Xu Jian (singer) Xu Jian (Chinese: Xu Jian ; born March 10, 1962) is a landmark Chinese Mandopop singer and songwriter who dominated the music charts in the 1980s. He is known for his melodic and emotional ballads, widely capturing the spirit of love and life in his songs. Xu Jian is considered one of the most influential and successful Mandopop singers of the 80s era, having released numerous best-selling albums and garnering a large global fanbase. Biography Early life Born in Shanghai, Xu Jian showed a great interest in music from an early age. At six, he began learning to play the piano and later studied various musical instruments, including guitar and drums. Rise to fame Xu Jian rose to prominence in 1980, after winning first place in a national singing competition with his original song, "Heartbeat of a Dream" (Meng De Xin Tiao ). This success led to a recording contract and subsequently, the release of his debut album in 1982, "Whispers of Love" (Ai De Er Yu ). The album was critically acclaimed and established Xu Jian as a highly regarded singer in the Mandopop industry. 1980s chart domination Xu Jian's uniquely emotive and powerful voice struck a chord with music lovers, and he had an unbroken string of hit singles and albums throughout the 1980s. In 1985, his album, "Lost in Paradise" (Shi Le Yuan ) was released and went on to become one of the best-selling Mandarin albums of all time. With standout tracks such as "Eternal Love" (Yong Heng De Ai ) and "Dancing under the Moonlight" (Yue Guang Xia De Wu ), Xu Jian came to symbolize the very essence of 80s Mandopop music. China and beyond Mainland China was only the beginning for Xu Jian, as his popularity crossed borders and reached other Asian countries like Taiwan and Hong Kong. Throughout the 1980s, he also built a following in countries like Japan and Singapore, where he performed to sold-out audiences. Present day To this day, Xu Jian remains an admired and respected figure in the Chinese music industry. His timeless songs continue to receive radio play, and his lasting influence has inspired upcoming generations of musicians to pursue their dreams in Mandopop music. Awards and accolades Over his illustrious career, Xu Jian has won numerous music awards, including several prestigious Golden Melody Awards for Best Mandarin Male Singer, Best Album, and Best Song. In 2008, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the Chinese music industry. Discography 1. Whispers of Love (Ai De Er Yu ) - 1982 2. Tears in the Wind (Feng Zhong Lei ) - 1983 3. Dream Chaser (Zhui Meng Zhe ) - 1984 4. Lost in Paradise (Shi Le Yuan ) - 1985 5. Echoes of the Heart (Xin Ling Hui Xiang ) - 1988 6. Forever Yours (Yong Yuan Shi Ni De ) - 1990 Personal life Xu Jian is known for his private nature and rarely discusses his personal life in the media. However, he has been married to his wife, Li Xin, since 1989, and they have two adult children together. Influence and legacy As a trailblazer of Chinese Mandopop, Xu Jian has left his mark on the music industry at large. His graceful lyricism and enchanting vocal prowess have become a benchmark for singers and songwriters for decades to come.