(VOVWORLD) - The fusion of modern music with folk cultural elements has become a remarkable phenomenon in Vietnam’s contemporary music scene. This trend not only inherits and honors traditional values but also demonstrates great creativity and innovation within Vietnam’s music industry. Many singers and musicians, embracing this trend, have been contributing to the diversity and vibrancy of the music landscape while preserving and promoting traditional culture.
 Hoa Minzy and her team incorporate many cultural elements of Bac Ninh into their new music project. (Screenshot) |
Since its release in early March, the music video “Bac Bling” by singer Hoa Minzy, in collaboration with Meritorious Artist Xuan Hinh and rapper Tuan Cry, has become a sensation in the Vietnamese music industry.
Starting with a modern melody, the artists have seamlessly incorporated many traditional elements, creating a song that appeals to audiences of all ages. The lyrics of “Bac Bling” were inspired by ancient Vietnamese folk songs, proverbs, and idioms. Featured in the music video are aspects of traditional culture such as Dong Ho paintings, Huu Chap village’s tug-of-war contest, Quan Ho folk singing at the Lim festival, and old Vietnamese customs like betel chewing, blackened teeth, and Mother Goddess worship.
The video also highlights famous landmarks in Bac Ninh province such as Dau pagoda, Do temple, the Bac Ninh Quan Ho Folk Song Theater, and the Phu Lang pottery village.
The song, understandably popular in Vietnam, has also gone viral worldwide, setting several records. It surpassed 63 million views within two weeks of release, topped several online music charts in Vietnam, ranked 15th on the global weekly streaming chart, and was among the top 20 most-streamed songs in countries and territories like Australia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan (China), the Czech Republic, Japan, Germany, and Canada.
“The MV is well-organized and harmonious in terms of music, production, and costumes, all showcasing a fusion of modern and traditional elements. The song expresses the artist’s love for her homeland. Through the MV, people can learn more about Bac Ninh as a land of extraordinary people and cultural heritages. It’s also a good way to attract more visitors and boost tourism development in Bac Ninh,” said composer Giang Son.
Revitalizing traditional music through fusions of folk and contemporary elements and collaborations between veteran and emerging artists has become a trend in recent years.
Several young artists have had success with this approach, including Hoang Thuy Linh, Ha Myo, Hoa Minzy, and Phuong My Chi. Folk music has been fused with pop, rap, and world music in projects like “Listen to mother’s lullaby” by People’s Artist Bach Tuyet featuring singer Hoang Dung; “Call and response singing by the boat side” by Quan AP which combines Bac Ninh’s Quan Ho folk songs with rap and EDM; and “Hanoi Xam” by Ha Myo which mixes Xam singing with rap and electronic music. These innovative approaches have all received a strong critical response.
“I love the song ‘Day xe bo’ (Pushing the ox cart) by Phuong My Chi because of its catchy melody. The singer has successfully integrated Vietnamese folk culture with modern musical elements, which I find very impressive.”
“The incorporation of folk elements into music is a smart direction. First, it showcases the artists’ musical creativity and talent. Additionally, it creates curiosity and attracts audiences. I like the song ‘Floating cake’ by Hoang Thuy Linh.”
Creative use of traditional elements has expanded the reach of local culture. More and more artists are incorporating folk materials into their work.
 Music researcher Nguyen Quang Long (Photo courtesy of Nguyen Quang Long) |
According to music researcher Nguyen Quang Long, the graceful and innovative fusion of folk elements by today’s young singers is making younger generations view the traditional arts in a new light.
“I believe Vietnamese traditional music has immense value. When traditional folk songs are mixed with contemporary musical elements, they have a new appeal for today’s youth,” Long said.
Dr. Nguyen Khanh Ly, a vocal music lecturer at the Vietnam National Academy of Music, says songs incorporating folk elements are a positive trend in Vietnamese music. They reflect a love for the homeland while giving contemporary music a fresh identity.
“A refined and selective approach to traditional music materials not only deepens the sophistication of Vietnamese music but also allows listeners to absorb the cultural identity of Vietnam through well-curated folk-based songs. Integrating Vietnamese cultural elements fosters the artists’ creativity while strengthening patriotism and national pride,” said Ly.
Today’s young artists have found ways to revitalize traditional Vietnamese values, transforming them into music that resonates with both domestic and international audiences. Incorporating Vietnam’s cultural heritage into modern music affirms the enduring value of Vietnam’s identity.