薛之谦 (Joker Xue)

Joker Xue, whose real name is Xue Zhiqian, is a Chinese pop singer, songwriter, record producer and television personality who has become one of the most recognizable voices in mainland Chinese pop music. He first drew attention through the televised singing competition My Show in 2004 and released his debut single «认真的雪 (Snow)» in 2006, which became a major hit. After that early success he largely stepped out of the spotlight for several years before staging a widely noted comeback.

His return was marked by a run of EPs and, especially, the single «演员 (Actor)», which became one of the defining Mandopop hits of the mid-2010s and reintroduced him to a mass audience alongside songs like «丑八怪 (Chou Ba Guai)» and «你还要我怎样». His music blends pop and R&B with emotionally direct, melodic songwriting, often centered on themes of love, heartbreak and self-reflection, delivered in a distinctive, slightly husky vocal tone.

Beyond recording, Joker Xue built a strong presence as a television host and guest on variety shows, appearing on dozens of programs and cultivating a public persona known for humor and candor. This combination of hit singles and constant television visibility has made him one of the most commercially and culturally prominent pop artists in China over the past decade.