Inspired by folk music

Many artists have chosen folk music as a source of inspiration for modern works that appeal to listeners. This demonstrates the richness and untapped potential of Vietnam's folk music resources.

Can folk music and rock music be combined in one song? This intriguing question is partially answered by singer Pham Anh Khoa in his EP "My People's Songs." The EP consists of four songs composed by the rocker himself, creatively combining rock with Vietnamese folk music, inspired by legends and fairy tales from our country.

The highlight of this EP is the song "Tung Tung Cắc Tùng Tung," inspired by the legend of Lac Long Quan and Au Co, recreated in a colorful festival atmosphere through rock and electronic music, creating lively melodies. Or the song "Nhong Nhong Nhong Nhong," whose title evokes a childhood game and also takes listeners back to the legendary spirit of Saint Giong. The fast, powerful rock rhythm, resounding drums, and technical execution create the sound of galloping horses, full of energy. "Tích Tịch Tình Tang," a catchy and colorful song with a fairytale feel of Thach Sanh rescuing the princess, is also featured. And "Viet Nam Ta Do," a melody praising the beautiful Vietnam, a country rich in cultural traditions, rising in the new era.

The EP "My People's Song" is a prime example of folk music combined with modern music. Singer Pham Anh Khoa says that he didn't use folk elements for decoration but rather blended them into a unified musical language. The rock in "My People's Song" is therefore distinctly styled: intense, free, yet deeply connected to its roots.

Another impressive product recently released is the children's music video "Rock Paper Scissors," considered a mini version of "Bac Bling." "Rock Paper Scissors" was composed by musician Tuan Cry, the author of the song "Bac Bling," and performed by child singer Kim Cuong. The "Rock Paper Scissors" music video features a contemporary folk sound, combined with the cheerful spirit of a childhood game, creating a familiar yet unique atmosphere. The setting of the MV is an art festival, with meticulous attention to detail in every frame, from costumes and colors to movement and storytelling. "Rock Paper Scissors" transports viewers back to the cultural space of villages and childhood.

Image from the music video "Rock Paper Scissors". Photo: thethao&vanhoa

The team behind "Rock Paper Scissors" weaves childhood memories into the rhythm of modern life. 13-year-old singer Kim Cương, already familiar with children's music through previous works such as "Memories," "Hello Vietnam," and "Vietnam, the Journeys," successfully showcases a popular musical trend with "Rock Paper Scissors."

Previously, many singers and songwriters skillfully incorporated folk music into contemporary musical products, which were well-received by listeners, such as DTAP, Phuong My Chi, Hoa Minzy, Hoang Thuy Linh, Ngoc Khue, etc. Recently, at the Intervision 2025 international music competition, singer Duc Phuc excellently won first place with a creative performance showcasing national culture and strength – the song "Phu Dong Thien Vuong". Clearly, Vietnamese folk music is diverse and has distinct characteristics; and the talent of the artists has contributed to exploiting and spreading that potential. This not only enriches the music market but also serves as an effective channel for promoting culture.

DUY KHOI

Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/cam-hung-tu-am-nhac-dan-gian-a194594.html