Mandopop Superstar Jay Chou Premieres “Children of the Sun” Music Video in Cinemas Across Taipei, Beijing and Shanghai Ahead of Global Album Release

Album to Be Released Globally on Digital Platforms on March 25, with Physical Editions Rolling Out Worldwide on April 10

Mandopop superstar Jay Chou premiered the official music video for Children of the Sun today at a press conference in Taipei, offering fans and media a first look at one of the most ambitious visual projects in the genre ahead of the album’s worldwide release on March 25. Simultaneous theatrical screenings were also held in Beijing and Shanghai, where audiences experienced the premiere on the big screen while following the Taipei event via live broadcast.

The nearly seven-minute music video blends cinematic storytelling, animation and high-end post-production, drawing inspiration from more than 30 iconic works of art. Referenced pieces include Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss, Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks, Vincent van Gogh’s Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear and Pipe, and Jacques-Louis David’s The Death of Marat, among others.

The project was developed in collaboration with Wētā Workshop, the New Zealand-based creative studio known for its work on films such as The Lord of the Rings, Avatar and Dune. With a production budget exceeding USD $2.8 million, the video ranks among the most expensive ever produced in Mandopop, underscoring the scale and ambition of the project.

Rather than relying solely on digital effects, the production brings these artworks to life through live-action performances. More than 30 performers were cast globally based on their resemblance to figures in the original paintings, supported by detailed makeup, costume design, props and lighting to recreate each scene with a high level of visual fidelity. The result is a “living gallery” in which classical artworks are reimagined within a contemporary narrative.

Musically, Children of the Sun combines rock and classical influences, reflecting Jay’s continued ambition to expand the boundaries of Mandopop. The song also carries a personal meaning. Originally titled I Am the Light, it was later renamed following a gesture from legendary artist Jacky Cheung, who gifted Jay the phrase “Children of the Sun” during his 2023 concerts in Hong Kong. Jay described the title as a symbol of positivity and resilience, expressing his hope that the song can help “bring light into darker moments.”

Speaking at the press conference, Jay also shared insights into the new album, revealing that it includes deeply personal elements — including a song written for his youngest daughter — as well as a romantic track featuring footage from his own proposal. He added that audience feedback following the release will help inform future focus tracks.

The project further builds on Jay Chou’s long-standing partnership with Universal Music Group, which has supported the global distribution and promotion of his music. In a congratulatory message, UMG Chairman and CEO Sir Lucian Grainge highlighted the shared ambition to further grow Jay’s global audience and extend his reach into new markets.

Children of the Sun will be released globally on March 25 across all digital platforms, with physical editions scheduled for worldwide release around April 10.