Chinese Web Series OSTs: The Best Soundtracks to Discover

The Rise of Chinese Web Series and Their Musical Landscape

Chinese web series have exploded in popularity, transforming from low-budget productions to sophisticated, high-quality dramas rivaling traditional television. This evolution has been accompanied by a burgeoning music industry dedicated to crafting original soundtracks (OSTs) that enhance the storytelling and emotional impact of these series. These OSTs are not mere background music; they are integral components of the viewing experience, acting as emotional amplifiers, foreshadowing events, and solidifying character relationships. The genre diversity within Chinese web series, ranging from historical dramas and fantasy romances to modern thrillers and workplace comedies, necessitates a diverse musical palette. This has resulted in a rich tapestry of musical styles, blending traditional Chinese instruments with contemporary pop, rock, and electronic elements. The increasing accessibility of these soundtracks on streaming platforms has further fueled their global popularity, introducing listeners to a new and exciting realm of Chinese music.

Understanding the Components of a Chinese Web Series OST

A typical Chinese web series OST comprises several key elements:

Theme Song (片头曲 – Piàntóuqū): The opening theme song is often a high-energy, catchy tune designed to grab the viewer’s attention and set the overall tone of the series. It frequently features prominent vocals and memorable melodies.
Ending Theme Song (片尾曲 – Piànwěiqū): The closing theme song typically offers a more introspective and emotional reflection on the episode’s events, often leaving the viewer with a sense of anticipation for the next installment.
Insert Songs (插曲 – Chāqū): Insert songs are strategically placed throughout the episodes to underscore specific scenes, highlight character emotions, or create a particular atmosphere. They often serve as emotional cues for the audience.
Instrumental Score (配乐 – Pèiyuè): The instrumental score provides the underlying musical backdrop for the series, enhancing the drama, suspense, or romance of the narrative. It often utilizes a blend of traditional Chinese instruments and modern orchestral arrangements.

Genre-Specific OST Highlights

The best Chinese web series OSTs are often tailored to the specific genre of the show. Here are some notable examples across different genres:

1. Historical Dramas (古装剧 – Gǔzhuāngjù):

“Nirvana in Fire” (琅琊榜 – Lángyá Bǎng): The OST for “Nirvana in Fire” is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese music, featuring haunting melodies played on instruments like the dizi (Chinese flute), erhu (Chinese violin), and guzheng (Chinese zither). The opening theme, “The Wind Rises” (风起时 – Fēng Qǐ Shí), is a powerful and melancholic ballad that perfectly captures the themes of revenge, loyalty, and sacrifice. The instrumental score is equally impressive, creating a sense of grandeur and intrigue.
“The Story of Yanxi Palace” (延禧攻略 – Yánxǐ Gōnglüè): This historical drama’s OST blends traditional Chinese musical elements with modern pop sensibilities. The opening theme, “Sound of the Palace Walls” (宫墙柳 – Gōngqiáng Liǔ), is a captivating and ethereal piece that evokes the opulence and intrigue of the Qing Dynasty court. The use of traditional instruments like the pipa (Chinese lute) and xiao (vertical flute) adds authenticity to the soundtrack.
“Ruyi’s Royal Love in the Palace” (如懿传 – Rúyì Zhuàn): Known for its darker and more realistic portrayal of palace life, “Ruyi’s Royal Love in the Palace” features an OST that is both haunting and beautiful. The songs often reflect the protagonist’s inner turmoil and the challenges she faces in the imperial court. The use of traditional Chinese instruments, combined with orchestral arrangements, creates a sense of both grandeur and isolation.

