I have been hearing about the growing popularity of modern Shan music - largely settled in and focused around Chiang Mai - for the past few years. I have also learned of its resurgence through contact with, albeit sporadically (entirely my fault), several dedicated, inquisitive and budding academics who can provide a more detailed (and erudite and enlightening) explanation/introduction than I ever could. But, no matter. To begin with, I am providing this preliminary mini-posting with the hope that their (and other knowledgeable) comments will be hot on its heels. Thank you in advance.
So, to get this pop Shan music discussion started, I would like to direct your attention to an excellent introductory article on Shan music - it is entitled 'THE SHAN: Music Weaves through Imagined Community' and was published in 2005 by Wandee Suntivutimetee. The article is available through the Imagine Our Mekong website, a new web-info site dedicated to information on and from the Mekong Region and Golden Triangle.
Finally, for a bit of free publicity and to pop-star-up this posting, I have attached a photo of Sang Jom Fa, a main figure in the modern Shan music scene. He is, possibly(?), the James Blunt of popular Shan music. Does this moniker fit?
Any comments/criticism anyone??
Gyan mah chan tha ba seh,
Naw Liang
