Country star Sayan Sanya was best known for his quirky, folksy songs and his soft, earnest vocals. Sanya, born Pornsayan Chokedeesamer in rural Thailand, drew on his early years as a rice farmer to create a quietly powerful brand of luk thung, or Thai country music. A throat operation in 1982 left his airy voice far raspier—and what could've been his career's end proved a new beginning. Sanya's new tone was beloved, adding new depth to his uniquely quaint country style.