Core Viewpoint - The dispute over the original singer of the song "Year Ring" has escalated due to copyright issues, highlighting the complexities of music copyright protection in China, particularly the relationship between performers' rights and the rights of songwriters [2][39][40]. Group 1: Background of the Dispute - The controversy began when Wang Zai Xiao Qiao, a popular internet celebrity, announced a concert, leading to a resurgence of discussions about the original singer of "Year Ring," a song performed by Zhang Bichen and written by Wang Sulong [2][3][39]. - The song "Year Ring," which was part of the soundtrack for the drama "Flower Thousand Bones," has been a topic of debate for years, with Zhang Bichen traditionally recognized as the original singer due to her version being the first widely heard [7][11][39]. Group 2: Key Events and Reactions - On July 23, 2025, QQ Music removed Zhang Bichen's label as the original singer, leading to a public outcry and the trending topic of "Zhang Bichen's original singer status being canceled" [7][11][39]. - Wang Sulong's studio announced the decision to revoke the authorization for Zhang Bichen to perform the song, which intensified the dispute [12][39]. - Zhang Bichen's studio responded by asserting her status as the "only original singer" and provided evidence to support their claim [12][38][39]. Group 3: Legal and Industry Implications - The dispute reflects the lack of clear legal definitions regarding the term "original singer" in China's copyright law, leading to varying interpretations within the industry [40][41]. - The situation underscores the blurred lines between copyright ownership and performance rights, as both Wang Sulong and Zhang Bichen have valid claims based on their respective roles in the song's creation and performance [41][42]. - Legal experts suggest that Wang Sulong's decision to revoke authorization could pose a risk of breach of contract, depending on the terms of the original agreement [44][45].