Thai actor and singer NuNew Chawarin Perdpiriyawong has opened up about the different pressures of acting and performing live, explaining why both sides of his career can make him nervous. In a backstage interview with Billboard at the 2026 TMElive International Music Awards in Hong Kong, the entertainer discussed his musical journey, his experience onstage and the emotional story behind his collaboration with Thai singer-songwriter Bowkylion.
When asked which activity made him more nervous, acting or singing, NuNew answered “both” with a laugh. He explained that acting provides opportunities to repeat a scene until the performance improves, while singing live offers no comparable second chance once a mistake happens.
“With acting, you can ask for a new take, and it will gradually get better. But with singing live, it can only be done once. If you make a mistake, that’s it, which is exciting in a different way,” he told Billboard.
NuNew’s comments came after his appearance at the awards event at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium, where he performed songs including “Heartquake.” His performance showcased the vocal ability that has helped establish him as a prominent figure in Thailand’s entertainment industry, alongside his work as an actor.
The artist explained that singing had been part of his life since childhood, although he did not fully recognize his own vocal ability until he was around 19 or 20. At that point, he was already working professionally as an actor. Recording cover songs and receiving positive responses from listeners encouraged him to consider developing his own music.
“I’ve loved singing since I was a child, but I only realized I could sing when I grew up, around 19-20,” NuNew said through a translator. He recalled that people’s reactions to his covers helped him recognize how much he enjoyed performing music and inspired him to pursue original releases.
NuNew first gained widespread recognition through acting, particularly his role in the Thai romantic drama series Cutie Pie. His work in television helped build an international following, while his music career expanded his reach beyond the screen. The transition has allowed him to pursue two creative paths, each requiring different forms of preparation and performance.
During the interview, NuNew also discussed “Kata,” his collaboration with Bowkylion. He explained that the song came about through a shared project when Bowkylion presented a composition she felt suited his voice. NuNew said he was immediately drawn to the song because of its emotional lyrics and its portrayal of painful love.
The track tells the story of someone who watches the person they love fall for someone else but continues the relationship despite knowing the truth. NuNew described the lyrics as painful because the central character allows the deception to continue in order to remain close to the person they love.
Despite the song’s sorrowful subject matter, Bowkylion shaped the arrangement to introduce a brighter musical atmosphere. NuNew explained that the production added a positive element to the track, creating a contrast between the sadness of the lyrics and the sound of the music.
The interview also highlighted NuNew’s growing presence in the regional music scene. His appearance at the 2026 TMElive International Music Awards brought his acting and singing careers together on an international stage, while his discussion of live performance offered insight into the risks and excitement of performing without the opportunity to redo a take.
As NuNew continues to develop his career across television and music, his remarks underscored the distinct demands of each discipline. Acting allows room for adjustments during production, while live singing requires artists to deliver the performance in real time, making every moment onstage part of the experience shared with the audience.
