Vietnamese Tradition through Sao Sáng’s “Trống Cơm” Drum in Call Me By Fire Vietnam

Even though it has ended, the program Call Me By Fire Vietnam left a deep impression on audiences, especially those who appreciate Vietnamese music and culture. One of the standout performances was Sao Sáng’s version of “Trống Cơm” in the show’s first showcase—a performance that skillfully fused traditional Vietnamese music with modern sounds, impressing both young and older audiences alike.

So what makes the trống cơm special, and how did Sao Sáng transform this traditional material into a modern musical masterpiece?

Trống Cơm - A Humble Traditional Instrument with Deep Roots

The trống cơm is a traditional Vietnamese drum that has long been part of the nation’s heritage. Often associated with folk songs, legends, and traditional festivals, the trống cơm is more than just an instrument; it embodies Vietnamese spirit, connecting past and present in a way few other symbols can.

According to Làng Nghề Việt Nam, a Vietnamese cultural journal, “The trống cơm has two drum heads. Its body is crafted from hard wood, typically lim wood, shaped into a cylinder about 65-70 cm long with a 24-25 cm diameter. The drum skin is secured with bamboo nails or tightened with a string that runs vertically along the drum body.”

The Structure and Playing Style of the Trống Cơm

The trống cơm has a long, cylindrical body and is usually played while strapped across the musician's chest. Its name, which means “rice drum,” comes from the rice paste applied to its surface, forming two different-sized patches. Musicians use their fingers to tap on the rice patches, creating a resonant, earthy sound that captures the essence of Vietnamese folk music.

With its slightly muffled, rustic tones, the trống cơm reflects the depth and simplicity of Vietnamese folk sounds. When played skillfully, this drum can produce upbeat rhythms that contrast with its origins in a story of unrequited love. While the article won’t delve into this story, it’s worth noting that the drum’s cultural significance is as rich as its sound.

Trống Cơm drum and other traditional instrumental 

The “Trống Cơm” Melody: An Iconic Vietnamese Folk Tune

Nearly every Vietnamese person knows the iconic melody: “Tình bằng có cái trống cơm, khen ai khéo vỗ ố mấy bông mà nên bông…” The folk tune "Trống Cơm" is familiar to all and speaks to the soul of Vietnamese culture. While it’s not a complete song, this melody holds a unique place in the hearts of the Vietnamese, a testament to its simplicity and timeless charm.

“Trống Cơm is an instrument entirely Vietnamese—from its sound and shape to its performance style,” says Làng Nghề Việt Nam.

Sao Sáng’s Performance of “Trống Cơm” in Call Me By Fire Vietnam

Traditional Instrumental Trống Cơm Drum In Modern Music

In Call Me By Fire Vietnam, People's Artist Tự Long expressed, “Culture is our essence, our roots, our identity.” Sao Sáng’s team, consisting of Tự Long, Soobin Hoàng Sơn, and Cường Seven, not only honored the cultural significance of the trống cơm but also gave it a new relevance for young audiences.

While the program allowed for creative freedom (through an "X-part" where artists could add personal twists), the Sao Sáng team kept the original lyrics of “Trống Cơm,” only adding new verses to freshen it up. The staging was also reminiscent of the past, with male performers in traditional áo dài and female performers in áo tứ thân.

The enthusiastic response to Sao Sáng’s “Trống Cơm” demonstrated that they had successfully made a traditional song feel relevant and accessible, honoring Vietnam’s cultural legacy in a truly modern way.

The Đàn Bầu - An Unexpected Finale Touch

Alongside the trống cơm, the đàn bầu (Vietnamese monochord) provided a memorable finishing touch to the performance. With a background in traditional music, Soobin Hoàng Sơn masterfully played the đàn bầu to close the song, capturing the audience’s hearts.

The đàn bầu produces a soft, soulful sound, often used for melancholic melodies and has a range of three octaves. Some believe this unique instrument has existed since before the 19th century, rooted in Vietnamese culture. In the performance of “Trống Cơm,” however, it was used to produce a spirited, almost EDM-like rhythm, described by many audience members as an “anthemic folk EDM vibe.”

Soobin’s use of the đàn bầu with powerful drum beats and modern choreography transformed the performance into a dynamic musical experience, resonating with all generations in the audience.

The Cultural Significance of Blending the Trống Cơm with Modern Music

People's Artist Tự Long reflected, “We wanted to bring a fresh take to Trống Cơm without losing its cultural essence. Whether they’re from the 1960s, 70s, or even born in the 2000s or beyond, people still love Trống Cơm. We’re enriching Vietnamese culture.”

Blending trống cơm with contemporary music not only celebrates the drum’s unique value but also helps younger generations connect with this beautiful piece of cultural heritage. The success of Sao Sáng’s “Trống Cơm” performance shows that Call Me By Fire Vietnam has gone beyond simple entertainment, bringing Vietnamese traditional instruments back into the spotlight.

Conclusion

We hope this article has answered your questions and provided some insights into the trống cơm showcased in Call Me By Fire Vietnam, offering a fresh perspective on this traditional instrument. Sao Sáng’s performance of "Trống Cơm," with Tự Long, Soobin Hoàng Sơn, and Cường Seven, proves that traditional music can blend seamlessly with modern sounds when done right. Their success marks a new path in preserving Vietnamese culture while enriching the nation’s musical legacy.

If you’re looking for meaningful gifts to show your support for your favorite artists or to attend shows of your “idols,” explore the unique offerings at Chus. You’ll find high-quality, handcrafted products deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, created by passionate Vietnamese artisans. Chus offers nationwide and express delivery, along with attentive, professional customer service, ensuring a seamless and satisfying shopping experience.

Wishing you memorable moments and the perfect gift this festive season!