Song of spring

However, she never stopped preparing for the English album.

Four years ago when Zhang met American rapper and record producer Timbaland, whose production credits include Jay Z, Rihanna and Madonna, Zhang was ready to finally make it happen.

On Oct 14, Zhang released an English single, Dust My Shoulders Off, featuring Timbaland.

Just two weeks after it was launched, the song broke into the Top 5 on the iTunes download chart, making her the first Chinese artist to do so.

"The process of recording music with Timbaland was an amazing experience, which was different from my previous albums. We arrived at the studio and brainstormed on lyrics," says Zhang.

"I sang to his beats impromptu and we jammed with different instruments, which was so much fun."

One of the lines in her song was a real portrayal of how she spilled hot coffee on her blue jeans, she says.

Timbaland also praised Zhang: "Jane is a global artist, working with her is a great experience. Our collaboration allowed us to continue bridging the gap between Chinese and American pop culture."

The Grammy winner is also the executive producer on Zhang's upcoming English album.

"I always look for music that can set me apart from my past songs. If I stop discovering myself through different music and changes in the environment, I will lose my vitality," she says.

Zhang hopes to expand her fan base to the West by releasing the English album.

"I will do interviews like a newcomer, introducing myself and my music like I did when I started out as a singer. I am both nervous and excited."

Contact the writer at chennan@chinadaily.com.cn