Thammarat’s latest single, “Buckle Up,” isn’t just a song—it’s an emotional journey wrapped in gorgeous melodies and cinematic production. Right from the opening line, “I met you last night at a rooftop bar,” you’re transported into a vivid, late-night scene that feels like the beginning of a movie.

The track blends heartfelt storytelling with soaring, theatrical instrumentation, something that has drawn comparisons to the soundtrack of Dear Evan Hansen. There’s a raw, emotional honesty, with lyrics that feel like pages ripped straight from a diary, full of longing, disappointment, and ultimately, self-realization.

At its core, “Buckle Up” is about navigating the aftermath of an ambiguous relationship—the kind where one person is all in while the other is already halfway out the door. The descending melody in the chorus (“Cuz I’m falling, falling…”) perfectly mirrors that sinking feeling of realising things aren’t what you thought they were. But instead of just dwelling in heartbreak, the song transforms into a reminder of self-worth and not settling for less than you deserve.

Musically, the song’s production is lush and immersive, starting with a delicate piano (recorded by artist Cass DiFonte) and building into something expansive and cinematic. The final polish from Chris Hobson’s mixing and mastering gives it a radio-ready shine without losing the rawness that makes it so personal.

Even if you haven’t been in Thammarat’s exact situation, the emotions are universal—we’ve all been in places where we’ve questioned our worth in someone else’s story. And that’s what makes “Buckle Up” resonate so deeply. It’s not just about heartbreak—it’s about picking yourself back up, strapping in, and moving forward.

This one’s a must-listen, especially if you’re a fan of theatrical pop, introspective songwriting, and songs that hit you right in the gut. Buckle up, because this track takes you on a ride.

We spoke to Thammarat about all things “Buckle Up” and their journey as an artist. Check out our interview below.

Do you have an interesting moment or story from your early life that had a significant impact on your journey into music?

THAMMARAT: My journey into music coincided with my introduction to the Barbie Cinematic Universe. I found something deeply comforting and empowering in seeing female protagonists sing about their everyday struggles, thoughts, anxieties, and dreams. As a child, I wanted to incorporate that magic into my own life and I carry that sense of childlike wonder into my music practice today.

Are there any artists that were influential to your musical journey? How have they inspired your sound as an artist?

THAMMARAT: I take vocal inspiration from artists like Ben Platt, Josh Groban, and David Archuletta.

How would you describe your sound to new listeners? What do you think sets you apart?

THAMMARAT: People often say that my song’s narrative arcs give them a musical theater-ish vibe. I don’t necessarily disagree– I love musical theater! However, I generally consider my songs to be indie-pop. I think what sets me apart from many pop artists is my theatrical approach to singing. I have a background in musical theater and opera, so you get a lot of vibrato, vocal ornamentation, and shifting vocal “recipes” that might not be expected in a traditional pop song.

What’s your creative process? Where do you normally start when it comes to writing and recording? Do the lyrics come first?

THAMMARAT: When I have an idea for a song, or if I want to generate lyrical content, I will freewrite in my journal for about 10 minutes. This usually gets my brain flowing, and from there, I can start structuring some semblance of a verse or chorus. Sometimes, the song comes super fast, and I’m able to keep generating ideas for sustained periods of time. But most days, I will stop writing after 10 minutes and begin working on a different song to see what new things I can add or take away. I am admittedly not a very fast songwriter, but I like to think of myself as reasonably productive. Occasionally, I will go to a piano and bang out some chords to see what I can come up with. In terms of top-line melody, I generally compose by singing aloud. As a vocalist, I will hear specific melodic phrases in my head and when I do, I immediately record a voice memo to capture what I am thinking.

Have you had any challenges or adversities in your life that you feel have shaped you as an artist?

THAMMARAT: A lot of the challenges I’ve faced in my life stem from my identity as a queer Asian man. For example, a teacher at a prestigious art camp once told me that I would never make it in music or find success because I am gay and Asian. It was a horrible feeling but I proved her wrong when I performed at the nationally televised plaque dedication ceremony for Matthew Shepard at the Washington National Cathedral in 2019. That performance was a real game changer for me as it showed me the power of queer representation, especially for young people searching for a place in the world.

Which do you prefer, the creative process or live performance? Or do you enjoy both equally?

THAMMARAT: I think live performance is an extension of the creative process. For me, performance is a constant act of discovering and (re)interpreting the message of whatever I am singing, and that in itself is a creative act. I am currently engaging in more of the creative songwriting process than I am in live performance but I hope to perform my songs live at some point in the near future!

Do you as an artist require fans to fully understand your message in each song or do you encourage subjective interpretation from every listener?

THAMMARAT: I think that offering my perspective and thinking behind my songs is helpful for people to understand where I am coming from but definitely not necessary. I want people to feel comfortable interpreting my song however they wish. That said, I would have reservations if my song were to be used in a context which I did not feel comfortable with or did not condone.

Does the political landscape have an impact on your music, or do you keep your personal opinions separate from your work as an artist?

THAMMARAT: I have always been, and will continue to be, a firm believer that music is political in nature and that the role of a socially engaged artist is to facilitate positive and life-affirming change. I know that there are many people out there who disagree with me and that’s fine. But as a queer, gender expansive Asian American artist, my identity and experience is not up for debate. My very existence as an artist is a political act. Even those artists who choose not to engage are making a political act. And I will continue to write music that reflects my lived reality whether people like it or not.

What are your future plans? Any new songs/projects on the horizon?

THAMMARAT: I’m in college right now at The New School working on my capstone. However, I plan to take a year after college to write new music and release an EP or album of original songs!

“Buckle Up” is available now on all major streaming platforms**

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