The much-anticipated Intervision reboot delivered drama, diverse talent, and a K-pop inspired triumph from Vietnam`s transforming idol.
The grand return of the Intervision music contest, hosted in Moscow, arrived with an expected blend of fanfare, skepticism, and theatrical flair. What was promised as a global musical showcase certainly delivered on spectacle, offering Saturday night entertainment that even the most jaded critics and conspiracy theorists could discuss at length. It was, at its heart, a vibrant gathering, a “carnival of cultures” as some described it backstage, where twenty-two nations presented their musical aspirations.
The Show Before the Show: American Absenteeism and Geopolitical Whispers
While twenty-three acts were anticipated, the American delegation`s appearance became a peculiar subplot. Initially, Brandon Howard was slated to perform but withdrew at the eleventh hour, citing “unforeseen family circumstances.” A replacement, Vassy—an Australian singer with a US work permit—was then announced. Yet, during the live broadcast, viewers were informed that Vassy, too, would not perform due to “unprecedented political pressure from the Australian government.” One can only marvel at the dedication of the scriptwriters behind this particular drama; clearly, a good dose of suspense is deemed essential to keep today`s audience engaged. This, like many songs heard that evening, will likely fade from memory, but it set a certain tone.
A Symphony of Global Sounds
Beyond the backstage intrigue, the stage itself was a tapestry of global sounds. The contest, often touted as a platform for rich ethnic music that larger broadcasters frequently overlook, certainly delivered. We saw the energetic duo Denise & D-Lain from Madagascar, whose performance style evoked echoes of Tina Turner`s powerful collaborations. South Africa’s Mzansi Jikelele, despite a live performance that reportedly fell short of their recorded track, brought a Black Eyed Peas-esque vibe. And from China, Wang Xi presented himself as an “Eastern Elvis,” whose minimalist stage presence might have been his only undoing.
Latin American flair was also on display, with Luciana Calazans & Thais Nader from Brazil and Sulema Iglesias Salazar from Cuba offering melodies that surely inspired a collective wanderlust for exotic holidays. Dana Al-Mir from Qatar further diversified the cultural palette. Yet, amidst this vibrant spectrum, the jury ultimately leaned towards a sound that has conquered global charts: a bright pop track infused with the undeniable energy of Asian aesthetics.
Duc Phuc: From Shy Teen to K-Pop Phenomenon
The standout winner, Duc Phuc from Vietnam, was not merely a performer; he was a ready-made pop idol. Already a celebrated figure in his homeland, with a string of local competition victories and awards, including a “supermodel” title for advertising in 2023, his journey to this global stage was one of significant personal evolution.
Interestingly, the Duc Phuc who captivated Moscow was a far cry from his earlier self. In 2015, after winning “The Voice of Vietnam,” he found himself unable to fully embrace his triumph. He was, by his own admission, a “chubby teenager” deeply self-conscious about his appearance, famously shying away from interviews.
The turning point arrived in 2017. Following a series of plastic surgeries, Duc Phuc emerged with a new image, strikingly reminiscent of a K-pop star. This transformation propelled him into a higher echelon of Vietnamese celebrity. Vietnam`s pop culture, much like its regional counterparts, draws heavy inspiration from the successful blueprints of J-pop and K-pop music, demanding not only vocal prowess but also mastery of contemporary and classical dance. His Intervision performance demonstrated this perfectly.
A Masterclass in Pop Performance
Duc Phuc`s winning act was a textbook example of a modern K-pop spectacle. His layered, eye-catching costume, the precision of his backup dancers, and the abundant special effects created a dynamic, high-energy presentation. It was a performance that left no room for doubt; the jury`s decision, in this instance, seemed utterly indisputable.
The Intervision Legacy: Entertainment and Connection
Other moments added to the contest`s unique character. The Russian participant, SHAMAN, notably requested that the jury not evaluate his performance – an act some perceived as a touch of “mysterious Russian soul” or perhaps a strategic display of hospitality. Whatever the intent, it certainly added another layer to the evening`s narrative. And as for the future, the rules suggest the next Intervision won`t be held in the winner`s country, but where the event is most welcome, with Saudi Arabia already extending an invitation.
To those who questioned the relevance of such an undertaking, the answer lies in its enduring appeal. Music competitions, despite their inherent drama and occasional contrivances, resonate across Europe, Asia, and beyond. When executed with an authentic desire to entertain and connect people, they capture attention, perhaps even garnering approval. Duc Phuc`s journey, from a self-conscious talent to a global pop idol, exemplifies the transformative power of music and performance on an international stage.
