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Gender Sensitivity in Contemporary Mandopop: Shifting Norms and Performing Resistance in China

Author

Listed:
  • Na Mingyu
  • Chow Ow Wei
  • Zumilah Zainalaludin

Abstract

Mandopop has long been dominated by romantic themes and traditional gender roles, but in recent years it has increasingly served as a platform to explore gender issues and structural inequalities. This study examines how contemporary Mandopop expresses gender sensitivity through lyrics, musical expression, and music videos. Using a qualitative case study approach, 41 audience-recommended gender-sensitive songs from Zhihu and Xiaohongshu were categorized, and four were selected for in-depth analysis- Womxnly, Ugly Beauty, Xiaojuan (Pseudonym), and Matriarchy. The findings indicate that these works demonstrate awareness of structural gender inequalities, empathy for marginalized experiences, and the transformation into acts of resistance through music, including musical strategies such as style, vocal techniques, arrangement structures, and instrumentation choices. This research not only provides a reference for identifying gender elements in musical, lyrical, and visual forms, but also extends the application of the gender sensitivity framework to music studies.

Suggested Citation

  • Na Mingyu & Chow Ow Wei & Zumilah Zainalaludin, 2026. "Gender Sensitivity in Contemporary Mandopop: Shifting Norms and Performing Resistance in China," Asian Social Science, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 22(1), pages 1-1, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:assjnl:v:22:y:2026:i:1:p:1
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    JEL classification:

    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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