The Most Popular Marvel Soundtrack in Asia Might Surprise You

Avengers: Endgame is the most popular Marvel movie of all time, selling more tickets around the world than any other superhero movie in history. This includes huge ticket sales in South Korea, Taiwan and Japan, yet in a surprising twist, the most beloved Marvel soundtrack in Asia doesn't belong to Endgame. That honor goes to Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. 

While its success at the box office revitalized theaters after pandemic shutdowns, the 2021 film also made history for Asian representation in Marvel movies. China-born Simu Liu played Shang-Chi, making it the first Marvel movie with an Asian lead, alongside a cast that included Michelle Yeoh, Awkwafina, Ronny Chieng and Tony Leung. The film also revolutionized the superhero soundscape with songs by music artists from across Asia and the diaspora. 

Shang-Chi soundtrack analysis highlights Marvel's commitment to cultural authenticity and the diverse talents of Asian artists. Indonesian star NIKI's "Every Summertime" dominated charts in her home country and beyond, while "Lazy Susan" paired 21 Savage with Indonesian artists Rich Brian and Warren Hue and Chinese rapper MaSiWei. Rich Brian, the first Indonesian artist to crack the Top 20 on the Billboard 200, makes appearances throughout the soundtrack and even delivers the opening verse on the third single, "Run It," with DJ Snake and Rick Ross. 

Shang-Chi’s blend of traditional and modern music includes tracks by Hong Kong-born Jackson Wang, Singaporean star JJ Lin, Vietnamese-American singer keshi and a collaboration between Zion.T of South Korea and Gen Hoshino of Japan. With K-pop's global popularity, the inclusion of South Korean stars like Seori, BIBI, DPR Live, DPR Ian and Got7’s Mark Tuan only amplified its reach. The result? The Shang-Chi soundtrack was celebrated globally, racking up nearly half a billion Spotify streams and earning accolades like "soundtrack of the year."

While Avengers: Endgame sold more movie tickets, Shang-Chi's soundtrack struck a deeper chord. It created an emotional connection with audiences who typically aren't represented in mainstream superhero movies. Asian audiences have long supported Marvel movies, but Shang-Chi was a chance to see themselves reflected on screen and in the music. The soundtrack showed that culturally specific yet universally appealing music can complement a superhero narrative while making audiences feel seen and heard.

Adding to the legacy of Marvel’s groundbreaking soundtracks, Shang-Chi epitomizes the role of Sonic Conductors who ensure every note aligns with the film's narrative and emotional beats. From selecting the right artists to crafting songs that reflect cultural nuances, the intricate process involves storytelling, character development and emotional resonance through music. Shang-Chi may have been a challenging project, but talented Sonic Conductors helped the soundtrack find success in Asia and around the world. 

Want to explore what it takes to become a Sonic Conductor? Join our risk-free introductory class led by the mastermind behind Marvel’s cinematic music. Sign up now!