Chinese singer-songwriter, dancer, and producer who became China’s biggest male solo artist while maintaining EXO membership. Known for blending traditional Chinese music with modern pop and representing Chinese culture globally.
EXO & Chinese Market
Lay (Zhang Yixing) joined K-pop group EXO as its Chinese member (2012), but China’s THAAD controversy (2016) and Chinese regulations made it difficult for Chinese idols to promote in Korea.
2016: Lay began focusing on Chinese solo career while technically remaining an EXO member, navigating political tensions between China and South Korea.
Solo Dominance
2016-2020: Lay became China’s most successful male solo artist:
- Lose Control (2016) — dance-pop, showcased choreography
- Namanana (2018) — EDM-trap fusion, massive in China
- Honey (2019) — R&B-pop
His production evolved from K-pop-influenced to distinctly Chinese sounds.
M-pop Movement
October 2020: Lit album marked Lay’s mission to create “M-pop” (Mandarin pop with Chinese characteristics):
- Incorporated traditional Chinese instruments (guzheng, pipa, erhu)
- EDM/trap production meeting Chinese melodies
- “Lit” title track featured Kung Fu-inspired choreography and Chinese aesthetics
- Goal: Create a Chinese music movement comparable to K-pop’s global reach
Lit debuted #21 on Billboard 200, highest for a Mandopop solo artist.
Cultural Ambassador
Lay became China’s soft power representative:
- Chinese Communist Party Youth League ambassador — promoted Chinese culture internationally
- Performed at major Chinese state events
- Featured Chinese elements in all music videos, fashion, choreography
- Speeches about Chinese music’s global potential
Political stance: Openly supported Chinese government, making him controversial in Western markets but celebrated in China.
Producer & Label
2020: Founded Chromosome Entertainment Group, aiming to develop Chinese pop artists and create a Chinese equivalent to K-pop’s training/production system.
Lay produced for Chinese survival shows (Idol Producer), mentoring next-generation Chinese idols.
East-West Tensions
Lay’s dual identity (K-pop idol + Chinese nationalist) created complexities:
- Couldn’t promote in Korea due to politics
- Western media criticized his government ties
- Remained beloved in China as a patriotic figure
Awards: Multiple Chinese Music Awards, Weibo Awards, Tencent Music Awards. Named Forbes China Celebrity 100.
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