Tokin Teekanun is a man that wears many hats. He makes films, directs music videos and plays in a band called Triggs & The Longest Day. Apart from that, the 32-year-old runs left-field music fests Stone Free and Keep On The Grass Folk Music Festival, which have brought a breath of fresh air to the Thai alternative music scene. Tokin is now busy working on the third instalment of the down-to-earth acoustic folk jam Keep On The Grass, which will take place in Saraburi on Jan 31 (fb.com/KeepOnTheGrassMusicFestival, pre-sale ticket B1,000) as well as curating artworks for two upcoming exhibitions at The Jam Factory and BACC.
What was the idea behind keep on the grass?
Right after I held Stone Free, I felt there should be an alternative to acoustic-based music — a forum where people could sit back and enjoy chill-out vibes — as opposed to Stone Free, which focuses on live music and diverse line-ups. It was also the moment when acts like Little Fox [Mahasmut Bunyaraksh] and Selina and Sirinya became active again. It was a good idea to have those bands play at the fest, so we decided to make it happen.
HOW DID THE AUDIENCE RESPOND TO THE FIRST INSTALMENT?
There were around 300 people there. We only spread the word through our Facebook page. We didn't have sponsors or advertising. It was known by word of mouth and some of the media helped cover it, thankfully. I didn't really expect the amount of people that came. I kept the production costs very low and made the festival very simple so income from ticket purchases could cover it. The following year, the same group of people came back, forming a new generation of music enthusiasts. They are those who come mainly to appreciate the music.
SINCE MAKING MONEY IS NOT THE GOAL, WHAT'S YOUR MAIN AIM OF RUNNING A MUSIC FESTIVAL?
It would be cool if it makes money. Fortunately, we are able to cover costs. My goal is, however, to have the festival go on. Continuation is one of the proofs that it is successful and can support itself. At least, Keep On The Grass can be a platform for new local talents since those who play at the festival don't necessarily have to be big names. The festival is open to all talented, active and independent artists.
THERE ARE A LOT OF MUSIC FESTS BEING HELD RIGHT NOW. HOW DOES THIS HELP BUILD THE SCENE?
It's a good sign. When I run my event, I'm always busy running around. So I don't really get to enjoy the music. Some of the promoters invite me to their events. I found it's a good opportunity to get motivated and broaden my perspectives.
IS IT HARD TO RUN A MUSIC FEST?
I have made it happen, thankfully, with help from friends, artists and volunteers. Otherwise, it wouldn't be possible. Since there are a lot of details to take care of, it can't be a one-man show. I feel grateful and lucky to have musicians coming to perform at the festival. It's about friendship — not money. I do pay them as much as I can afford though.
HAVE YOU MADE MANY FRIENDS THROUGH ORGANISING FESTIVALS?
A lot. Through music, I've made many new friends. I feel great to have received help and support from them. We all have become friends. Bird of Desktop Error, for instance, would arrive one day early to help with the lighting, stage setting and all that. That's good [laughs]!
