Duc Phuc's Intervision 2025 win on 20/9 was well-deserved, according to Russian media. His performance of "Phu Dong Thien Vuong" (Saint Giong, the Sky King) seamlessly blended traditional and modern elements. Musician Huy Tuan praised the performance as a testament to high-quality, meticulously crafted music production. He noted that Duc Phuc's reliance on a domestic team, including the stage director, choreographer, and dancers, instead of seeking outside support, underscored Vietnam's artistic strengths and contributed to his victory.

Duc Phuc's performance was a harmonious blend of audio and visual elements. Renowned Russian commentator Yana Churikova described it as one of the most complexly staged performances at Intervision 2025. "Every step, every detail was carefully calculated to maximize the use of the stage," she told Van Hoa newspaper.

The competition format limited each performer to a maximum of six people on stage. Duc Phuc performed with four dancers, utilizing props such as conical hats, bamboo models, and flags. The LED screen provided context for the legend of Saint Giong ascending to heaven on an iron horse. Lifting platforms, smoke, and fire effects further enhanced the performance's appeal.

The singer prepared for the performance over two months with the support of numerous collaborators. He and his 14-member team, including dancers, arrived in Russia on 11/9 and underwent four rehearsals on the main stage. Duong Mai Viet Anh, the stage director for "Phu Dong Thien Vuong," explained that he used familiar images like bamboo and a modern, vibrant depiction of Saint Giong to capture the song's essence. "We maximized the use of the organizer's stage technology and arranged it to best showcase iconic Vietnamese imagery," he stated.

The stage explodes with effects during Duc Phuc's performance. Photo: Provided by the artist

Duc Phuc's song choice aligned perfectly with the competition's theme: fostering international cultural and humanitarian cooperation and promoting traditional values. Composed by Ho Hoai Anh and arranged by producer Duong K, the piece draws inspiration from Nguyen Duy's poem "Tre Viet Nam" (Vietnamese Bamboo) and the legend of Saint Giong. Prior to the final, the organizers released the competing songs in audio format on the program's music platform. "Phu Dong Thien Vuong" garnered significant attention, topping the listening charts.

"I wanted to share a story rich in cultural identity," Duc Phuc explained. "The song symbolizes strength and resilience. I felt it was important to combine epic elements with modern music to create a performance that resonated with both domestic audiences and international viewers, helping them understand Vietnamese culture better."

He began by singing four famous verses from the poem: "Green bamboo, green since when? From ancient times, there's been a green bamboo bank. Slender body, fragile leaves. But how can it become a rampart, a fortress, oh bamboo?". Duc Phuc employed a staccato singing style, creating a striking effect against the backdrop of futurebass-infused flute music. As the song progressed, EDM influences created a majestic atmosphere. Traditional instruments like the dan bau (monochord) and dan tranh (zither) were also incorporated.

Beyond the music, Duc Phuc invested in his wardrobe, changing into two outfits during the three-minute performance. In addition to armor adorned with bamboo imagery, he also wore an ao dai (traditional Vietnamese dress) featuring Dong Ho folk painting motifs. Fashion director Kye Nguyen described Duc Phuc as meticulous in every aspect. "I've worked with many stars, and Duc Phuc is one of the most perfectionistic, always knowing what he wants. His dedication contributed to the success everyone witnessed," he said.

Compared to the other 21 contestants, Duc Phuc's performance stood out. Representatives from China, Kyrgyzstan, and Serbia possessed impressive vocals but remained largely stationary on stage.

Shaman, a strong contender from the host country, requested that the judges not score his performance as a gesture of hospitality, paving the way for Duc Phuc's victory. Shaman, a renowned Russian singer frequently featured at major events, delivered a performance widely praised for its emotionality and exceptional vocals.

Duc Phuc holds the trophy amidst cheering fans. Photo: Provided by the artist

According to Regnum, Duc Phuc acknowledged that his chances of winning improved after Shaman's decision. "If Shaman had continued to compete and hadn't declined the judges' evaluation, my chances might have been lower," he said. "I really enjoyed his vocal warm-up, and his song choice was also excellent."

Duc Phuc poses for a photo after the competition. Photo: Provided by the artist

Some audience members noted that Duc Phuc's lyrics weren't always clear and that his high notes and falsetto weren't flawless, becoming somewhat overshadowed by the stage production towards the end. However, the majority agreed that overall, his performance left a lasting impression. Duc Phuc expressed his openness to all feedback.

The victory marks a significant milestone in Duc Phuc's career. Ten years ago, also on 20/9, he won the "The Voice of Vietnam" competition, launching his singing career. Audiences familiar with his ballad successes were surprised by his rapping and dancing. Through this performance, he demonstrated his versatility and willingness to evolve.

"This moment at Intervision 2025 will forever be etched in my heart," Duc Phuc said. "I hope that from this milestone, Vietnamese music will gain even wider recognition."

Originally known as the Intervision Song Contest, the competition was initiated by the International Radio and Television Organisation (OIRT). From 1965 to 1968, it was held 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. After 1980, the competition was discontinued.

Returning after over 40 years, this year’s competition attracted contestants 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, and Uzbekistan. Saudi Arabia will host the competition next year.

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" (Your Sunshine), "Ta Con Yeu Nhau" (We Still Love Each Other), "Con Yeu Dau Ai Roi Di" (Who Leaves While Still in Love?), "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 for participating in the first season of "Brother Who's Drunk" and reaching the final Best Five.

Tan Cao - Thu Dung