ZAIBAKTIAN

IMPIAN TERCAPAI

2010-11-05T11:20:00.015+08:00

4 Nov 2010  (Berita Harian 4th November 2010)
EKSTRA - Impian tercapai

Zaibaktian ceritakan pengalaman melawan arus untuk meningkat naik
Oleh Hanim Mohd Saleh

Tetapi penyanyi yang popular dengan lagu Lelaki Baru, Zaibaktian, berjaya membuktikan pengalamannya yang baru mencecah tiga tahun dalam bidang nyanyian tidak menjadi penghalang untuk beliau bermimpi besar.   Hasratnya untuk mengadakan konsert di Esplanade dalam tempoh tiga tahun tatkala menghasilkan single pertamanya tiga tahun lalu, tercapai sudah apabila beliau diberi penghormatan itu pada Sabtu lalu di Studio Resital Esplanade sempena Pesta Raya, menerusi acara yang diberi nama Konsert Kasut Putih - nama yang diambil kerana kegemarannya mengenakan kasut berwarna putih.

Lebih menggembirakan, beliau berpeluang bergandingan dengan penyanyi legenda, Datuk Ahmad Jais, penyanyi yang lebih awal dikenali sebagai penyanyi bersepatu putih.  Dengan suara lemak dan mantapnya membawakan lagu-lagu hitsnya, Zaibaktian menceritakan pengalamannya bermula 'agak lambat' untuk menjadi penyanyi, ketika usianya sudah menjangkau 30-an tahun. Tanpa wajah komersial, ciri yang dianggap genting untuk mana-mana penyanyi menarik perhatian ramai, Zaibaktian melawan arus dengan terus membawakan lagu-lagu yang dekat dengan jiwanya termasuk Dunia Yang Fana, diikuti Ejen Cinta serta lagu-lagu tema drama Kopi Bujang dan drama hari raya, Satu Raya, Tiga Cinta.  Para pemuzik pengiring pimpinan Nizamulmuluk Hussain yang terdiri daripada Shafiq Kamis, Yan Crossover, Yaziz, Uan Abang, Yazzit dan Omar Haron nampaknya cukup memahami rentak dan jiwa Zaibaktian dan berjaya menghasilkan permainan yang sempurna. Syabas!

Namun keadaan agak bercelaru ketika persembahan Datuk Ahmad Jais.  Ahmad Jais, seperti dulu, tetap mantap suaranya dan masih mampu menguasai pentas dengan lagu-lagu malar segarnya seperti Umpan Jinak Di Air Tenang, Gelisah dan berduet dengan Sarah Aqilah dalam lagu seperti Mengikat Janji dan Budi Setahun Segunung Intan.  Agak mengagumkan bagi seseorang yang sudah berusia 74 tahun masih dapat berdiri di tengah pentas, melaungkan suara segagah zaman mudanya.  

Sayang sekali, muzik iringan kali ini tidak semantap ketika Zaibaktian menyanyi. Banyak yang tersasar. Sering kali Ahmad Jais menjeling ke belakang, mendengar dengan teliti dan memastikan nada muzik dan rentaknya selari dengan nyanyiannya.  Hentakan dram terlalu kuat dan deras, tidak sesuai dengan rentak lagu-lagu Ahmad Jais yang biasanya lembut dan tenang.  Sehingga satu ketika bunyian dram menghentak kuat mengakhiri nyanyianya, beliau dengan seloroh berkata: 'Hai, macam nak roboh! Budak-budak sekarang...!' Mujur Ahmad Jais cukup berpengalaman dan pandai mengawal suasana sehingga keseluruhan konsert tampak berakhir dengan sempurna.  Apa pun kelemahannya, mudah-mudahan banyak yang dapat dipelajari daripada konsert yang diterbitkan oleh syarikat Cokelat Events and Productions.  

Gandingan penyanyi lama dan baru dalam sebuah pementasan merupakan satu langkah yang baik untuk mendekati peminat daripada generasi yang berbeza.  Mudah-mudahan penggemar muzik muda akan lebih menghargai muzik orang lama sementara penggemar muzik lama kini terbuka hati untuk menyokong artis-artis muda yang berpontensi untuk melangkah jauh.

Mr Ajmain Will See You Now

2010-11-01T14:21:00.000+08:00

Mr Ajmain Will See You Now

Gumbira!

2010-10-31T19:54:00.000+08:00

Gumbira!

1 Raya 3 Cinta - Zaibaktian

2010-09-27T20:53:00.005+08:00

Above is the official MTV of the theme song, of the Hari Raya telemovie entitled "1 Raya 3 Cinta".

It was aired on Hari Raya eve, 9th of September @9pm, on SURIA.

Lyrics to this theme song was written by myself and song was composed by myself & Shafiq Kamis, guitarist from the band "KLUTZ".

This MTV was directed by Rafaat Hamzah with Shahrezza Zuhri as DOP.

I am honoured to have my supportive brothers on this MTV - Yan Crossover on bass, Amin Salleh on guitars & Riduan Zalani on drums.

It was filmed in ungodly hours - past midnite till 6 am in the morning - and it was the fasting month of Ramadhan.

So kudos to everyone involved in this MTV production :)

KONGSI IMEJ, KONGSI PENTAS

2010-09-20T19:58:00.001+08:00

KONGSI IMEJ, KONGSI PENTAS
Dua penyanyi dari dua zaman, Ahmad Jais dan Zaibaktian, akan digandingkan dalam Konsert Kasut Putih
By Hanim Md Salleh
19 Sept 2010

MEREKA datang dari dua era berbeza dengan lagu-lagu yang jauh berlainan genrenya.

Tetapi kerana berkongsi imej sebagai penyanyi yang suka memakai kasut putih, penyanyi Zaibaktian berpeluang berkongsi pentas dengan seniman veteran yang telah lebih dulu dikenali sebagai 'penyanyi berkasut putih,' iaitu Datuk Ahmad Jais.

Bezanya, sementara kasut Ahmad Jais biasanya agak tinggi tumitnya (dua inci atau 6.4 sentimeter), Zaibaktian pula gemar mengenakan kasut yang leper tapaknya dan memancang di bahagian depan.

Dua penyanyi tersebut akan sama-sama muncul dalam Konsert Kasut Putih, sempena Pesta Raya, yang akan berlangsung di Studio Resital Esplanade pada 30 Oktober ini.

Ketika dihubungi, Zaibaktian, yang popular dengan lagu Lelaki Baru, berkata idea menggabungkan beliau dengan Datuk Ahmad Jais diusulkan oleh penerbit konsert, Rafaat Haji Hamzah, yang juga pengurusnya dari Floppy Records.

Kebetulan, Rafaat, yang juga pelakon popular tempatan, meminati lagu-lagu Ahmad Jais.

Menceritakan bagaimana beliau mula muncul dengan kasut putih, Zaibaktian berkata:'Memandangkan saya ini tak pandai bergaya dan bermula agak lambat sebagai penyanyi, saya dinasihatkan kawan-kawan agar memikirkan satu imej yang dapat membantu orang ramai lebih mudah mengingati saya secara visual.

'Kerana saya gemarkan warna putih, saya mengambil keputusan menggunakan warna itu sebagai asas pakaian saya... baju putih, kot putih, topi putih dan kasut pun putih.

'Anehnya, kalau saya berpakaian putih, tak ada pula orang mengusik saya. Tetapi kalau saya pakai sepatu putih, orang panggil saya Ahmad Jais. Apa pun, saya tak kecil hati kerana saya menghormatinya dan memang membesar dengan lagu-lagunya,' kata penyanyi itu lagi.

Sementara itu, Ahmad Jais yang kini menetap di Shah Alam, Selangor, ketika dihubungi menerusi panggilan jauh, mencuit hati wartawan apabila beliau bertanya tentang Espalande Teater Di Pesisiran.

'Setahu saya, Esplanade tempat jual sate, ada padang besar. Mana ada tempat konsert? Kalau Panggung Victoria, itu saya tahu,' ujar penyanyi berusia 74 tahun itu.

Katanya, sudah lebih 30 tahun beliau tidak mengadakan konsert solo atau eksklusif di Singapura. Kalau ada pun, beliau merupakan salah seorang penyanyi jemputan untuk acara-acara di ekspo dan menjadi bintang undangan konsert Ismail Haron.

Pada 2004, beliau pernah mengadakan konsert solo selama empat malam di Istana Budaya, Kuala Lumpur.

Walaupun beliau tidak dapat menggambarkan bagaimana bentuk Esplanade Teater Di Pesisiran, Ahmad Jais berkata beliau bersetuju untuk membuat persembahan bersama Zaibaktian kerana mahu menyokong persada muzik Singapura.

'Kita kena sokong budak-budak muda. Dulu pun saya muda dan suka diberi perangsang. Selain itu, Singapura dekat dengan hati saya kerana lagu-lagu popular saya banyak dirakamkan di Singapura, gubahan Kassim Masdor dan tulisan Yusnor Ef,' ujar bapa empat orang anak itu. Bahkan sembilan daripada 10 cucunya menetap di Singapura.

Apabila ditanya tentang kasut putihnya, beliau mengakui memilih warna itu kerana sukakan imej bersih.

Apa yang menarik perhatian, beliau rupa-rupanya tidak pernah membeli kasut di kedai, sebaliknya kesemua kasutnya, ditempah.

Bahkan semua seluar dan bajunya juga ditempah.

'Kalau saya tak tempah, takut seluar menyapu lantai atau tumit terlalu rendah,' jelasnya.

Bagaimanapun, sejak usianya meningkat senja, tinggi tumit kasutnya dikurangkan kepada 6.4 sentimeter saja.

'Saya pun dah semput-semput selalu. Kena jaga-jaga,' ujarnya.

Kalau Ahmad Jais mempunyai repertoire lagu yang cukup untuk konsert lebih sejam atau dua jam, sebagai penyanyi baru, Zaibaktian boleh dianggap beruntung kerana mempunyai beberapa lagu yang popular kerana digunakan sebagai lagu tema drama-drama tempatan.

Baru-baru ini, beliau menyanyi untuk lagu tema drama Hari Raya, Satu Raya Tiga Cinta yang dicipta Zaibaktian dan Shafiq Khamis.

Untuk siri drama baru, Kopi Bujang pula, beliau bergabung tenaga dengan Moe Masri dan Syed Azmir dalam dua lagu yang dihasilkan.

Singlenya, Dunia Yang Fana pula akan dijadikan lagu tema untuk drama Hari Raya Aidiladha.

'Saya gembira kerana hasrat saya meluaskan peranan dalam seni sejauh ini berada di landasan yang betul. Saya tak mahu setakat menyanyi dan buat album kerana bidang muzik dan nyanyian ini begitu luas. Alhamdulillah, lagu-lagu saya diterima sebagai lagu tema drama dan rasa bersyukur diberi tempat untuk menyanyi di Esplanade bersama seniman legenda.

'Insya-Allah, selepas lima tahun menimba pengalaman, saya bersedia menjadi penerbit pula,' kata Zaibaktian.Menurut Rafaat pula, konsert itu akan menghidangkan sekitar 15 lagu dengan sebahagian besarnya dinyanyikan oleh Ahmad Jais.

