In mid-August, the iconic singer shared photos commemorating his 45th wedding anniversary. "We found each other and have loved each other for a lifetime," he wrote. "Time flies, but our love remains strong as ever. Our first encounter wasn't accompanied by grand promises, yet we've kept our bond intact for 45 years..."

Singer Elvis Phuong writes a card for his wife on their 45th wedding anniversary. Photo: Provided by the subject.

Over 40 years ago, during a tour in Texas, USA, a friend introduced Elvis Phuong to "a lovely girl" who admired his voice. From their first meeting, Phuong was captivated by Le Hoa's kind face, gentle nature, unpretentious demeanor, and witty conversation. He maintained contact through frequent phone calls, often talking through the night after his performances. To see her, Phuong invited Le Hoa to his shows. She fell in love with his sincerity, enthusiasm, and attentiveness. They married three years later.

Elvis Phuong with his wife. He adopted the stage name Elvis Phuong in admiration of American rock and roll legend Elvis Presley. The singer started his career at 16, performing various genres from pop and rock to ballads. Photo: Provided by the subject.

According to Phuong, their marriage is built on understanding, unwavering trust, and devoted care. After they married, Le Hoa left her real estate business in California to support her husband on tour. In return, Phuong always accompanies his wife on her errands, patiently waiting for her during nail appointments and hair salon visits. They share a deep connection, often communicating without words.

"After all these decades together, I still have the habit of touching her skin or kissing her hand before I sleep; otherwise, I'll stay awake all night," he shared. Their morning routine involves exercising, enjoying tea, and discussing their daily meals.

In 1998, Phuong faced a health crisis, suffering from a blocked artery leading to his heart. Le Hoa was constantly by his side, caring for him throughout his surgery and recovery. Since then, she has meticulously managed his diet and medication. Phuong affectionately refers to her as his "personal doctor." In 2022, when Phuong contracted Covid-19, Le Hoa nursed him back to health, despite being infected herself.

Le Hoa manages their household affairs, finances, and show bookings, allowing Phuong to focus on his music. He entrusts her with all their finances.

Like any couple, they have disagreements, but they never let conflicts last more than 5 minutes. When tension arises, they take a moment to reflect. Then, without prompting, they hold hands and ask, "Did we say anything upsetting?" to address the issue. Le Hoa revealed that when Phuong is upset, a simple plea or playful threat to leave is enough to reconcile them.

For Phuong, anniversaries and Valentine's Day are secondary. "Every day is a day I love her deeply," he says. "The greatest happiness for a man, an artist in his later years, is having his wife by his side for the rest of his life." He has written seven songs for his wife, inspired by events and milestones in their relationship. The first song he wrote for her was "Got Hong" (Pink Heels). Though composed long ago, these songs were only recently recorded and released as an album.

Elvis Phuong and Le Hoa currently reside in a villa in Ho Chi Minh City. His greatest joy is spending time with his wife. Phuong has expressed his wish to sing a few lines and kiss his wife before closing his eyes if he were to pass away. Le Hoa hopes her husband will live past 100 and continue singing.

Hoang Dung