Huỳnh Lập performance sparks controversy on Anh Trai Vượt Ngàn Chông Gai

A performance of the song ‘Trước khi em tồn tại’ on the show ‘Anh Trai Vượt Ngàn Chông Gai’ has sparked significant debate among viewers. The group, led by Huỳnh Lập and including Cheng, Thái Lê Minh Hiếu, and Neko Lê, reimagined the original Indie pop/RnB hit by Thắng with a dark, spiritual, and eerie concept.

Under Huỳnh Lập’s direction, the arrangement shifted from a relaxing, lo-fi style to a heavy mix of trap hip-hop and folktronica, incorporating traditional Vietnamese instruments like the đàn bầu and 808 bass. The performance included a controversial rap segment by Neko Lê that some viewers described as sounding “like chanting” (tụng kinh) accompanied by wooden percussion.

Public reaction has been divided. Supporters praise the group for their bold creativity and for providing a fresh perspective on a well-known track. Conversely, critics argue that the spiritual theme feels disconnected from the song’s original essence, with some claiming the remake fails to match the quality or atmosphere of the original version.