Untuk lagu duet, penyanyi Sarah Aqilah diundang untuk mengalunkan lagu-lagu yang pernah dirakamkan bersama Ahmad Jais dengan Rafeah Buang atau Kartina Dahari. Zaibaktian juga dijangka bergabung suara dengan penyanyi veteran itu.

Konsert Kasut Putih akan bermula 8 malam. Tiket berharga $19 boleh dibeli di Sistic.

SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI

2010-09-14T08:44:00.003+08:00

Wishing SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI & MAAF ZAHIR BATIN to all my families, friends...to all my beautiful & handsome supporters....love always! :)

BAIK SKALI!!

STEEL YOUNGZ Album Launch

2010-04-20T15:38:00.002+08:00

I'm honoured that Steel Youngz had asked me to be the emcee their debut album launch. I'm not much of an emcee but i think i did alright for tat day. It was full house crowd tat day consisting of families, friends and Steel Youngz supporters.

It was great to see so many fellow enthusiasts, musicians and artists turning up and giving their support to this new and extremely talented band. Since it was an album launch, Other than the featured performers - Rampage, De Electrifiers Crew (dance group) , Indra Hamzah (Anugerah 2003 champion), Headrush and Tengku Jaffar....there were also others - Boy Raven, Empire, X-Tech, Fatskunks, NSA, Crossover, Blindfaith, Revive, Zaharian Osman and many more... - attending to give their fullest support.

Overall, it was a good soft launch and I am delighted to be part of it. In regards to the album, it will soon be available in Muzika Rekod......go get it!! :)

Misteri Jam 12

2010-04-15T17:17:00.000+08:00

I will be in RIA 89.7FM studio when the clock strikes midnite....DJ KC had invited me to accompany him for this very popular 2 hour show.....stay tuned peeps!!

DUNIA YANG FANA

2010-04-15T10:56:00.000+08:00

'Dunia Yang Fana' finally ended its stay on RIA Charts, a weekly hit songs charts show on Mediacorp RIA 89.7FM, recently.

22 weeks on the charts!!

Highest position at No 2 for a couple of weeks, behind Kangen Band's 'Takkan Pisah' and Didicazli's ' Takkan Kembali'.

Though it would be unbelievable to have my second No 1 hit song after 'Lelaki Baru", i'm very much delighted to have achieved so much for this single. For the song to be accepted by the mainstream radio listeners is a fine achievement for me. :)

I wrote this song in March 2008 after a conversation with my Mum tat fine morning. She was giving me plenty of advice that got me to soul searching. So while reflecting on her words that same night, i suddenly had the chorus melody line in my head....and the rest is history...

VIDEO COURTESY OF afdah on youtube

AnugeraHitz.sg - The Aftermath

2010-04-05T18:03:00.000+08:00

I'm happy to have been part of the 1st singapore Malay music awards show - AnugeraHitz.sg.....for many years now, homegrown Malay artistes have cried out for an awards showcase we can call our own....and finally it had arrived :)

I won't comment about the results. One way or another, the winners deserved them and the judges decisions were final.

A million thanks to fellow artistes, fans and supporters at home and at the Mediacorp theatre for the love and support given to me......right before the winner for 'Best New Artiste' was announced, the chanting of my name was deafening and that touches my heart.....

Alas i did not win.....a tad disappointed though....cos winning it would have given me the chance to shine the spotlight on the independent Malay music industry and its talents.....

Awards or not, i shall continue on my quest to improve myself in music and hopefully produce something great for my supporters to remember me by :)

My predictions for AnugeraHitz.sg

2010-04-03T15:31:00.000+08:00

i know i should not do this....but i cannot resist being pundit for the day...hehe...

BEST NEW ARTISTE - Sarah Aqilah
BEST NEW DUO/GROUP - Diorama
BEST ARTISTE - Imran Ajmain
BEST DUO/GROUP - Sound Salvation
BEST LYRICIST - Aqmal N
BEST COMPOSER - Aqmal N
BEST SONG - Taufik Batisah
BEST ALBUM - Taufik Batisah
MOST POPULAR ARTISTES - Taufik, Hady, Sleeq
MOST POPULAR SONG - Taufik, Hady, Didicazli

AnugeraHitz.sg

2010-04-03T15:19:00.000+08:00

I have to say that it's an honour to be nominated as one of the five nominees in the "Best New Artiste" category in AnugeraHitz.sg.....will be fighting it out with Hyrul Anuar, Maiya Rahman, Sarah Aqilah & Shahril Bahri.

Frankly, i do think i deserve to be nominated for the hardwork and sacrifices i've put into my music these last few years. I've been asked numerous times about my chances of winning. As mentioned in the New Paper on Friday 2nd March, i've been touted as hot favourite to win this category.

To be nominated is already a good recognition for me. I think not many knew that I've always been fighting many challenges in my music journey. Never did i envision that i will somehow be able to cross over to the mainstream and be appearing on tv someday and somehow i managed that...alhamdulillah

When i started my music adventure back in 2007, 2 factors was always being mentioned:

Age
Image

These 2 factors had always been against me from the very start. Age for example....i look around and i don't see anyone in my age bracket (30-34) being visible in the music industry.....as part of a band, yes....but none as solo acts.....

I've mentioned to friends that if the judging criterias are based on achievements and consistency, i think i deserve to win....but if it's based on image, looks and prospects, then it should go to either Sarah or Hyrul.

Not winning this award would not put a stop to my music journey though, insyaAllah. Like i mentioned before in this blog, i have a 5 year plan to succeed in music. I have 2 years left to go and I hope to leave something great at the end of my 5 years in music.

Nonetheless, i hope my nomination would serve as an inspiration for anyone wishing to pursue a music dream as an independent artiste...if I can do it......so can YOU!! :)

THANK YOU VERY MUCH to all who have been in my music adventure one way or another....you're loved!!

BAIK SKALI!!

2009 - An amazing year in music for Zaibaktian

2010-04-01T11:15:00.001+08:00

I'm never one to indulge in self-glory but i believed that 2009 was a year where all that i had set out to do....worked out for...planned for....believed....had finally came to some fruition......simply put, it had been an amazing year in my brief music career.

So here's me being a journalist for a day, writing a summary of what happened in 2009. To all my beautifuls & handsomes, hope you enjoy reading :)

Zaibaktian's "Lelaki Baru" was already a No. 1 hit song on RIA 89.7FM on the way to 2009. Composed & written by Yazri Merah, it became the Top 10 songs of 2008 on RIA 89.7FM. "Lelaki Baru" stayed for 25 weeks on the charts till March 2009 and had achieved its highest position at No. 1 for 3 weeks. The popularity of the song propelled Zaibaktian to new heights and he garnered nominations at 2009's Anugerah Planet Muzik as "Singapore's Most Popular Artiste" and "Singapore's Most Popular Song". In 2010, it was also selected as the Top 100 songs on RIA 89.7FM on the radio station's 20th Anniversary.

"Ejen Cinta" was Zaibaktian's 2nd single in 2009. The single, originally written for Mediacorp Suria's love drama comedy of the same name, was Zaibaktian's next collaboration with Yazri Merah. Yazri composed the song and Zaibaktian co-wrote the lyrics with Rafaat Hamzah. "Ejen Cinta", the MTV was a constant feature on Suria during the period of June-July and proved to be a hit with the Suria viewers, which helped introduce Zaibaktian to a wider TV audience. The TV series followed suit and subsequently the single was aired as RIA 89.7FM Trax Terbaru in July 2009. The song achieved its highest position at No. 2 on RIA Charts and stayed there for 15 weeks.

2009 was also the year Zaibaktian made his debut on televison. His debut came in May 2009 when he was featured on "JUS', an info-tainment programmed on SURIA, and performed on TV for the very first time. Subsequently, he was featured again in December 2009 in all-Singapore artistes concert programme called "Viva Muzik Singapura".

Festival Melayu Ada aka FMA, a street gig showcasing homegrown independent Malay artistes was first held at Hajjah Esah Cafe (Bussorah Street) in March 2009. A brainchild of Zaibaktian, Rafaat Hamzah and Rafiz Hapipi, one of its primary objective was to promote Malay music, poetry and arts, and its practitioners. The event had been very successful in creating awareness among the Malay community, especially in the areas of music and poetry in its 1st year. A full article writeup on FMA was published in Berita Harian in June by Hanim Md Salleh.

Establishing himself as a dynamic 'live' performer, he was selected to feature in an annual event featuring some of the best Singapore talents - "Rentak Singapura" - organised by Mediacorp Radio's RIA 89.7FM and WARNA 94.2FM. Performing his two hits "Lelaki Baru" & "Ejen Cinta", he was also given the honour to perform in the finale and performing alongside the 2 Singapore Idols, Taufik Batisah & Hady Mirza.

"Dunia Yang Fana" was the 3rd single offering by Zaibaktian. Though he had initially submitted the song to be considered as RIA Trax Terbaru, it did not happen. Nevertheless, the song was included in the month of Ramadhan playlist. It received an encouraging response from the radio listeners and it then made its debut in RIA Charts in October 2009. It rose to its highest position at No. 2 and stayed there for 22 weeks ending March 2010.

So there it is - my highlights in my music career in 2009 - i had far surpassed my own expectations when i first started my music in 2007. But i'm not resting on my laurels just yet. There's still so much to learn and I've made it my daily goal to keep learning a new thing each day. I've made new goals in 2010 for me to work at.

Thank you to everyone who frequently visit my humble blog since 2007 and all who had supported me in my music journey one way or another....i will persevere and keep on improving myself and not disappoint you guys :)

BAIK SKALI!!

THE MOST WONDERFUL CURE

2009-12-25T11:00:00.002+08:00

It's been a wonderful year for my music adventure in 2009 & VMS provided with an opportunity to cap it all off. Me, being a newbie when it comes to TV productions was certainly excited at the prospect of showcasing my music to a wider audience. So after days of preparations, the day had come to let loose.

I left home tat day saying to myself what an eventful da

y this is.......to be frank, i haven't had a good night sleep for the longest period of time....i'm do

ing myvery best to cope with my ever busy schedule....not tat i'm complaining....i'm forever grateful to Him for blessing me with His gifts....anyway, this is wat i have been sacrifiing and working hard for , the past few years.

Booked a cab and off i went towards Dhoby Ghaut Green...the venue where VMS would be held. I was dead tired and hellbent on getting a quick nap. I

was sitting on the left side rear seat and fortunately for me, had the presence of mind to buckl

e myself up and as I was about to find out, that act did a lot to save me from further harm.

Along Portsdown Road a couple of minutes later, the cab I was in was involved in a traffic accident....a pile-up where 3 other vehicles were involved. I was badly shaken from the experience and i thank for God for my safety for it could have been much worse. I did not feel any pains at tat point of time though. So after regaining my composure, I then quicky informed my loved ones of my predicament. Mr Amin later came and picked me up from the site and off we go to VMS.

Whatever it was....it did not stop me from having a blast at VMS !! I could disappoint my friends and supporters who had come all the way to Dhoby Ghaut to see me perform.....though i must say I was in pains during the performance...watching the crowd singing at the top of their voices and swaying their hands from left to right was definitely the most wonderful cure!!

