The album, released in mid-June, featured 30 songs, with many tracks garnering millions of listens. Recently, some listeners voiced complaints that the album contained vulgar language and suggestive imagery perceived to be related to stimulants.
On the afternoon of 31/7, MCK, whose real name is Nghiem Vu Hoang Long, issued an apology to his audience and removed several songs from the album across various online platforms. He stated that he recognized the shortcomings of using inappropriate language in an artistic product, following discussions with the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports and other relevant authorities.
Currently, on MCK's YouTube channel, many album tracks such as "Tay Thi" and "Liem dan" display a "Video unavailable" notice. On Spotify, the entire "HVL" album has been hidden.
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Rapper MCK. Photo: MCK Fanpage |
Rapper MCK. Photo: MCK Fanpage
Furthermore, his team announced plans to revise the recordings, eliminating any language that violates legal regulations, before considering their re-release. MCK will also request partners to cease the exploitation and circulation of these recordings to limit their spread. "Despite having issued warnings to listeners, I still failed in my responsibility by allowing many unsuitable audiences to access the content on some other public platforms," he said.
According to the rapper, the album was crafted from his personal emotions and the experiences of right and wrong encountered throughout his journey of growth. He clarified that the album's overarching message aims for positivity after overcoming hardships, leading to self-improvement and refinement. "I had no intention of implying or promoting illegal behavior," he stated.
On 30/7, a representative from the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports confirmed receiving media feedback regarding MCK's music product containing vulgar lyrics. The regulatory agency invited the rapper for a meeting on 28/7 to discuss and clarify the content. The Department continues to coordinate its review and consideration of the matter in accordance with legal provisions.
"The Department's stance is to always respect the freedom of artistic creation for organizations and individuals. This right must be exercised within the legal framework, coupled with social responsibility, contributing to a healthy cultural environment consistent with the nation's moral values," the Department representative explained.
MCK, 27 years old, first gained significant attention during the first season of Rap Viet in 2020, as part of Karik's team. Program judges lauded him as a "genius" for his captivating flow transitions while rapping. The rapper is known for popular songs such as "Chim sau", "Giau vi ban, sang vi vo", and "Danh doi". In 2022, his hit song "Chim sau" won a top 10 favorite song award at Lan Song Xanh. He is currently one of the most streamed Vietnamese rappers on Spotify, with millions of monthly listeners.
Numerous singers have previously removed their music following criticism of inappropriate imagery or lyrics. In mid-April, Jun Pham withdrew his music video "Truth or Dare" from online platforms after feedback suggested the product contained "sexual innuendo". At the time, his team cited a "spirit of receptiveness and respect for the audience" as the reason for halting the release. Regulatory authorities subsequently worked with Jun Pham and his team, advising them to learn from the experience and avoid recurrence.
Mai Nhat
