Cover Toc Tien has built a remarkable career spanning more than two decades, marked by both talent and an extraordinary level of professionalism
Toc Tien has built a remarkable career spanning more than two decades, marked by both talent and an extraordinary level of professionalism
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An artist with an independent, highly professional spirit, Toc Tien has come close to the peak aspired to by so many
To speak of Toc Tien is to speak of an artist with an independent, highly professional spirit—one who has come close to the pinnacle that so many in the industry aspire to reach.
While many artists go to great lengths to maintain a flawless public image, treading carefully in interviews, Toc Tien has never been one of them. She is a rare figure—unafraid to showcase her sense of humour, and always willing to answer questions with candour, regardless of how difficult or provocative they may be.
When the public adores an artist, it is rarely for a single reason. A striking appearance, undeniable talent, admirable character, or an approachable nature can all play a part. Toc Tien possesses nearly all of these qualities. Over the course of 22 years, she has sustained both her reputation and her success, weathering the industry’s highs and lows, even stepping away from music for a time. Yet, throughout it all, one thing has remained constant: her drive to keep moving forward and explore new creative territories.
The evolution
When Toc Tien returned to Vietnam in 2015 after years of studying abroad in the United States, she was, in many ways, starting anew. The image of the ‘frizzy-haired girl’ who once graced countless music shows and became a household name as a teenage idol had long faded. With her signature short hair and bold style, she embarked on what could only be described as a reinvention—venturing into uncharted territory. The pressure to live up to her past never lingered for long, as she quickly recognised that it was precisely this challenge that propelled her forward. As she once remarked, ‘The hardest thing for an artist is to define who they are. Once you find your essence, all the pieces naturally fall into place.’
Above Toc Tien is a multi-talented artist, renowned for her success across multiple fields
Toc Tien is a multi-talented artist, renowned for her success across multiple fields
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Her first defining moment came with the release of the music video Ngay Mai (Original Version), where she debuted a rebellious new image and an electrifying sound. This bold transformation continued on The Remix – Hoa Am Anh Sang, a show that injected fresh energy into a music scene that had grown somewhat stagnant. Collaborating with Touliver - who would later become her life partner - she went on to release a series of critically acclaimed projects, earning prestigious accolades such as the MAMA Award in South Korea (2017) and the Dedication Award (2018). Yet, the crowning achievement of her musical resurgence was undoubtedly Cong, her fifth studio album and her first since returning to Vietnam. Featuring eight diverse tracks and collaborations with esteemed musicians and producers, Cong exceeded expectations, a testament to her unwavering commitment to her craft - unveiled through a grand and striking showcase.
Resolute, disciplined, and endlessly determined, Toc Tien has rarely allowed herself the luxury of complacency. She continuously reflects on her journey, acknowledging past shortcomings to fuel future growth. ‘Know yourself, know your opponent’ - for more than 20 years, she has understood the weight of the audience’s trust and affection, embracing the pressures of the spotlight as an inherent part of life in the entertainment industry.
Entering new territory
Few who rise to fame at a young age manage to break free from their own shadow, let alone reinvent themselves entirely. Toc Tien, however, is an exception. Once known as the teenage idol with glasses and signature curls, she boldly pursued a striking and unconventional beauty - one that defied mainstream aesthetic standards in Vietnam at the time. While being a pioneer does not always guarantee longevity, Tien’s perseverance and confidence in her transformation ensured that she became a sought-after figure for international luxury brands such as Chanel, Bulgari, Guerlain, Dsquared2, Burberry, and Loewe. Whether in her day-to-day style or on the red carpet, she exudes an unmistakable aesthetic sensibility - an image of a woman who knows exactly who she is and what she wants.
“First and foremost, I think it’s because I truly love fashion and beauty. To me, both fashion and music are clear reflections of one’s inner self. As an artist, I constantly crave new experiences, so my approach to fashion and music is the same. I’ve experimented with nearly every style - the boldest being when I transformed into a mannequin with a shaved head for the Hom Nay Sao Toi Co Don Qua music video in 2017,” she reflects.
The hardest thing for an artist is to define who they are.
Not content with music alone, Toc Tien ventured into cinema with her first project, Gia Gan, My Nhan & Gang To. While it did not make waves on screen, it provided a solid foundation for her next challenge - Thanh Soi: Cuc Dai Trong Dem, in which she took on a physically demanding role with intense action sequences. Despite her limited experience working with film crews, she values every lesson learned from her time on set.