Anyway, thanks once again to my musician brothers who performed brilliantly with me tat day - Amin Salleh, Yan Crossover, Zed Zaini and Amanullah - amazing!!

to Azizah, Chip & Moon for the love

to Azni for that "outrageous" outfit...but i still look good i think...hahaha.....

to my lovely friends and supporters - u noe who u are cos u r the ones singing along to each of my song - for the applauses and screams - for the hand swaying

THANK YOU for making 2009 a beautiful year for me :)

AMAZING AUGUST

2009-08-12T19:58:00.000+08:00

8th August - Rentak Singapura My very 1st time performing in a very much publicised event organised by radio stations RIA and WARNA and supported by Perkamus. Rentak Singapura was held for the 2nd year running and held at the TRCC Centre, Republic Polytechnic tis time around. I did dream on performing in nights like this when I first started my music adventure. So i did hope to be included in this year's edition. Imagine my excitement when i was contacted by the show's producer, Nity Baizura, if I'm interested to be part of the event. Gosh...of cos i'm interested...couldn't contain my excitement..nak step cool pun tak boleh.....hahaha..... There i was on that historic day personally.....realising that i'll be performing alongside the hottest names in Singapore Malay music industry:- TheSallys, Salma, Nana, Merah, Sleeq, Didicazli, Hady Mirza and Taufik Batisah. Performing to a 1000+ strong crowd, it was surely a night to remember :) Zoom to my performance - Backed by my musician brothers: Amin & Kheir (guitars), Sam Hardy (bass), Nizamulmuluk (keyboards) and Shahril X-Tech (drums) - I performed 'Lelaki Baru' and 'Ejen Cinta' in a medley, as I was given only 6 mins for my performance due to time constraint. Alhamdulillah....thanks to the guys for helping me arrange. Yup, it would be my most exciting 6 mins on stage......i felt so honoured on stage with the screams and applause from the audience.....the guys with me on stage must have felt the energy too....i gave everything i had on stage tat day! Something funny happened during my performance...usuallly i would bring a bottle of water with me on stage to help me hydrate in betwwen songs...while performing 'Ejen Cinta'.....i felt my throat running dry......wow, it was a nightmare singing with a dry mouth and throat.....the best part was i couldn't find my water bottle on stage......hahaha..... Alhamdulillah, i did give my all and i did felt that the crowd enjoyed my performance and to me, that's the most important thing!! The highlight of Rentak Singapura must surely be the finale and i'm sure most ppl who came would agree. Again i must stress that I felt so honoured to be performing alongside Fadly X-Tech, Taufik and Hady......not forgetting the awesome Projek Band :) I've exhausted all superlatives to describe my experience performing in Rentak Singapura.....once again I would like to thank everyone who made my experience possible.....special thanks too to my family, friends and supporters; my manager, Azizah Zakaria and my stylist, Azni Samdin....Love u all!! Wait....one more superlative..... BAIK SKALI!!!

Joys of June

2009-07-24T12:26:00.021+08:00

Salam everyone!

I've been pretty busy with productions which is what I like to do best. Yup, never fail to learn something new...tracking, mixing, arranging, mastering etc...always magic when u're working in the studio. Haha....ada yg komen blog ni dah berlapok...kurang updates....aku suka sangat biler orang komen....sama ada yang buruk atau baik...pada aku, itu bermakna orang prihatin dengan perkembangan kita.... I started tis blog in late December 2006 with the belief tat i should write about what I felt my music journey is all about. When i did my 1st few entries in January 2007, only a select few of my family and friends were reading and visiting. Alhamdulillah tat now i'm able to share my adventure with a growing number of people...at the very least if they wanna know how I started in music, they can do so by reading my past entries :) So here is my updates about what went on i my music world in June PS:- Thanks to Lyn & SV for reminding me to update..hehe :) JUNE 2009 APM PRESS CONFERENCE - 2ND JUNE 2009 me and mr Amin, guitarist for the band VJR (runner-up of RIA Band Remix 2006) I asked Amin along wif me to attend my very 1st Anugerah Planet Muzik Press Conference. For those familiar with my performances, they will no doubt remember Amin as the guitarist backing me in almost all my shows. Though 'ZAIBAKTIAN' technically is a solo act but I have no doubt in my mind tat the musicians who have stood by me these years are as much a part of 'ZAIBAKTIAN'......questions have been thrown to me about why I did not simply form a band as my forte is performing live wif all these wonderful musicians behind me etc.....hmmm, i'll answer these questions in the near future :) ...but i'll definitely would love to, as much as possible, to share my success and limelight wif these people who had given their best to me :) Greeted at the door with familar faces namely the RIA & WARNA DJs and it's great to meet up with other Singapore artists I am definitely familiar with namely Merah, Didicazli, Aliff Aziz, Fauzie Laily, Sleeq, Ross Revalina etc....and also meeting for the very 1st time with Nana, Hyrul, TheSallys etc.....and it's definitely wonderful to see those, though not nominated, lending support with their presence such as Fyno, Jeff Catz, Audionauts...... wif Yazri Merah (composer/lyricist of the hit song 'Lelaki Baru') wif Didicazli (eventual winner of Lagu Singapura Paling Popular wif 'Impianku') I was delighted when it was announce that I have been nominated for 2 categories in APM namely 'Lagu Paling Popular Singapura' with the song 'Lelaki Baru' (composed & written by Yazri Merah) and 'Artis Paling Popular Singapura'. Though I was silently confident about getting nominated for the song category as it was one of the most popular songs in 2008 on Ria 89.7FM, it was quite a shocker for me to be nominated in the popular artist category....tis is due to fans and supporters...they had put me there!! :) Personally, to be nominated in APM is one of the highlights in my music career....when I first started music, I did envisioned myself getting recognised in days like this.....Alhamduillah.....never mind the outcome....the journey is wat's important to me :) the APM nominees of Singapore ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Production of SAMSURI's single "Mawar Merah" - 11th JUNE 2009

Finally, the single production is complete. Co-produced by Yazri Merah and myself, it had taken several months to come to this moment. Yazri together wif Amer Merah had done the final arrangements in December 2008 and we finally wrapped up the music recording process in February 2009. Sessioned by Amer Merah on drums; Yazri on bass/guitars, I had been scouting for a talent to lend his voice and put the finishing touches to this song, which was composed and written by myself. As with the music recordings, we did the vocals at TNT Studios. Eja, Eddy Hafiz and Zed Raven were present as well to lend their moral support. Baik skali!! :) Engineered, mixed and mastered by Ah Boy, I liked the end product....there is ample energy in the song to make u wanna play the song again and again :) Eddy, Zed Raven, Samuri and Eja Eddy, Zed Raven, me and Samsuri Mr Ah Boy, the man behind 'Lelaki Baru' and now 'Ejen Cinta' Hopefully it will be 'Mawar Merah' next :) To those of you unfamilar wif Samsuri Salleh, let me inform you bits about him..... Samsuri is not exactly a new face as television audiences would find him familiar as he was runner-up for "Juara HMI" back in 1995 and for being one of the favourites in "Anugerah 2005" till when he was disqualified. (eventually won by Hyrul Anuar) I believe that Samsuri has great vocals....wide range, wonderful feel, strong expression.....and he did the vocals to "Mawar Merah" excellently. People have asked me about his image....hmm I cant comment as I am not great in the image department factor either. But I'm pretty sure tat once you listen to him 'live' and get to know his humble self.....you'll accept Samsuri in your life :) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ANUGERAH 2009 - 16th JUNE 2009 I was invited to attend the show by the producers as one of the contestants, namely Sein Ahmad will be performing "Lelaki Baru". I had never set foot in Mediacorp TV Theatre but surely there's a 1st time for everything rite? Met with many familiar faces at the lobby....Ross Revalina, Pujangga Malam, Umi Latifah, Mama M.....wonderful atmosphere in there wif each set of supporters shouting their support. I will not do say my piece about the performances in Anugerah....but I must say I'm definitely honoured....mixed emotions tat I can't describe seeing someone else performing Lelaki Baru......as I sat there watching beside Didicazli, Aliff Aziz and Syed Azmir, I have no doubts tat they themselves feel the same way as I do. I also felt proud for Yazri Merah as I come to realise tat a total of 3 songs composed and written by him were performed by the contestants namely "Cintaku", "Andai" and "Lelaki Baru". By tat, i think Yazri had subconsciously set a benchmark for other Singapore songwriters to follow. Baik skali!! :) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Great Birthday Bash

2009-05-31T01:58:00.008+08:00

Maybe it was a coincidence but my 33rd birthday (da tua aku nie...hehe) was celebrated for 3 days in 3 different ways. Thank you to everyone tat celebrated tis special day wif me. U have no idea how much it meant to me...u are in my hearts forever. :) To all who cared...i really appreciate all the gifts, messages, sms, emails, dedications, calls etc..thank you so much! :) So to honour those who shared this special occasion, let me recap the 3 days of bliss :) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22nd of May (Saturday) This day was Eja's birthday. Been discussing to celebrate our birthday together for some time already. Though we've not known each other for very long but i guess we just clicked...after all we are Geminis....Geminis rocks!! LOL Spent the day with Eja's family...it really felt like i have an extended family..they are just so nice and warm...Samsuri (Eja's hubby), Eza and Umi were dear people that i came across during this music adventure of mine. Anyway, we had the birthday celebration at Simpang Bedok Cash studio...biasalah sumer giler menyanyi...birthday babies mesti mau duet satu lagu....haha...then time to blow candles on the birthday cake!! after tat, we feasted on the cake and roti boyan courtesy of Mama M...baik skali!! after a few hours of singing...gosh, i'm so impressed with Samsuri's voice...sesungguhnya baik skali!! It was then the end of the nite. Upon leaving, saw Ian, Fitri along with Juraimi n wife having their supper at Tang Tea. Had a brief chat wif them. Thanks guys for the birthday wishes!! We then left for supper just across the road and soon it was time to go home. Thanks for giving me a ride home guys! :)

