Abstract:
This work on the identity and phenomenon of underground music. Thai Society was a
research thesis of 3 objectives: 1) to study the background of Thai underground music, 2) to
study the identity of present Thai underground music, and 3) to study the phenomenon of Thai
underground music that affects present Thai society. The study covers Thai underground
music during July - December 2003. Data was collected from interviews with persons
involved in the Thai underground music circle and Thai music circle, and from documents.
The study found that the background of Thai underground music is similar to that of
foreign underground music. Formerly, it was aimed at depicting the hardship of lower-class
people’s lives. Later on, this kind of music was used by media to arouse teenagers’ thinking.
At present, Thai underground music is changing it’s role; it is becoming a representative of
independent creations and works of independent music companies and independent artists. It
neither follows the mainstream nor expects turnover akin to big music companies. The Study
of what was called “underground music” in the past is now known as “Indie” music today.
The study on the musical identity of the 16 samples of Thai underground songs found
that they are similar to general popular songs. However, some songs contain creativity in the
design of musical instruments’ sounds, with the use of a synthesizer. Vocal techniques vary,
ranging from normal singing, rock singing to half-talking singing; this is to create atmospheres
in the songs. As for the contents, it was found that most concerned love. Other themes of
contents involved emotion, feelings, searching for freedom and life’s destiny. They also
reflected walks of life and the thinking of today’s people. The wording was straightforward,
not focusing on rhetoric, yet still containing poetic rhymes. Besides this, it vividly and
naturally expressed emotions. There are also uses of English in the songs.
As for the identity of general characteristics of present Thai underground music, it is
found that the style of collaboration between the music company and the artist is free. They
focus more on creativity and quality of the work than on profits. This is the outstanding
identity of present Thai underground music and is perceived by people in the society.
The study on phenomenon and effects of Thai underground music on society has
found that at present the media is becoming much more interested in propagating the news and
works of Thai underground music. Thai underground music gets associated with other
branches of art such as movies and books. This, in turn, greatly influences causes the popular
stream and the popular culture