Innovative Thinking in the Creators of Thai Popular Songs in the Reign of King Rama VII

The 1932 democratic transition was a major event during the reign of King Prajadhipok. Thai society
saw numerous transformations due to these events. One aspect was the musical culture integral to the
lifestyle of the Thai people. The evolving musical culture was influenced by the dissemination of Western
musical culture and technology. They included internal influences, such as the Thai kings' encouragement of
Western music, the deteriorating economy, and the policies of the Thai government. The study of innovative
thinking of Thai popular song composers during King Rama VII's reign revealed that (1) Thai popular songs
were initially musical innovations that had a value impact on the community, society, economy, and the music industry. The group of creators and listeners of Thai popular song underwent a transformation in their
behavior and thinking; (2) the creation of Thai popular song aligned with progressive musical innovations,
influenced by technology, Western music, and Thai popular songs in previous eras; and (3) the progression of Thai popular music aligns with the concept of incremental innovations. The dissemination of Thai popular
music through the Advertising Department's radio station and its use in musical theaters and Thai films were
significant factors that contributed to its acceptance and popularity, establishing it as a form of new musical
culture in the lifestyle of Thai people.

Keywords: Innovative thinking, Thai popular music, Music in the reign of King Rama VII