It was certainly a day to remember :) Little tat i noe there were more good things coming ;) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 23rd of May (Sunday) The day i got punked! For weeks, Lyn had mooted the idea of creating a fanclub for me, an idea which i truly appreciates. So she and SV planned a meeting with me today to have dinner and discuss the idea. Eza also informed me that she's joining us later. So me, being the sporting one (haha..) was game for it. Supposed to meet them down at Hjh Esah Cafe around 6pm. I smsed Lyn that i'll be late and the meeting place was changed to Coffee Bean at Raffles Hospital. I arrived around 8pm and was met with 'delighted' faces of Lyn, SV and Joy. Nak blanja air, dorang tanak...so i suggested heading somewhere for dinner....then muncullah si Eza who proposed going to Mayuni Omar Cafe. Haha...so we went :) Imagine my surprise when we reached Mayuni Omar Cafe being greeted with so many familiar faces and I slowly realised that they had planned something for me....i'm definitely so touched...tak bleh angzz!! :) Memang tak boleh angkat beb.....dorang sumer aksyen tak tahu...boleh tanya lagi aku buat apa kat sini.....hehehe....then Ard came to the mic and announce that it was my birthday celebration. I didn't really know how to react then...mcm nak nangis beb! check out the vid here!! http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=85671311242 And since Eja was there too, we blew the candles together for the 2nd time! Then, performances galore by the guys... Mr Elmi Zulkarnain took to the stage and recited a poem he had penned specially for yours truly. I felt so honoured and it was one of the greatest birthday gift ever! All around me, i saw teary eyed faces as Elmi finished his recital with a rousing reception and applause. I was trying hard to control my tears and never in my lifetime had i ever expected to be honured tis way. Kudos bro Elmi!! :) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- *** Dia Seorang Seniman (Puisi Hari Jadi Zaibaktian) *** Seorang seniman akan terus mencari ilhamnya Meskipun gelita cuba menghambat mata Meskipun renyai atau lebat hujan menghambat langkah Hatinya dibiar liar Merayap dan merayau perlahan Mencari keindahan di sebalik desah Mengejar harapan di sebalik gelisah Seniman itu mula menulis Nota-nota dan kekata Baris-baris irama yang menemani suara Karyanya mula berkilau keemasan rembulan Berteman remang mega berbisik lirih Hati seninya bebas terbang tiada lagi tertindih Dia seorang seniman Yang percaya pada keikhlasan Sering mengajak insan seni lain Bersama berteduh dalam kedamaian Dalam gerimis duka dan cercaan Ketika terperangkap dan menggigil dalam kedingingan Seorang seniman sepertinya, Berkarya kerana cinta Pada keindahan, Pada kesenian, Pada kekeluargaan Dan semestinya pada kemanusiaan Dia bukan pengejar nama Dia pengungkap segala rasa Melukis biru rindu Mencoret merah dilema Mewarnai hari yang mula luntur dan pudar Dia mampu menawan kelemahan Memahami setiap nuansa tanpa air mata Dalam guliran waktu tiada berjeda Dia bukan penyanyi biasa Bukan setakat penghibur bermandi cahaya Dia seorang pejuang Darah diperjuangkan Raga digadaikan Nyawa dipertaruhkan DIA SEORANG SENIMAN! - Oleh Elmi Zulkarnain istimewa buat sahabat seperjuanganku, sdr Zaibaktian Abu Bakar. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Ard, being the spontanoeus one performed a few songs and a special song for myself. Thanks bro! Yunos serenaded the audience with his tunes then Mayuni followed suit with a few songs. Baik skali!! Then it was my turn to take the stage...performed a number of songs for the guys...it was a delight to be performing again since FMA: Festival Melayu Ada days.... Bro Samsuri also lent his voice to some wonderful piano playing by Nizamulmuluk Best ah bro! This occasion was certainly an unforgettable experience for me personally. Never tot that my music adventure would allow me to meet so many wonderful people who had let me into their lives and hearts :) Love you guys..... So thanks once again to the people below (in random order) who made tis bash happen :) Lyn Maritza, SV, Eza Yunos & Joy Ismaliza (Eja) & Samsuri Elmi Zulkarnain & Dewi Nurazlin Ard, Yunos Erksan, Nizamulmuluk Niezza, Seema, Ays Mama M & SV's mum Sumizi Suzi, Nana Isya Rafaat Hamzah & Azizah Joey & AG of Konspirazy & family Mayuni Omar and staffs of Mayuni Omar Music Cafe JakaBudi & wife Mastura Ahmad & family Everyone ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26th of May (Tuesday) It was my birthday. But it doesn't felt like it cos i'm doing my reservist tat week. Woke up and greeted by hp smses and birthday wishes by my family. Sweetness!! :) The day before, I received a call from Fiza O during her 'O' Show on Ria 89.7FM, wishing me a very happy birthday during her segment 'Birthday Radio' Baik skali!! Came back from reservist around 1730hrs and I was mentally drained. Zul & Fizal asked me out for a coffee at a mall nearby my place and I was set for it. Chatted wif them over coffee and Fizal asked me if he can swing over my place to use my Mac. Aku pun on...tak ingat apa2 pun....when i opened the door to my house, i was suprised to see my baby nephew, Irfan at my place...hehe...then Surprise again!! My relatives, brothers and sisters, close friends had already gathered at my place to celebrate my birthday again. Gosh...best!! Ina had baked me a birthday cake and it was lovely and chewy....everyone brought their share of food and we feasted soon after i blow out my candles....3rd time oredi! Hehe.... Haha...I told them tat alhamdulillah i have no heart problems thus far cos all these emotions and excitements of the last few days were getting too much for me to handle. But i reallly appreciate these things that you all have done for yours truly. Thanks so much... Shakira, Syaza, Kamilia, Sarina An, Ana, Rul, Lin, Big Z, Danial, Lynn Shahin, Ayie, Irfan, Fizal, Zulazmie, Nizah, Rizal, Hasri Meraj, Wati, Maq Maizi, Aisha LOVE YOU ALL!!!

Festival Melayu Ada: Zaibaktian & Friends - The Story

2009-04-05T12:48:00.012+08:00

It's almost impossible for me to describe the series of emotions running through me, as I witnessed the unfolding of events in the aftermath of the event titled 'Festival Melayu Ada'. New bonds are forged. Friendships are made. Hopes are renewed. Spirits soared. That sums up FESTIVAL MELAYU ADA: ZAIBAKTIAN & FRIENDS held on the 1st of March 2009 at Hajjah Esah Cafe located at Bussorah Street. Kudos to all performers of the 1st instalment of Festival Melayu Ada: Zaibaktian & Friends - TENGKU NURLELA . HIRMAN . DIANA . YUNOS ERKSAN . ARD . TENGKU ADIL . ROWELL SAKTI . RAVEN . FYNO - Wonderful performances by all and I believe by coming together in this humble showcase, it speaks volumes of their dedication and undying spirit to create an almost unheard before S'pore's own Malay independent music industry. It should have been long time coming but I guess, better late than never. I believe this event will kickstart a long and slow process of a Malay music industry that we can call our own but i'll be praying hard that it'll be a sure thing in years to come :) A gazillion thanks and my deepest appreciation to the wonderful audience of FMA: Zaibaktian & Friends. The soaring sun apparently did not extinguish your thirst for local music and the rain for sure did not dampen your spirit!! Small in numbers but with your relentless support and strong voice, it sure felt like the performers playing in a crowd of a thousand ppl. I did feel like that personally. Thank you for making the choice to be there!! Thank you to Rafiz, Rafaat and Azizah for always giving their very best to support this humble idea that is 'Festival Melayu Ada'. For the positivity, encouragement, support and drive...thank you! To those who did not have the opportunity to be there....i leave with ur some enduring vids...hope you enjoyed them! :)

Festival Melayu Ada: Zaibaktian & Friends

2009-02-21T09:21:00.003+08:00

Melayu Ada is a festival that celebrates Malay music and poetry. It hopes to be a platform especially for budding and aspiring talents who wish to showcase their unreleased works and/or works in progress. The festival also acts as a sharing and interaction ground amongst musicians, writers and enthusiasts alike. A chill-out Sunday that is not only filled with camaraderie, but also a worthwhile interchange of ideas and experiences across individuals, including established artistes. ---------------------------------------- Festival Melayu Ada: Zaibaktian & Friends on 1st of March is a free music showcase by aspiring upcoming/established independent music acts in Singapore's Malay music industry. ---------------------------------------- Indulge in an exciting afternoon of music and fun ZAIBAKTIAN RAVEN FYNO TENGKU ADIL ARD ROWELL SAKTI DIANA HIRMAN YUNOS ERKSAN and many, many more.... ----------------------------------------

Lelaki Baru - The Music Video

2009-02-21T08:05:00.010+08:00

I have been procrastinating on the idea of an MTV for 'Lelaki Baru' for a long while now. With the help Aiz and Zul, we did try to put together a proper MTV at the end of 2008 but due to some technicalities, i will have to postpone that MTV to a later date Insya'allah :) Yazri, the songwriter of 'LB' (Lelaki Baru) had mooted the idea of a youtube mtv ever since the song's been released and now it has come to fruition. Hehe... After an impromptu jam session at Fourtones, we sat down and set a day for the shooting of the music video. The day came....put all the amps and stuff into the back of Amin's Suzuki APV....and off we go. Other than Amin on guitars, the cast would be Izam on bass and Amer on drums and Yazri is the Tuan Director. Fetched them all and off we went to Marina then Mt Faber to shoot all the necessary scenes. Since Yazri was working later at night, we had to rush. Enduring the sun...the rain...the sun again, we managed to had it all wrapped up in 2 hrs. So after 2 days of editing, Yazri had finally posted this video on Facebook and Youtube. Everyone involved were delighted for the final outcome!! So once again thanks so much to Yazri, Amin, Amer and Izam for a job well done!! Kudos to you bros!!

Zaibaktian's TV Debut

2009-01-23T06:59:00.007+08:00

**Video courtesy of amtahlip (youtube) The opportunity to be on national tv is a dream come true for an independent act and self-made artist like myself. I guess it doesn't come along too often. I'm grateful for the chance and therefore would like to thank Shahrin Azhar and Gee from Qaboom Communications; Rafaat and Azizah from Cokelat Box; for featuring me in the info-ed/reality tv program 'MAT' - Misi Anak Tempatan'. The espisode featuring yours truly and the maestro - Iskandar Mirza Ismail was aired on the 14th of January 8.30pm on Suria. Thank yous too, to Suzairhe Sumari the host ; the production crews and make-up artist; Yazri & Merah; Zulazmie and Fizal; Amin, Izam, Rafiz and Zul, Hernalis; and to all directly and indirectly involved in the production. To all who have supported my music adventure - this is for you!! Cheers!

2009-01-01T10:15:00.000+08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! MAY THE YEAR 2009 BE AN EVEN BETTER YEAR FOR ALL OF US!!

November Rain

2008-12-05T13:19:00.011+08:00

Salam to all! Been receiving smses and emails asking and urging me to blog frequently. For those concerned, thank you very much and I will do my very best to update you on wat's going around me at present. So let me start by recapping the month of November. Before I start, my greatest appreciation and deepest thanks to my families, friends, fans, musicians, Ria 897FM, Warna 942FM, Berita Harian, Sensasi and everyone involved directly and indirectly in my music adventure!

LELAKI BARU

'Lelaki Baru' finally reached the summit of Ria Chartz and stayed at No 1 for 2 consecutive weeks. It is no longer the top dog but nevertheless still in the top 5 on 30 Nov 2008. It still feels like a dream come true...more of this here Thank you very much to everyone who requested 'Lelaki Baru'....the RIA 897FM DJs for promoting and playing the song... Someone told me yesterday 'Lelaki Baru' is now playing on Warna 942FM....thanks, that's wonderful news!

PERFORMANCES

Performed at 2 events. First was at Japanese Association for an event called 'COMPASS Musical Extravaganza' , which was jointly organised by both the Japanese Association & COMPASS. It was fun and enriching experience to be mingling with fellow musicians, songwriters from Singapore & Japan. Second was a fundraising campaign ' Kami Peduli' which was held at Singapore Expo. Jointly organised by MegaXpress and Life Records, it featured a myriad of Singaporean artistes of various genres across various eras. It was to create a fund to assist a number of veteran artistes who are presently struggling with illnesses. Sang 'Lelaki Baru' for the 1st time 'live' and it felt good to finally performed it at last. The video is here

PRESS

Humbled to be given opportunities to be featured in 2 articles....in Berita Harian and Sensasi respectively. Thanks to Zaharian Osman for writing a piece about me, the song 'Lelaki Baru' and the story behind it. More of it here Thanks to Junaidah Jumahat of Sensasi for the opportunity to be featured in Sensasi magazine. It's already out in newstands December edition featuring Taufik Batisah on its cover. I will blog about tis in my next post. Cheers!!

