Episode 10 of Singer 2025 delivered a seismic shift in the competition. Broadcast on July 18th, the episode saw record-breaking real-time ratings for Hunan Satellite TV, peaking above 1% as viewers tuned in for a night of exceptional performances. The stakes soared higher with the unexpected near-elimination of a favored contender, setting the stage for a fiercely unpredictable final stretch. Every vocalist delivered career-defining moments, transforming the leaderboard and fueling intense debate about the ultimate winner.
Leaderboard Reshuffled
Huang Liling (黄丽玲) claimed her first victory with a powerhouse ballad that showcased her signature vocal control and emotional depth. Her rendition captivated both the live audience and viewers, cementing her status as a genuine championship threat. Alicia secured second place with a technically flawless performance blending soul and contemporary pop, demonstrating her international appeal. Her stage presence and vocal precision drew widespread acclaim.
Li Jiawei (李佳薇) took third with a dramatic, theatrical interpretation that highlighted her versatility. Her ability to convey complex narratives through song remains unmatched this season. Meanwhile, Single Pure, a previous frontrunner, plummeted to sixth place despite a hauntingly beautiful performance of Stefanie Sun’s "Began to Understand." Her stripped-down arrangement emphasized raw vulnerability, yet failed to resonate with voters. This result stunned fans who expected her to dominate.
Single Pure’s Precarious Position
Single Pure’s performance marked a stylistic return to her The Voice of China roots – intimate, understated, and vocally pristine. Speculation swirled about the song’s arrangement, notably deviating from collaborator Chang Shilei’s typical style. Despite critical praise, the disconnect with voters raises questions. Was it lingering audience sentiment linking her to past controversies involving CoCo Lee and The Voice? Host He Jiong’s (何炅) emotional tribute to Lee during the broadcast fueled this theory.
Perhaps expectations have evolved. Single Pure’s early success stemmed from innovation, but her recent choices feel safer. Has she hesitated to take the creative risks fans now demand? Her sixth-place finish leaves her vulnerable in Episode 11, where challenger Hu Hai Quan (胡海泉) enters the fray. Hu, a seasoned performer and host, is unlikely to exit quickly, intensifying pressure on lower-ranked singers. Elimination before the finals is a real danger for Single Pure unless she delivers something truly transformative.
Tournament Implications Explode
Mickey Lawson, despite past dominance, landed in fifth place. As a foreign artist, his continued presence sparks debate about whether a non-Chinese singer should win. While his talent is undeniable, Episode 10’s result suggests voter sentiment may be shifting. Could producers or audiences subtly engineer his exit to ensure a local champion? His fifth place positions him perilously close to the elimination zone alongside Single Pure.
Chen Chusheng (陈楚生), a consistent favorite, maintained fourth place. His steady, reliable performances build a compelling case for the title. However, Lin Zhixuan’s (林志炫) successful return as a challenger adds a volatile element. Lin’s bold, theatrical style contrasts sharply with Chen’s measured approach. While Chen remains the stable choice, Lin’s capacity for show-stopping moments makes him a genuine spoiler.
The top three contenders – Huang Liling, Alicia, and Li Jiawei – each possess a distinct path to victory. Huang’s Episode 10 triumph proves her winning capability. Alicia’s artistry transcends language barriers, appealing to a global audience. Li Jiawei’s dramatic flair consistently delivers memorable television. The question of a foreign winner persists, but Alicia’s sheer talent challenges any resistance. As one fan noted, rewarding excellence regardless of nationality honors the spirit of musical exchange. Episode 10 didn’t just change the rankings; it fundamentally altered the season’s trajectory, making the final outcome anyone’s guess.
