Thao Nguyen, born on March 19, 1984, in Virginia, is an American singer-songwriter who has made a name for herself both as a solo artist and as the lead singer and songwriter for the alternative/folk rock group Thao & the Get Down Stay Down. She comes from humble beginnings, with her parents being Vietnamese refugees.
Thao's journey in music began at a young age when she started playing guitar and writing songs at just 12 years old. Her passion for music only grew from there, leading her to form Thao & the Get Down Stay Down in 2003. The band quickly gained recognition for their unique sound, blending elements of alternative and folk rock.
Throughout her career, Thao has collaborated with a variety of artists, including Merrill Garbus, Joanna Newsom, and Andrew Bird. One notable collaboration was with Mirah on the 2011 album Thao + Mirah.
Thao's talent extends beyond her music, as she has also used her platform to fundraise for important causes. She has worked with organizations like Oxfam America, alongside actress Dianna Agron, to make a positive impact in the world.
Offstage, Thao remains grounded in her roots and values. Her background as the child of Vietnamese immigrants has undoubtedly shaped her perspective and influence as an artist. She continues to draw inspiration from her heritage in both her music and her activism.
Thao Nguyen's impact on the music industry goes far beyond her catchy melodies and poignant lyrics. She is a trailblazer for Asian-American representation in the music world and a voice for social change through her activism. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists and activists alike.