Singer On Vinh Quang revealed his health condition for the first time at a press conference introducing his music video (MV) "Men Nuoc Mat" ("The Dregs of Tears"), marking his return to the music scene after a three-year hiatus. He admitted to keeping his hearing loss a secret from family and friends. Recently, he has had to wear a hearing aid device while performing.
According to On Vinh Quang, three years ago, he nearly suffered a stroke during a performance but was fortunate to receive prompt medical attention. Afterwards, he experienced several complications, including a persistent ringing in his right ear. After unsuccessful treatment, doctors concluded he had completely lost hearing in his right ear. "I was extremely stressed because I knew if I couldn't hear music, my singing career might be over," he said.
The singer took a three-year break from singing, returning to his hometown to live with his parents. In 2023, he accepted an invitation to appear on a program produced by MC Nguyen Khang, performing the song "Chi Con Nhung Mua Nho" ("Only Memories Remain"). The audience's positive response helped him rediscover his passion for music.
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Singer On Vinh Quang says he has regained confidence in life and his passion for music after many events. |
He began training himself to perceive music with his remaining ear. Initially, he struggled to pinpoint the direction of sounds and keep up with the music while singing. He acknowledged that his vocal prowess and confidence were not what they once were. The singer felt discouraged by his less emotive performances. He recalled a time when he accepted a show but performed so poorly that he refused payment and apologized to the audience.
Gradually, he learned to remain calm and focused on stage, avoiding distractions. After a period of adjustment, Vinh Quang said his ability to perceive music with his left ear has improved. He wants to continue pursuing his passion and live up to the expectations of his supporters.
The song "Men Nuoc Mat," composed by Nguyen Phu Qui, tells the story of a man's heartbreak after a breakup. The songwriter uses two juxtaposed images to imply that tears, like the dregs of wine, also have a bitter taste. On Vinh Quang invested all his savings, along with contributions from friends, to create his most ambitious music video to date.
He said that throughout his 12-year singing career, the love from his fans has been his motivation. Following the release of the MV, he plans to collaborate with composers Nguyen Van Chung and Pham Hong Thuan, releasing new projects in late 2025 and early 2026.
On Vinh Quang expressed gratitude for his family's understanding and support of his choices. He also thanked his same-sex partner for constant encouragement. He proposed to his partner in early 2024, and they currently live together in TP HCM.
In addition to his hearing loss, the singer is managing other health conditions, including diabetes and cardiovascular issues, due to his weight exceeding 100 kg. A previous traffic accident resulted in a torn ligament and muscle damage. "Losing weight is more challenging now. However, I'm committed to maintaining my health through light exercise and a healthy diet. I remain optimistic, especially with the love and support of my family and friends," he shared.
On Vinh Quang, 31, is from TP HCM. He publicly came out as gay while competing in "Ai Se Thanh Sao" ("Who Will Become a Star") in 2017 and received support from judges Minh Tuyet and Quang Dung. He later competed in "Nguoi Hat Tinh Ca" ("The Ballad Singer") and won second place.
In 2018, he gained further recognition with the song "Di Tim Tinh Yeu" ("Searching for Love") (Korean music, Vietnamese lyrics by Dinh Trung Chinh), featured in the soundtrack of the TV drama "Gao Nep Gao Te" ("Sticky Rice, Plain Rice"). The song won the Most Favorite Song award at the 2018 Mai Vang Awards.
Tan Cao
