Music has the power to bridge cultures, languages, and emotions—and TREYDELAGHETTO is proving exactly that. Born in Vietnam and raised in Switzerland, the independent R&B and pop artist has carved out a unique musical identity by seamlessly blending English and Vietnamese lyrics into heartfelt songs that resonate with listeners across the globe.
After returning to the music scene with a renewed perspective, TREYDELAGHETTO continues to explore themes of love, growth, and self-expression through a sound shaped by early 2000s R&B influences and modern pop sensibilities. In this exclusive City Stories interview, he opens up about his musical beginnings, the inspiration behind his latest releases, the importance of staying true to his roots, and the journey of connecting with fans beyond borders.
For readers who are discovering your music for the first time, could you introduce yourself and share your journey as an artist?
I’m TREYDELAGHETTO. I’m 31 years old, Vietnamese, and was born and raised in Switzerland. I create a blend of R&B and pop, and I love weaving English and Vietnamese lyrics together.
Music really runs in the family. My mom is a karaoke queen, and my sister is also a singer! During the pandemic in 2021, I bought some music equipment and started experimenting. I always wanted to create music that I would actually listen to every day myself.
I released three songs on the same day on SoundCloud, and after receiving great feedback, I’ve continued to grow my fanbase, especially in Vietnam.
What inspired you to pursue music, and what was the defining moment that made you believe this was your calling?
I was born in 1994, and I’m so glad I got to experience those different eras, especially the 2000s R&B and hip-hop scene. Music has always been a huge part of my life.
Before I started making my own music, I worked as a photographer and videographer for several artists here in Switzerland. They were mostly making German rap, though, which just wasn’t really my vibe. I honestly thought to myself, “I can do this better—and maybe make the world a little better while I’m at it.”
That was my true calling to get into music.
How would you describe your musical style and artistic identity in your own words?
It’s a modern mix of R&B and pop. My identity is heavily tied to my bilingual writing. Blending English and Vietnamese feels like the most authentic representation of who I am. It bridges cultures and gives me a wider emotional palette to paint with.
Honestly, my early tracks from 2021 and 2022 were still a bit raw. Now, after almost four years, I’m back in the music scene, having learned and experienced so much. I believe my music truly reflects everything I’ve poured into my lyrics. Love songs always leave a lasting impression.
Your recent releases showcase different moods and emotions. How would you describe this current era of your music?
This current era is all about rediscovery and resilience for me. Coming back to music meant stepping entirely into my own vision. It’s vulnerable and deeply personal, but there’s also a strong, driving energy to it – mostly because it’s the sound of someone finally doing things completely on their own terms.
“summer after midnight” has an intriguing title. What inspired the song, and what story does it tell?
I released ‘Summer After Midnight’ in mid-June, and it really captures that specific, chill summer vibe when the world is quiet, but your mind is racing. It’s about longing and the energy of summer nights, where memories feel the most vivid and time just sort of blurs together.
What was the songwriting and production process like for “summer after midnight”, and how did the track evolve from idea to final version?
I actually came up with this song back in 2024 while I was on vacation in Japan. I wrote down a few key words and finished the lyrics while I was on the return flight to Switzerland. Now, two years later, I’ve finally released it, and it gives me a specific sense of peace whenever I need to unwind and take a break after work.
“wanna stay” carries a heartfelt message. What inspired the lyrics, and what emotions were you hoping to capture?
I really wanted to capture that vulnerability, and the tension of trying to hold onto something that feels so fleeting
Between “summer after midnight” and “wanna stay,” which song challenged you more creatively, and why?
To be honest, “Summer After Midnight” was a bit more challenging for me because leaning into pop isn’t really my usual genre. But I believe you have to keep evolving and step out of your comfort zone.
On the other hand, a track like “Wanna Stay” truly feels like my signature sound, and that’s definitely going to stay. I absolutely love writing love songs and bringing them to life because the emotions behind them are so real.