Looking ahead, she remains open to the possibilities that acting might bring. “I want to explore different characters and lives, though I can’t say in advance how different they might be. I have no aspirations to become an action star - just a capable actress. Acting is still very new to me, and Vietnam’s film industry is in a stage of recovery, with many exciting projects emerging. If a director ever sees a role that suits me, why not? I’d love to give it a try,” she says.
Singing, fashion, and cinema are not the only realms Tien has set her sights on. Audiences have grown accustomed to seeing her on screen in various roles - whether as a presenter, judge, or mentor. She considers these opportunities a privilege and embraces them without hesitation.
“There are still so many areas I’ve yet to explore. Normally, I don’t like to talk about things before they happen, but this time, I truly hope - and am working hard - to take my career beyond borders, perhaps even further than the region. Vietnam’s entertainment industry may still be young, but it holds incredible potential. So why not dream big?” she says.
Love and companionship
No discussion of Toc Tien’s journey would be complete without mentioning Touliver - her collaborator, creative partner, and now, her life partner. He has stood by her through defining moments in her career, and their musical synergy has been instrumental in keeping her songs at the forefront of industry trends. Both share a relentless curiosity, always learning and refining their craft. “I think that’s what brought two strong personalities together and created mutual respect in our artistic journey,” she affirms.
“Every individual has a distinct personality, but at our core, we share the same mindset. As our elders say, ‘The wind meets the clouds at its own level.’ Our values align—whether in professional ethics or creative vision. That is what truly matters. In terms of personality, I can be flexible or firm depending on the moment, and when necessary, I adapt to maintain harmony.”
Above Toc Tien’s success is built on humility, perseverance, and an unwavering determination to evolve
Toc Tien’s success is built on humility, perseverance, and an unwavering determination to evolve
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Despite being a seasoned artist, she embraces challenges with remarkable courage. Her decision to compete in the reality TV show Sister Beautiful Walking on the Wind—after more than eight years as a judge and industry expert—was a striking shift in her career. Choosing to step down from the top and redefine herself was not only bold but a testament to the humility of a true artist.
“I entered the competition with one goal: to reignite my artistic fire. That fire has never gone out, but it needs to be nurtured and given direction. I hope that through this journey, connecting with 29 other extraordinary women, I will rediscover my connection with art.”
With that mindset, Tien is unfazed by the rapid emergence of a new generation of singers and musicians, nor by the industry’s pivot towards a sound more aligned with global trends. “Every generation’s distinct style presents both opportunities and challenges. For young artists, it’s a chance to carve out their own identity, but for those of us from previous generations, it also presents a new kind of challenge. I see how today’s artists have more tools, better platforms, and greater visibility. But if I were starting my career now, I believe I would still find my way.”
Above From singer to fashion muse, actress, presenter, judge, and mentor—Toc Tien has navigated multiple creative arenas with ease
From singer to fashion muse, actress, presenter, judge, and mentor—Toc Tien has navigated multiple creative arenas with ease
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Renowned and accomplished in diverse fields, she remains grounded, never feeling the need to force inspiration upon others. “Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to hear from people who say they’ve gained confidence in their own paths because of what I do. That’s when I realised - sometimes, simply focusing on building your career with sincerity and dedication is enough. By doing so, you naturally spread positive values to those around you,” she reflects.
Above Asia's Most Influential
Asia's Most Influential
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Tatler Asia’s Most Influential celebrates individuals shaping the world today - visionaries, industry leaders, and creative pioneers who are making a lasting impact across the region and beyond. See the full list [here].
On 4 December 2024, Tatler Vietnam – Nhà Tập Tinh Hoa will officially honour the luminaries featured in Asia’s Most Influential Vietnam 2024 at Tatler Vietnam Launch – Enter A New Kingdom.
Credits
Managing Director: Hami Tran
Editor-in-Chief: Nikita Chu
Art Director: Andy Tran
Managing Editor: Sade Ho
Photographer: De Vu
Stylist: Kelbin Lei
Costume: Cong Tri
Jewelry: BVLgari
Makeup & Hair Artist: Quan Nguyen - Pu Le
