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| Zhang Xincheng Divides Opinion After New Journey Concert Playlist Goes Viral. (Credits: Weibo) |
Zhang Xincheng's first New Journey solo concert in Shenzhen has sparked one of the biggest entertainment debates of the week, with online discussion shifting away from the performance itself and towards its setlist. While some questioned the number of cover songs included during the show, many fans argued the real story was his impressive live vocals, polished stage production and willingness to tackle some of music's most demanding classics.
The conversation began after fans shared the concert's playlist from the 4 July performance. Out of the evening's programme, nearly half consisted of cover performances, leading some online users to question whether the balance leaned too heavily away from Zhang Xincheng's own catalogue.
Critics argued that an artist holding a solo concert should showcase more original material, particularly when stepping further into music while already being widely recognised as an actor.
That argument, however, was far from unanimous. Many concertgoers quickly pushed back, saying the debate was focusing on numbers rather than what actually happened on stage.
Their view was simple: audiences bought tickets to experience a memorable live performance, not to sit there with a calculator counting original songs versus covers. Unless concerts suddenly come with a spreadsheet and pie chart at the entrance, many felt the criticism missed the point.
Supporters also highlighted the difficulty of the songs Zhang Xincheng selected. Rather than choosing straightforward crowd-pleasers, he performed demanding classics including Bohemian Rhapsody, City of Stars, Imagine, and Yeye Yeye.
Fans argued these songs require exceptional vocal control, emotional expression and confidence, making them anything but an easy option for a live concert. To them, tackling challenging material demonstrated ambition rather than a lack of creativity.
Others pointed out that the overall picture was more balanced than early discussions suggested. Alongside the cover performances, Zhang Xincheng also performed his own original songs as well as tracks connected to dramas in which he has starred.
Reports circulating after the event noted that the concert included multiple original performances, with several songs featuring his own songwriting contributions, offering evidence that original music remains an important part of his artistic identity.
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His musical background also became part of the conversation. Fans were quick to remind critics that Zhang Xincheng is not simply an actor trying music on a whim.
Having received formal musical theatre training, he has long demonstrated strong vocal ability before stepping onto a concert stage. For supporters, that foundation was clearly reflected throughout the performance, with many praising the consistency of his live singing across the entire show.
As debate intensified online, numerous audience members uploaded full live performance clips to counter claims questioning his ability.
Those videos quickly gained attention, with many viewers complimenting his stable vocals, stage presence and willingness to sing live throughout the concert. While online opinions remained divided, many who watched the footage admitted the performance quality itself was difficult to dismiss.
Many C-Pop fans also noted that not every respected singer writes every song they perform. Across both the Chinese music industry and the wider international scene, countless legendary artists have built remarkable careers interpreting compositions created by others.
A memorable performance has always relied on far more than authorship alone. Vocal technique, emotional delivery, stage production and the ability to connect with an audience often leave a longer-lasting impression than simply ticking an originality box.
That does not mean calls for more original music should be ignored. Some online users welcomed the debate because it reflected growing appreciation for artists who continue creating new material.
Recent performances from musicians known for live vocals and original compositions have shown audiences still value fresh music, and many expressed hope that Zhang Xincheng will continue expanding his own catalogue alongside performing classic songs that inspire him.
In the end, Zhang Xincheng's New Journey concert has become about far more than its playlist. It has sparked a wider conversation about how live performances should be judged, whether originality should outweigh interpretation, and what audiences truly expect when they buy a ticket.
One thing is certain: the concert has everyone talking, which is probably more difficult to achieve than hitting every note in Bohemian Rhapsody.