Beyond My Wildest Dream

2008-11-12T22:00:00.007+08:00

It would be the biggest lie if I said that I'd never dreamt of this moment. Looking back at the blueprint of my music plans, written some place away in an old organiser, where I first wrote down my 5 year plans and dreams at the end of 2006. Yup, I wrote down... 'to have a hit single'. What I meant then was to have at the very least, a hit song to my name hopefully in 5 years time. It did seem kind of impossible to achieve when I was starting out then. But a close friend who insisted on me writing down my plans, urged me to write what I think I want to achieve...not what I feel I can achieve. So to finally land the No 1 spot on Ria 89.7FM Charts on Sunday 9th of November after 7 weeks on the charts was definitely a dream come true for me! Alhamdulillah, I felt so blessed by Allah. Thank you very much....my dear family, friends and fans who had supported my music journey and everyone that had submitted numerous requests and smses for 'Lelaki Baru'. Thank you to the very talented composer of the song, Yazri (Merah)! Thank you to the people involved in the production - Yazri, Amer & Ewan of Merah and Ah Boy of TNT Studios! Special thanks to all Ria 897FM's DJs for airing 'Lelaki Baru'! Thanks everyone....thank you so much!!! I won't shed tears of joy yet...for now I will just work harder to produce better music and inspire others around me. Maybe when my music adventure is over, i might shed a tear or two....

Zaibaktian serasi dengan 'Lelaki Baru'

2008-11-08T20:34:00.001+08:00

Special thanks to Zaharian Osman & Berita Harian for publishing this article! Thanks also to ppl @ Fatimah Mohsen for setting me up for a modest photoshoot! Thanks also to semua yg msg and call me pagi2 lagi inform me pasal tis article! Zaibaktian serasi dengan 'Lelaki Baru'

By Zaharian Osman

USAHANYA hendak bertapak dalam bidang seni bukan baru dilakukan - berbulan-bulan lamanya, malah memakan tahun.

Kini, selepas setahun bekerja keras mengetengahkan lagu-lagu daripada album pertamanya, Keagungan Mu, penyanyi tempatan, Zaibaktian Abu Bakar, 32 tahun, pula melihat hasilnya.

Single Lelaki Baru yang ke udara sejak dua bulan lalu itu kian diminati.

Ternyata, gabungan antara beliau dengan Yazri, anggota band Merah, mahu melahirkan lagu ini amat serasi dan menjadi.

Lebih membanggakan, hanya setelah empat minggu ia berjaya mencapai kedudukan naib juara di Ria Chartz baru-baru ini.

Muzik dan susunan lagu genre rok ini menceritakan perihal seorang bekas banduan yang ingin mengubah haluan hidup sehingga kembali semula ke pangkuan mereka yang disayangi.

Lagu yang kuat perutusan itu sejajar dengan Projek Reben Kuning (YRP) yang memberi peluang kepada bekas pesalah agar diterima kembali ke pangkuan masyarakat.

Yazri berkata: 'Lagu itu saya cipta khas untuk Zai kerana saya lihat semangat yang membara untuk bangkit dan membaiki diri menerusi seni muzik.

'Ini meyakinkan dengan kesungguhan Zai muncul semula dengan irama yang lebih segar.'

Perasaan gembira menyelinap masuk pada diri Zaibaktian kerana terharu dengan sambutan yang diterima pada lagu ini.

Ini sebagai pengenalan untuk album repackage yang sedang dalam pembikinan ketika ini.

Ditemui di sesi fotografi, Zai berkata: 'Saya ingin mengenalkan bakat dan identiti saya sebagai penyanyi dan penggubah lagu.'

Apabila diamati seni kata lagu ini, penulis dapati ia kaya dengan penceritaan yang kurang didapati di kebanyakan lagu kebelakangan ini.

Nilai positif serta kesungguhan yang diterapkan begitu tulus pada cara penyampaian dan penghayatan Zai pada lagu ini.

Kesan mendengar begitu menyentuh dan menyuntik semangat yang memberangsangkan.

Esok, bertempat di Auditorium Persatuan Jepun Singapura (JAS), Adam Road, sempena acara Musical Extravaganza anjuran Persatuan Pelindung Hak Cipta dan Penggubah Lagu Singapura (Compass), Zai akan membuat persembahan.

Mereka yang ingin mengenali genre muzik perjuangan Zaibaktian boleh layari http://zaibaktian.blogspot.com.

Apa Khabar Engkau Di Sana.......

2008-10-24T23:43:00.002+08:00

Moga korang sumer baik2 sahaja...... I am glad to inform everyone that 'Lelaki Baru' is now No 2 on Ria charts! Check it out! http://www.ria.sg/index_carta.htm I guess my determination and hardwork thus far had finally paid off. When I first started out 2 years ago, all I wanted was to have a 'hit' song and to achieve it is kind of surreal. I am delighted already to be at No 2 after 4 weeks on the charts. I seriously doubt that 'Lelaki Baru' can top the charts, memandangkan the No 1 song, Puspa by ST12 is already a massive hit, having been the chart-topper for 4 weeks running. Anyway, can't say enough of my thanks to all my loyal friends and supporters all these years. I deeply appreciate ur support and I hope I can repay ur support by striving towards the best!! Cheers!

Fatskunks @ Esplanade

2008-10-24T23:18:00.003+08:00

Hello friends!! FATSKUNKS will be performing on Sunday, the 26th of October at Esplanade Recital Studio, starting 9pm. Tickets are priced at $25. And they have promised that they will entertain you!! Do your bit...come on down and support our music talents! It's rare enough that our talents are given trust to spearhead their own showcase.....so let's give them our fullest support! And Fatskunks deserved to be in the spotlight for the grit, determination and hardwork they have shown these last few years! Stuffs & paraphernalias will be given at the door. Designed by the multi-talented lead vox, Izaar Asri. Take a look here! http://funkyferring.multiply.com/photos/album/42#6 Hope everyone's reading this will come on down to this concert showcase! I for one will be there!! But juz in case you guys are unable to make it, at the very least do give your warm wishes and good luck notes to Fatskunks! You can do so by emailing them at fatskunks@gmail.com

My Interview @ Ria 89.7FM

2008-10-24T22:32:00.012+08:00

Kalau nak ikutkan badan memang terasa letih. Dah berhari2 aku kerja...alahai, penat badan aku. Namun biler dapat call from DJ Nity Baizura inviting me to feature in her program 'Personality Zoom'.....rasa excited. Bedek ke tak excited....bukan selalu dapat interview on national radio...'live' pulak tuh!

Reached Bt Caldecott around 8.4opm and made my way to Ria conty. Along the way terserempak lah jugak dengan DJ2 Aura Shai & Fiza O. After introducing myself to them, made a move to Ria studio where Nity was awaiting. Strike 9pm and the show started. Mula2 nervous jugak biler berbual apa lagi dengan microphone yg besar di depan aku. As the show moved along, I quickly warmed up and got comfortable sikit....until the last segment where Nity 'challenged' me to sing my song 'Lelaki Baru' while playing the guitar. Haha...peh karatnya aku bermain gitar sampai tersangkut2.....but overall oklah jugak.

Great experience..one that I will remember fondly!

Hoping it's not too late........

2008-10-21T16:48:00.003+08:00

to wish everyone SELAMAT HARI RAYA!!!! Inginku menyusun sepuluh jari memohon ampun maaf atas segala kesalahan2 ku yg lalu......yg sengaja atau tidak....harap di maafkan, 0-0

Announcing the arrival of 'Lelaki Baru'

2008-09-16T23:20:00.005+08:00

Salam Ramadan to all my dear friends! Hope you guys are in the best of health! Some of you may already know that i have a new single 'Lelaki Baru' on airplay at Ria 89.7FM. I am surprised but delighted with the response towards the song thus far. Thanks to all who had been listening and my greatest thanks to the people who had requested for the song on Ria 89.7FM. Last Sunday, the song debuted at No 18 on Ria Charts! Strange but true....totally uncharted territory as far as I am concerned. And it surely made my day lah! Hehehe... Really hopeful things will get better...insyaallah. Anyway, just a lil bit about the song. This song was a result of a collaboration between me and Yazri of Merah. Song and lyrics written by Yazri. Recorded the song at TNT Studios in August and the song was featured as 'Ria Trax Terbaru' on 1st September 2008. Earlier today, I had been approached by someone who proposed to use the song for a drama series. Can't divulge too much now as nothing is concrete. But watch this space aite? To those who have not yet listened to 'Lelaki Baru', do visit my pages at www.zaibaktian.blogspot.com and www.myspace.com/zaibaktian to have a listen.....pls do feedback me on what you think of the song aite? :) For those who want to sing along, here's the lyrics: Lelaki Baru Apa khabar engkau disana Moga kau baik baik sahaja Aku ingin engkau tahu Ku selalu merindukan kamu Apa khabar org tua mu Masihkah lagi marah padaku Ku harap tidak begitu Kerna aku tak seperti dulu Dan aku kini kembali ( dan aku kini kembali ) Sebagai lelaki yang baru Kini aku pulang kepadamu wahai kasihku Seperti mana yang ku janjikan waktu dahulu Kepulangan aku ini untuk menyambung cintaku kembali Terimalah diriku kembali wahai sayangku Maafkanlah aku kerna terpaksa meninggalkanmu Kerna itu yg terbaik Kini aku pulang sebagai Lelaki baru

Performance @ Mayuni Omar Music Cafe (24th May 2008)

2008-05-29T16:50:00.004+08:00

I was delighted to have the opportunity to be performing again. The venue was kind of cozy....kind of up close and personal. Atmosphere was kind of laidback and casual. F&B was good and reasonably priced too. Wasn't feeling my best on performance day but the atmosphere helped. I could easily engage in casual banter with the crowd and I must say the response was superb! The attendees comprise of family, old frens and some new mates whom I met for the very 1st time. Best! I was backed up by Nazri on guitar, Bob on bass, Wan on keyboards and Hazan on percussions. Sad to say that I did not have any pics taken only some vids shown below. Check it out! I would like to express my thanks to everyone who had graced this event and I hope to be able to continue performing with your support! :)

My Best Friend's Wedding

2008-05-05T11:09:00.000+08:00

1st May was a very special day indeed. Other than it being Labour Day (which means public holiday...tak applicable utk aku pasal aku keje shift) , it was to be Meraj's special day. His relationship with the ever sweet Rosmawati coming full circle on this very day. Words can't express how delighted I am. Years of ups and down...sekejap jadi....sekejap tak jadi...dan akhirnya menjadi!

Meraj's been a brother to me since our schooldays....been there thru every crucial stage of my life. He was my bestman at my own wedding...so it was fitting that I do the honour of being bestman on his special day.

I had arrived at Meraj's residence at 0900hrs. Seems everyone's there, friends and extended family included. Everyone's busy doing their final preparation. Meraj's getting all made up.....nak jadi
Raja lah kata kan....

