Singer Nguyệt Hạ: “Recreating the love of Mother Nature in the song 'Ru Cọp' is a challenge for me.”

The moment of silence in the Cọp album is captured in the scene where the Tiger is deceived and tied to a tree by the farmer. In the stillness of the night, Mother Nature's lullaby echoes, offering the Tiger a warm embrace, giving birth to Ru Cọp (Tiger’s Lullaby). 

Through the passage of time, deep within each of us, lullabies continue to grow richer. They are the songs a grandmother sings to a mother, a mother sings to her children—passed down through generations. Lullabies are the roots of music, preserved in the heart and soul. In the Cọp album, Ru Cọp is delicately conveyed by singer Nguyệt Hạ through her sweet and heartfelt voice. 

As both a singer and a songwriter with profound compositions, Phùng Ngọc Nguyệt Hạ strives to convey her soul and emotions through every melody. Graduating from the Vietnam National Academy of Music with a diploma in Vocal Performance and holding a degree in Applied Music from Thang Long University, she has appeared in numerous programs such as Bữa Trưa Vui Vẻ, Tần Số 15 and Vua Tiếng Việt. Throughout her artistic journey, Nguyệt Hạ has released numerous musical works, including songs she has composed herself. Chúng Ta, with some collabed projects Trăng Sáng Soi (ft. Minh Cà Ri), Gói Chiếc Buồn and Quỳnh (ft. Pink Frog & 8 the Theatre). Besides, she has taken part in CAM project by 8 the Theatre continuously creating and delivering high-quality musical works to her audience. 

Singer - Songwriter Nguyệt Hạ

What brought you to the Cọp album?

One night, I dreamed of a golden tiger coming to pick me up, letting me ride on its back. I didn’t think much of it—just felt pure joy because the sensation of riding a tiger was absolutely thrilling! A few days later, I came across the casting announcement for the Cọp project, only to realize that the deadline had already passed. Still, I wanted to learn more about the project, hoping deep down that I could contribute in some way, even if it was just a small gesture like sharing a post. By sheer luck, when I visited Trao Studio’s fan page, I saw that the casting deadline for singers had been extended. Feeling like a new opportunity had just been handed to me, I quickly submitted my application without hesitation.

For a long time, I had always dreamed of working on projects for children. I have a deep love for both kids and animals, so finding my way to the Cọp album project felt like fate. I truly feel lucky to have discovered such a wonderful project!

How did you feel about the song Ru Cọp before recording it?

This is a lullaby. Just that alone is enough to make people think of something soft and soothing. But Ru Cọp is more than that. With simple yet profound lyrics, the song carries a deep sense of empathy for the little Tiger in pain. At the same time, it gently offers a reminder—a subtle warning, firm yet comforting, wrapping the Tiger in warmth and reassurance.

For Nguyệt Hạ, Cọp is a meaningful project for children.

How do you feel about the Cọp album as a whole? 

I had the chance to read Truyện Gieo – Trí Khôn Của Ta Đây 2 before officially joining the project. The Cọp album offers a more fulfilling ending—one where trust finds its rightful place and joy comes not from outwitting the "bad guy," but from healing wounds. The story in Cọp shifts the focus, emphasizing that true "wisdom" is not about deception but about love and empathy.

Did you face any challenges while recording Ru Cọp?

"Ru Cọp" may seem like a simple song, but in reality, it is incredibly challenging. Not in terms of melody or lyrics, but in the emotions it demands. It is a lullaby from Mother Nature, embracing the Tiger’s pain with boundless love and compassion. That love is vast, so forgiving, that it makes me feel incredibly small. Perhaps my heart has yet to grow big enough to fully embody such immense tenderness. Recreating the infinite love of Mother Nature has truly been a profound challenge for me.

"Ru Cọp" is a piece that Nguyệt Hạ has poured her heart into.

What did you envision while recording this song?

Because I felt so small compared to Mother Nature, I had to find a way to connect with the song on a more personal level. So, I’ll admit—I imagined myself cradling a tiny kitten instead of a mighty Tiger. 

How long did it take you to complete the recording of Ru Cọp?

I had a rehearsal with the composers and arrangers of the album, and it took two sessions to complete the recording of this song. 

Have you participated in any other children's music albums before Cọp?

Although I have had many opportunities to work with children, Cọp is the first children's album I have participated in.

For you personally, what are the similarities and differences between Cọp and other children's music albums?

The Cọp album reminds children to show empathy and love not only toward people but also to nature and all living beings. Like many other children's albums, Cọp carries a bright, playful tone while delivering meaningful life lessons. What makes Cọp truly special, however, deserves a big round of applause for author Lương Ngọc Đức, who has breathed new life into a classic folktale, crafting a heartwarming and refreshing ending. It’s rare to see an album fully developed from a reimagined folk story like this. Personally, I see Cọp as a highly promising project with great potential to be adapted into a children’s musical. 

Oh, I truly love this project! Even long after completing the recordings, I still find myself humming the melodies from the album because I’m so captivated by them.

Singer Nguyệt Hạ has a deep love for the Cọp album.

Do you have any message for the audience?

Dear audience, please welcome Cọp with lots and lots of love so that we can keep striving and creating even more wonderful projects like this one!

I am deeply grateful and truly appreciate this opportunity. Thank you so much!

Thank you, Nguyệt Hạ.