Duc Phuc triumphed at the Intervision Song Contest in Moscow, Russia, on the evening of 20/9 (early morning of 21/9, Hanoi time). He performed "Phu Dong Thien Vuong," a song composed by Ho Hoai Anh and inspired by Nguyen Duy's poem "Tre Viet Nam" (Bamboo of Vietnam) and the legend of Saint Giong.
The Vietnamese singer's victory garnered significant attention from Russian media. Outlets such as Regnum, Ria, and Lenta noted Duc Phuc's ability to embody the Vietnamese national spirit through his performance. Vz reported that People's Artist of Russia Igor Matviyenko, one of the judges, described the Vietnamese representative's performance as "outstanding."
"Vietnam has a story about its national origins and interesting costumes. The performance was modern, dramatic, and captivating," Matviyenko said. He also acknowledged the challenging nature of the competition due to the high caliber of participants.
RG praised Duc Phuc's strong, beautiful voice and passionate performance. Writer Alexander Alekseev commented, "The artist's performance was unique, from the use of folk melodies to the choice of costume. Everything exuded the characteristic colors and beauty of Vietnamese tradition,".
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Duc Phuc and dancers wearing conical hats on stage. Photo: Intervision |
Regnum reported that in an interview, Duc Phuc acknowledged his increased chances of winning after the host country's representative, Shaman (Yaroslav Dronov), withdrew from judging to give other contestants a better opportunity. Duc Phuc praised Shaman's song and expressed admiration for his style.
Duc Phuc also shared his intention to donate a portion of his prize money to a Russian charity. He also plans to learn Russian, compose a song in the language, and collaborate with local artists.
Kyrgyzstan's Nomad Trio secured second place (373 points) with their song "Zhalgyz Saga" (Only for You). Media described their performance as a harmonious blend of traditional Kyrgyz elements and modern arrangements, highlighting the richness of their national culture. Qatari singer Dana Al Meer came in third (369 points) with her composition "Huwa Dha Anta" (It's You). All contestants were established musicians in their respective countries, with experience in major competitions and musical events.
Originally known as the Intervision Song Contest, the competition was initiated by the International Radio and Television Organisation (OIRT). From 1965 to 1968, it took place in Czechoslovakian cities like Prague, Bratislava, and Karlovy Vary. From 1977 to 1980, Intervision was revived in Sopot, Poland, replacing the Sopot International Song Festival. The competition was discontinued after 1980.
This year, the event attracted participants from Cuba, Kyrgyzstan, China, Egypt, the US, Kenya, Kazakhstan, UAE, Russia, Brazil, Tajikistan, Qatar, Madagascar, Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Ethiopia, Venezuela, Serbia, South Africa, Vietnam, Belarus, Uzbekistan, and India. Contestants performed in their native languages. The performance order was determined by a draw on 12/9. According to Reuters, the US contestant withdrew at the last minute. Saudi Arabia will host next year's competition.
Duc Phuc accepted the invitation from Vietnam's Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism to participate. Each contestant prepared a performance of a popular song from their country or a new composition. A maximum of six people, including the main singer, backing vocalists, and dancers, were allowed on stage. Each country appointed a jury member, with Vietnam represented by musician Trong Dai.
Nguyen Duc Phuc, 28, from Hanoi, won The Voice of Vietnam in 2015 under the mentorship of My Tam. His hits include "Anh Nang Cua Anh" (My Sunshine), "Ta Con Yeu Nhau" (We Still Love Each Other), "Con Yeu Dau Ai Roi Di" (Still in Love, No One Leaves), "Hon Ca Yeu" (More Than Love), "Nguoi Oi Nguoi O Dung Ve" (Don't Go Home, My Love), and "Ngay Dau Sau Chia Tay" (The First Day After Breaking Up). In 2024, Duc Phuc gained attention on the first season of "Brother Who's Drunk," making it to the final Best Five.
Phuong Thao
