Known as the "Golden Voice," Zhou Xuan emerged from the Bright Moon Song and Dance Troupe in 1932 to become a defining figure of Chinese cinema and music. Recording over 200 songs and appearing in 43 films, she commanded significant influence in the gramophone era, balancing an extensive public career with deep personal instability until her death in 1957.
Early Development and Stage Name
Born Su Pu in Changzhou on August 1, 1920, she experienced a fragmented childhood. After being separated from her parents, she was adopted by the Zhou family in Shanghai at age six, taking the name Zhou Xiaohong. By 13, she adopted the professional name Zhou Xuan, selecting the character for beautiful jade.
Rise to Cinematic Prominence
Zhou began her career with Li Jinhui's troupe and earned her reputation after a singing contest victory in Shanghai. Her transition to film started in 1935, culminating in her breakthrough performance in the 1937 film Street Angel. This production featured her signature tracks, "Four Seasons Song" and "The Wandering Songstress," solidifying her position as a lead actress and singer.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Career Shifts and Personal Hardship
Between 1946 and 1950, Zhou frequently traveled to Hong Kong for film projects such as Sorrows of the Forbidden City and An All-Consuming Love. Returning to Shanghai in 1949 after the release of "Shanghai Nights," she faced recurring mental health breakdowns. Her private life was marked by a series of high-profile relationships, including a marriage to composer Yan Hua and associations with Zhu Huaide and Tang Di.
Final Years and Legacy
Zhou spent her final years in and out of mental institutions. She died in a Shanghai asylum in 1957 at age 37, with records suggesting cerebritis or encephalitis as contributing factors. She left behind two sons, Zhou Min and Zhou Wei. Her life has since been documented in biographies by her children and depicted in television dramas like Song Bird.
Fast facts
- Born: 1 August 1920, Changzhou
- Died: 22 September 1957, Shanghai
- Career Start: 1932
- Film Count: Over 40
- Song Count: Over 200
- Nicknames: Golden Voice
- First Husband: Yan Hua
- Burial Place: Shanghai
Questions readers ask
What was Zhou Xuan's most famous film?
Her most recognized performance was in the 1937 film Street Angel, which included the enduring songs "Four Seasons Song" and "The Wandering Songstress."
How many children did she have?
She had two sons, Zhou Min and Zhou Wei, born to different fathers.
What was the cause of her death?
She died in a mental asylum in 1957, with her personal diary indicating she suffered from cerebritis following nervous breakdowns.