“slide về đây” has a unique atmosphere. What was the inspiration behind the song, and what does its title mean to you?
Slide về đây’ roughly translates to ‘slide back here’ or ‘come through.’ It takes that classic, modern R&B concept of sliding through late at night and roots it in my Vietnamese heritage. It’s a song about invitation and intimacy, setting a very distinct, late-night mood.
“SOFT GLOW” stands out with its dreamy vibe. How did this track come together, and what feeling do you hope listeners experience?
SOFT GLOW’ is exactly what the title implies: a representation of dim lights and introspection. I wanted the production to feel incredibly warm. I really hope listeners feel like they are floating when they hear it, completely immersed in the track’s space.
Looking at your recent releases as a whole, is there a common theme or story connecting them?
It’s not just about hearing the music anymore – it’s about really feeling it. That’s my main goal with these songs. I’m no longer chasing fame or trying to be ‘successful’ in the traditional sense. My true goal is to send a message to people who tend to bottle up their emotions. I just really hope it resonates with them.
How has your songwriting evolved since your earlier releases, and what have you learned along the way?
Trust the process I’d say. Taking that break really gave me perspective. Now, I don’t force the music; I just let the writing flow naturally, depending on which language best captures the specific emotion I’m trying to convey.
Who are some of the artists, producers, or life experiences that continue to influence your music today?
Artists like Chris Brown, Giveon, and Jay Park really inspire and shape me. But at the same time, I try not to just make the exact same music as them. Everyone is unique, and honestly, my goal is just that when I eventually step away from the scene, people will still remember me.
Your music blends emotion with modern production. How do you find the balance between personal storytelling and creating songs that resonate with a wide audience?
The trick is finding the emotion inside a highly personal memory. I might write about my own specific experience, but the production, the beat, and the vocal mix I leave in for texture—that’s what carries that feeling to the listener, no matter where they’re from.
What has been the most memorable reaction you’ve received from fans about one of your songs?
Seeing my music reach people internationally has been surreal. Just knowing that the vibe translates across borders, even when I’m creating it right here in my studio (formerly my sister’s bedroom), is one of the best feelings in the world.
As an artist, what has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced, and how has it helped you grow?
The biggest challenge? Having Vietnamese parents. (laughs) Nah, I’m just joking! My dad taught me discipline, and it’s really stuck with me to this day. I’m incredibly thankful for that.
If you could collaborate with any artist, either from Vietnam or internationally, who would it be and why?
To be honest with you guys, I’m not really looking around for collabs right now. I just wanna do things my own way. I know that might sound a bit cringe, but I really want my songs to just be me. That’s probably why I’m not quite ready for a collab yet.
How do you prepare for live performances, and what kind of experience do you hope audiences take home after watching you perform?
I’ve actually never done a live performance, and to be honest, I don’t think I would want to anyway. I used to play football at a high level and we’d have like 1,000 people watching – no problem at all. I just let my feet do the talking. But singing in front of a big crowd? I’d be way too nervous! It’s probably just the lack of experience. I’m more the type of guy who just lets the music speak for itself. I’m probably a bit too introverted for the stage. I’d much rather just make my music in my studio and release it to the world.
Are there any upcoming singles, collaborations, or larger projects that fans should be excited about?
Absolutely! My latest track, ‘if loves a wave” just dropped on July 24th, and right now I’m fully focused on what’s next. I’ll be announcing a new song on August 27th, so definitely keep an eye out for that!
Finally, what message would you like to share with your supporters around the world and with our readers at City Stories who are just discovering your music?
To the readers discovering me through City Stories: thank you for giving independent music a chance. And to my supporters: thank you for riding with me since my return. Keep listening, because TREYDELAGHETTO is just getting started.
Follow TREYDELAGHETTO stay updated with his latest music!
Stream his songs, explore his releases, and connect with him on all platforms by checking the links below.
Spotify, Instagram, YouTube, Apple Music, SoundCloud
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