The band’s early performances -- a mix of original tunes, Jefferson Airplane covers, and the theme song to one of Hugo’s soaps -- were dodgy at best, but Siplor eventually rose to the top of Thailand’s rock scene, known equally for their psychedelic country-rock sound and outspoken, pro-democracy politics. After releasing four albums with the group, Hugo moved to London in search of a solo career.

Now operating under his forename, he co-wrote the song “Disappear” for Beyoncé’s best-selling 2008 album, I Am...Sasha Fierce, and earned a spot on her husband’s record label as a result. Hugo then paid tribute to Roc Nation founder Jay-Z by recording a thumping, folksy cover of “99 Problems,” which was featured in the 2010 film No Strings Attached. One year later, Old Tyme Religion officially introduced Hugo to the Western world with a mix of pop, rock, and soul. ~ Andrew Leahey