Thai Luk Thung Songs: Creative Perpetuation and Values in Contemporary Thai Society

Abstract

This article examines the creative perpetuation of Thai Luk Thung songs and analyzes the values inherent in this process within contemporary Thai society. The study focuses on Luk Thung songs composed by national artists specialized in performing arts from 1991 to 2021. The findings reveal that Thai songwriters utilize Luk Thung songs as a foundation for creating new compositions through three primary modification techniques: 1-Transformation from male to female versions, or vice versa; 2-Conversion from solo performances to duets; and 3-Generation of new material by repurposing existing melodies. Additionally, composers develop fresh compositions by adapting, parodying, alluding to, and blending elements from Luk Thung songs, contemporary Thai popular music, and foreign-language songs. This process is intricately linked with contemporary Thai society and offers four distinct values: Preservation and promotion of Thai cultural heritage; Academic significance; Contribution to the entertainment industry; and Platform for expressing sentiments and observations on social phenomena in Thailand. These values underscore the multifaceted role of Luk Thung songs in both artistic expression and societal reflection within Thailand.