The debut of Thailand's most successful entertainer of all time

It was 24 years ago that the then-newcomer Thongchai McIntyre made his debut as a singer with his album Haad Sai Sai Lom Song Rao (The Beach, the Breeze and the Two of Us) to help establish his name in the national hall of fame. This youthful-looking entertainer later grew to become Thailand's biggest superstar, known affectionately by the whole country as "Pi Bird" (elder brother Bird).

From a humble beginning to Thailand's longest-reigning superstar, Thongchai was born on December 8, 1958, the ninth of 10 children to half-Scottish/Thai father James and Thai mother Udom in the Bang Kae area of Bangkok. Thongchai speaks openly about his childhood and, despite poverty, always feels thankful for his parents' warm-hearted nurturing. It had always been his hope to make his parents' lives better. Thongchai willingly struggled through his youth by working several part-time jobs during his studies at Thonburi Commercial College. Opportunity knocked on his door when Thongchai was found by star scout Varayuth "Kai" Milintachinda. After earning his diploma, the junior officer at Kasikorn Bank then spent his after-work hours in acting and modelling. In 1983, Thongchai landed a supporting role in a TV series titled Nam Tan Mai (Burnt Sugar) on Channel 3 and started to be recognised.

In addition to tender loving care, the 25-year-old inherited a musical gift from his family. In the same year, Thongchai took centre stage in the respected Siam Kolkarn Singing Contest. Although a runner-up, Thongchai's artistic talent caught the eye of Thailand's top music producer Rewat "Ter" Buddhinan who was the MC of the night. To become a professional singer, Thongchai went to see Khunying Porntip Narongdej who benevolently ended Siam Kolkarn's two-year contract in favour of Thongchai's request. This was officially when the road to stardom began for Thongchai.

In 1986, his immensely popular debut album was released. The sentimental pop ballad "Duay Rak Lae Pook Pan" (With Love and Affection) rocketed to number one. The emerging artist even cited it was his "born-again birthday tune" that caught the national attention. His following studio albums from Sabai Sabai (1987), Rab Kwan Wan Mai (Welcoming a New Day) (1987), Sor Kor Sor (New Year Card) (1988), Boomerang (1990), Prik Khi Noo (Bird Chilli) (1991) to the most recent Simply Bird (2007) have rarely failed to please the fans.

The formula of his eternal fame and success may be deemed a mystery as the phenomenon of Thongchai is unrivalled. His trademark Baab Bird Bird concerts have pleased diverse generations of audiences ranging from a two-year-old toddler to an 80-something granny. Premiered at the Thai-Japanese Stadium Din Daeng in 1987, the inimitable Baab Bird Bird has hit the highest record at 37 sell-out performances. The latest saga, Magic Memories, in 2008 entertained the crowds in the 12,000-seat Impact Arena in all together a dozen shows. "Before each concert, I spend the whole day rehearsing," says the devoted superstar. "Except for bedtime and during meals! I always enjoy singing, dancing and practising for the concerts because I feel like I get to hang out with friends, to party with friends. It's as enjoyable as going to Disneyland!"

For over two decades in this business, Thongchai has sold more than 20 million records, making him one of the most successful Thai artists of all time. Aside from a string of number one hits, his career has been further enhanced by acting - most obviously seen in his role as the fabled Japanese soldier Kobori in Channel 7's 1990 prime-time smash Koo Gam. Added to numerous honours and awards he has further been rewarded with shares and advisory position in the entertainment powerhouse GMM Grammy, contributing to its mega success since its very start.

The brand of Thongchai McIntyre undoubtedly entitles him to the highest paycheque as a brand presenter, including a much-talked-of Bt20 million deal to act as Tourism Authority of Thailand ambassador to encourage domestic tourism. Notwithstanding, when it comes to an extra boost of patriotism, this most-loved entertainer has voluntarily been involved in a number of national campaigns testifying to his national influence as an icon that helps draw public attention and strengthen the national spirit. Thongchai has been chosen to sing the anthemic "Ton Mai Khong Por" (Father's Tree), "Khong Kwan Jak Kon Din" (Gift of the Land) and "Roob Tee Mee Took Baan" (Pictures in Every House), to name but a few.

That he has reigned supreme as Thailand's biggest pop star throughout his career is in stark contrast to the easy-come-easy-go wave of celebrity in the present day. Thongchai is a true entertainer who the new generation of artists look up to (and, coincidentally, tonight Academy Fantasia kids are assigned to sing Pi Bird's timeless hits!). It is hardly imaginable who can be the next Thongchai McIntyre that may equal this high-flying Bird.

It's been said that it is his pleasant personality, down-to-earth nature, grateful heart and entertaining ability that earn him much-adored status. On the basis of his lifetime achievement, Thongchai however emphasises the professionalism, dedication and compassion that secure the top spot in the music industry.

In this exclusive interview for the Bangkok Post's Big Story, the 51-year-old megastar revealed his secret of success: "It is the fidelity. It is the happiness in being a singer, a public figure. It is the path that I have chosen. Once the fans are there, I give my best. Most importantly, we've got the chemistry: everyone loves to see me singing and I just love to sing for everyone."

Thailand’s biggest pop star in the latest Baab Bird Bird concert.

Thongchai Triviay

The nickname Bird is derived from Thongchai's English childhood name Albert.

Despite the fact that Thongchai didn't win the title of Siam Kolkarn Singing Contest, he swept three other accolades including an award for outstanding performance and recognition awards from Dr Thavorn Pornprapha and from the organising committee.

Rub Khaek (Welcoming Guests) (2002) which features the smash hit ''Fan Jah'' (My Fans) tops Thailand's best-selling album charts with estimated sales of over 5 million copies.

Thongchai received an honorary degree in fine arts from Rajamangala University of Technology.

Thongchai's secret to looking young: balance what you eat and the energy you use. On a relaxing day, he opts for light dishes and vegetables. ''Always work out,'' he stresses.

Thongchai has vacation homes in Chiang Rai and Hua Hin.

In May this year, Thongchai featuring

guests Da Endorphine, Katreeya English, Savika ''Pinky'' Chaiyadej and comedian Khom Chuencheun performed We Love Our King _ Bird Live in USA to a full house at Los Angeles's Galen Center Indoor Arena and in New York City's Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

Thongchai is a regular supporter of charity organisations including the Kidney Foundation of Thailand, Ruamkatanyu Foundation and children-related charities.

GMM Grammy has scheduled the next media interview with Thongchai on his long-awaited upcoming projects in November.

© Bangkok Post