New rock singer enters the scene
By Tatat Bunnag, photos courtesy of GMM Grammy
The music business has become even more competitive recently as the number of YouTube views seems to be more important than a place on the music charts. But this isn't a problem for the new rock singer Justin Pongumpai.
It's been only a few months since the 23-year-old released his debut single, "Yoo Mai Wai (Can't Stay)," during which time it has racked up an impressive 40 million YouTube views and topped many local radio charts. Justin seems to have come from nowhere to become one of the most talked-about rock artists of the year.
Student Weekly recently had an opportunity to chat with Justin as he released his follow-up single "Nam Tuam Pak (Speechless)." The singer told us all about his new song, his success and his musical hero.
Student Weekly: How did it feel when "Can't Stay" became a hit?
Justin: It was a huge surprise! It was totally beyond my expectations. I was basically unknown in the music scene before the song came out. At first we thought if we could get 5 million views it would be great, but this is definitely an overwhelming experience.
Student Weekly: Can you tell us about your musical background?
Justin: I moved to the US when I was 11 and studied in a high school in Kansas City, where I formed a punk rock band. I didn't have any musical training so all I did was shout. I moved back to Thailand a few years ago and wanted to make some music here. I was invited to perform music at a friend's party and a record-label scout from Grammy was there and invited me to audition at the label.
Student Weekly: Did you get a deal with the label right away?
Justin: I became an intern artist at the label for a few years. The label said they saw my potential, but I sang really badly. [Laughs.] I had deep baritone voice and couldn't sing high notes at all, so I had to take singing classes for a year.
Student Weekly: What's the story behind your new song, "Speechless"?
Justin: "Speechless" has a similar tone to the first single, but it rocks harder and the lyrics are more serious. I co-wrote the lyrics with the team at the label. "Speechless" is about the feelings you hide when you're falling in love with a friend. You're too afraid to tell her how you feel because you don't want to ruin the friendship.
Student Weekly: Is it true that Toon from Bodyslam is your musical idol?
Justin: Definitely! Along with bands like Silly Fools and Clash, I was a huge Bodyslam fan when I was a kid. I still listened to their music after I moved to the US. Toon is one of the greatest Thai rock singers and I'm so proud that I'm on the same label.
Student Weekly: Have you ever met him?
Justin: The first time I met him was in the toilet at the Grammy building. [Laughs.] I remember I froze as I didn't expect to meet my idol, but he was very cool and friendly. He later taught me that I should be a singer because I love music, not because I want to be famous.
Student Weekly: Are you enjoying your success?
Justin: It still feels like a big surprise to me. I've played shows recently in Chiang Mai, Surat Thani and many universities around Bangkok. Many fans approach me to take photos or ask for my autograph. That's never happened to me before and I still feel a bit weird about it, not because I'm shy, but because it surprises me. I ask myself, How did I get here?
competitive (adj): used to describe a situation in which people or organisations compete against each other
speechless (adj): not able to speak, especially because you are extremely angry or surprised
overwhelming (adj): very great or very strong
baritone (n): an adult male singing voice between tenor and bass
approach (v): to speak to somebody about something, especially to ask them for something
