By Nguyen Ayi
Popularity Trumps Quality: A Musical Adventure in Vietnamese Cafés
In a shocking revelation that has left music enthusiasts scratching their heads in disbelief, the staff of countless Vietnamese cafés have proven themselves blissfully unaware of the vast array of musical genius produced by Western artists. Instead, they have chosen to subject their patrons to a mind-numbing playlist consisting solely of 10 covers performed by what can only be described as talentless hacks.
Café-goers, seeking a harmonious escape from the world, are greeted by a cacophony of butchered renditions of beloved hits from across the globe. The café staff, with wide smiles and unbridled enthusiasm, believe that “pop” simply means popular and therefore assume that people must love it. After all, if a song has amassed over 500,000,000 views, it must be good, right?
Upon further investigation, it becomes painfully clear that the café staff’s musical education has been confined solely to the realms of YouTube views and superficial popularity charts. Ignorant of the rich tapestry of musical artistry woven by Western legends, they have become trapped in a bubble of mediocrity, perpetuating a musical purgatory for unsuspecting customers.
One can only wonder how these unwitting purveyors of musical torment manage to overlook the timeless melodies and poetic lyrics that have defined generations. Are they oblivious to the ethereal vocal prowess of Aretha Franklin, the soul-stirring ballads of Elton John, or the electrifying guitar riffs of Jimi Hendrix? It seems they remain tragically ignorant of the countless musical masterpieces that could grace their café, opting instead for amateurish interpretations by the local karaoke enthusiasts.
While one could argue that music taste is subjective, there are certain universal markers of quality that transcend personal preferences. Yet, the Vietnamese café staff seem content to drown their patrons in a sea of unremarkable covers, lacking originality, passion, and any semblance of talent.
The repercussions of this musical misadventure are far-reaching. Patrons seeking a serene atmosphere to enjoy their coffee are subjected to renditions so abysmal they would make even the most tone-deaf cringe. And as the café staff proudly basks in their ignorance, the true beauty and diversity of Western music remain hidden, waiting to be discovered.
It is high time for the café staff to break free from their self-imposed musical purgatory. By venturing beyond the confines of YouTube views and exploring the vast world of Western music or their local talent, they could transform their café into a haven of harmonious delight. The richness of musical artistry awaits them, offering a symphony of emotions, evoking joy, melancholy, and everything in between.
So, dear café staff, let us bid farewell to the era of talentless hacks and embark on a musical journey of enlightenment. Unleash the brilliance of the Beatles, the raw power of Freddie Mercury, and the infectious rhythms of Michael Jackson. Embrace the wonders of Western music and deliver your patrons an experience they will never forget.
In the words of Shakespeare, “If music be the food of love, play on.” But let us ensure it is the food that nourishes the soul, not a sonic assault on unsuspecting café-goers. The time for change is now.