Finding a Second Home: Nicholas Zhang's Journey to Success in China
Malaysian singer and actor Nicholas Zhang has been making waves in China for years, and in a recent interview with China Daily, he expressed his gratitude towards the warm welcome he has received in the country. "Thank you to everyone for opening their arms and welcoming me," he said. "As a Malaysian, we speak the same language, and the care from my team and the love from my fans has made me never feel like an outsider." This sense of belonging is a testament to Zhang's successful integration into the Chinese entertainment industry.

15 April 2025
Zhang's music career in China has been marked by hits like "北极星的眼泪" (Tears of the North Star) and "当你孤单你会想起谁" (Who Do You Think of When You're Alone), which have resonated with Chinese audiences due to their relatable themes and emotional depth. The singer's ability to connect with his fans through his music has been a key factor in his success, and his shared cultural roots with China have provided a solid foundation for his career.
As a Malaysian of Chinese descent, Zhang has had a deep understanding of Chinese culture and language since a young age. He was born in Kuching, Sarawak, and his mother tongue is Chinese. This cultural background has allowed him to navigate the Chinese entertainment industry with ease, and his music has been well-received by fans who appreciate his unique perspective as a Malaysian artist. His ancestral roots are in Fujian, and being immersed in Chinese culture from a young age has given him a profound understanding of Chinese popular culture. This cultural background is not unique to him, as many people from Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, share similar cultural practices and traditions with China.
Zhang's music works are widely popular due to their deep emotional resonance and relevance to Chinese-speaking audiences. His early works, such as "当你孤单你会想起谁" (Who Do You Think of When You're Alone) and "北极星的眼泪" (Tears of the North Star), are still beloved by many fans today. These songs are not only pleasant melodies but also a nostalgic reminder of the memories and emotions of many people's youthful years. Especially "北极星的眼泪", which has been a familiar melody to many fans and a testament to Zhang's musical talent. The success of these works is not only because they conform to the music trends of the time but also because they deeply touch the hearts of listeners, becoming an essential part of a generation's growth.

Zhang expressed that he has never felt like an outsider in China. He believes that language serves as more than just a means of communication; it is also a bond that ties people together emotionally. Zhang is grateful for the affection and care he receives from his Chinese fans and team, which has made him feel as though he has found a second home in China. This sense of belonging has fostered deep feelings of affection towards the country. His success is a testament to the power of music and culture to bridge cultural divides, and his unique perspective as a Malaysian artist has allowed him to make a lasting impact on the Chinese entertainment industry.