Buc Tuong's new music video, "Thang 3," opens with a somber atmosphere and dark, nostalgic colors, immediately setting a reflective tone. Musician Tran Tuan Hung is seen flipping through old photos and CDs, many of which are mementos of the band's late leader, Tran Lap. A poignant image of the microphone Buc Tuong always placed on stage, reserved specifically for Tran Lap, also appears. In other scenes, the band members prepare their instruments, play music, converse, and embark on a symbolic journey forward.
"Thang 3" music video. Video: Provided by the artist.
Tran Tuan Hung, the song's composer, explained that March holds deep significance for the band, marking both their formation on 26/3/1995 and the passing of their leader, Tran Lap, on 17/3/2016. He described his relationship with Tran Lap as "fire and water," characterized by frequent intense debates yet maintaining a bond as close as family. "Ten years after Tran Lap's passing, we no longer face the loss with sadness. His music, songs, and spirit live on with the band every day," Tran Tuan Hung stated.
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Artist Tran Lap during his final stage performance in 1/2016. Photo: Giang Huy. |
Artist Tran Lap during his final stage performance in 1/2016. Photo: Giang Huy.
The song "Thang 3" transcends a mere recounting of the past; it serves as a contemplation from a middle-aged man reflecting on his youthful years. "There are beginnings, encounters, and partings. But after everything, what remains is love and the path forward," the musician shared, emphasizing themes of endurance and hope.
Departing from Buc Tuong's familiar energetic hard rock tracks, "Thang 3" incorporates many quiet moments, offering a more introspective sound. Despite this shift, the song retains the band's signature style through its emotional chorus and distinctive guitar solo. Nguyen Viet Lam collaborates as the vocalist on this project.
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Buc Tuong band. Photo: Provided by the artist. |
Buc Tuong band. Photo: Provided by the artist.
Buc Tuong is widely regarded as a domestic "rock legend" in Vietnam. To date, the band has released seven studio albums: Tam Hon Cua Da (2001), Vo Hinh (2003), Nam Cham (2004), Ngay Khac (2010), Dat Viet (2014), and Can Bang (2023).
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Buc Tuong's music resonated deeply with many generations of students through popular songs like Duong Den Ngay Vinh Quang, Bong Hong Thuy Tinh, and Mat Den. In 2014, with their album Dat Viet, they experimented with telling "stories about Vietnamese people from the dawn of creation." The group has frequently combined powerful rock with traditional folk influences in works such as Hoa Ban Trang and Men Say.
In 2016, fans mourned the passing of Tran Lap, who was instrumental in shaping Buc Tuong's musical style and image. He composed many songs and served as the band's lead vocalist. Following this profound loss, the remaining members decided to continue their work, with guitarist Tran Tuan Hung assuming leadership. The band has since collaborated with vocalists such as Pham Anh Khoa, Duong Tran Nghia, and Viet Lam. In 2021, the US music magazine Billboard recognized Buc Tuong as the first successful rock artists in Vietnam.
Ha Thu
