Singer Khanh Ly and writer Buu Y on the stage to talk with audiences. — Photo Quang Thanh

HUE (VNS) — After a gap of more than 41 years, noted overseas singer Khanh Ly met her fans last weekend in Hue City in the central province of Thua Thien Hue.

The meeting was held on the occasion of the singer's book launch ceremony, organised by Phuong Nam Book.

"The audience in Hue loves Khanh Ly very much. It was a warm meeting," veteran writer Buu Y, a close friend of Khanh Ly, said. He was invited by the singer to speak on the stage, but he was very modest.

"The audience has come to see Khanh Ly and listen to her singing, not me. So it's better if I say very few words," Buu Y said.

The people had been waiting to see their beloved singer for dozen of years, after her last performance in Hue in 1974.

"I express my gratitude to the people and Hue City. This place is very special to me. It is the homeland of composer Trinh Cong Son, who helped me to know more about the significance of life.

"I can only sing. And now I have the chance to tell about my life in the book. I can't imagine that I'm loved and supported so much. Your love has moved me," she said.

Khanh Ly sang songs by late composer Trinh Cong Son, who was the most favourite Vietnamese composer for his anti-war ballads.

Khanh Ly, whose real name is Nguyen Thi Le Mai, began her singing career in 1960 in HCM City. She is considered to be one of the most successful performers of Trinh Cong Son's ballads.

Phuong Nam Book has published an autobiography of the singer, entitled Dang Sau Nhung Nu Cuoi (Behind Smiles), which narrates the ups and downs of the 50 years of her musical career.

A part of proceeds from the book's sale will go towards setting up a scholarship in the central provinces. — VNS