The duo's collaboration comes after their shared stage appearance at Tuyet Dinh Tranh Tai in 2015. Pham Anh Khoa said he immediately thought of Pham Thu Ha for the project, believing their distinct vocal styles and musical genres would create a unique sound.

Written by Pham Anh Khoa in 2018, "Dan Toi Ca" is now complete. "The song reflects my perspective and tells a story of returning to one's roots—where songs intertwine with the nation's heartbeat," Khoa said.

The song celebrates the resilience of a people who have overcome challenges for thousands of years to create peace and prosperity, expressed in lyrics like "Proud Vietnam, standing tall for a thousand years" and "I love Vietnam in every folk song."

The song's bright, powerful melody blends rock with traditional and semi-classical influences. The erhu played by artist Duong Thuy Anh and the guitar by Ha Tra Da further enhance the song.

Pham Anh Khoa shared that with age and experience, his perspective on life has deepened. He believes singing about love for people and country requires sincerity, not grand gestures. For years, he has focused his music on celebrating culture. His previous releases, "Ra Khoi," "Ngua O Thuong Nho," and "Ly Qua Keu," were all well-received.

Pham Thu Ha said she immediately accepted Khoa's invitation after hearing the demo because she resonated with its spirit and message. In the recording studio, they worked together to preserve their individual styles while creating a fresh, harmonious blend.

"Khoa is more serene now. I liken his rock vocals to the rugged earth and my semi-classical style to the soaring sky. I hope this intersection creates a unique color for the song," she said.

Pham Anh Khoa, 40, is a rock musician. He rose to fame in Sao Mai Diem Hen 2006, winning the Best Singer award from the judges. He has been playing with the band Buc Tuong for many years.

Pham Thu Ha, 43, from Hai Phong, holds a Master's degree in vocal music from the Vietnam National Academy of Music. She entered the music scene in 2012 with her album "Classic Meets Chillout," which blends classical music with electronic sounds, winning the Cong Hien award. She later gained recognition with albums like "Tua Nhu Gio Phieu Du," "Ha Noi Yeu," and "Cham," earning the title "semi-classical nightingale." Pham Thu Ha is a single mother.

Tan Cao

Photos, video: Provided by the artists