Sinn Sisamouth, Ros Serey Sothea

Label: Lion Productions

Format: LP + Booklet

Several years in the making, Lion can now finally deliver on our promise of another Groove Club volume dedicated to the deep and moving (and grooving) compositions of Sinn Sisamouth, sung by the Emperor of Khmer music himself, alone or duetting with the other legendary singer of those halcyon days in Cambodian music: Ros Sereysothea, the "Queen with the Golden Voice.”
Groove Club Vol. 5 includes a 16-page booklet featuring an exclusive interview with Mrs. Khav Thong Nhot, widow of Sinn Sisamouth, and Sin Sethsochhata, artist and granddaughter of Sinn Sisamouth, revealing more about Sinn Sisamouth than has ever been known before now. We hear directly from his wife about their courtship, their life together as Sinn Sisamouth became famous — and then what happened as the Khmer Rouge took control: the separation from her husband, and her own harrowing experiences trying to keep herself and their children alive. It’s not easy reading, yet stands as an important contribution (we feel) to a a story which until now has only been partially told. Sinn Sisamouth’s granddaughter, Sin Sethsochhata, a musical artist and also keeper of the family’s legacy, speaks of her own experiences in both realms.

Sinn Sisamouth is, without question, the most famous and beloved Cambodian singer and songwriter of all time. A brilliant singer and composer, "the Emperor of Khmer music" has had a greater influence and has touched more hearts than any other singer in the country's history. Though he was tragically taken from this world, his soul, spirit, and emotions are echoed in the legacy of songs he bequeathed to us, and for this reason, he is eternal.

The fact that any of this music even exists today is nothing short of miraculous. Original vinyl is extremely rare — and well-guarded! We have done our utmost to make the sound quality of the songs as good as can be without in any way treating or disrupting or limiting (or destroying) the frequency range of the tracks. This means that a few tracks might sound less than audiophile quality. But who cares! It’s about the music. It’s always about the music. And the stories. Mostly the music. Although this time, very much about the stories too.