Khab Tai Dam (Black Tai Folksongs): The Preservation and Adaptation of Musical Culture for the Maintenance of Ethnic Identity

Abstract

This article aims to describe the identity maintenance of the Tai Dam ethnic group through an analysis of musical components of Khab Tai Dam which was a cultural symbol that changed in accordance with the social context. The case study was mainly of Tai Dam people living in Laos, Vietnam and Thailand.

The study result found that Khab Tai Dam serves two functions; it is sung at ritual ceremonies and for entertainment culture. The first function is tied to the Tai Dam belief that the singer must learn and strictly follow the traditional practice of Khab Tai Dam as it has been preserved by their ancestors and transmitted from one generation to another. The second function involves an adaptation of Khab Tai Dam by blending the traditional rhythm and content with the rhythmic patterns of modern musical instruments such as the electone in order to appeal to a wider audience, especially Tai Dam teenagers.

In all three countries, both functions were found but Khab Tai Dam’s roles have diminished. In Thailand, the ethnic musical components or patterns of singing have been maintained. However, the role of Khab Tai Dam has changed to become a cultural demonstration of ethnic cultural preservation at the annual festival held in Tai Dam communities. In Vietnam, the singing has also been maintained but new technology in the form of karaoke DVDs is used to promote Khab Tai Dam. Music videos portraying various aspects of ethnic life have been produced. In Laos, the Lam Phloen rhythm, which is a part of mainstream Lao musical culture, has been incorporated into the traditional patterns and an electronic organ has replaced traditional instruments like gongs. The diminished roles of Khab Tai Dam in the three countries reflects the fact that traditional Khab Tai Dam is rarely being transmitted down to qualified successors. Without a willing new generation to take over the art, traditional Khab Tai Dam no longer functions as a cultural symbol. On the other hand, modern Khab Tai Dam, which has been changed and adapted for learning and succession purposes, has retained the typical features of Tai Dam music whilst also blending in modern music. Consequently, modern Khab Tai Dam is able to continue to express Tai Dam identity within the dynamic societies of the three countries.