Singer-songwriter Phan Manh Quynh: I don't think I'm a showbiz person.

Phan Manh Quynh is affectionately nicknamed "king of film music" of Vietnam by the audience.

The newly released album "CineLove" includes previously released soundtrack songs, possessing gentle, profound melodies, and bearing Phan Manh Quynh's own identity. "CineLove" takes the audience through many emotions.

Reporter: Why did it take you 10 years to make an album and 6 years to do a live show even though you had a great influence?

Singer and musician Phan Manh Quynh. (Photo provided by the character)

- Singer - musician PHAN MANH QUYNH: To do a live show or concert, a huge investment is needed. What is brought to the audience in the program must be really special. Firstly, some songs may sound very good when listened to, but to perform on stage, there needs to be something a little different. Secondly, although I have worked in the profession and have some popular songs, in the programs I have participated in before, the number of songs performed is usually limited, only about 4-5 songs.

Regarding the album, I admit that I am a bit of a perfectionist. I want the album to have a story revolving around a specific character or theme. If it was just a collection of songs, I would have released it a few years ago.

Looking back on my career, I realize that I am loved by the audience through the songs in the film and have special feelings for these compositions. Besides, I have a number of unreleased songs that are in line with the musical direction I want to pursue. That is the reason I chose this time to release the album. This first album will revolve around love, encapsulating what the audience knows through "Mat biec", "Co mot chuyen tinh", plus a few songs like "Datanla" and "Hoa mat troi". I feel this is the right time to leave a mark on my career journey.

You are a good person. So being famous in the glamorous showbiz, does it make you lose?

- Personally, I don't see any loss because after many years of looking back, I have had wonderful friends and colleagues. I'm very shy in crowded places. That seems to be part of my personality and I don't find it easy to change. The important thing is that I have my own home, loving audiences and colleagues who always appreciate me. That's enough happiness.

First time doing a live show, did you feel pressured?

- Yes. The biggest pressure is to have a really good and convincing performance, to have a smooth combination with the guests and to bring interesting things through the stories that I tell. I hope to bring happy moments to the audience who take the time to watch the live show.

What is the highlight of the live show? What will make the audience remember Phan Manh Quynh and his music forever?

- The program will be a comprehensive picture of life, going through many memories and emotions. There, I will have the opportunity to tell everyone about the journey of creating songs that have been loved by the audience. This is also an opportunity for me to express gratitude to some important people in my life. Appearing in the program, I am not only a storyteller, but also a main character in that film, creating unforgettable memories with the audience.

What are your career criteria?

- The most important criterion for me is respect for this job. I feel lucky to be able to do what I love. When composing and releasing songs to the audience, I always put meticulousness first. In addition, I also try to practice my voice and physical strength, so that each time I perform, I can bring the audience the best performance possible.

What affects your life when you become famous?

- In my line of work, being known by many people is very important, and it is also very good for my work. However, as an introvert, I often feel shy when going to crowded places and meeting new people. That is why I often wear a mask, glasses and a hat when going with family or friends, so that I can chat comfortably without feeling too pressured.

What destination do you desire?

- At this stage of my life, I wish for peace, warmth and health for my loved ones. Because since turning 30, I have lost many loved ones, which was almost unprecedented. Regarding work, I wish to have more confidence and understanding on how to make a program emotional and professional.

What makes the lyrics in your songs touch the hearts of listeners so strongly?

- In daily life, when I am with my loved ones and friends, I am quite cheerful and always want to bring joy to them. However, when composing, I put all my heart into the character. I always feel like I am living in that story, from there I choose lyrics and ideas to convince myself first, and then I will try to gradually perfect them.

What is your obsession?

- Obsession may have a different meaning, but for me it is happiness. I not only want myself but also those around me, especially my family and loved ones, to be happy.

What about your current wishes?

- Now, all my focus is on the upcoming live show. I hope everyone will come and feel happy. I will try to do my best, bring good music, along with a perfect stage to create sincere emotions for the audience. I also hope that I will be able to share happy stories, positive moments for everyone to take home, thereby giving them more confidence and motivation to continue pursuing their journey.

"Sometimes I start a song this year, but it takes a few years to complete it, to gain more experience and vocabulary. Everyone has their own way of doing things, and right now I think this is best for my songs.

The live concert "Winter Train" will take place in Ho Chi Minh City on January 4, 2025 with two guests My Tam and Bui Cong Nam; "Spring Train" will take place in Hanoi on March 22, 2025.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/ca-nhac-si-phan-manh-quynh-toi-khong-nghi-minh-la-nguoi-cua-showbiz-196241207203931002.htm