Vietnamese-American singer Elvis Phương (right), known as Pop Prince in the 1970s, will sing at a concert in HCM City to celebrate his 60-year career. The event, called Bài Thánh Ca Buồn (The Sad Anthem), will feature songs written by musicians Phạm Duy, Lê Hựu Hà, Trường Sa and Lam Phương in the 1970s and 80s. — Photo courtesy of the producer

HCM CITY — Vietnamese-American singer Elvis Phương, known as Pop Prince in the 1970s, will sing at a concert in HCM City to celebrate his 60-year career.

The event, called Bài Thánh Ca Buồn (The Sad Anthem), will feature romantic songs written by musicians Phạm Duy, Lê Hựu Hà, Trường Sa and Lam Phương in the 1970s and 80s. 

Highlighted works will include Nguyễn Vũ’s Bài Thánh Ca Buồn, Lam Phương’s Bài Tango Cho Em (A Tango for You) and Phạm Duy’s Kỷ Vật Cho Em (Memorabilia for You), all of which were top hits and helped to shoot the singer to fame.

Elvis Phương has spent hours working with guest singers, such as young talents Bảo Toàn and Như Ngọc, and the Saigon Music Band, to prepare for his show. 

“I will sing with my heart and soul,” said the 75-year-old singer. “I have invited young singers who were winners at music competitions and TV game shows to join my concert. I’m confident the show will win over fans.”

Elvis Phương, real name Phạm Ngọc Phương, began his career in 1962 in Sài Gòn (now HCM City). He has performed songs by the King of Rock, Elvis Presley.

He later achieved success almost as soon as he embarked on a career singing rock'n'roll, pop, and Vietnamese folk songs. 

After 1975, he moved to live in the US and work with leading entertainment agencies and studios.  He is popular for his strong voice and bold, distinctive style.

In 1996, he released two music videos Giọt Nắng Bên Thềm (Sunlight on the Veranda) and Quê Hương (Motherland), in Việt Nam. 

In 2000, his first live concert attracted 5,000 fans in HCM City. 

He now lives in HCM City. 

His concert, Bài Thánh Ca Buồn, will begin at 8pm at IDECAF, 28 Lê Thánh Tôn Street, District 1, on December 12. VNS