Bangkok: Rung Nakhon Phanom, a rising new artist in Isaan folk rock, has recently released his song “Sam Sa Ti Hma Wat” (Temple Dog). The song has garnered positive feedback and is already being discussed on social media. It tells the story of a loyal person who devotes their heart but ultimately has to let go, comparing themselves to a “temple dog” who waits by the side but becomes an unwanted burden, painfully stepping aside to let someone else take their place. The lyrics maintain an authentic Isaan style-simple yet deeply poignant, such as the line, “I’ll step aside for him, let him take you to heaven,” reflecting a sacrificial love, willing to step back even though the love is still strong. “Sam Sa Ti Hma Wat” was written and composed by Panuwat Wisetwongsa, with The Jessie handling the musical arrangement, creating a perfect blend of folk and rock.
According to Thai News Agency, for the music video, “P’ Pong” directed it, intensely portraying the pain. “Rung Nakhon Phanom” gave his all, performing every scene himself, genuinely feeling the pain in every shot, to realistically convey the emotions of someone heartbroken and forced to step back. Whether it’s dramatic scenes, scenes of sadness, or scenes reflecting the feelings of “the one who’s been abandoned,” the portrayal is powerful and poignant. He admits that this wasn’t just acting, but “putting his real emotions” into every shot.
“Rung Nakhon Phanom” revealed, “This song is like the lives of many people. People who love someone with all their heart, but ultimately have to step back. When I sang it, I was very emotionally invested, like I was that person myself. In the music video, I intentionally acted in every scene myself. I wanted it to be as realistic as possible, every pain genuine, because I wanted the viewers to feel the song’s message: ‘Sometimes, you have to let go of love, even if it’s agonizing.'”
He hopes to share the song ‘Sam Sati Hma Wat’ (Sam Sati the Temple Dog) as another song for those who are hurting or choosing to walk away, to let them know that they are not alone.