The singer's performance with 7-year-old Ha Thuy Tien at the September 2nd ceremony became a sensation. On her fanpage, the video of the performance attracted over 13 million views and tens of thousands of shares. My Tam spoke about her feelings and preparations for the performance.

My Tam described her feelings about the positive reception of "Giai dieu tu hao," which she performed with 7-year-old Ha Thuy Tien. "I'm proud and touched by everyone's love," she said. "It was my first time singing with a child in such a special program. For me, this was an excellent and deeply meaningful performance filled with emotion. The organizers and music director combined two voices representing preschool and adult generations, creating an unforgettable moment."

She continued, "My performance lasted only a few minutes, but it's a time I will always remember. Standing in Ba Dinh Square, I didn't feel any pressure, only the need to do my best. During rehearsals and the actual performance, I was moved, sometimes choked up, thinking I wouldn't be able to sing, especially when Uncle Ho's Declaration of Independence was read. I didn't see it as a show but as a chance to express my patriotism and contribute to a glorious day for our country. I feel a responsibility to contribute more to our beloved nation.”

The night before the performance, My Tam shared, "I stayed up all night, but I felt joyful, not tired at all. Many of my colleagues felt the same way."

My Tam sings "Giai dieu tu hao" (Pham Hong Bien) at Ba Dinh Square (Hanoi). The singer says she likes white Ao Dai and often chooses to wear it on important occasions. Photo: Provided by the artist

My Tam discussed her rehearsal with Ha Thuy Tien: "We met the day before the ceremony to practice walking and stage presence. She's very intelligent, bold, confident, well-behaved, and focused. Whatever she was told, she remembered immediately. I think her parents raised her well. I just told her to always smile, walk straight, and place her hand over her heart.”

After the ceremony, My Tam took Ha Thuy Tien to her car and arranged for her to be taken back to the hotel for her parents to pick up. “She was very patient and always listened quietly without showing any fatigue or complaints. She held my hand the whole time, very cute. I really like Ha Thuy Tien and encourage her to continue singing and dancing if that's her passion. I see great potential in her if she pursues the arts," My Tam added.

Reflecting on the 80th National Day and the themes of patriotism and ideals, My Tam said, "I believe patriotism is always in everyone's heart, but how it's expressed depends on the time and circumstance. Personally, I choose to live and work quietly, appreciating everything around me and behaving appropriately."

She described her performance of "Khat vong tuoi tre" before 20,000 spectators at My Dinh National Stadium on the evening of September 1st: "I clearly felt the spirit of patriotism, and I was happy to see that spirit rise and people express it without hesitation. The lyrics inspired me to contribute more." Following her performances at large national concerts, she said, "What remains with me is the feeling of being immersed in the national atmosphere and seeing patriotism everywhere, from children to the elderly."

My Tam also discussed her new music video, "Mua gio thoi tren mai nha": "My hometown in central Vietnam has endured many storms. I just wish all storms would gradually weaken, disappear, or cease to exist altogether. The music video, produced by DTAP, features documentary footage of past storms. The song expresses my thoughts and feelings for the people there: all difficulties will pass, and I wish everyone peace and happiness."

Comparing herself now to 20 years ago, My Tam reflected, "I have learned many valuable lessons from life. I'm more empathetic and always try to remain calm in all situations. Every day, I learn to be composed and reflect on whether I've done good. If not, I find ways to improve and continue learning. I always want to be mindful so that my mind is clear, and I can see things more clearly. It's easier said than done, so I always have to try."

Hoang Dung