There are many aspects to the tradition of Songkran.
The purists will be quick to tell you that too much emphasis is put on water fighting and partying these days, and that proper tradition is being lost.
So, for the record (no pun intended), and some cultural appropriation, I thought I'd explore some traditional Songkran songs.
But before we get into the music, here's a quick recap on what this festival is all about.
The word “Songkran” comes from the Sanskrit word saṃkrānti (Devanāgarī: संक्रांति), literally “astrological passage”, meaning transformation or change.
It is Thailand's grandest and most important date in the calendar year.
The period marks a time to let go of the past and move forward, but also a time to pay respect and be grateful.
It is a celebration that embraces goodwill, love, compassion and thankfulness.
Water is used as a means of expression to pay gratitude to elders and make merit/prayer at temples and shrines. But in modern times it is used to party and act like a loon!
Anyway, before you venture out and get busy with your water pistol and dance to Thai pop songs, take some time to appreciate these 5 traditional Songkran songs that live on in every 7-Eleven, mall, airport and just about every other place at this time of year!
Oh, and before I forget, it's also an extremely good idea to invest in one of those waterproof boat bags to keep your phone and money in when walking around.
In fact, when you're done with these songs, make sure you read my Songkran guide, which covers all the cultural aspects of this festive period, and includes 10 essential tips for staying safe.
Happy Songkran!
I hope you have heaps of fun. Stay safe. Don't drink and drive, and take care crossing the road.
5 Traditional Thai Songkran Songs
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James E says
The first one was playing at the new Tops Market near Soi 81. I couldn’t get it out of my head for days!
Apr 17, 2018 at 11:28 am
TheThailandLife says
Hah! They are infectious!
Apr 17, 2018 at 4:06 pm
James Murphy says
This Thailand Life is Great. I read it all the time and so useful. I’m relocating soon to Thailand and am getting married to a lovely Thai Lady.
We are both now retired.
I appreciate all of what you say and has helped me no- end.
Many thanks.
Apr 12, 2018 at 8:43 pm
Chucks Bond says
Hellow to all THAI people ! have a great Songkran!
Apr 14, 2016 at 4:15 pm
calvin says
Hey,
This is a little late but Youtube has removed the 2nd and 3rd songs – is there any chance you could post the Title in a comment? Thanks – I;ve been searching for a classic Songkran song that I heard once in a company party a few years back and can;t remember the title – all I remember was one of my colleagues explaining it was a girl singing about her husband/lover being a ‘butterfly man’ if anyone could help me out it would be much appreciated, thanks!
Apr 30, 2015 at 11:51 pm
TheThailandLife says
Hey Calvin, thanks for letting me know those two have been removed. I’ve replaced them with alternatives.
I can’t think of the song you mean. Are you sure it was a Songkran song, as they tend to be about good luck and New Year, etc.
Are you sure it wasn’t a luk tung song like https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtV6oIVFKY8
May 01, 2015 at 10:10 pm
calvin says
Thanks for the quick response, I’m pretty sure you’ve found the song I’ve been looking for!
If you’re wondering it’s in the 2nd Video and starts at 6 minutes. (Track 03-รำวงสงกรานต์หวานใจ04-ตลุงสุขสงกรานต์). Not sure if what my colleague said about it being about a Butterfly Man is correct. Also recall it being played at a BTS station on Songkran. Admittedly she isn’t what you would call a particularly nice singer, but this one was memorable.
May 01, 2015 at 10:36 pm
calvin says
(Track 03-รำวงสงกรานต์หวานใจ) **
May 01, 2015 at 10:40 pm
TheThailandLife says
Cheers Fordie, have a great Songkran!
Apr 13, 2014 at 5:54 pm
Fordie says
Brilliant, thanks for sharing!!!
Apr 13, 2014 at 5:22 pm