Shanghai summer pop invasion

In the past few months, Shanghai has been visited by quite a few notable foreign musicians: a group of wily geriatric rockers, one-third of a has-been disco brotherhood and a spiritual singer with a love for Chinese orphans. There's also been a consistent lineup of bands playing Shanghai's underground rock scene. But what of all those poor souls in the city that yearn for some live Chinese pop music? Their prayers will be answered this summer, when a steady stream of Mando-pop talent make their way through town.

• On June 10th, JJ (Lin Jun Jie) will bring his "Very Singapore" Tour to Hongkou Soccer Stadium. His latest release, an irresistable mix of hard R&B, pop balladry and a surprising infusion of Chinese classical instrumentation, may be his best yet. The preferred alternative to Jay Chou. Shanghaiist will be in attendance, with oversized glowstick in hand.
• Taiwanese super trio, S.H.E., will descend onto Shanghai Stadium on July 8th touring behind their latest release, Once Upon A Time, and will no doubt perform all of your karaoke favorites like "Bo Si Mao" and "Superstar".
• Ladies, listen up: Wang Lee-Hom, New York native and multi-instrument Mando-pop megastar, is coming to Shanghai on August 12. This gives you ample time to make those "I Love Lee-Hom" signs and rest your vocal chords, which will no doubt be shredded after all the screaming at the show.

What if Chinese pop music isn't to your liking? Don't fret: K-Pop boy band Shinhwa (7/8) and adorable UK popsters Westlife (6/3) will be passing through as well. Consider yourself warned.

For ticket and venue information, check out Shanghai Tickets. They even deliver ... for free.

Photo of Singaporean star, JJ, taken from Tom.Com Music