PHNOM PENH: Social media users in Cambodia think local rapper VannDa is changing the way neighboring countries like Thailand perceive Cambodia, through an image of perseverance and dignity, and by being known as an artist that recreates the old into new and expresses his gratitude to his predecessors.
One popular message written by a social media user being circulated online says that VannDa is changing the way people in Thailand think about Cambodia.
“In Thailand, VannDa is changing the old mindset about Cambodians,” says one social media user. “He creates a positive image, suppressing negative thoughts about Cambodians in Thai society. This change has directly benefited and helped Cambodian workers living and working in Thailand (seeking new hope in a land that society despises). In addition, Thais of Khmer origin are prouder of being Khmer, when in the past [they felt] discredited by the social system.”
The message further reads, "In Thailand, VannDa's values are very meaningful. He is a symbol of perseverance, wisdom, and dignity (this is how Thai people compare him to their own rappers). He is highly creative, able to create an identity with character and not copy others, and especially he takes old things and modernizes them, giving respect and honor to his teacher #VannDaIsMore.”
Recently, a popular website covering all Asian hip hop news called 'HipHopDX Asia' also shared VannDa’s most famous song, ‘Time to Rise.’ This song is notable for its reflection of both development and national heritage, allowing many local and international fans to better recognize Khmer culture and pay attention to the art scene in Cambodia.
HipHopDX Asia also listed ‘Time to Rise’ on their list of the Best Music Videos of 2021, showing his global appeal and how he has brought Cambodian hip-hop to the world stage.
From 10-11 December 2022, VannDa will be playing the Big Mountain Music Festival in Khao Yai, Thailand. The Big Mountain Music Festival is the largest musical concert event in Southeast Asia, and is joined by many famous artists in the region. VannDa is the only Cambodian artist who will be participating in this mega-concert in Thailand.
