Bangkok nightlife favorite Gene Kasidt, who you might remember as the frontman of iconic indie-rock outfit Futon, singing “Baby, you ain’t cool, you’re just rich and there’s a difference,” has gone on to become one of the nation’s most recognizable divas. She’s about to sum up her music career with her biggest concert yet, Gene Kasidit: Blonde 2Be Wild, this Saturday at Zen Gallery, CentralWorld.

You’ve come a long way from Futon. How would you describe the journey?
An exciting one, with lots of ups and downs. There were tough times in the Futon days; as an indie band, we only survived day by day financially. But I was really happy. Then when I quit the band, there was pressure to establish my name. I was starting all over again from zero. One small thing I would change is to have been bolder and taken more of a stand in my early 20s. Decision-making is very important. I have to be meticulous with the quality control of every release. Things can only go downward if you just want to get it over with.
 
One thing you haven’t changed much is your blonde hair.
I think my head is addicted to the chemicals. Once every six weeks I have to dye it blonde. I never last longer than three months with black hair. People also told me I look aggressive with dark hair. It feels brighter, looking at myself in the mirror, too!
 
What’s the secret to your success over the decade?
Sincerity is the key to everything. I have full faith in what I do. I take risks. I know what I am and what I want to do. My change from a boy to a lady look was completely genuine. Sometimes there’s a need to adjust or even compromise, but you also have to retain your integrity. You also need to be responsible. You want to treat people around you with respect. Being a solo artist doesn’t mean you’re working on your own. You must bury your ego; I always think of myself as just a singer.
 
We heard there will be a fashion show at the concert.
It’ll be a real variety show. A full-scale two-hour set. You can expect songs from my two solo albums, Futon’s and a few special songs, plus a fashion walk. For the concert, 12 Thai fashion designers kindly designed 12 costumes for me. It’s a small ELLE Fashion Week! And I will be changing on stage, so everything will be going on in real time, with no pause. It’s my biggest concert yet, and I’m rehearsing every day now, singing on the treadmill. The extreme party routine is being put on hold for now!
 
Is it fair to call you a rock diva?
Rock diva, rock electro diva or whatever, I don’t mind at all. I’m certainly going the diva route! Gene Kasidit can be anything; she varies according to the sound of music.

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