Ep 001 - Piyapong Muenprasertdee
Explore Py's journey from grunge fan to Thai music industry leader, his mental health battle, and his vision for indie music in Southeast Asia.
In this first episode, I explore the transformative journey of Piyapong Muenprasertdee, whose passion for music has taken him from a grunge-loving teenager to a pivotal figure in Thailand’s music industry. Py’s early fascination with Nirvana’s “Heart-Shaped Box” ignited his love for grunge, rock, and metal, which ultimately led him to pick up the guitar and dive deep into the world of music. His experiences growing up in various countries exposed him to a wide range of musical influences, shaping his unique perspective and driving his commitment to supporting independent musicians.
As Py transitioned from a music enthusiast to a key player in the Thai music scene, he faced numerous challenges and opportunities. He became actively involved in improving the local music industry, working tirelessly to bridge the gap between Thai and international music markets. Py’s role in government policy-making, particularly as a member of the Subcommittee on Music under the National Soft Power Committee, highlights his dedication to fostering a supportive environment for artists. His efforts have led to significant policy changes and funding initiatives aimed at boosting the Thai music ecosystem.
His journey was not without personal battles. Throughout his career, he has been open about his fight against mental illness, using his platform to raise awareness and advocate for mental health support within the music community. His honesty about these struggles has not only helped to reduce stigma but also inspired others to seek help and speak out.
Py’s contributions extend beyond government roles, as seen in his work with Fungjai, a platform dedicated to promoting Thai indie music. His collaboration with Fungjai founder Sarun Pinyarat reflects his belief in the potential of independent music to thrive with the right support and infrastructure. Through initiatives like Bangkok Music City, Axean Festival, and various showcase festivals, Py has been instrumental in providing Thai bands with international exposure and growth opportunities. This episode dive deep into Py’s innovative strategies, his vision for the future, and the relentless passion that fuels his mission to elevate Thai's music.
Transcript interview here.