Doan Thu Tra, his daughter and a musician, stated that he did not suffer from a severe illness, only tracheal issues. Not long before his passing, he had lightheartedly told her he would "live to 120 years old" and had even planned an early Tet celebration with friends and family. For many years, he had lived with his wife.

Doan Bong, whose full name was Doan Chi Bong, was born in 1943 in Ha Tay (now Ha Noi). In his youth, he was known for his charm and diverse talents. At the age of 23, he was the sole candidate from the Ha Noi area to gain admission to the Composition Department of the Ha Noi Conservatory of Music. Upon graduation, he began working at Giai Phong Radio. Shortly after the country's reunification, as television was still in its early trial phase, he transitioned to Vietnam Television. There, he contributed to developing numerous programs featuring folk, chamber, revolutionary, and youth music.

Musician Doan Bong at the launch of his poetry collection "Bat dau tu doi mat", 2023. Photo: Van hoc Publishing House

Doan Bong's extensive body of work comprises over 300 songs, covering various themes. Three prominent categories include homeland and country, Uncle Ho, and Ha Noi. In 2023, he received the State Prize for Literature and Arts for three representative compositions: "Dong song que anh, dong song que em", "Hat ve Nguoi", and "Ha Noi nhung ky niem trong toi".

Many of Doan Bong's compositions were adopted as anthems for major organizations. "Bai ca Mat tran To quoc" serves as the traditional song of the Vietnamese Fatherland Front. "Khuc quan ca Truong Sa" is the traditional song for soldiers stationed in Truong Sa and the Navy. His song "Tu lang Sen con hat ben Nguoi" is frequently played for visitors at the President Ho Chi Minh Relic Site in Kim Lien, Nam Dan, Nghe An. Additionally, the Ministry of Public Security selected his poem "Niem khuc" to be engraved on a stone stele at the Security Relic Site of Zone 5, commemorating the anti-American resistance war.

Doan Bong also dedicated significant passion to the capital, Ha Noi, through numerous songs. These include "Ha Noi cua toi" (lyrics by Quoc Toan), "Ha Noi dem" (lyrics by Tran Minh), "Ha Noi, thu lai ve" (lyrics by Nguyen Thi Hong), "Tu Hoa Lu den Thang Long - Ha Noi" (lyrics by Nguyen Quang Long), "Thang Long - Ha Noi chao ban bon phuong", and "Thanh pho ngan nam van hien". Beyond vocal compositions, he also created instrumental pieces such as the ethnic orchestra concert "Lam theo loi Bac" and the medley "Ngay hoi trong cay".

Music researcher Nguyen Quang Long, who had frequent interactions with Doan Bong, recalled their collaboration. While working at the Music Publishing House, Long was often invited by Doan Bong to help compile anthologies and publications of his instrumental and vocal music. Long described Doan Bong as an open, friendly, passionate, and steadfast artist.

Regarding Doan Bong's music, Nguyen Quang Long noted that his works were approachable and simple. "The song 'Dong song que anh, dong song que em' exemplifies his compositional style," Long stated. "It conveys not only a story of a couple but also a deep love for the homeland and country. This work inspires listeners to embrace life and love their nation, earning affection across generations."

In addition to music, he also composed poetry, releasing the collection "Bat dau tu doi mat" in 2023.

Ha Thu