'Masked Singer' Champion Ngoc Mai: 'I was once crushed in my career'

On the evening of November 19, the singer won the championship of the contest.The Masked Singer(The Masked Singer Vietnam).In the character creation of O Sen,Ngoc Mai is a name that has been loved and noticed by the audience since the first round of the competition with her powerful, versatile voice and solid technique. On this occasion, she talked about her feelings of victory and her journey in singing and teaching music.

Circus artist Quoc Nghiep congratulates his wife - Ngoc Mai on winning the "Masked Singer" championship. Photo:Character provided

-How did winning the singing contest make you feel?

-I am happy that my wish has come true. I did not compete for the prize but to inspire people through music. I have experienced the pain of being looked down upon and not having faith in my ability. I am also a vocal teacher, I do not want my students to feel the same way.

In fact, in this profession, there are always many talents that are not recognized properly. There are cases where they become famous mainly because of relationships or promotional technology, which is very difficult for young people. They do not have the opportunity to shine and become closed and discouraged. I am concerned about this, wanting to prove to everyone that fame and success must come from talent and a good will, not greed or jealousy.

I have also won many Gold Medals in singing competitions. People often ask me why I am not famous. When I had a little name inThe Masked Singer,People call me a "late bloomer". I think that's not right, because flowers have to bloom at the right time and can't be forced.

5 years ago, I retired to take care of my family and encountered many difficulties in life and work. I spent time contemplating the path I had taken and awakened myself from negative thoughts.

Singer Ngoc Mai (35 years old), from Quang Tri. She has 10 years of experience working at the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music as a lecturer. Photo:Character provided

-What difficult times have you been through?

- As a housewife, I am a strong supporter for my husband - artist Quoc Nghiep. I focus on teaching vocal music and supporting my husband in developing his career. Our small family life is peaceful and happy. However, I constantly receive criticism and contempt, which strongly affect my mind: "Ngoc Mai relies on her husband's reputation", "Ngoc Mai will never be famous"...

I once participated in a game show. At that time, the music director of the show commented that I had no name and said to my face: "Ngoc Mai can't sing", and didn't even let me take a picture, only gave me a code to wear. I was sent home in shame.

Those things made me very sad and stressed. I still worked normally and communicated with people, but I was afraid of everything. I was afraid of the dark and of appearing in front of a crowd. When I realized and released the heavy feelings in my heart, I composed Vietnamese lyrics for a healing song.Ho'oponoponowith the hope of inspiring those in similar situations.

-How do you overcome bad things?

- A friend, a close audience, is my great benefactor. When he heard me sing at a tea room, he asked me: "You sing so well, why don't you use your voice to inspire others?" I told him my story. He encouraged me: "I believe you can do it." That trust gave me great motivation.

Last year, my husband and children and I returned to Binh Duong to avoid the epidemic, living in a friend's house with a garden, lotus pond, lawn, and fresh air. Here, I spend time reading books, meditating, and practicing. I no longer resent the scorn and criticism. I accept them as an experience and feel grateful for everything. I need to overcome myself. I founded the Singing with Mai class and the Yen Ca community, hoping to be a place where people can connect and heal with positive energy. I do not simply teach singing but also guide people to love and understanding through music.

-How does your husband accompany you?

- He is also an artist, so he understands my feelings. When I need time to practice or join a class to connect with the community, he takes care of my two children. When I encounter difficulties, I know I have found a true life partner. When I decided to join the competitionThe Masked Singer,My husband held my hand and said: "This is the time for you to fulfill your dream. Rest assured standing on stage, I will take care of everything." The children also understand their mother's work so they do not disturb me when I practice singing. However, I always balance family work. Even before the final night on November 19, I cooked for my family before going to the competition (laughs).

Ngoc Mai married circus artist Quoc Nghiep in 2015 and has 2 children, 1 boy and 1 girl. Photo:Character provided

-What are your plans in music?

- I continue to teach vocal music as well as manage and develop the Yen Ca community. I always want everyone to: "Live with faith, goodness and never be afraid". Of course, I still accept singing shows for "bread and butter", but I value the value of emotions more. Every song I choose must have a message, not just for entertainment.