Amidst the bustling Tet atmosphere, the male singer chose a quiet cut, aiming for the fates of people who cannot return to their homeland on time for reunion.
Foreign" is a composition by Phan Manh Quynh, once loved by audiences for its slow melody, simple but emotional lyrics. The song tells the story of a son leaving his hometown to work far away, carrying hope of changing his life but facing loneliness, homesickness and hurried calls to his mother every night.
In the new version, Phan Dinh Tung does not innovate according to the market direction, but maintains the original spirit, while putting on the song an orchestral color with piano, cello, violin and drums, creating a more solemn and deeper musical space. His powerful, thick and experienced voice helps the song bring more emotional depth, instead of just stopping at ordinary sadness.
Not choosing a melancholic way of expression, Phan Dinh Tung emphasized the element of hope in the song. "Foreign" not only tells about longing, but is also a motivation for those who accept to trade their youth to take care of their families. The image of "a blue sunshine... returning in radiant eyes" is considered a spiritual support for those living far from home.
The MV is directed by Mr. To, not focusing on a personal story, but reflecting the general picture of millions of Vietnamese workers abroad: long working shifts, calls that only dare to say "I'm okay", hidden injuries to reassure people in the countryside. Minimalist images, controlled colors, help the story be closer to real life.
Among many festival-themed music products, Phan Dinh Tung's "Foreign" chose to go slowly, as a gentle reminder that not everyone is present at the year-end meal. Sometimes, the simplest thing – being home – is the biggest wish of many people.
Phan Dinh Tung shared: "Tung wants the MV'Foreign' to reflect the true spirit of the song - the story of a child away from home to earn a living. In a foreign land, the character only hopes that each call home is enough to reassure his mother, even though he has to hide a lot of fatigue and hurt.
