Mad Tsai

Mad Tsai (born Jonathan Tsai) is an American singer-songwriter and social media personality. Of Taiwanese and Peruvian descent, Tsai gained recognition through the short-video platform TikTok under the handle @madsteaparty. His music explores themes of queerness, adolescence, and self-identity, often blending elements of pop, bedroom pop, and alternative music.

Early life and education Tsai was born in Fountain Valley, California, to a Taiwanese father and Peruvian mother. He began writing songs at the age of thirteen, inspired by themes of identity, mental health, and self-expression. While in high school, Tsai participated in choir and marching band, and learned to play several instruments.

He later attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he studied Music History & Industry and English.

Career Beginnings and TikTok popularity Tsai began posting original music on TikTok in 2020 under the username @madsteaparty. His early work included acoustic clips and songs such as "Young Nights," which explored post-graduation uncertainty and emotional growth.

Breakthrough and "Boy Bi" Tsai rose to prominence with the single "Boy Bi" (2020), a song chronicling his experiences coming out as bisexual. The song went viral on TikTok before being re-released as a studio single with full production. Tsai has described the track as an important moment of self-acceptance and a way to connect with others exploring their identity.

Reception Critics have praised Tsai for his contribution to queer representation in pop music. Outlets such as Teen Vogue and Gold House have highlighted his work as an example of new queer and Asian-Latinx artistry emerging from social media.