Beyond Nashville-China
China
Tang Hanxiao (Terry Tang)
Tang Hanxiao, also known as Terry Tang, is one of the most recognized names in China’s emerging country music scene. A singer-songwriter with a deep appreciation for Western music, Tang seamlessly blends country, folk, and pop influences into his songwriting. His music often features acoustic guitar, harmonica, and lap steel, reminiscent of traditional American country, but his lyrics remain rooted in personal and cultural themes unique to China.
One of his most notable songs, Don’t Be Afraid, showcases his knack for emotional storytelling, a key component of country music. The song’s reflective lyrics on love and perseverance, paired with his warm, melodic voice, have drawn comparisons to John Mayer and Keith Urban. While still largely a niche artist in China, Tang has steadily built a loyal following, proving that country music has a place in the East.
Wu Tiao Ren
Wu Tiao Ren may not be a conventional country duo, but their music reflects the heart of country storytelling. Hailing from Guangdong, this folk band has carved a unique space in China’s alternative music scene, incorporating elements of country, bluegrass, and traditional Chinese ballads into their songs.
Their lyrics often depict working-class struggles, small-town life, and the hardships of everyday existence—topics deeply intertwined with country music’s storytelling traditions. Their 2015 album Canton Girl features songs with twangy acoustic guitar and harmonica, echoing the raw sincerity of Appalachian folk. Unlike mainstream Chinese pop, Wu Tiao Ren’s music is unpolished, deeply narrative, and nostalgic, much like the early country recordings from the American South.
Their ability to merge traditional Chinese sounds with Western folk influences has made them a standout act. Songs like A Tale of Lianjiang evoke the same sentimentality found in classic country music, despite being sung in Cantonese. As a result, they’ve garnered a dedicated fan base both in China and internationally, proving that country’s storytelling traditions transcend language barriers.
Liu Dongming (Liu 2)
Liu Dongming is a Beijing-based singer-songwriter who has been making waves with his unique fusion of country, folk, and rock. A gifted lyricist, Liu’s music often explores themes of nostalgia, love, and personal struggle—hallmarks of country songwriting. While not a mainstream name, he has gained recognition for his deeply emotional performances and poetic lyrics.
His song Old Town Road (not to be confused with the Lil Nas X hit) features classic country instrumentation, including a steady acoustic guitar rhythm and harmonica accents. But what sets Liu apart is his ability to blend Mandarin lyrics with the storytelling traditions of American country music. He cites Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson as major influences, and his music reflects that same introspective, narrative-driven approach.
Liu Dongming has performed at major folk and indie festivals across China, bringing his blend of country-folk to audiences who may not yet be familiar with the genre. His success shows that while country music in China remains a niche market, its heartfelt storytelling resonates with listeners worldwide.
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