22 December 2025
Back to the 60’s
MISS SARAWAN
Miss Sarawan brings a fresh and acoustic approach to the songs of the Cambodian Golden Era made famous by Pen Ron, Ros Sereysothea and others, as well as selected western favourites. Be prepared to be charmed by her music.
Mealea Lay, widely known by her stage name Miss Sarawan, is a Cambodian singer celebrated for reviving and reimagining the country’s Golden Era of 1960s music. With a voice that recalls the timeless grace of legends like Ros Sereysothea, Pan Ron, and Sinn Sisamouth, Mealea brings a modern vibrancy and playful charm to Cambodia’s vintage sound. Her musical journey began in Phnom Penh in 2013, when she met musician Joe Wrigley and co-founded the band Miss Sarawan — a project that blends classic Cambodian rock ’n’ roll with Western jazz, blues, and original compositions. Over the years, Miss Sarawan has evolved into one of the most sought-after live acts in the country, performing everywhere from intimate music venues to major cultural festivals such as La Fête de la Musique (World Music Day). Known for her distinctive stage persona, Mealea captivates audiences with her soulful vocals, vintage flair, and deep respect for Cambodia’s musical heritage. Her signature look — inspired by the A Go-Go era — combines 1960s beehive hairstyles, elegant dresses, and self-styled makeup, which she learned to perfect after years of experimenting with period fashion.
Beyond her striking style, Mealea’s performances radiate warmth, confidence, and nostalgia. Her passion for vintage Khmer culture is not merely aesthetic; it’s an act of preservation and reinvention — keeping the spirit of Cambodia’s lost musical icons alive for a new generation.
Miss Sarawan’s music continues to evolve, with original songs featured in live performances and upcoming recording projects that blend Cambodian soul with cinematic influences, reminiscent of soundtracks from Quentin Tarantino or David Lynch films. Through her artistry, Mealea Lay stands as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride, bridging Cambodia’s golden musical past with its vibrant present.