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Vietnamese folk songs

Vietnamese folk songs: Famous songs across 3 regions & their meanings

14/09/2023 2.568 views
4.5/5 - (2 votes)

Uncover the beauty and diversity of Vietnamese folk songs, each echoing the nation’s history and heritage. From the north to the south, explore how they encapsulate the essence of Vietnam, resonating through time and culture.
Vietnamese folk songs capture the essence of daily life in Vietnam

Vietnamese folk songs capture the essence of daily life in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Vietnamese folk songs are more than just musical notes; they are living narratives of Vietnam’s soul. These songs have a long history and have been handed down through the generations, preserving the customs, feelings, and tales of the nation. Explore the captivating world of Vietnamese folk music as we travel from the lush landscapes of Northern Vietnam to the vibrant culture of the South.

1. Popular Northern Vietnamese folk songs

With stunning scenery and an extensive cultural heritage, Northern Vietnam has lots of beautiful Vietnamese folk songs. The Vietnamese people are deeply familiar with these musical treasures, which encapsulate the essence of the culture and history of the country. 

1.1. Co la

The “Co la” melody is a lyrical masterpiece that captures the essence of the region’s rural life. Originally sung by hard-working farmers in the countryside, this folk song of Vietnam has transcended its rural roots and found a place on professional stages. Its lyrical adaptability allows it to seamlessly incorporate a wide range of verses, creating a hypnotic refrain that leaves a lasting impression on the listeners.

Exploring the countryside, you will often hear the strains of Vietnamese folk songs

Exploring the countryside, you will often hear the strains of Vietnamese folk songs (Source: Collected)

1.2. Trong com

“Tinh bang co cai trong com” – this phrase is the heart and soul of a song that is arguably the only ode to a traditional Vietnamese musical instrument. The “trong com” holds a special place in the Vietnamese cultural landscape, often making its presence felt during the festive spring celebrations. This traditional Vietnamese song, like the instrument it celebrates, evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing, particularly among the Vietnamese diaspora around the world who yearn for their cultural roots during the Lunar New Year.

1.3. Se chi luon kim

“Se chi luon kim” is an exquisite Vietnamese folk song that exudes grace and simplicity through its melody. It is a quintessential representation of the straightforward and heartfelt nature of the Vietnamese people. What sets it apart is its orchestral performances that utilize traditional instruments, infusing this folk song of Vietnam with both familiarity and captivation.

Vietnamese traditional music encompasses a wide range of genres and instruments

Vietnamese traditional music encompasses a wide range of genres and instruments (Source: Collected)

1.4. Cay da quan doc

The Vietnamese folk song “Cay da quan doc” paints vivid imagery of the charming landscapes found in the northern villages of Vietnam. It portrays scenes of ancient banyan trees, village crossroads, betel nut trees, wandering birds, and rosy-cheeked girls. The lyrics resonate with the unique cultural elements of northern Vietnam’s countryside and therefore evoke a profound sense of nostalgia for the simple and tranquil village life.

1.5. Truc mai

“Truc mai” is a Vietnamese folk song that carries the delicate nuances of our ancestors’ poetic expressions. It uses allegorical language to convey a sense of disappointment or reproach in love relationships, transcending mere words to create a deeply emotional connection with the listener.

The melodies of traditional Vietnamese folk music are known for their soothing qualities

The melodies of traditional Vietnamese folk music are known for their soothing qualities (Source: Collected)

1.6. Qua cau gio bay

This Vietnamese folk song is an enduring quan ho folk song that has been cherished across the regions of Vietnam for generations. It weaves a tale of love between young couples, blending romance, tenderness, passion, and the courage to defy societal norms for love. It is a testament to the dedication and commitment of lovers in times gone by, as well as a reminder of the timeless power of love.

1.7. Cay truc xinh

The bamboo tree, a familiar presence in the lives of the Vietnamese people, often stands as a symbol of resilience amidst harsh weather conditions. In Quan Ho folk songs, the imagery of the “cay truc” (bamboo tree) is used to praise the virtuous qualities of a gentleman. Just as bamboo remains green even in the harshest winters, a true gentleman maintains his integrity, honesty, and purity in all circumstances.

Folk songs of Vietnam are often performed during festivals

Folk songs of Vietnam are often performed during festivals (Source: Collected)

1.8. Beo dat may troi

With its simple yet relatable lyrics, “Beo dat may troi” paints a nostalgic picture of rural Vietnam. It employs artistic imagery, such as lotus leaves, birds, fish, clouds, and wind, to create a vivid and sentimental landscape. The title itself, “Beo dat may troi,” draws from a common folk saying in Vietnam, making it easily accessible to listeners and reinforcing the song’s connection to everyday life and the natural world.

>>> Explore other popular songs in Vietnam!

2. Famous Central Vietnamese folk songs

The rich cultural diversity of Central Vietnam is reflected in the region’s enchanting folk songs. These songs, which tell tales of love, life, and tradition, are firmly rooted in the hearts of the people.

