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Samantha Fox, a global icon of the 1980s, known for her bold style and unforgettable disco hits. 

Performing in Vietnam for the first time as part of the international music project "Dalat Spring Concert", Samantha Fox, a renowned "sex symbol," expressed her excitement and hopes to return next year.

During the 1980s and 1990s, the wardrobes and "study corners" of countless young women in Vietnam were adorned with posters of a confident, platinum-blonde singer and model with bold fashion choices - Samantha Fox. The British model-turned-singer dominated cassette tapes and VHS videos with disco hits like "Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now," "Touch Me (I Want Your Body)," and "I Only Wanna Be with You."

Samantha Fox became one of the most prominent pop culture icons of the 1980s, not just in the UK but worldwide. With her alluring voice and daring fashion, she inspired a generation of youth and left a lasting mark on the worlds of music and fashion.

Originally a model, Samantha Fox shifted her focus to music in 1986 with her debut album Touch Me. Her energetic pop and dance beats quickly captured audiences worldwide. The title track, "Touch Me (I Want Your Body)," topped charts in the UK, spread across Europe and the U.S., and became a defining anthem of the decade. Even today, the hit resonates globally with its infectious rhythm and empowering energy.

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Samantha Fox’s iconic image was a staple on posters in Vietnam during the 1980s. Photo: 

Samantha's music exuded joy and freedom, reflecting the liberated spirit of 1980s youth. She experimented with various styles, from pop-rock to dance-pop, enriching her musical portfolio. Her powerful, sultry vocals paired with unforgettable melodies earned her a massive global fanbase.

Beyond music, Samantha revolutionized fashion, challenging rigid norms of traditional attire. Her bold leather jackets paired with crop tops or shimmering bodysuits embodied confidence, sexiness, and individuality, inspiring young people to break free from societal expectations and embrace their unique styles.

Though Samantha’s fashion wasn’t directly available in Vietnam during the 1980s, her influence trickled in through imported cassette tapes, VHS videos, posters, and magazine images. Youth in urban centers like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City emulated her style by creating their own versions of crop tops, body-hugging outfits, or jeans paired with star-studded tops, introducing modern fashion to Vietnam's conservative landscape.

Her fashion impact emboldened young Vietnamese to express individuality, laying the groundwork for the country’s evolving fashion trends. Today, even younger generations recognize her music through timeless hits like "Touch Me" and "I Only Wanna Be with You," proving her enduring legacy.

The Dalat Spring Concert, scheduled for December 21 in the dreamy city of Da Lat, marks Samantha Fox’s first-ever performance in Vietnam. She will share the stage with other disco legends, Boney M. Liz Mitchell and Joy, performing for free at Lam Vien Square in celebration of the festive season.

 

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At 58, Samantha Fox continues to exude energy and passion in her music.
Photos: IB

Speaking about her Vietnam debut, Samantha shared: "I’m thrilled to be invited to perform in Vietnam for the first time. Although I’ve toured across Asia, I’ve never had the chance to visit Vietnam, a country I’ve always wanted to explore. From the photos I’ve seen, it’s such a beautiful and mysterious land."

Samantha expressed her eagerness to connect with her Vietnamese fans, experience local culture and architecture, and savor the country's cuisine. She also hinted at plans to return in 2025 for a longer visit.

"This time, I’m only here for one performance, but I’m planning to come back next year for a longer holiday. I promise to deliver an unforgettable concert, filled with energy, inspiration, and all my beloved hits from the 1980s to today. See you soon, Vietnam!" Samantha said.

Do Le