Aof Pongsak will join diva duo New and Jiew in a joint concert, ‘The Battle of BFF’, later this month.
‘Hi, my name is Aof. I’m a singer,” pop star Pongsak Rattanaphong, 31, coyly introduced himself when we met for an interview a few weeks back at the GMM Grammy Building in Asok. Wearing a glittery gold jacket and matching bow tie, Pongsak entered the room with an energy almost palpable. His smile was bright, his laughter loud and contagious.
But, to say that Pongsak is just a singer is an understatement. Aside from his vocal pursuits, being a presenter, entertainer, actor and more have made up this man’s resume for the past 12 years in showbiz. His most recent gig — as presenter for Mistine’s brow pencil for men — became an online sensation last month after the ads went viral. He is now considered one of “Mistine’s Angels”, alongside several top actresses.
“When they approached me about this project, I thought, ‘Ooh, money!’,” he laughed. “Plus, I really liked the image and concept they envisioned. The team has planned it meticulously and they also welcomed my opinion.”
Pongsak ‘Aof’ Rattanaphong.
Pongsak emerged in 2004, when he was chosen as one of the contestants for the first season Academy Fantasia (AF) Thailand — the country’s most popular singing/reality show at the time. And though he only ended up as second runner-up, he turned out to be the most successful artist to have come out of the AF stage, surpassing any of the show’s winners. His emotional voice and signature singing style always struck the right note with listeners. Over the years, he has accumulated a string of hits from six solo albums, with numerous singles and collaborations with other artists.
“My music changes and evolves according to my own preferences, not really with the people’s taste in music. I believe that, if you do things that are far from who you are, you won’t derive happiness from doing it,” he said.
Ever since Pongsak vied for Academy Fantasia‘s golden trophy, there have been rumours and speculation regarding his sexual orientation. His effeminate personality was never hidden in the show’s 24-hour broadcast. And, after years of public doubt, he came out as gay in 2013.
“Can we call it coming out? I’ve never concealed it! Not even from the very beginning,” he laughed. “I think I’ve been quite open about who I am from the start, though I guess you could say I’ve opened up more in recent years. It just takes the right moment and status for a full revelation.
“I think people are also more understanding. Before, an artist’s identity may have been as important as his music; now, they’re focusing more on the quality of your work than your gender identity.”
After seeing Pongsak performing onstage, no one could deny his singing prowess and the entertaining show he tirelessly puts out for the audience. He always gives his all — whether in singing or dancing — and he even tore his trousers once after rocking a little too hard during a concert. High heels, flashy skirts and colourful jackets have all made up this man’s flamboyant onstage wardrobe.
“There are just more vibrancy and colours to it. In doing anything, if you can be yourself, you become happier. That, in turn, gives you a better performance, which also makes the audience happy.”
Revealing more of himself, he admitted, has had some effects on his career, though they’re nothing negative. Pongsak feels his popularity will stay where it is. What will change is the type of work coming his way.
“When my identity and image became distinctive, the producers of lakorn and film will obviously be hesitant to offer the kind of roles similar to what I used to get. Some just don’t fit my personality anymore. But that’s their decision.”
The revealed identity has opened more doors for the artist. A case in point is his cosmetics presenter job.
“New opportunities are coming in. The world is open now,” he said.
Through his trusted showmanship over the years, Pongsak serves as an inspiration for many. And for his own inspiration, he cited superstar Thongchai “Bird” McIntyre as one of his muses, though, generally, he regards everyone who comes into his life an inspiration.
“When you look at someone, you may wonder how they live their life so well. Then you just start to learn from them and absorb the good things they offer.”
Ultimately, the artist believes that inspiration is something people must build for themselves.
“I mostly take inspiration from myself,” Pongsak said. “You gotta build it for yourself, too. Together with support and encouragement from friends, families and loved ones, you end up being happy every day you’re still doing what you like and breathing.
“I owe my success to luck, partly. Luck and being who I am in every way, whether it’s how I live my life or how I work.”
After over a decade in this industry, there are times when he wonders about his future and whether he’ll continue singing in the years to come. He said that, should fans no longer respond to his music, he’d consider taking his talent behind the scenes. Opening up a singing studio and becoming a voice coach are two options he’s been considering.
“But if the fans remain welcoming, then of course my singing will never cease,” he said, smiling. “I do everything — every job in every day — because I love it all.”
To satiate his fans, coming up toward the end of the month is the “Battle of BFF” concert — a joint concert between the artist and duo Napassorn Phuthornjai and Piyanut Sueajongpru, together known as New and Jiew.
“It’ll be a battle of performances — of singing and clashing emotions,” Pongsak said of his upcoming gigs, which will occur on June 25-26 at Royal Paragon Hall. “You can expect a feisty, fun and entertaining night. And beautiful songs, definitely.”
This source first appeared on Bangkok Post Lifestyle.