Three months after winning the music competition in Russia, Duc Phuc released an online documentary on YouTube. He explained his desire to preserve memories of this career milestone and showcase his team's efforts.

Duc Phuc talks about the pressure of participating in an international music competition for the first time.

Directed by Kawaii Tuan Anh, the film offers unique perspectives and previously untold stories. Over 30 minutes, Duc Phuc recounts the moment of his championship, behind-the-scenes training, and various incidents.

Duc Phuc with the championship trophy as he recounts his journey to conquer Intervision in the film.

He revealed that the triumphant moment followed 80 days of intense preparation. Initially, he considered declining the invitation due to self-doubt. However, after a night of reflection, he decided to participate, recognizing it as a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

He stated, "I knew I would face immense pressure. Yet, I wanted to challenge myself and see my capabilities. Furthermore, my biggest goal was to contribute to spreading Vietnamese music and culture globally."

Initially, the team selected "Cay truc xinh," a Northern Vietnamese folk song. However, after reviewing it, they sought a more innovative concept. They consulted with musician Ho Hoai Anh, resulting in the creation of "Phu Dong Thien Vuong." This piece drew inspiration from Nguyen Duy's poem "Tre Viet Nam" and the legend of Thanh Giong.

Duc Phuc's performance of "Phu Dong Thien Vuong". Video: Intervision

Duc Phuc undertook rigorous training in singing, choreography, and physical fitness, while also managing numerous unforeseen issues within a tight timeframe. He described the performance as "the biggest challenge in his 10-year career," admitting he sometimes feared he couldn't reach the high notes.

The staging also underwent continuous changes based on organizer demands. "There were times I had to retreat to the restroom to cry alone, feeling completely overwhelmed," he recalled. "I kept it private to avoid disheartening the team. After a cry, I would compose myself, encouraging myself with 'come on, you can do it.' The thought of 'Viet Nam' always reignited my motivation, reminding me not to give up."

Duc Phuc also disclosed the removal of a cherished element from his performance. His team had planned a costume-burning effect on stage for a dramatic climax. However, during testing, the fire caught the leather material, creating dense smoke. Organizers rejected the concept due to strict fire safety regulations.

Duc Phuc shares behind-the-scenes details of costume preparation for the competition.

The documentary concludes with Duc Phuc expressing gratitude to the nearly 50 individuals who supported him over three months, participating in 40 meetings to "forge a memorable victory." He also extended thanks to his family and mentors, including Ho Hoai Anh and My Tam, for their inspiration and guidance throughout his career.

Duc Phuc's victory positioned him as one of the three Vbiz vocalists to garner international media attention this year. He also received numerous domestic commendations, notably a congratulatory letter from Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

Nguyen Duc Phuc, 28, hails from Ha Noi. In 2015, he won The Voice of Vietnam, mentored by My Tam. His hit songs include: "Anh nang cua anh," "Ta con yeu nhau," "Con yeu dau ai roi di," "Hon ca yeu," "Nguoi oi nguoi o dung ve," and "Ngay dau sau chia tay." In 2024, Duc Phuc gained significant attention on the first season of "Anh trai say hi," securing a spot in the final Best Five lineup.

Originally known as the Intervision Song Contest, the event was established by the International Radio and Television Organization (OIRT). Its early editions (1965-1968) were held in Czechoslovakian cities such as Praha, Bratislava, and Karlovy Vary. From 1977 to 1980, Intervision was revived in Sopot, Poland, replacing the Sopot International Song Festival. The competition then ceased after 1980.

After a hiatus of over 40 years, the competition returned on 20/9 in Russia, drawing 22 contestants from across the globe.

*By Tan Cao*

*Photos and video courtesy of the singer's team*