We left his home around 1000hrs, all ready for the akad nikah ceremony to be held at 1100hrs. The wedding car was a BMW. Memandangkan kereta German memang efficient, kita telah sampai awal sangat. Maklumlah dari Bt Batok ke Yishun bukan jauh. So we let King Meraj layan perasaan kat dlm kreta sambil tunggu rakyat yg lain sampai.

Around 1045hrs, we slowly proceeded to the wedding area. As bestman, terpaksalah gua kena remind dia suruh jalan slow...mesti kena acknowledge rakyat kat kiri dan kanan dia.....hahaha.

Fast forward to the akad nikah....Meraj was quite relaxed while waiting for the kadi to arrive. Then kadi pun sampai...followed by a couple of speeches and paperwork signed.....came the moment of truth. Alhamdulillah, with a single lafaz they're officially husband and wife!

All in all, it was a wonderful experience being a bestman! It was the least I could do for my bro Meraj after all these years of friendship. Delighted at the honour!

My family & I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Meraj & Wati on their happy wedding. Kalaulah korang ni artis...dah conferm wedding of the year!! Semoga berkekalan hingga ke akhir hayat!

A Good Distraction

2008-04-08T17:24:00.004+08:00

Last Sunday was the 2nd round auditions for Anugerah Band. Ramainya orang....it made for a great atmosphere though. From a total of 68 bands, it was cut down to a final 20 bands for the tv show which will be televised in May.

Our band, 40 CM did not make the cut though. Performing our own original song, it felt good doing our own thing on stage....though I must concede it wasn't one of my best days on vocals. Must admit, my vocals was pitchy on the day.
Really tired....tak dapat amik leave...keje malam the day before.....so dapat tido2 ayam jer......and as most of you would noe, a good rest is key to a good vocal performance.

Tapi tu suma tolak tepi...yang penting we've given our best shot. So now I guess I'll be back to practising and recording my full album lah. Anugerah Band was a good distraction.

Must say that a few bands in Top 20 caught my eye.

'X-Tech', if I'm not mistaken was the Ria Remix 1st ever champs, showed their experience and was great to watch.

There was also a band called 'Virus Cinta' with a female on the vox. I think they have excellent image and musicianship.

Ultimately, this competition was an eye-opener, in good and bad ways.......and a wonderful experience overall. Made new friends and reminisce wif old ones.

Cheers!

Anugerah Band

2008-04-02T00:39:00.002+08:00

Gerek seh! Good news is my band, comprising of the guys from 40CM ( check them out at www.myspace.com/40cm) and myself, had managed to get ourselves to the 2nd round of Anugerah auditions which will be held on 6th of April 08 at Junction 8. My joining this competition was a spur of the moment thingy so we weren't very much prepared. Alhamdulillah ada rezeki so kita akan berentap dengan 60 plus bands yang lain this Sunday. Wateva the outcome then won't matter much...we'll be enjoying ourselves as much as we can. Anyway I went to Junction 8 on Saturday close to 3pm, which was the closing time of registration. It was drizzling at that time but the atmosphere was brilliant. Some bands were great, some were not...nevertheless it was an exciting contest! And so we finally performed our piece...a song I penned entitled 'Dunia Yang Fana', on Sunday at close to 9pm. I felt good on stage and thought we did well. Then came the comments...I was ready for negative or constructive ones and that was basically what I got. "Muka dan suara anda tak kena" "Anda harus pergi makeover" Hahaha.....blow jugak muka...haha...tapi tak kesahlah...kata competition....always at the mercy of the judges. But for once I really would love to take heed of the judges comments. So wat do you think I should do? ;)

'TAMAN CINTA'

2008-03-14T23:29:00.003+08:00

Sorry to all who have been following my developments thru reading my one and only blog.

I'm really struggling to manage my free time. Surfing the net is a luxury nowadays. But by writing my first blog entry in weeks, I'm positive I'll be diligently writing my stories from now on.

My music adventure thus far....I'm delighted to have my 1st single 'Taman Cinta" still playing on Ria 89.7FM. Even though it will never enter the radio's Top 20 charts, I'm glad that I have achieved wat I've set out to do. I wanted to have a song of mine on radio and I've achieved it...hurrah!!

For fans of my song "Pesona Rindu", I'm disappointed to inform that you may not be able to hear the song on radio until I have produced my upcoming new album. Reason being the radio station does not promote album which had been out for more than 6 months. Even though gua kecewa tapi gua yakin ada hikmahnya!

Nevertheless, my deepest appreciation and thanks to everyone who had requested 'Taman Cinta" on Ria's request shows. Your support will encourage me to further my music adventure and spur me to new heights.

THANK YOU!

For all aspiring singer

2008-02-13T14:33:00.002+08:00

I was surfing the net for tips on how to record better vocals and I found this video.......this is wat you should not do!

Slowly but Surely...

2008-02-12T11:57:00.000+08:00

I've just recently re-recorded the new arrangement for songs 'Destinasi Impian' & 'Pesona Rindu', bar vocal takes. The music tracks are undergoing editing and I will record vocals soon after that. Even after this recording session, I still feel that there's so much room for me to learn about music production. My music progress been a bit slow recently mainly due to my work commitments. Hopefully I can get to kickstart the new album as soon as possible. On another note, it's been ages since I last did a performance. I've been approached to organise a gig/showcase by a CC. The proposal is to do an accoustic gig and gather S'pore's own talents in one venue. It's all pretty vague at the moment and the proposal's still much under construction. Anyone who wants to contribute in any capacity, do contact me at your convenience. Maybe you could come up with ideas or performances you would like to see. All are welcome!

Poetry In Motion..

2008-01-24T17:44:00.000+08:00

Did an opening performance on the 12th of January 2008. It was for a poetry event entitled 'Antara Eja Dan Lafaz' held at Bedok Library. Sang 2 songs: 'Keagungan Mu' & 'Dunia Yang Fana'. It was my first time singing in a poetry showcase and naturally I was feeling nervous. The audience was mainly made up by poetry enthusiasts and NUS students studying Sastera. Anyway, after the performance, sat down as the guests for the day, comprising of Rafaat Hamzah, Isa Kamari etc. Discussed about poetry in general and Rafaat's newly launched book ' Yang Bilang'. I must say the discussion was interesting. I've never attended anything involving poetry, theatre and such. I must say it was a pleasant surprise to discover something new. Looking forward to discovering more things in the coming months.

Baik Skali!!

2008-01-08T22:03:00.000+08:00

I was kind of bored at work so spent my time checking out my compamy's email. Being the slacker that I am, there was plenty for me to read though. Majority of those email had boring headers and naturally given the honour of being deleted. Anyway, one email stands out like a gem! It went like this....

IT Tidak Relevan Diajar Dalam Bahasa Melayu

Why Dr. Mahathir insists on using English for math and science. Because globally people use the language as information and/or technology language at this moment. How dangerous it is if we were to use these words in Bahasa, especially in schools. See example below. hardware = barangkeras software = baranglembut joystick = batang gembira plug and play = cucuk dan main port = lubang server = pelayan client = pelanggan Try to translate this: ENGLISH : "That server gives a plug and play service to the clients using either hardware or software joystick. The joystick goes into the port of the client." BAHASA : "Pelayan itu memberi pelanggannya layanan cucuk dan main dengan menggunakan batang gembira jenis keras atau lembut. Batang gembira itu dimasukkan ke dalam lubang pelanggan." Hahaha...baik skali!!

My Song's On Radio.....At Last!

2008-01-08T21:40:00.000+08:00

Really glad and relieved that my song dah pun berkumandang kat radio. Banyak sangat halangan nak dapat airplay kat radio...kembang terhalang...haha. Tapi alhamdulillah, one of the things tat I set out to do in the first place dah pun tercapai. Walau macam mana pun, kesilapan tetap terjadi. After Taman Cinta is played, the DJ will mention ' Nantikan kemunculan album terbaru beliau di Muzika Rekod'. Actually it should have been ' Dapatkan album terbaru beliau.......'. Tapi wateva it is, tetap silapaku lah. Bak kata P Ramlee "Lain kali cakap biar terang". I do hope that the listeners would like the song. Never mind the outcome from the radio airplay, I would still need to work even harder for my music and do an even better job next time round. Once again, I would like to express my sincere thanks for all the messages of encouragements from everyone upon listening to my song on air. Love u all!

Taman Cinta on RIA 89.7FM

2008-01-01T22:36:00.000+08:00

My 1st single 'Taman Cinta' will be aired on RIA 89.7FM starting tomorrow , 2nd January 2008 at the following timeslots: MORNING (0645 - 1000hrs) and NIGHT (2000 - 2359hrs). Hope everyone will get to listen to the song. Thanks for the support ya!

Embarking On A New Project

2008-01-01T22:10:00.000+08:00

One of my goals in 2008 is to produce my full album. Been planning it as a follow up to my EP album. It will consist of new songs and the songs from my EP album, rearranged and repackaged. Preparation work dah start. Dah record pun 1 lagu. Sekarang masih seeking collaboration from other songwriters. Alhamdulillah, ada yg sudi bekerja dengan gua. Ada yg bagi dorang nye lagu2 kasi aku dengar. Minggu lepas, gua wif Rafiz and Mahd buat arrangement untuk satu lagu baru yg aku compose. Lagu yg berjudul 'Dunia Yang Fana'. Pendek kata, ini lagu peringatan buat gua dan semua. Mesej simple... 'the world's temporary' so do good things while you're still living in it. Arrangement yg aku buat simple jer. Tapi dah bergabung dgn lagi 2 kepala ni, rasa2 ada manfaatnya. Arrangement lebih kemas and lebih berkhasiat..haha...Overall, gua puas hati. Anyway, aku rasa it's a good start. Will continue working hard for the album...

Lama menghilang??

2007-12-24T11:51:00.000+08:00

It's been so damn long since I updated my blog. The truth is I am struggling with managing my time. Searching the balance between family, job and music. Now is the period of time where my job had entirely dominated my time. Leaving me with little to spare for family and music. Nasib baik family gua understand! Tapi music gua...lagu-lagu gua...album gua....dorang leh understand ke? Hahaha...luckily I've been through in life enough to know that there's always good times awaiting me at every turn of difficult moments in my life. Mesti mahu yakin, tawakkal dan banyak berdoa beb! Insyaallah. So apa yg gua dah buat sejak lama menghilang dari dunia gob'blog' nie? FAMILY - Senang cakap, ada serba baru. Dengan bonus yg aku dapat, alhamdulillah...dapat aku tolong family sikit. Been out shopping most of the times. Revisited the lovely and 'weird' smelling Singapore Zoo. Doing wateva I can to make up lost time with them. With the help of my bros, gave the whole house fresh coats of paint. Voila! The home looks fresh after 7 long years. MUSIC - With help from Rafiz and Mahadir, I set out to convert one room in my house to be a music room. A practice and demo studio I would call it. The room has adequate tools for me and friends to create music basically. Electronic drumset, PA system and speakers, guitars, keyboard, mixer. All linked up to my recording program. - Been doing music arrangements for songs in the new music room. - Working on my full album. Still in the planning process. Learning from and seeking collaboration with other songwriters and industry professionals. Kena banyak brainstorming. Sekarang masih moving at slow pace. Hopefully arrangements lagu2 baru semua settled by end of January. Will begin re-recording the songs from my EP album next week.

Download my 1st single "Taman Cinta"

2007-11-30T14:05:00.001+08:00

Join My Mailing List!