2. Fantasy Romances (仙侠剧 – Xiānxiá Jù):

“Eternal Love” (三生三世十里桃花 – Sānshēng Sānshì Shílǐ Táohuā): This popular fantasy romance boasts a stunning OST that perfectly complements the show’s ethereal and romantic atmosphere. The opening theme, “Cooling” (凉凉 – Liángliáng), sung by Aska Yang and Zhang Bichen, is a poignant duet that captures the enduring love between the main characters. The use of traditional Chinese instruments, combined with modern pop arrangements, creates a unique and captivating sound.
“Ashes of Love” (香蜜沉沉烬如霜 – Xiāngmì Chénchén Jìnrúshuāng): The OST for “Ashes of Love” is filled with emotionally charged ballads and soaring instrumental pieces. The opening theme, “Unparalleled in the World” (不染 – Bù Rǎn), sung by Mao Buyi, is a powerful and evocative song that speaks of love, loss, and sacrifice. The soundtrack effectively utilizes traditional Chinese instruments to create a mystical and enchanting atmosphere.
“Love and Redemption” (琉璃 – Liúlí): “Love and Redemption” features a dynamic OST that blends traditional Chinese melodies with contemporary pop and rock elements. The opening theme, “Step Upon the Waves” (步崖 – Bù Yá), is an upbeat and energetic song that reflects the show’s action-packed storyline. The soundtrack also includes several beautiful ballads that explore the complex relationships between the characters.

3. Modern Dramas (现代剧 – Xiàndài Jù):

“Go Go Squid!” (亲爱的，热爱的 – Qīn’ài de, Rè’ài de): This popular modern drama features a cheerful and upbeat OST that reflects the show’s youthful and romantic themes. The opening theme, “Nameless Generation” (无名之辈 – Wúmíng Zhībèi), is an inspiring and motivational song that celebrates the pursuit of dreams. The soundtrack also includes several catchy pop songs that are perfect for dancing and singing along.
“Ode to Joy” (欢乐颂 – Huānlè Sòng): “Ode to Joy” is known for its realistic portrayal of modern urban life, and its OST reflects this with a mix of pop, rock, and R&B tracks. The songs explore themes of friendship, love, career, and personal growth. The soundtrack features a diverse range of artists, showcasing the breadth of the Chinese music scene.
“Nothing But Thirty” (三十而已 – Sānshí Éryǐ): This drama, focusing on the lives of three women navigating their thirties, boasts an OST that is both relatable and inspiring. The songs explore themes of female empowerment, self-discovery, and the challenges of modern relationships. The soundtrack features a mix of established artists and emerging talents, reflecting the diverse perspectives of the characters.

4. Suspense/Thriller Dramas (悬疑剧 – Xuányí Jù):

“The Bad Kids” (隐秘的角落 – Yǐnmì de Jiǎoluò): The OST for “The Bad Kids” is unsettling and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the show’s suspenseful and psychological tone. The use of minimalist arrangements and dissonant chords creates a sense of unease and foreboding. The soundtrack effectively utilizes silence and ambient sounds to heighten the tension.
“Reset” (开端 – Kāiduān): This time-loop thriller features an OST that is both suspenseful and emotionally resonant. The music underscores the urgency of the situation and the characters’ desperate attempts to break the cycle. The soundtrack blends electronic elements with orchestral arrangements to create a sense of both mystery and dread.
“Who is the Murderer” (谁是凶手 – Shéi Shì Xiōngshǒu): This crime drama’s OST is dark and brooding, reflecting the show’s investigation into a series of unsolved murders. The music is used to create a sense of suspense and paranoia, and to highlight the psychological toll that the investigation takes on the characters.

Notable Artists and Composers

Several talented artists and composers have contributed significantly to the success of Chinese web series OSTs:

Aska Yang (杨宗纬 – Yáng Zōngwěi): Known for his powerful and emotive vocals, Aska Yang has sung numerous theme songs for popular dramas, including “Cooling” from “Eternal Love.”
Zhang Bichen (张碧晨 – Zhāng Bìchén): Zhang Bichen is another popular singer who has lent her voice to many successful OSTs, including “Cooling” and “Echo” from “The Journey of Flower.”
Mao Buyi (毛不易 – Máo Bùyì): Mao Buyi is a singer-songwriter known for his melancholic and introspective songs. His song “Unparalleled in the World” from “Ashes of Love” is a fan favorite.
Tan Xuan (谭旋 – Tán Xuán): A prolific composer and music producer, Tan Xuan has created music for numerous popular dramas, including “The Story of Yanxi Palace” and “Eternal Love.”
Dong Dongdong (董冬冬 – Dǒng Dōngdōng): Another highly sought-after composer, Dong Dongdong has worked on the soundtracks for many successful web series and films.