Kong Nay was born in 1944 in Kampot Province and is a master performer of the chapei dang weng, a traditional long-necked, two-stringed guitar. Blind from the age of four as a result of smallpox, he is known as the “Ray Charles of Cambodia.” He taught at Cambodian Living Arts (CLA) in Cambodia for many years but has since retired.
Master Kong Nay is among seventeen artists designated as intangible treasures by the Royal Government of Cambodia in order to ensure that the country’s traditions are nurtured and remain a vital influence on the arts. He is famous in Cambodia for his witty, raspy voice and his frequent performances on TV. He has toured worldwide and performed on four continents.