2007-11-30T12:03:00.001+08:00

The morning started on a sad note...

2007-11-02T07:13:00.000+08:00

I've never posted a blog so early in the morning. Today, I guess, is an exception. Being woken up at around 0545hrs this morning by a phonecall. Saw the name 'Sulaiman' flashing on my phone. Sulaiman was supposed to pick me up this morning at around 0830hrs to go to Home Team Academy (HTA) for our final reservist session. My first thoughts was, if he's calling me so early in the morning....maybe he wants me to go to HTA by myself. Answered the phone and to my surprise, I was greeted by a crying female voice. Quickly it got my attention. It was Sulaiman's wife. I have never met his wife in person....and I just could sense something was really wrong. After a moment's pause, she informed me that Sulaiman had just passed away moments ago. Time stood still....I did not know how to react. It was a shock.. Allahyarham Sulaiman's wife explained that she thought of informing me as I was Allahyarham's last point of contact. Allahyarham was having breathing problems at 0400hrs. Ambulance was activated to convey him to hospital. He passed away at the hospital soon after. Anyway, I reassured her I will assist her and family the best I can. I was very sure that whatever I said at the moment, would not in any way appease her grief. I remember Allahyarham Sulaiman as a warm and jovial person. Always cracking jokes and a great person to talk to. A wonderful family man...life outside work was reserved only for his beloved wife and children. I met Allahyarham Sulaiman in 2004, working in a place called Tankstore located at Pulau Busing. Assigned to his shift team, he was my assistant supervisor at that time. We were close at work. But soon I left Tankstore for greener pastures and he did left soon after. But we remained in contact periodically. And at last we met during the present Reservist stint. He recently shifted house from Tampines to Jurong West, just opposite where I'm staying. I donno how to feel at this point of time. This morning had started on a really sad note. Could not return to sleep after receiving this unfortunate news. Supposed to be going to work with Allahyarham this morning. it wasn't to be.... PS: If you are reading this, do offer your Al-Fateha to the great Nabi Muhammad S.A.W. and to Allahyarham Sulaiman. Thank you.

Last Hari Raya Show Of 2007.

2007-11-01T18:44:00.000+08:00

I'm on reservist this week. Reminisce with old buddies and made new friends. It was fun though I had a hard time enduring these office hour sessions. Been working shifts for a long time now and every time i need to do an office hour assignment, it does feel like...damn! One of those new friends was Zainal, previously of 2D fame. He shared with me his experiences in the music industry and it was really great talking music with him. Anyway , I'm scheduled to perform in a Hari Raya Show on the coming 10th of November organised by Kg Chai Chee CC. Have not practised for quite some time now but originally slated to sing 2 songs. Keagungan Mu (my own song) and a Hari Raya song, one of my favs, Seri Hari Raya by Sweet Charity. Will have to schedule 2-3 practice sessions before the day itself. This is my last scheduled performance. So far, I got no plans or bookings for other performances. But I guess it will allow me more time to concentrate on my other projects coming up such as the recording of my full album and ongoing promotion for my EP...

My First Time...

2007-10-28T22:26:00.000+08:00

We all remember our first time doing something, don't we? The first time isn't always great...but more often tha not, it will leave you scarred or maybe the moment might have a special place in your heart forever. I already had a couple of 'virgin' moments during my music adventure. Yesterday, I had another one. For the very 1st time yesterday, I performed unlike my usual performance. This time, I do not have my sessionists backing me up. I just felt that it wasn't right to engage them during this hari raya period. So I took to the stage for my performance at Changi-Simei Hari Raya show equipped with only a minus one CD containing 2 songs 'Pesona Rindu' & 'Keagungan Mu'. I had performed previously alone during my singing competition days but not since I had taken the decision to cut an album. It felt strange during the pre-show as I wasn't indulging in casual banter with my sessionists but I guess me performing by myself will be more often than not in the coming times. One problem is having to seek the commitments of the sessionists backing me up at every show I'm performing. Of course, given a choice I would love to have my musician brothers involved in my shows, backing me up but I do need to have my minus one cds ready if all else fail. Anyway, it was a show for me! Love it! Personally I feel that I have improved myself greatly on the subject of stage showmanship. Used to be under a great amount of stress communicating with the audience but slowly and surely, I'm getting to grips with it. More to leran though and I'll keep learning. Anyway, the show at Changi- Simei CC....the very first time I had 'makciks' and 'pakciks' dancing to the tune of my song. Lovely indeed....

2 Months & Counting

2007-10-22T18:08:00.000+08:00

It's been a near 2 full months since my EP album 'Keagungan Mu' is out in the market. The album was my platform to introduce and showcase my singing & songwriting, in hopes of planting my feet firmly into the music industry. I am on course to selling all my limited print copies of this EP album. I believe it could happen by the end of 2007, Insyaallah. Someone asked me why do limited print copies of this album? Why don't I do a reprint and focus on promoting this album for at least the next year? My answers to that is simple: As a singer-songwriter, I need to keep seeking avenues to progress. To be contented with an EP album that I had done with limited resources and experience would stagnate me. I have been enriched by this whole experience and I am pretty sure that I'll be able to do better the next time round. Anyway, come December 2007, I'll be back in the studio to record my 2nd project....my 1st full album. Already started working on the materials, compiling songs, finalising the arrangements. This full album will contain 14 songs:- 10 new ones and 4 songs from my EP. With this album, planned for release 2nd half of 2008, I'm hoping to be able to distribute in Malaysia as well.

2007-10-13T10:30:00.000+08:00

To all my Muslim brothers, sisters, friends and supporters.... SELAMAT HARI RAYA, MAAF ZAHIR BATIN

INTERVIEW AT Radio Singapore International (RSI)

2007-10-09T19:50:00.000+08:00

I was invited by Miss Zauwiyah Majid of RSI (Malay) for an interview for her segment 'Naluri Lelaki'. Came down to Mediacorp on Thursday 4th of October and greeted by the ever sweet Zauwiyah. After that, we proceeded to the radio conty and had the interview running. But there was one setback. I was having a bad cough and cold...haha....you will know what i mean when you listen to the interview. ;) But still went thru the interview the best i could. We basically talked about 2 major subjects, the 1st about Ramadhan and Hari Raya....the 2nd was about the album. It was to be a 2 part interview, of which the 1st part is already aired on Monday 8th of October. The 2nd part will be aired next Monday 15th of October. To all my bros and sistas, don't miss it! For those of you not familiar what is RSI all about, do visit http://www.rsi.sg/ for more details on the radio station, Zauwiyah Majid and the other presenters. Basically, RSI caters to international Malay listeners namely in Malaysia, Indonesia or whoever that can tune in to its broadcast in Short Wave Frquency (SW) 6120 kHz meter or 497235 kHz meter 41. I would like to thank Zauwiyah Majid, RSI and its crew for this wonderful opportunity.! :) So here it is, my 1st interview on RSI. Pls click the link to go to the RSI page and click the icon to listen to the broadcast. http://www.rsi.sg/malay/nalurilelaki/view/20071008161352/1/.html ps: (once i have the interview proper in mp3 format, i will post it here. cheers!)

SUPER SEPTEMBER

2007-10-01T23:12:00.000+08:00

It's been nothing short of an amazing month of September for me personally. Short of superlatives here to describe the experiences I've been going thru, once the 1st day of September came into play. As with the album launch, the press, the interviews and my cds on sale at Muzika Rekod, it's all still foreign to me. Did dream at the start of things like this to happen but not like the way it happen. But thanks to Allah, I managed to live these wonderful experiences. Of being called an artist, I still don't regard myself as one. Maybe after 5 years, if I'm still doing wat I'm doing then maybe I'll consider myself one. Right now, I enjoy doing wat I'm doing and my works are still very much from the heart! Anyway, here's a summary of my experiences in September. 1ST SEPT - THE ALBUM LAUNCH Started the day reading up Berita Harian. Found that Zaharian Osman had written an article on the launch. Anyway, the album launch was a simple but vibrant event. In front of a strong crowd made up by families, friends and colleagues, it was in most parts a heartfelt affair! All the hard work I've done over the last year had come to this and it was well worth it!

6TH SEPT - INTERVIEW WITH DJ TG ON WARNA 94.2FM A recorded interview for a segment called 'Variaskop'. Discussed in brief about myself and the album. It was aired only once on Friday 7th Sept @ 1025 hrs.

8TH SEPT - INTERVIEW WITH DJ HAFEEZ GLAMOUR ON RIA 89.7FM It was a pleasant surprise receiving a call on a Saturday morning from Hafeez Glamour. I was working the morning shift at that point of time and it was to be a recorded phone interview for a one hour segment called 'Artis Kita'. Took a breather from work and waited for a call 15 mins later from Hafeez. Once all set to go, we talked in depth about myself, songs from the album and my aspirations in music. The segment was aired the same day @ 1700 hrs. It was to be a delight hearing songs from my album being played on radio. It felt strange but it felt good!

14TH SEPT - PERFORMANCE ON 'RENTAK KITA' @ MALAY VILLAGE It was to be the beginning of a series of performances I'll be doing at Malay Village, Geylang Serai. Held in Singgahsana Hall, it was to be held weekly during the month of Ramadhan spanning Fridays to Sundays. Despite the small turnout, I was still happy with the outcome. Performance was good and the crowd seem to enjoy themselves.

15TH SEPT - BERITA HARIAN ARTICLE BY RAFAAT HAMZAH It was Rafaat Hamzah's review of my album launch. Despite the edited contents, it was still a great description of the ongoings at the launch. Rafaat went on to describe the atmosphere, the songs from the album and an honest take of myself as an aspiring singer-songwriter.

17TH SEPT -LIVE INTERVIEW ON WARNA 94.2FM I was delighted to receive a phone call from TG 3 days earlier, requesting me to come down for a live interview on a segement he produced on Warna called 'Paradigma'. On Mondays, they usually will interview someone from the arts & entertainment scene. I recalled listening to Rafaat's interview on Monday about his book and there I was preparing myself for another interview. AB Shaik & Mariam was on duty and AB Shaik quickly made me comfortable on the set. On hindsight , i would have preferred to be able to talk more about my album but time was a constraint. Thoroughly enjoyed this experience!!

21ST SEPT - PROMO @ MUZIKA REKOD It was held at its Joo Chiat Complex branch. It was a simple performance whereby I sang 3 songs from the album, backed up by my brothers. Response wasn't that good to be honest but it was still done well with the help of Shakem........another adventure for myself!

28TH SEPT - ANOTHER SHOWCASE @ KG MELAYU This time around, I did a longer set, played more song and had more musicians backing me up. Added to the lineup was keyboards and electric guitar. However, the music was too crowded signalling the end of my 'experiment' to enable some of my buddies to perform with me. The show still went great but there was too many hiccups for me to enjoy my performance. Hope this will be a lesson for me to learn and put me in good stead for future shows!

30TH SEPT - FINAL PERFORMANCE OF THE MONTH This final showcase was injected with a kind of festive mood and why not? Other than my own performance, there was to be a dance item by Republic Polytechnic and a dikir barat performance by Cucu Datuk Merah. Anyway, it was meant to be a fundraiser for the suffering citizens of Jogjakarta, victims of an earthquake a year ago. Due to time constraint, I had to cut short my set. As usual, my final song for my performance was 'Keagungan Mu'. But this time, with the dance group and dikir barat in action, it was like 'WOW'! Everyone was singing and dancing along to the song. Damn.....it was wonderful!

