1. Genesis and Evolution: From “我是歌手”I Am a Singer to “歌手”Singer
The program began in 2013 under the name 《我是歌手》I Am a Singer, introducing itself as a marquee singing competition featuring established artists, and over time it underwent both name and format transformations—most notably rebranding to simply 《歌手》Singer beginning in 2017—while its core concept remained: a high-stakes, audience-driven showcase where accomplished vocalists performed against each other, judged each week by a panel of 500 listeners and sometimes influenced by guest performances, an innovation that elevated the program to television prestige within Chinese music shows (Wikipedia).
In 2024, the series took yet another leap forward by embracing live broadcasts and introducing online audience judging in addition to the traditional in-person panel, further democratizing the adjudication process and reflecting a modern convergence between televised artistry and viewer interaction.
2. Trailblazing Champions: The First “歌王” Seasons (2013–2016)
Season 1 (2013): 羽泉 (Yu Quan)
The inaugural champion was 羽泉, a veteran duo with years of musical synergy and hits such as “冷酷到底” and “奔跑,” who emerged victorious despite stiff competition from Lin Zhixuan, who nevertheless won the most preliminary rounds. The atmospheric highlight of the finale was when actor Deng Chao stepped in as a backstage aid, contributing to the duo’s climactic win.
Season 2 (2014): 韩磊 (Han Lei)
In the second season, it was 韩磊—an artist known for emotional gravitas in songs like “向天再借五百年”—who claimed the crown, even as newcomer G.E.M. (邓紫棋) won more rounds and captivated viewers, creating a dramatic contest between seasoned mastery and fresh dynamism (Sina).
Season 3 (2015): 韩红 (Han Hong)
The title of third-season “歌王” went to 韩红, a powerhouse singer renowned for emotional resonance and vocal depth. That season was often labeled a “clash of gods,” featuring major artists such as Tan Weiwei, Li Jian, and others, underscoring Han Hong’s triumph as especially hard-earned.
Season 4 (2016): 李玟 (CoCo Lee)
In season four, 李玟—the globally acclaimed Chinese-American singer known for hits like “往日情” and “刀马旦”—lifted the “歌王” title after dominating several episodes, a victory that had both emotional resonance and international significance.
3. Expansion and Inclusivity: The Rise of Diversity (2017–2020)
Season 5 (2017): 林忆莲 (Sandy Lam)
This year saw 林忆莲 take up the mantle, with her emotionally textured performance winning over a strong roster that included Dimash and Tan Weiwei—an affirmation of her artistry and enduring influence in Chinese pop.
Season 6 (2018): Jessie J
An international artist for the first time, Jessie J won Season 6 by delivering 5 single-round victories and shattering expectations about foreigners’ chances in the competition. She became the program’s only foreign “歌王” to date, with Hua Chenyu placing as runner-up.
Season 7 (2019): 刘欢 (Liu Huan)
Back on home turf, season seven crowned legendary singer 刘欢, as he outshone former runner-up Wu Qingfeng and the vocal ensemble Soundtrack Boys in a showcase of seasoned virtuosity.
Season 8 (2020, labeled “当打之年”): 华晨宇 (Hua Chenyu)
After multiple seasons, Hua Chenyu claimed the “歌王” title in the eighth edition—widely known for controversial spins but ultimately crowned after delivering four single-round wins—an encore that stirred both acclaim and intense debate.
4. Revival and Reveal: The Return in 2024
Following several seasons’ hiatus, the program lodged a comeback in 2024, combining live broadcast with a diverse cast including international voices. It was 那英 (Na Ying)—a seasoned diva—to take home the “歌王” crown, bolstered by a captivating finale that edged out rising voice Tan Weiwei and classic performer Sun Nan.
This season represented a new chapter—merging nostalgia, technological innovation, and international reach into a television event that honored legacy while reenergizing the format.
5. A Comparative Lens: Highlights of Achievements and Dominance
Looking closer, Jessie J and Hua Chenyu emerge as record holders in their categories—the former for the greatest number of single-round wins by any foreign contestant (five), and the latter for matching that tally among domestic artists—earning Hua the title of “歌王之王” in the eyes of many viewers.
The dynamics behind the wins often extended beyond vocal prowess—encompassing storytelling, emotional resonance, and stagecraft—making the title of “歌王” as much about performance narrative as pitch-perfect execution.
6. Legacy and Controversy: Reflecting on Public Impact and Critique
Each season’s champion not only rose to the top via performance but also navigated public expectation. For instance, Lin Zhixuan’s near-win in Season 1 fostered discussions about raw vocal vs. popular appeal. Jessie J’s foreign champion status challenged assumptions, while Hua Chenyu’s rise prompted debates about stage style, fandom, and show editing—fueling polarizing commentary online.
Over time, the show became more than a singing competition—it influenced live performance trends, producer decisions, and viewers’ relationships with music, spawning conversations about fairness, popularity metrics, and creative ethics.
7. The Ongoing Echo: What the “歌王” Legacy Means Today
From 羽泉 to Na Ying, each “歌王” embodies a moment in Chinese music history: bridging eras, celebrating crossover talent, and consolidating a roster of icons whose careers were shaped—as well as spotlighted—by their Singer journey.
As the program looks forward, fans and industry watchers ponder future returns: perhaps a reunion of past champions, evolutions of format, and continued fusion of domestic and international artistry. Still, the essence remains: the “歌王” legacy is not only about who wins—it’s about the stories, voices, and performances that leave an imprint long after the final note fades.