Hanoi: A Tapestry of Allure Unveiled Through Kenny G’s ‘Going Home’
Hanoi’s serene, romantic, heroic, and ancient charm takes center stage in saxophonist Kenny G’s enchanting rendition of “Going Home.”
The captivating music video serves as a visual odyssey through Hanoi’s iconic landmarks, including the Long Bien Bridge, Hoan Kiem Lake, Thang Long Imperial Citadel, and the Temple of Literature.
This musical masterpiece, released in Hanoi, is a testament to the power of music in promoting Vietnamese tourism. It is the brainchild of a collaborative effort between Nhan Dan Newspaper and IB Group.
| Nhan Dan Newspaper editor-in-chief Le Quoc Minh (left) presenting the music video to Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Tran Sy Thanh. Photo: Hoa Nguyen/The Hanoi Times |
According to Nhan Dan Newspaper editor-in-chief Le Quoc Minh, this marks the first time the news agency has ventured into promoting Vietnamese tourism through a musical product rather than traditional journalistic means.
The inspiration for this video stems from the “Good Morning Vietnam” program, a joint initiative between Nhan Dan Newspaper and IB Group Vietnam last year.
“Legendary saxophonist Kenny G was deeply moved by the program’s noble cause. As a gesture of support, he donated a saxophone to the charity fund. His enthusiasm extended to participating in a music video promoting Hanoi tourism—a product we believe will resonate more profoundly than conventional promotional videos,” shared Minh.
Following the musical night at the National Convention Center on November 14, 2023, artist Kenny G embarked on a tour of Hanoi’s renowned landmarks on November 15 to film the music video.
Minh acknowledged that while filming and post-production were completed promptly with exceptional quality, the copyright application process proved to be meticulous and extensive, resulting in a protracted timeline.
“Nevertheless, we are overjoyed to have brought this product to fruition, enabling us to showcase Hanoi and Vietnam to the global stage,” said Minh.
Speaking at the launch, Nguyen Thuy Duong, President of IB Group Vietnam and production director of the project, revealed that it took eight months to persuade Kenny G to collaborate on this production, as it is the only music video for “Going Home” filmed outdoors. Other versions were recorded during Kenny G’s stage performances.
“The artist had meticulous requirements regarding time, location, and technical aspects during filming and post-production. Fortunately, Kenny G was tremendously excited about this project. The final scene was captured as the Temple of Literature illuminated. The artist even inquired about extending the shoot. He was equally delighted with the demo,” said Duong.
Kenny G penned a heartfelt message to the Vietnamese audience: “Hanoi is an extraordinary city filled with beautiful people. Thank you for your warm welcome. With love, Kenny G.”
Receiving the gift, Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Tran Sy Thanh expressed that any Hanoian or admirer of Hanoi would be deeply moved by Kenny G’s music video “Going Home.” He extended his gratitude to Nhan Dan Newspaper, Editor-in-chief Le Quoc Minh, and his partners for their unwavering support and the realization of this heartfelt offering.
“This is an exceptional product that will elevate the image of our country, particularly Hanoi,” said Thanh.
| Kenny G on The Huc Bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple. |
| Kenny G visiting the Temple of Literature. |
| Kenny G at Hoa Phong Tower by Hoan Kiem Lake. |
| Kenny G with Khue Van Cac, an iconic symbol of Hanoi. |
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