2.1. Hue songs featuring Ly singing

The lyrical tunes in Hue are very diverse, each carrying a different mood. “Ly tu vi” expresses deep and tender love, with a hint of romantic nostalgia. “Ly muoi” portrays a rustic yet charming sweetness. “Ly tinh tang” is filled with joy and playfulness, while “Ly hoai nam” evokes a sense of longing and enchantment. However, “Ly chieu chieu” stands out with its unique theme and setting.

Traditional Vietnamese folk music has a profound influence on the country's cultural identity

Traditional Vietnamese folk music has a profound influence on the country’s cultural identity (Source: Collected)

“Ly chieu chieu” depicts a farewell scene on a solitary mountain pass during a serene and chilly evening. The atmosphere is intensified by the mournful hooting of owls and a feeling of unease in the person bidding farewell. Surprises and anxieties are expressed through interjections like “uay… oa” and a series of questioning phrases, creating a mood reminiscent of desolate mountain passes or the perilous journey through famous locations like the Ngang Pass or Pha Tam Giang in Central Vietnam.

Almost all these lyrical tunes are set to music using “luc bat” or “song that luc bat” poetic forms.

2.2. Ho gia gao

“Ho gia gao” is a lively form of folk entertainment widely popular in rural Thua Thien Hue. It was not confined to rural areas alone; even in the city of Hue, lively ho gia gao competitions used to be organized with the participation of numerous artists and a large audience. What initially began as folk songs to accompany a specific agricultural activity (threshing rice) eventually evolved into a pure form of artistic expression. Sometimes, even after the rice was all threshed, people continued to sing “ho gia gao”, substituting rice husks for the chay (wooden pestle) rhythm. 

Learning to sing Vietnamese folk songs is a way to connect with local traditions

Learning to sing Vietnamese folk songs is a way to connect with local traditions (Source: Collected)

This genre of folk music is performed in a lively public setting and is characterized by its dynamic and engaging rhythm, captivating both performers and audiences alike. On a spacious brick courtyard, surrounded by rice husks, artists (whether directly pounding rice or not) sing to the beat of the chay.

2.3. Ho bai choi

“Ho bai choi” is a folk music genre performed during the traditional “bai choi” game, a well-known pastime in Central Vietnam. Participants sing verses that evoke imagery related to the playing cards, which are decorated with distinctive folk illustrations. 

Vietnamese folk songs are associated with different daily activities

Vietnamese folk songs are associated with different daily activities (Source: Collected)

To make the game of cards during the Lunar New Year festive and engaging, bamboo huts are set up, with each player seated in one. A performer moves between the huts, using songs to announce the name of the playing card for all to guess. This vocal element adds excitement to the game, combining musical enjoyment with intellectual challenge and transforming a simple card game into a refined cultural activity.

2.4. Ho ru con

“Ho ru con” is a traditional Vietnamese song in Hue featuring slow, melodic tunes that are gentle and soothing. It is closely associated with small thatched houses and peaceful gardens in the midst of noon, with the rhythmic sounds of cradles gently lulling babies to peaceful sleep. Like lullabies from other regions, “ho ru con” in Hue often features hexameter or pentameter verses that are deeply emotional and, at times, spontaneous, evoking a sense of tenderness and sentimentality.

2.5. Ho quet voi

“Ho quet voi” is a Vietnamese folk song that is characterized by its fast and concise rhythm and is typically performed while quarrying lime. Originally associated with the lime-quarrying process, this lively chant has also been adapted to other labor-intensive activities such as house foundation work, rice pounding, and land plowing. The lyrics can be composed in hexameter or pentameter verse, and due to their association with physically demanding tasks, the songs often contain humor and wit to uplift the spirits of both the performers and the audience.

Many Vietnamese folk songs have been passed down through generations

Many Vietnamese folk songs have been passed down through generations (Source: Collected)

2.6. Ho mai nhi – mai day

“Ho mai nhi, mai day” are melodies sung on the tranquil waters of Central Vietnam, creating a serene, harmonious atmosphere. These Vietnamese folk songs echo the calm, flat, and dreamy characteristics of the rivers in Thua Thien Hue. 

The gentle melodies are known for their resonance and their ability to convey the atmosphere of the Huong River, full of charm and tranquility. “Ho mai nhi” is a beloved genre in both rural and urban settings, especially along the Perfume River. The soft and ethereal melodies resonate, leaving echoes on the water’s surface amidst the backdrop of the moon, clouds, and mist over the river.

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3. Beautiful Southern Vietnamese folk songs

South Vietnam, renowned for its vibrant culture and lush landscapes, also has a rich collection of enchanting Vietnamese folk songs. These musical creations offer a glimpse into the unique heritage and traditions of the region.

3.1. Da co hoai lang

“Da co hoai lang” is a timeless piece of traditional music composed by Cao Van Lau. It tells the heartfelt story of a wife yearning for her husband’s return during the late hours of the night. Originally written with two beats per line, later artists transformed it into a four-beat and then an eight-beat melody, birthing the first “vong co” song.

