PUBLISHED: 7 Apr 2025 at 03: 00
NEWSPAPER SECTION: News
Pongsri Woranuch, the first” Queen of Luk Thung” ( Thai country music ) and a National Artist in the Performing Arts ( folk singing ), died peacefully on Sunday at the age of 85.
Her demise marks the loss of an iconic figure in Thai music and society, leaving behind a legacy of timeless tracks and contributions to the Thai music business.
Born on June 5, 1938, Phongsri’s music journey began at the age of 15 when she started performing in a travelling opera ensemble.
From a younger woman serving in the band, she worked her way up to become a popular song and recorded her second one, Huajai Mai Mee Khrai Khrong, in 1955.
Her real breakthrough came when she joined Suraphol Sombatcharoen’s group, leading to her rise to stardom during the 1960s and 1970s. Suraphol was known as the King of Luk Thung.
With a special high-pitched words, Phongsri became known for hits like as Duang Phitsawas, Kod Mon Non Nao, and Nam Ta Mia Luang.
Over the years, she became a leader for adult folk musicians and influenced a generation of musicians, including the likes of Supaporn Srisuk, Pumpuang Duangjan, and Sunaree Ratchasima.
In 1992, Phongsri was honoured with the National Artist Award in acknowledgment of her efforts in the traditions music style.
She even established the Phongsri Woranuch Museum in Nakhon Pathom to keep her tradition and give a glimpse into her extraordinary job, which can be visited for free in the Phutthamonthon Sai 5 area.
Her funeral customs will get organised at Wat Rai King in Sam Phran city, Nakhon Pathom on April 17.
Pongsri: Battled heart cancers