{"id":5005,"date":"2025-02-20T08:37:11","date_gmt":"2025-02-20T08:37:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.laopress.com\/press\/wpress\/?p=5005"},"modified":"2025-02-20T11:00:07","modified_gmt":"2025-02-20T11:00:07","slug":"thay-champasak-a-voice-from-southern-laos","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.laopress.com\/press\/wpress\/thay-champasak-a-voice-from-southern-laos\/","title":{"rendered":"THAY CHAMPASAK: A Voice from Southern Laos"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Andy Chan<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Thay Champasak, often referred to simply as Thay CPS<\/strong>, is a rising star in the Lao music scene. Hailing from Pakse, the bustling capital of Champasak Province in southern Laos, his journey to fame has been anything but conventional. Known for its lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls like Khone Phapheng and Tad Fane, Tad Yuang, Tad champee and the ancient temple complex of Wat Phou\u2014a UNESCO World Heritage Site\u2014Champasak is a place where nature and culture intertwine. For Thay, these surroundings have always been a source of inspiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Born and raised in this vibrant region, Thay grew up immersed in the sounds and rhythms of traditional Lao music. However, his path to becoming a singer wasn\u2019t straightforward. Before pursuing music full-time, he worked as an account clerk<\/strong> at a local resort, clocking in long hours behind a desk. It was a stable job, but deep down, Thay knew his heart belonged elsewhere.<\/p>\n\n\n

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On his days off, Thay would travel over 200 kilometers round trip<\/strong> from Pakse to Seno, where a modest recording studio offered him a chance to chase his dream. The commute was grueling, often taking up most of his free time, but Thay persisted. He saved every spare penny to fund his recordings, pouring his soul into each session despite the challenges. His parents, though supportive in their own way, couldn\u2019t help but worry about his unconventional choices. \u201cThey probably thought I was crazy,\u201d Thay admits with a laugh today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For years, success seemed elusive. Thay released song after song, hoping to gain traction. His big break came unexpectedly when one of his tracks started gaining attention on YouTube. Though the first payment from the platform was modest\u2014around 2,000 Thai baht (about $60 USD)<\/strong>\u2014it gave him hope. At the time, YouTube hadn\u2019t fully monetized channels based in Laos, so earnings were limited. Still, Thay remained undeterred. To cover costs and keep momentum going, he committed to releasing multiple songs each month, steadily building his audience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Much of Thay\u2019s success can be attributed to his collaboration with talented songwriter Jong Banna<\/strong>, who penned many of his hits. One standout track, \u201c\u0e84\u0ec8\u0eb3\u0e84\u0eb7\u0e99\u0e99\u0eb5\u0ec9\u201d<\/a> (\u201cIt\u2019s a Beautiful Night\u201d)<\/strong>, catapulted him into the spotlight. Recorded in his humble home studio, the song resonated deeply with listeners, amassing over 51 million views<\/strong>\u2014a remarkable feat considering Laos\u2019 population of just 7 million people. The achievement not only solidified Thay\u2019s place in the industry but also showcased the power of authentic storytelling through music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite his growing fame, Thay remains deeply connected to his roots. A true southerner at heart, his favorite foods reflect the flavors of Champasak. From larb<\/strong> (spicy minced fish meat salad) to steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves<\/strong>, and even unique delicacies like frog sausage<\/strong> or grilled frog served with long bean salad (\u0e95\u0eb3\u0edd\u0eb2\u0e81\u0e96\u0ebb\u0ec8\u0ea7)<\/strong>, Thay\u2019s love for local cuisine speaks volumes about his pride in his heritage. These dishes, made from fresh ingredients sourced from the Mekong River and surrounding rice fields, remind him of home and fuel his creative spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When asked about his journey, Thay humbly credits his fans for making it all possible. \u201cWithout them, I wouldn\u2019t be here,\u201d he says sincerely. Their unwavering support has kept him motivated during tough times, reminding him why he started singing in the first place\u2014to share stories, emotions, and joy with others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Today, Thay continues to write, record, and perform, balancing his passion for music with his commitment to staying true to himself. While he dreams of reaching international audiences someday, he knows that his foundation lies in the rich culture and community of southern Laos. And perhaps that\u2019s what makes his story so compelling\u2014it\u2019s not just about chasing fame; it\u2019s about honoring where you come from while daring to dream bigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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