Learning the history behind Vietnamese folk songs adds depth to your cultural journey

Learning the history behind Vietnamese folk songs adds depth to your cultural journey (Source: Collected)

3.2. Ly ngua o

“Ly ngua o” paints a vivid picture of a traditional wedding procession. The groom prepares a splendid carriage with a golden palanquin atop a horse. The wedding procession features exquisite decorations, including silver buckles, black bronze bells, and a horsewhip with a copper handle. The lively melody captures the joyous spirit of the young man on the most significant day of his life, as the sound of the horse’s hooves reverberates on the path, symbolizing the construction of a happy future.

Many festivals and ceremonies in Vietnam feature performances of traditional Vietnamese folk music

Many festivals and ceremonies in Vietnam feature performances of traditional Vietnamese folk music (Source: Collected)

3.3. Ly qua keu

“Ly qua keu” is a familiar tune in Southern Vietnam, but few grasp its profound meaning. Right from the beginning, the quail warns, “nam dao nu phong,” which roughly translates to “when men enter the women’s room.” This phrase originates from the saying, “Nam dao nu phong nam tat dang, nu dao nam phong nu tat dam,” which suggests that men entering women’s rooms are reckless, while women entering men’s rooms are promiscuous. This saying, uttered through the words of a crow – a bird believed to symbolize bad luck, serves as a warning against licentious behavior and suggests that it leads to unfavorable consequences. After this cautious warning, this Vietnamese folk song transitions to expressions of nostalgia, creating a wonderful moral lesson hidden within its simplicity.

Traditional Vietnamese folk music reflects the stories, beliefs, and history of its people

Traditional Vietnamese folk music reflects the stories, beliefs, and history of its people (Source: Collected)

3.4. Ly my hung

Regarding the title “my hung,” some believe it refers to a specific location, but there is no historical evidence to support this. “My hung” can simply be a combination of “my” (beautiful) and “hung” (prosperous). It praises the beauty and abundance of rural villages, hence the name. Over time, different lyrics and melodies have been used, making it unclear which is the original version. One famous rendition is “Trach ai vo tinh,” often performed by renowned singers.

3.5. Con thuong rau dang moc sau he

According to the account of musician Bac Son, he composed this Vietnamese traditional song based on the poem “Rau dat dang” by poet Nguyet Lang, to serve as the background music for the television drama “Bep lua am,” which aired on Sai Gon Television in 1974 and was first recorded by Hoang Oanh. At that time, he wrote a series of television dramas with the aim of inspiring national spirit. 

Vietnamese traditional music encompasses a wide range of genres and instruments

Vietnamese traditional music encompasses a wide range of genres and instruments (Source: Collected)

The song carries the folk music influence of the Southern region and tells the story of two sisters sitting together, combing each other’s hair, reminiscing about past moments of love that have faded away. Bac Son composed the song “Con thuong rau dang moc sau he” with a natural emotion, though he believes it is not his most cherished piece of music.

3.6. Ly con sao Bac Lieu

“Ly con sao Bac Lieu” is a musical masterpiece composed by Phan Ni Tan in 1970. This song embodies the folk traditions of Southern Vietnam and tells the story of a young couple who grew up together, relying on each other through their childhood and into adulthood. Both shared a passion for music. Despite their poverty, the young man traveled far to make a living through his music, unintentionally neglecting the girl. The girl, in her innocence, fell for the charms of another man. The Vietnamese folk song, through the metaphor of a bird, conveys a cautionary tale about reckless behavior leading to heartbreak.

Besides the folk song heritage, Vietnam is a land of enchanting beauty, rich history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. Embark on a Vietnam travel to explore the best of Vietnam, for example, Hanoi with its bustling streets and ancient temples, Hoi An‘s well-preserved heritage, the crystal-clear waters of Nha Trang, or the pristine shores of Phu Quoc. 

Nha Trang is a coastal paradise waiting to be explored

Nha Trang is a coastal paradise waiting to be explored (Source: Collected)

Beyond cultural exploration, Vietnam also offers family-friendly entertainment that provides endless fun and excitement for travelers of all ages. VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium, VinWonders Nam Hoi An, VinWonders Nha Trang, and VinWonders Phu Quoc are must-visit destinations for endless family fun and entertainment.

VinWonders Phu Quoc

VinWonders Phu Quoc offers a thrilling blend of amusement park excitement and natural beauty

VinWonders Phu Quoc offers a thrilling blend of amusement park excitement and natural beauty

>>> Book tickets to VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park to embark on these exciting adventures and discover the wonders of Vietnam!

Vietnamese folk songs are not just musical compositions but also serve as profound mirrors reflecting the intricate tapestry of Vietnam’s history, culture, and spirit. These harmonious melodies transform into timelessly timeless conduits that beckon you to embark on a heartfelt journey through the very essence of this country as you travel across Vietnam, from the serene landscapes of the North to the vibrant traditions of the South. It is a testament to the spirit of Vietnam that is sure to make an impression on everyone who listens.

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