Characteristics of Traditional Thai Folk Song in Modern Recreational Songs

Abstract

     This article aims at analyzing characteristics of traditional Thai folk song found in modern recreational songs. It was found that modern recreational songs are used for certain recreational activities among young people. The modern recreational songs are categorized into 4 types: 1) songs with movements 2) dialogue songs 3) songs in games and 4) songs in rituals. These songs share some common characteristics with traditional Thai folk songs, which are form, content, recitation, occasion, and function. The values of traditional Thai folk songs; therefore, reflect the entertainment preference of the Thai people over time. The popularity of traditional Thai folk songs also causes reproduction of similar songs. The reproduced songs are distinguished due to the changes of period and society.