Beat drop: Drummer’s collapse rocks live session in Khon Kaen

A drummer experienced a sudden collapse during a live music session, falling face-first to the ground while his bandmates rushed to his aid. Recalling the incident, the 54 year old drummer, Natthawut Sukkham, shared his perspective on the event, suggesting both health issues and supernatural elements might have contributed to his sudden fainting.

The incident occurred during the evening of July 17 in Khon Kaen, where Natthawut was performing with his band at the Nakharach Khu camp. He described the sensation as akin to being kicked, with a growing pressure in his head before he lost consciousness. Natthawut heard his friends calling his name and regained consciousness after about a minute.

“I felt a sharp pain in my forehead and nose from the impact, and there was some bleeding. I rested until I felt better and didn’t go to the hospital since I felt normal again the next day.”

The head of the music camp, having watched the livestream, consulted a doctor and sent blood-thinning medication for Natthawut. Reflecting on the incident, Natthawut attributed it to either lack of sleep, common in a musician’s lifestyle, or possibly supernatural causes. He mentioned he does not smoke and only drinks alcohol when offered during performances.

Earlier that day, the music camp had a Buddhist merit-making ceremony, during which Natthawut felt a heavy sensation in his head while the monks chanted. However, he felt fine after returning home, only to faint during the evening performance. His friends initially thought he had died due to his unresponsive state and rolling eyes, but he soon regained consciousness.

The music camp, where Natthawut and his band have been for the longest time, has seen other bands come and go without staying long. Natthawut recalled two dreams before the incident: one on July 13 where an older people woman smiled at him from the foot of his bed, and another on July 15 where someone gave him a gold necklace and bracelet.

Music camp

On July 17, the day of the merit-making ceremony, Natthawut’s bandmate’s brother mentioned that his brother had died in the house that now serves as the music camp, though it remains unclear if this is related to Natthawut’s collapse.

Natthawut also reflected on a past incident 20 years ago when he fainted due to lack of rest, speculating that his current health might warrant another check-up. He acknowledged the mysterious aspects of the incident as well, noting that some things are beyond human understanding.

Phra Thong Intanon, who was present during the live session, said that he saw Natthawut fall.

“At first, I thought he was joking, but then he fell. I quickly went to shake him to bring him back to consciousness. His eyes were blank for about two minutes before he came to. We let him rest and called an ambulance, but since he felt better, he didn’t go to the hospital.”

Phra Thong, who has never seen Natthawut in such a state before, initially feared the worst.

He added that when he regained consciousness, Natthawut asked what had happened and assured us he was fine. He thought he wasn’t going to make it. Musicians often face health issues, especially those who drink and smoke. It’s important to live cautiously and maintain health to work smoothly, reported Khaosod.