Meet Zimu Li | Vocalist, Music Educator, Mantra Singer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Zimu Li and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zimu, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because I believe that music is the deepest sound of soul. From a very young age, I felt that music wasn’t just something I enjoyed, it was something I needed to express who I truly am. Through my music, I hope to touch lives, offering help and inspiration to those who need it most.

As a vocalist, music educator and mantra singer I’ve seen how music transcends language and culture, it can heal, inspire, and awaken something deep within us. For me, music is both a personal journey and a spiritual practice. It’s a way to share compassion, encourage self-awareness.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve always seen myself as a deeply versatile and intuitive artist—someone who follows the voice within. I started studying classical vocal music at a young age, and while I appreciated its beauty and discipline, something inside me always felt slightly out of place. It didn’t fully resonate with who I was or how I wanted to express myself.

Eventually, I turned to pop singing. That transition wasn’t easy at all. Moving from classical to contemporary styles required me to unlearn and relearn so much—not just technically, but emotionally and artistically. But I kept listening to my inner voice. Every time I sing, I reconnect with my truth, and it guides me forward.

After embracing pop, I was accepted into Berklee College of Music, which opened my world to an incredible range of musical styles—jazz, R&B, gospel, Latin, electronic, and more. I realized that I didn’t have to box myself in. I love experimenting and blending genres, and through that exploration, I discovered world music. That was a turning point.

World music inspired me to create something that felt both personal and culturally rich. I began fusing traditional Chinese music and minority ethnic elements with modern pop styles. This fusion felt like home to me—like I was finally bringing all parts of myself together in harmony.

Around the same time, I was drawn to mantra singing. For me, it’s a spiritual and meditative practice, not just a musical one. Most of my mantra performances are improvised because I believe in capturing the raw, honest energy of the present moment. That kind of authenticity connects more deeply than anything rehearsed ever could.

Now, my music is more than a career—it’s a way to connect, to heal, and to inspire. I want to break down barriers between cultures, languages, and beliefs. Through sound, I hope to awaken something within others—something they may have forgotten or never had the chance to explore.

Through my work, I want the world to know that music is not just art — it’s medicine, it’s truth, and it’s a shared language. I hope to keep creating spaces where people can feel seen, heard, and empowered — whether that’s on a stage, in a classroom, or through a single note.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to visit, I would make sure they had a week filled with inspiration, joy, and meaningful experiences. Here’s how I’d plan our week together: we’d explore some of the most unique local restaurants, chat in cozy, artsy cafés, visit hidden art exhibits, and enjoy live music performances. We’d also spend time in nature—walking along the beach or meditating in the quiet forests just outside the city.

I’d take them to some of my favorite cultural spots—places where you can sip tea while listening to mantra music, or creative markets tucked away in little alleys, where independent artists and makers share their beautiful work.

To me, the most exciting and inspiring parts of the city aren’t the typical “must-see” tourist spots. They’re the soulful corners full of creativity and warmth—where every person, every conversation, and every spark of inspiration becomes a memory worth keeping.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am truly thankful to my parents for their constant support throughout my journey. Their love and encouragement have been a guiding light, helping me grow. I’m deeply grateful to my Buddhist mentors, whose wisdom and teachings have shaped my spiritual path in ways I can’t fully describe. Also special shoutout to my mentor Wonda,Thank you so much!

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zimuli-music

Other: Email: zimuli.music@gmail.com

Image Credits
xiaohan Chang