Wang Fei's Return: A Cultural Milestone at 2025 Spring Festival Gala
After a seven-year hiatus, legendary Chinese singer Wang Fei delivered a moving performance of ‘What the World Has Given Me’ at the 2025 Spring Festival Gala, showcasing her enduring artistry and evolution as a performer.

The return of Wang Fei to China’s most-watched television event marked a significant moment in Chinese popular culture. Her performance of “What the World Has Given Me” demonstrated both artistic maturity and spiritual growth, capturing the attention of multiple generations of fans.
Wang Fei’s delivery reflected her journey from a boundary-pushing pop icon to a contemplative artist. The song, accompanied by veteran musician Stone Chen’s arrangements, featured flowing melodies and positive, warm lyrics that embraced life’s gifts and challenges. This artistic choice represented a departure from her earlier provocative works like “Ruthless” and “Stranger’s Love,” signaling her evolution as both an artist and person.
The performance itself became a masterclass in minimalist presentation. Wang Fei’s trademark clear vocals, though showing signs of age, carried emotional depth that resonated deeply with viewers. Many audience members noted the profound silence that fell over their homes during her performance, a testament to her enduring ability to command attention.
Most striking was her deep bow at the conclusion - a gesture that moved many viewers to tears and spoke volumes about her humility and gratitude. This moment particularly resonated with long-time fans who remembered her previous bow seven years ago before her extended break from public performance.
Notably, Wang Fei’s influence spans beyond her music. Her daughter, Lee Jing Tong, carries elements of her mother’s pioneering spirit, though in a different cultural context. This generational evolution mirrors broader changes in Chinese society, from an era of seeking individual expression to one of cultural confidence.
The performance garnered widespread praise for its authenticity and emotional depth, though some viewers noted the changes in her vocal capabilities. However, most agreed that what her voice may have lost in power, it gained in wisdom and nuance. As one viewer commented, “She turned from a cold goddess into a benevolent figure, representing the natural progression of life.”