In the vibrant world of Vietnamese pop music, the recent release of "Thở" by Thể Thiên and tlinh marks a significant evolution in their artistic journey. Following their youthful debut with the hit "SAIGONTEY", this new track showcases a more mature and captivating vibe, reflecting the artists' growth and exploration of deeper themes.
"Thở", categorized under Pop R&B, specifically embraces the popular genres of Amapiano and Astrobeats, which have been taking the global music scene by storm. These genres are characterized by their energetic beats and catchy rhythms, making them a staple at major music festivals like Coachella and a favorite among social media platforms. The infusion of these contemporary musical styles into "Thở" signifies that Thể Thiên and his team, including producer Pixel Neko, are keenly attuned to the evolving musical landscape.
Adding a unique flavor to the track is An Trần, the daughter of renowned saxophonist Trần Mạnh Tuấn. Known for her previous performances, including her sax solo in Wren Evans' "Fashion Nova" and collaborations with Mỹ Anh at jazz events, An Trần's contribution elevates the song's emotional depth. The saxophone's smooth melodies blend seamlessly with the vibrant beats, enhancing the overall listening experience.
The lyrics of "Thở" are described as free-flowing and evocative, aiming to resonate with listeners on a personal level. They capture the essence of human emotions, allowing the audience to connect with the narrative being told. The song has been rated 16+ across all platforms, indicating that its themes are intended for a more mature audience.
Thể Thiên's team has taken proactive steps to ensure that the content is appropriate for its intended audience. A representative from the team stated, "We have implemented age restrictions on all release platforms to ensure a fitting experience and to respect our audience. In music, everyone has the right to be authentic and open about their feelings and desires, so 'Thở' is not provocative but rather a space for honesty and maturity." This approach emphasizes the importance of creating a safe environment for listeners to engage with the music.
The music video for "Thở", directed by Lâm Đạo Đạo, showcases the artistic vision behind the song. Lâm, who previously collaborated with Thể Thiên on "SAIGONTEY", opted for a simple yet effective visual style. He explained, "For this collaboration between Thể Thiên and tlinh, I chose a straightforward approach with gentle camera movements and transitions. The details and connections in the video allow viewers to use their imagination and feel their own emotions in each frame and lyric. Each line sung by Thể Thiên and tlinh, combined with the effects and visuals, enables the audience to perceive every touch, breath, and even curve." This thoughtful direction enhances the song's emotional impact, inviting viewers to immerse themselves fully in the experience.
In parallel to the release of "Thở", Thiều Bảo Trâm debuted her own single titled "Không lời", written by musician Trid Minh. This track also falls within the Pop R&B genre and features a strikingly different presentation from her earlier works. In the music video, Thiều Bảo Trâm portrays a strong and liberated character navigating an undefined relationship with international beauty pageant winner Trịnh Bảo.
The narrative of "Không lời" conveys a powerful message about personal growth and empowerment. The female protagonist transitions from a passive role of waiting to an active stance of valuing herself and decisively stepping away from an ambiguous relationship. This theme of self-discovery and assertiveness resonates strongly with many listeners, particularly in today’s context of shifting societal norms.
While Thiều Bảo Trâm's song reflects a personal journey, both "Thở" and "Không lời" underscore the evolving landscape of Vietnamese pop music, where artists are increasingly exploring themes of maturity and emotional depth. The emergence of Amapiano and Astrobeats into mainstream Vietnamese music signifies a broader acceptance of global influences, enriching the local soundscape.
As the music industry continues to evolve, the collaboration between Thể Thiên, tlinh, and An Trần in "Thở" exemplifies how artists can blend traditional elements with contemporary styles to create something truly unique. The positive reception of these songs suggests a promising future for Vietnamese pop, as artists find innovative ways to connect with their audiences through relatable themes and engaging sounds.
In conclusion, the releases of "Thở" and "Không lời" not only highlight the artistic growth of Thể Thiên and Thiều Bảo Trâm but also reflect the dynamic nature of the Vietnamese music scene. With their fresh approaches and meaningful messages, these artists are carving out their identities in a competitive industry, inviting listeners to join them on their journeys of self-discovery and expression.
