Chinese Singer Piao Xiang’s Sudden Death at 35 Triggers Calls for Better Health Safeguards in the Entertainment Industry
The Chinese music world was stunned this week by the sudden death of 35‑year‑old singer Piao Xiang, a former contestant on “The Voice of China” who had risen to prominence as a member of Jay Chou’s team. Piao, who was born in 1990 in the border town of Tacheng in Xinjiang, collapsed from an acute myocardial infarction in the early hours of August 8, 2025. His funeral was held two days later in Yumin County, and the news began to trend across Chinese social media on August 11 after close friends confirmed the shocking development to outlets such as Jiemian News and the Yangzi Evening News.

11 August 2025
Piao’s journey to national attention began in 2016 when he auditioned for “The Voice of China.” His soulful rendition of “把悲伤留给自己” (“Leave Sadness to Yourself”) earned him a spot on the “Strongest Surface” team led by the pop‑culture icon Jay Chou, and he finished among the top five contestants that season. After his television stint, Piao returned to his roots in Xinjiang, where he became a beloved resident singer at a series of local pubs. He also fronted the band Parhat’s Sour Milk, first as a guitarist and later as lead vocalist, cementing his reputation as a versatile and charismatic performer.
Friends who spoke to journalists said they had spoken with Piao just a week before his death and noted that he appeared healthy and full of energy. “He was a music genius, always outgoing, and we never imagined anything like this could happen,” one close confidant told Jiemian News. The abruptness of his passing has sparked an outpouring of grief online, with fans posting tributes, videos of into the demanding grind of nightly gigs and constant travel across the remote expanses of Xinjiang. Industry observers point to his untimely death as a reminder that the rigorous schedules, irregular lifestyles, and stress inherent to the profession can have serious health consequences. Calls are now being made for talent agencies and production companies to provide regular medical check‑ups, mental‑health support, and more sustainable workload arrangements for their artists.
Public health experts have seized the moment to raise awareness about the warning signs of myocardial infarction and the importance of preventative measures, such as maintaining healthy blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and regular exercise. In the wake of Piao’s death, several Weibo posts circulated advice on recognizing early symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention, underscoring how celebrity news can amplify health messaging among younger audiences.
While the loss is primarily a personal tragedy for Piao’s family, friends, and fans, it also serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of life behind the glamour of the stage. As the Chinese entertainment sector continues to expand and produce new stars through televised talent shows, Piao Xiang’s story may prompt a reevaluation of how the industry safeguards the well‑being of its artists. For now, the outpouring of sorrow across the country stands as a testament to his impact on the music scene and the lasting imprint he left on those who heard his voice.