Michael Jackson to Mor Lam Stage The multiple relationships of commodification and emancipation

Abstract

Michael Jackson's musical contributions to popular culture are distinct in terms of both song structure and performing style. He took sounds from different musical civilizations around the world and arranged them into popular music frameworks. Despite being questioned about the depth and worth of popular music culture, it has become immensely popular and mainstream in Thailand. According to social media consumption figures from 2024, the Thai aged 16 and above spent about 8 hours per day on online media. It was also discovered that TikTok is more popular than Facebook. This significant change in the Thai online social media environment demonstrates that Thai people's media consumption habits have shifted to a preference for short films. This platform's primary marketing technique is the algorithm, which facilitates the creation of online media that can generate interest based on the number of views. From 2017 to the present, songs from the Northeast have constantly ranked among the top ten Thai songs in terms of views.

          The study discusses the relationship between the commodification of culture and the capitalist system. This explains the phenomenon of current Mor Lam's tremendous popularity, which has been inspired by popular music. Michael Jackson is regarded as a significant norm-setter in popular music. This study employed the music anthropology method and discovered that the shape of popular music culture was crucial in the development of contemporary Mor Lam performances. Popular music culture free of traditional frameworks allows for the integration of music cultures, creating a free space for ideas to be adapted to modern performances. It is also a venue where the public can join in Mor Lam performances. As a result, the Mor Lam stage serves as a location for release.