especially admired for her beautiful clear voice and her groovy love songs which have gained a lot of popularity. These songs are still very popular today!
One of these love songs is “月亮代表我的心.” It has a very soothing and slow beat that matches her calming voice. The lyrics describe an unwavering and authentic love that can be compared to the luminous moon.
- 那些年 (nàxiē nián) – Hu Xia
Hu Xia is a Chinese singer and winner of the sixth season of One Million Star (超級星光大道), a Taiwanese singing competition, in 2010.
“那些年” is a soundtrack to a film called You Are the Apple of My Eye. This song has a slow beat that arouses bittersweet emotions. Its lyrics describe the feelings experienced throughout beautiful events in the past that sadly weren’t cherished enough presently. These emotions incite the narrator’s continuous desire to travel back in time to experience those beautiful moments once again, but time inevitably progresses forward.
- 甜蜜蜜 (tiánmì mì) – Teresa Teng
“甜蜜蜜” is another classic both in Chinese karaoke and in Chinese songs in general, released by Teresa Teng in 1979. In fact, this song became so popular that in 1996, a movie was named after it. Throughout the movie 甜蜜蜜 many of Teresa Teng’s songs are featured.
The message of the song “甜蜜蜜” is about finding a familiar and sweet love in a dream. It overall has a bright and cheerful beat. This song holds as a classic since it’s still played very often despite it’s release approximately four decades ago, and it’s also still covered by many renowned musical artists such as Lu Han from the South Korean-Chinese band, EXO.
- 朋友 (péngyǒu)- Wakin Chau
Wakin Chau is a Taiwanese singer and actor with over 40 albums throughout his musical career. One of his songs, “朋友” released in 2012 has gained a lot of popularity, accumulating over 29 million views on YouTube.
This song portrays the message that friends will forever be together, especially in times of pain and mistakes; friends can always rely on each other to understand and empathize. “朋友” is a very catchy and meaningful song that you’ll definitely have to listen to more than once!
Sources:
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Teresa-Teng
https://peoplepill.com/people/hu-xia
https://www.generasia.com/wiki/One_Million_Star
https://www.mocanyc.org/collections/stories/teresa-teng-tian-mi-mi/
I never knew Chinese pop songs were so popular
I only recognize Teresa’s songs here. Moon represents my heart is undoubtedly the most timeless Chinese song of all time. Don’t know other three of them. Never heard of them.
Teresa stamps have been issued by 15 countries across the world – the most of any Asian singer by far. Jay Chou can never match Teng’s status in any foreseeable future so dream on.
Except Teresa, all other songs sounds very boring. They are merely for Chinese fans not for non-Chinese. They lack the quality of real songs.