Biography

Phương Tâm - the groundbreaking young Vietnamese singer, performer and recording artist at the heart of Saigon's music scene in the early 1960s, and one of the first singers to perform and record rock & roll (known locally as nhạc kích động, or, action music) in Vietnam -- though as you'll hear, she could also transform a jazz ballad into something otherworldly. The unique strengths and qualities of Phương Tâm's voice, coupled with her commanding stage presence swiftly elevated her to top billings on Saigon's nightclub stages - catching the attention of Saigon's leading recording companies and composers (Y Vân, Khánh Băng, Trường Hải, Thanh Sơn, Y Vũ & Mặc Thế Nhân, among others). Her energy translated unsurprisingly well in the studio, backed by electric guitars, contrabass, drums, lush brass sections, saxophone, piano, organ and rich backing vocals. Between 1964-1966, she would record almost 30 known tracks, released by the main record companies in Saigon. "Magical Nights - Saigon Surf, Twist & Soul" (Sublime Frequencies, 2021) is the first retrospective of Phương Tâm's recorded works, featuring 25 tracks, restored & remastered. It was produced by Mark Gergis & Hannah Hà (daughter of Phương Tâm), with the help of Jan Hagenkötter, Cường Phạm, Adam Fargason & others. The deluxe album features exclusive liner notes, photos and more. CD out now, with a vinyl issue forthcoming in 2022. Available at www.sublimefrequencies.com - and fine record stores globally.