In July, Anh Duy celebrated 10 years in the music industry with the release of his music video "Look at You, Are You Still You?" (composed by Tuno). In 2024, he gained significant public recognition through two shows, "Hello, Brother" and "Our Song," with several performances garnering millions of views, such as "Waves Crashing the Shore," "The Poet," and "Love Vietnam So Much." Anh Duy recently spoke about his career and personal life.

- After 10 years in the industry, what do you consider your biggest success?

- In terms of fame, I admit I'm known by the public and have some notable songs. But regarding success, I haven't achieved it yet. I've just overcome a difficult period to stabilize my life and rediscover my passion for music.

I have no regrets and have never compared myself to my colleagues because I understand that art requires "fate." I'm happiest that the audience and colleagues recognize me as a talented singer. In episode 5 of "Hello, Brother," when I had to leave, the moment Duc Phuc cried and asked to be eliminated instead touched me deeply. I thought the competition was my last chance to show the audience my transformation. However, I'm still happy and grateful because the show brought me closer to everyone.

I've realized that every effort will be rewarded, sooner or later. I choose to connect through music, meaning my path has no room for ostentation or intentionally creating noise to be remembered. I may not appear much in the media or on stage, but I believe I still retain a loyal fan base.

Anh Duy on stage mid-year.

- Through the music shows, the audience has noticed you've become more open. Does this change stem from personal experiences or turning points?

- I admit my indecisive thinking and introverted lifestyle hindered me from reaching a wider audience. I used to be very private, just going to work and then home, without many friends. On stage, I wasn't good at talking or interacting, so I was often criticized for being dull.

Through "Hello, Brother," I made many new colleagues. The cheerful, playful personalities of members like Anh Tu and Duc Phuc helped me feel more comfortable. By placing myself in an environment that required expressing personality and creativity, I gradually shed my safe shell.

In "Our Song," I allowed myself to be more playful. I joked about not being afraid to "steal the spotlight" through interactions with the MC and contestants, something I would never have done before.

Now I understand music is not just about singing well, but also about connecting. To do that, I have to truly open up. I think I need to maintain and develop this spirit more in the future.

- After The Voice Vietnam 2015, many contestants became stars, but you seemed to plateau. Why?

- After the competition, the song "City Streets" sustained me through shows in Hanoi while I was still a student. Later, I worked as an independent musician. I knew I needed a hit to survive in the industry, but that's not easy. Back then, the money from shows was only enough for food, travel, and a little support for my family. I even thought about quitting and working in banking, my field of study.

Between 2020 and 2023, there was a time when I didn't have a single singing invitation for six months. I stayed home all day, to the point where my mother offered to find me a night security job. I even considered becoming a ride-hailing driver to earn a living.

The truth was painful, but when I calmed down, I chose to keep my passion and gradually overcome the difficulties. I knew if I stopped singing, I would regret it for the rest of my life. The audience commented that my voice is unique, even though I haven't had any formal training. I need to preserve and develop that strength.

In 2024, I decided to move south, had the opportunity to appear at many events and concerts. I also found like-minded colleagues to develop with. I listen to music by Gen Z artists, learning from their creativity and catching up with modern music trends. In terms of appearance, the audience also sees a more liberal and stylish Pham Anh Duy, knowing how to coordinate outfits with accessories for a more "cool" look.

Anh Duy performing in the US in July.

- What lessons have you learned to continue developing yourself?

- I believe the most important thing for an artist on stage is maintaining positive energy. When facing challenges, if you let yourself fall easily, it's no different than admitting defeat and cowardice.

Independence and knowing what I need and what to do are my top priorities for the next stage of my career. I used to sing while also sewing buttons, ironing clothes, doing makeup, and styling my hair without an assistant. I've never felt resentful or self-pitying about it, but rather grateful for those difficult days. Looking back, I realize those hardships have made me more mature and resilient.

- What is your current career philosophy?

- In my twenties, I wanted to be famous and prove my talent. Now, I want to create value through my work. Spotlight, fame, or even money are important factors, but not everything now. I still value learning, following the examples of seniors and colleagues, and embracing the creativity of Gen Z.

My biggest concern is how to maintain the trust of the audience in general and my fan club, Oil Family, in particular. Many have supported me for 10 years. Standing on the "Hello, Brother" concert stage before tens of thousands of people, I dreamed of having my own stage one day, maybe not too big, but enough space for everyone to be close. I'm working hard to make that dream a reality soon.

I still prefer self-reliance in my career and am hesitant to ask for help or rely on others. For my recent releases, I invested all my savings without borrowing or seeking sponsorship.

I work with gratitude towards my colleagues and seniors. I'll always remember the time I was eliminated early from the "Hidden Singer" competition. As I was leaving, Tran Thanh, a judge at the time, came over and gave me a piece of cake. We met again at "Rap Viet" season two, talked more, and got to know each other better. When I released my music video, he gave me feedback and even shared it on Facebook to promote the project, which brought tears to my eyes. Recently, when I moved south, Tran Thanh and his wife gave me a lot of advice and introduced me to connections and opportunities to develop my career. I cherish that support and see it as motivation to work harder.

Pham Anh Duy with fans at the "Brother Overcomes Thousands of Obstacles" concert in May in Hung Yen.

- What are your current personal concerns?

My family has always been supportive and understanding of my singing career. My father passed away early, leaving my mother and younger sister. For years, my mother has given us everything. The years the three of us lived in a rented house less than 20 square meters are unforgettable memories.

Life is less difficult now, but deep down, I always want to provide for them. My mother never wants to be a burden, but as the man of the house, I can't be indifferent.

Currently, most of my time is dedicated to music. I try to balance work to avoid affecting my health and choose a frugal lifestyle. I'm not concerned about personal matters like romantic relationships. My mother understands the pressure I'm under, so she doesn't push me about marriage or children. I'm not afraid of being single because I'm still young (laughs).

Pham Anh Duy, 33, is from Hanoi. He gained recognition after competing on The Voice Vietnam 2015, where he was on coach Thu Phuong's team. He was praised for his unique voice and wide vocal range. He later won "Dream Start," and served as a supporting vocalist on "Rap Viet" season two, helping many contestants shine.

He has released music videos such as "Seasons Passing Through the Streets," "I Wait for You," "Divas (Goddesses)," the "Musick Calendar" music project, and the mini-album "Trio for Rain."

Tan Cao

Photos, videos: Provided by the artist