Chinese Superstar Mimi Makes History As First Artist To Release Single After 50% Glossectomy

By Ebube Ebisike George—

In a feat that defies both medical precedent and pop music convention, Chinese superstar Zhang Mi – universally known as Mimi – has become the first recording artist in the world to professionally release a single after undergoing a 50% glossectomy, the surgical removal of half the tongue.

Mimi, model and singer

The milestone arrives amid her ongoing battle with three separate cancers: oesophageal, tongue and a blood-related malignancy.

Mimi, one of China’s best-selling, most-decorated recording artists, as well as an actress, author, supermodel and three-time cancer survivor, released the track via a surprise digital drop this morning.

Her team confirmed that the song was recorded over several months of intensive vocal rehabilitation, studio innovation and sheer determination.

“This is not only a world first but a groundbreaking achievement in music, medicine and human resilience,” a spokesperson for the artist said.

“Mimi has undergone years of treatment, self-determined vocal therapy and relentless practice to reach this point.”

The artist’s medical team has described her as a “medical miracle”. In a candid statement, her husband added:

“Anyone who has walked this path knows it’s not all roses. We deliberately share the valiant moments, not to minimise the struggle, but to honour the strength it takes to keep creating.

Today isn’t just a release; it’s a testament to Mimi’s brilliance, her unrelenting spirit, and her refusal to be bowed. She has beaten cancer three times. And still, she sings.”

Though further details of the single remain under wraps – including its title and production credits – early reactions from colleagues and fans have been overwhelmingly emotional.

Social media in China and beyond has lit up with messages of awe and support, with many noting that the achievement transcends the music industry and speaks to the power of art to overcome physical limitation.

Mimi, who has been a fixture in Chinese entertainment for more than two decades, continues to radiate hope and determination.

Her team indicates that more music may follow, and that a documentary chronicling her rehabilitation journey is also in development.

For now, the world listens – and marvels at a voice that refuses to be silenced.

Meanwhile, in an interview granted by EdOnline at the weekend from Brazil, Hana Nur, Founder/CEO of Innovare, who recently won the Asia Pacific Sustainability Conference Award  (APSCA) 2026 in Malaysia for the beauty, skincare and luxury products offerings category and who has recently been nominated for the Voice Awards, UK, to be held in August 2026, sent her felicitations to Mimi.

Hana Nur is currently on a business tour across South America, and she sent a heartfelt message of warmth and “get well soon wishes” to Mimi, eulogising her music, modelling career and famous brand built intentionally over the years. She also celebrated her published book “REALITY”, which is inspiring.

Hana Nur wishes Mimi more strength, courage, focus and conviction to continue down the path of exceptionality that relentlessly continues to inspire billions of youth and people across the world.

Mimi is working towards a tourism, culture and fashion tour of her own, which will further bridge and cement the long-lasting friendship and business/trade relationship between China/Asia and Africa.

*Updated