An American YouTuber, known online as “Banana Man,” has shared the story behind his collaboration with Thai singer Nene Royal, recalling how he helped coach her English pronunciation in Phuket prior to her rise to international fame. The resurfaced details come after an old video of their English lessons gained significant traction on social media, captivating both Thai and international audiences following Nene’s artistic journey, particularly her performances on America’s Got Talent.
Early Encounters and YouTube Fame
The connection between the YouTuber and Nene Royal first came to light when her father, Narong Amloy, shared a video on Facebook approximately five years ago. This footage captured a young Nene engaged in an English pronunciation lesson with the American man. In the clip, they are seen singing Queen’s iconic song “Bohemian Rhapsody,” with the YouTuber guiding Nene’s vocal delivery and refining her pronunciation. This particular video, along with others showing the pair performing together, sparked curiosity among online users who sought to identify the foreign man.
The individual was subsequently identified as the creator behind the YouTube channel Dunbeezytv, widely recognized as “Banana Man” due to his frequent appearances in banana costumes. His YouTube channel features a collection of videos showcasing his performances with Nene during her childhood. The online community’s interest led to numerous requests for him to share the narrative of how he met Nene.
From Market Performances to Professional Coaching
Responding to the public’s curiosity, Banana Man posted a video on September 9, detailing the origins of their acquaintance. He introduced himself as a professional musician from the United States who had resided in Phuket. He recounted meeting Nene at the Naka Market in 2022, when she was around eight or nine years old and already performing there.
Banana Man expressed his admiration for Nene’s professional-sounding vocals at such a young age, recognizing her innate talent. He noted that even then, she possessed the ability to play complex guitar solos from songs like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and pieces by Metallica. Initially, their communication was facilitated through an interpreter. However, drawing upon his extensive background, which includes over seven years of experience as an English teacher and a professional musician, he offered to assist Nene in enhancing her English pronunciation, cadence, and tongue placement.
Acknowledging a Team Effort in Nene’s Success
Following the widespread praise he received online, with some attributing Nene’s success to his coaching, Banana Man was keen to emphasize that her achievements were the result of a collective effort. He stressed that while he played a role in her development, significant credit was due to her dedicated vocal coach, acting coach, and, most importantly, her parents.
He described Nene’s father as an exceptionally supportive figure, often seen assisting with technical aspects like carrying speakers and setting up sound systems, and even dancing behind the camera during her performances. Nene’s mother was also actively involved, reportedly managing a T-shirt stall at the market and looking after Nene’s younger brother.
Future Plans and Continued Support
Banana Man shared that he has since returned to Phuket and witnessed Nene’s continued growth as a performer at the Naka Market, where crowds now reportedly queue for the opportunity to see her perform. He also mentioned discovering old video files from 2022, which he plans to release, offering previously unseen footage of their time together.
Looking ahead, the YouTuber expressed his intention to revisit Thailand during the next rainy season. His plans include training at the Bangtao MMA facility located in Phuket, indicating a continued connection to the region and a commitment to his own pursuits.
The story of the American YouTuber’s role in coaching Nene Royal’s English pronunciation highlights the supportive environment and early opportunities that contributed to her burgeoning career, underscoring the importance of mentorship and family backing in artistic development.
