By Nguyen Thinh
Vietnam has a rich and diverse music culture, ranging from traditional folk music to modern pop and rock. In recent years, a new genre has emerged that is gaining popularity among young Vietnamese: Vinahouse music.
Vinahouse is a fusion of Vietnamese folk music and Western electronic dance music, with a focus on catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and repetitive hooks. The genre originated in the late 2000s, when DJs began remixing popular Vietnamese songs with electronic beats and synths.
The term “Vinahouse” was coined by Vietnamese DJ Hoaprox, who described it as “a mix of Vietnamese music and house music, but with a unique twist.” Vinahouse quickly gained a following among young people in Vietnam, who found the music to be both fun and nostalgic.
One of the key features of Vinahouse music is its use of traditional Vietnamese instruments, such as the đàn bầu (monochord) and the đàn tranh (zither), alongside electronic beats and synths. This fusion of old and new creates a unique sound that is both modern and rooted in Vietnamese culture.
Vinahouse music has also been embraced by Vietnamese celebrities and social media influencers, who use it in their videos and performances. The genre has become a symbol of youth culture in Vietnam, with Vinahouse parties and events drawing large crowds of young people.
However, Vinahouse music has also faced criticism from some quarters for its repetitive nature and lack of originality. Some have accused Vinahouse DJs of simply remixing existing songs without adding anything new or innovative.
Despite these criticisms, Vinahouse music continues to grow in popularity in Vietnam and beyond. The genre has even begun to attract international attention, with Vinahouse DJs performing at festivals and clubs in Asia and Europe.
Vinahouse music represents a new and exciting chapter in Vietnam’s music scene. Its fusion of traditional Vietnamese music and Western electronic dance music has created a unique sound that is both modern and rooted in Vietnamese culture. By embracing Vinahouse music, young Vietnamese are celebrating their cultural heritage while also expressing themselves in new and innovative ways.