C POP Stars, Solo Singer/Artist
Profile of Xu Song
Name: Xu Song (许嵩)
English Name: Vae Xu
Date of Birth: May 14, 1986
Place of Birth: Hefei, Anhui, China
Nationality: Chinese
Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Producer
Genres: Pop, Electronic, Rock, Chinese Folk
Years Active: 2006–present
Labels: Vae Studio, Ocean Butterflies Music
Social Media: Active on Weibo
Early Life and Background
Xu Song, also known by his stage name Vae Xu, was born on May 14, 1986, in Hefei, Anhui Province, China. From a young age, Xu Song exhibited a deep passion for music, learning to play instruments and experimenting with different sounds. His early exposure to both Western and Chinese musical traditions shaped his eclectic approach to songwriting and production.
Xu Song’s passion for music went hand-in-hand with his academic interests. Despite his burgeoning talent in music, he chose to pursue a degree in medicine at Anhui Medical University. However, even during his university years, Xu Song never abandoned his love for music, writing and producing his own songs in his free time. His early compositions, many of which were uploaded online, garnered attention and quickly built him a loyal following. His ability to blend modern pop with traditional Chinese elements set him apart from other emerging artists in the mid-2000s.
Entry into the Music Industry: The Rise of Vae Xu
Xu Song’s rise to fame was unique in that he first became popular on the internet rather than through traditional means. In 2006, while still in university, he independently released a collection of self-composed songs online. This initial exposure helped him gain a significant fanbase, particularly among young listeners who were drawn to his fresh sound and introspective lyrics. Unlike many mainstream artists, Xu Song’s music was personal, poetic, and resonated with audiences looking for something more authentic.
His breakthrough came in 2009 with the release of his first studio album, Personalize (自定义), which he produced and wrote entirely on his own. The album was a commercial success, selling over a million copies. Personalize showcased his signature blend of pop melodies, electronic beats, and Chinese traditional elements, creating a sound that was both innovative and deeply rooted in his cultural heritage. Songs like “Thinking of You” (有何不可) and “Brothers” (兄弟) became instant hits, earning him widespread recognition in the Chinese music industry.
Xu Song’s rise to prominence was largely fueled by the internet and word of mouth. His ability to build a career independently, without the backing of major record labels, set a new precedent for how musicians could reach an audience in the digital age.
Musical Style and Artistic Identity
Xu Song’s music is known for its unique blend of pop, electronic, and traditional Chinese elements. His lyrics often explore themes of love, nostalgia, personal growth, and introspection, resonating with young audiences who appreciate his poetic and reflective style. He is both a singer and a songwriter, and many of his songs draw on his personal experiences and emotions, giving his work an intimate quality.
What sets Xu Song apart from many other pop singers is his ability to weave together different musical influences. His songs often incorporate classical Chinese instruments such as the guzheng and pipa, mixed with electronic beats and modern pop arrangements. This fusion of old and new has made his music distinct and appealing to a wide demographic.
In addition to his vocal talent, Xu Song is also highly regarded for his skills as a producer. He has complete creative control over his music, writing, composing, and producing his songs independently. This level of involvement allows him to fully express his artistic vision, something that has resonated deeply with his fans.
Albums and Major Works
Over the years, Xu Song has released several critically acclaimed albums that have cemented his status as one of China’s most talented and versatile musicians. Some of his most notable works include:
1. Personalize (自定义) – 2009
Xu Song’s debut studio album, Personalize, marked his entry into the mainstream music scene. With songs like “Thinking of You” (有何不可), this album set the tone for his career, showcasing his signature blend of pop and electronic music with heartfelt lyrics. The album’s success helped establish him as one of China’s leading independent artists.
2. Breaking Dawn (寻雾启示) – 2010
Following the success of Personalize, Xu Song released Breaking Dawn, an album that further demonstrated his musical evolution. The album featured more mature themes and a more refined production style. Popular tracks like “Foggy Apocalypse” (幻听) and “Lifelong Peace” (玫瑰花的葬礼) reflected his introspective nature and lyrical depth.
3. On My Way (苏格拉没有底) – 2012
This album explored themes of personal growth, relationships, and existential questions. With songs such as “Noble Life” (灰色头像) and “Suddenly Missing You” (素颜), Xu Song continued to captivate audiences with his philosophical and emotional lyrics. On My Way highlighted his growing maturity as both a songwriter and producer.
4. Youth Evening (青年晚报) – 2014
Youth Evening is an exploration of the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Tracks such as “Best Friend” (最好的朋友在身边) and “Innocence” (时光正好) reflect a sense of nostalgia for youthful memories while acknowledging the challenges of growing up. This album resonated with many young listeners who were navigating their own transitions.
5. Mute (不如吃茶去) – 2017
In Mute, Xu Song explores themes of silence, introspection, and personal discovery. This album diverged slightly from his earlier works by incorporating more experimental sounds and abstract themes. The song “Mute” (不如吃茶去) became particularly popular for its philosophical lyrics and contemplative tone.
6. Repose (研音) – 2020
Repose continued Xu Song’s exploration of themes related to self-discovery, love, and memory. The album’s standout tracks, such as “Moonlight” (月光) and “Blank Canvas” (白色秋天), showcase Xu’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music that connects deeply with his audience. His growth as an artist is evident in the album’s refined production and mature songwriting.
Popularity and Fanbase
Xu Song’s rise to stardom has been closely tied to his dedicated fanbase, who admire his independent spirit and deeply personal music. Often referred to as “Vaenism” fans, they appreciate his willingness to step away from the mainstream music industry’s constraints and produce music on his own terms. Xu Song’s fans are known for their loyalty and passion, regularly supporting his albums, concerts, and social media engagements.
Xu Song’s popularity has also transcended geographic boundaries. While his core fanbase is in China, he has garnered fans across Asia, particularly in Taiwan and Southeast Asia, where his music has been well-received. His ability to blend Chinese and Western musical styles has helped broaden his appeal, allowing him to connect with diverse audiences.
Personal Life and Public Image
Xu Song is known for maintaining a low-profile personal life, focusing instead on his music and creative pursuits. He rarely engages in public controversies or personal scandals, which has contributed to his reputation as a humble and grounded artist. Xu is regarded as an introvert, preferring to express his thoughts and emotions through his music rather than public appearances or interviews.
Despite his reserved nature, Xu Song is active on social media, particularly on Weibo, where he shares updates about his music, personal reflections, and messages to his fans. His online presence is marked by positivity, philosophical insights, and engagement with his fanbase.
Impact and Legacy
Xu Song’s contribution to the Chinese music industry is unique. As one of the first Chinese artists to rise to fame through the internet, he helped pave the way for independent musicians in China, showing that it’s possible to succeed without major label backing. His fusion of pop, electronic, and traditional Chinese music has left a lasting impact on the music scene, influencing a new generation of artists.
Xu Song’s authenticity, lyrical depth, and commitment to creative independence have made him a respected figure in Chinese music. With each new album, he continues to push the boundaries of his sound while staying true to his artistic roots, ensuring that his influence on Chinese pop music will be felt for years to come.