Performance at Kg Melayu on the 14th of September 2007

2007-09-21T02:28:00.001+08:00

I should have written this review of my performance last week but due to time and work constraints, I had to postpone this posting. Anyway let me start by sharing with you guys how it all started! I received a call from Mr Ali from Anggrik Promotions during the 1st week prior to my album launch. It was a pleasant surprise as he invited me to perform at Kg Melayu so as to promote my latest release. As usual, called up my band of musicians' brothers to inform them of the upcoming gig. So to cut the story short, everyone is raring to go! So there we were on the 14th of September 2007 shortly after breaking fast in the month of Ramadhan. A few soundchecks later, we were all set to perform. We performed a 1 hour set that day. Sang all 6 songs of my album, 2 cover songs - Ku Ukir Namamu from Lovehunters & Kamelia from Sweet Charity, and 1 song which will be featured in my next upcoming album entitled 'Mana-mana'. It was pretty tough for me personally to perform this 1 hour set. One reason would by apparent lack of vocal stamina. I really need to engage on a physical regime, i guess...hehe, to overcome this problem. The second reason would be the lack of preparation to perform this mini-showcase. But i'm pretty sure with time,experience and the drive to learn would help me a better performer the next time round. Overall, I am delighted with the opportunity to engage new listeners. As usual, my favourite set of people are in the crowd, cheering and singing in their best voices and supporting me througout the show. A wonderful experience!! Cheers to Anggrik Promotions for their great effort to hold this showcase for our own local Singaporean artistes. To my favourite set of people (I do hope you know who you are...if you don't....ask me personally and i won't bite).....thanks for the constant support and encouragement!!! You guys are the reasons I'll be doing this now and in the near future!! Thanks to the people who bought the album that day!! Hope you will like the songs in my album!!

INTERVIEW AT WARNA 94.2 FM

2007-09-16T21:52:00.003+08:00

CHECK OUT MY INTERVIEW WITH AB SHAIK You can listen to it by clicking on the link below or right click and save it to listen on your computer. Hope you will enjoy it! Zaibaktian Live Interview 170907.wma
----------------------------------------------------------------------- Greetings everyone! Do hope that you guys will tune in to my 'live' interview at Warna 94.2 FM, starting 3pm to 4pm. Frankly speaking, I do not know how I will handle the interview. Will try my best to prepare myself for this interview. For anyone who may like to pose me questions, do call in at 6911942 and pose your questions 'on air' during this live interview session. I really hope you'll enjoy the interview as much as I relish this experience.

"Keagungan Mu" Album Reviews Wanted!!!

2007-09-16T21:47:00.000+08:00

Hi my friends! I would like to ask you guys to submit your reviews of my debut album "Keagungan Mu". Doesn't matter if you love or hate the album, all reviews are welcome. I will do my best to publish all reviews in this blog page. Send your reviews to zbak1976@yahoo.com.sg Thanks & Cheers!! ZAIBAKTIAN

Berita Harian - Saturday 15th September 2007 by Rafaat Hamzah

2007-09-15T17:00:00.000+08:00

My deepest appreciation and thanks to Mr Rafaat Haji Hamzah for having written a great article with regards to my album launch. Anyway, the article published in Berita Harian today was unfortunately edited, thus taking away the essence or should i say 'atmosphere' of the full article written. Therefore to give due credit to the full article written, here it is:- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bersuara dalam rendah diri

Apakah ‘Destinasi Impian’ anda dan sejauh manakah kesugguhan anda untuk benar-benar sampai ketempat yang dituju? Bagi Zaibaktian, kegembiraan dan kepuasannya terserlah dengan kelahiran albumnya yang berjudul ‘Keagungan Mu’ itulah ‘Destinasi Impian’nya.
Dalam suasana yang amat sederhana tetapi cukup meriah, ramai teman, sahabat-handai dan keluarga turut serta merayakan kelahiran album sulungnya. Upacara pelancaran album ini telah diadakan di ‘Hajah Esah CafÈ’ di Bussorah Street. Sambil menikmati segelas kopi ‘o’ panas, penulis merasa amat terhibur sekali dengan suasana petang walaupun terasa sedikit hangat selepas hujan.
Pelancaran yang mulanya dirancang dan dihebahkan bakal diadakan disalah sebuah restoran lain bertukar kepada ‘Hajah Esah CafÈ’ ini berikutan dengan kegenjotan restoran yang mulanya ingin menaja ruang mereka tetapi pada saat-saat akhir meminta bayaran. Ketara sekali ada rahmatNya apabila ternyata, suasana di Bussorah Street menjadi meriah pada petang itu.
Kegenjotan pada saat akhir tidak terhenti disitu apabila kurang dari setengah jam acara dimulakan, hujan turun menimpa gelanggang. Zaibaktian masih tenang dalam kegelisahan dan kegairahannya. Cabaran dan rintangan yang dua ini bukan suatu hal yang baru baginya. Pelbagai rintangan lain telah dilalui dalam usaha untuk melahirkan ‘Keagungan Mu’ malah Zaibaktian pernah terperangkap dalam skim penipuan dan janji palsu untuk mengketengahkan karya-karyanya.
Akhirnya, seperti kata-kata yang beberapa diulangi oleh pengacara majlis, penyanyi Didicazli, keikhlasan telah membawa kejayaan pada Zaibaktian. Suatu nama yang jarang sekali kita dengar dalam industri muzik dan seni tanahair telah dalam diam menggarap deria pandang dan dengar berbekalkan minat, bakat dan keikhlasan, Zaibaktian terbukti tidak kalah, malah dapat dibanggakan dengan penciptaan, susunan muzik dan penulisan lirik pada lagu-lagunya.
Lagu pembukaan dalam album ini ‘Destinasi Impian’ adalah sekilas pandang perjuangan dan perjalanan Zaibaktian dan merealisasikan album ini. Jelas sekali setiap apa yang dirasa telah tersusun dalam kata-kata lagu ini. Dengan rentak yang agak ‘up tempo’ pendegar juga dapat merasakan bahawa disebalik segalanya Zaibaktian tidak pernah putus semangat.
Lagu-lagu yang lain juga turut mencerminkan keperibadian dan pemikiran Zaibaktian. Tidak ada lagu yang rasanya dibuat-buat atau diada-adakan. Segalanya terlahir dari keikhlasan berkarya.
Lagu yang menjadi judul album ini, ‘Keagungan Mu’ jika diteliti merupakan sebuah lagu spiritual yang berunsur puji-pujian pada yang Esa namun ianya dianyam dengan rentak joget yang membangkitkan semangat dan menghiburkan.
Beberapa buah lagu lain yang menjurus kearah lagu balada seperti lagu ‘Mawar Merah’ juga tidak kurang hebat dan menarik sekali. ‘Pesona Rindu’ ditaruh Zaibaktian sebagai lagu yang bakal menjadi hits, namum bagi penulis lagu ‘Taman Cinta’ juga amat berpotensi mendaki carta. Sementara lagu ‘Tempat Ku Di Sisi Mu’ jelas sekali adalah ‘trip’ sufi peribadi Zaibaktian dengan Maha Pencipta.
Zaibaktian, sebagai seorang pemusik, penyanyi, pencipta dan penulis lirik telah membuktikan kehebatannya. Vokalnya yang mempunyai keunikan yang tersendiri pastinya dapat menonjolkan dirinya sebagai seorang seniman yang mendukung identiti tersendiri. Namun sebagai seorang penghibur, Zaibaktian perlu menimba ilmu dalam berkomunikasi dengan penontonya. Jelas sekali, Zaibaktian masih gugup apabila berbicara dengan penonton. Untung sekali dalam mempersembahkan lagu-lagunya, Zaibaktian cukup menghiburkan. Biarlah kali ini hanya lagu yang mengangkat keperibadian Zaibaktian sebagai seorang seniman yang ikhlas dalam berkarya dan penuh dengan rasa rendah diri. Seniman terbilang M. Nasir juga pada permulaan kerjayanya, tidak fasih berkata-kata.
Pelancaran album telah disokong oleh rakan-rakan artis baru dan lama dalam arena muzik. Dibuka dengan dendangan penyanyi-penyanyi muda yang berpotensi besar seperti Irma Yanti, Fairuz Adam, Rozaimi dan artis rakaman Didicazli. Barisan pemuzik yang hebat pula terdiri daripada Hazan, Hernee, Mahadir, Amin, Rafiz MH, Sofhian dan Izam. Sementara jurutera bunyinya ialah Yan J yang terlatih di Melbourne dibantu oleh Azli dan Zul A.S.
Kesemua mereka yang terlibat dalam acara pelancaran ini telah melibatkan diri mereka secara sukarela demi menyokong usaha Zaibaktian selaku penerbit ‘independent’. Dengan tenaga kerja dibantu oleh Merbuk Platoon yang sentiasa menyokong artis dan industri setempat.
Semangat kerjasama ini tidak mungkin menjadi kenyataan tanpa sumbangan Hajah Esah CafÈ yang menaja restoran mereka. Sekilas pandang, dengan adanya usaha sebegini, ianya menjadi bukti bahawa tidak mustahil bagi seseorang individu mahupun berkumpulan untuk berkarya, menghasilkan album sekaligus menyemarakkan seni tanahair. Syabas dan tahniah pada Zaibaktian dan semua yang terlibat.
Oleh Rafaat Haji Hamzah

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Radio Interview with TG on Warna 94.2FM

2007-09-06T22:46:00.000+08:00

Arrived at Mediacorp reception shortly after 4pm. TG was already waiting for me, together with 2 other DJs, Mariam and Riz Sunawan. Introduced myself to them and we then immediately proceeded to Warna 94.2FM conty. I've only met and spoken to TG once before, back when I was at Mediacorp in July where I was handing over my CD single. Heard him on radio countless times and he's as cheerful and nice on radio as he is in person. I was nervous which was kinda normal i guess.....hehe......since this was my 1st ever radio interview. I am a person who prefers to think and structure my words before i speak. Never good at handing out spontaneous answers. Therefore it was going to be a big challenge for me. Me and TG, we had some casual talk before we move in to the studio to record the interview. A few tests done....the mic set in front of me and then began my 1st ever interview on Radio. Overall, I am pleased with the way I handled the interview. A wonderful experience never to be forgotten.

Berita Harian article published on 1st of September 2007 by Zaharian Osman

2007-09-05T18:21:00.000+08:00

My heartfelt thanks to Zaharian Osman for writing this article which was published in Berita Harian on Saturday 1st September 2007. Thanks also to Kak Ifah, Mirza and Meraj for the great help!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ALBUM 'KEAGUNGAN MU' DILANCAR HARI INI

BUKAN mudah untuk bangkit semula. Setelah kegagalan menjadikan impiannya satu kenyataan, Zaibaktian, 31 tahun tidak berputus asa. Beliau terus mencuba dan akhirnya berjaya mencapai apa yang diharapkannya. Kecekalan dan jerih payah yang dilalui sebelum ini telah mendewasakan pemuzik, penyanyi dan komposer yang akan melancarkan album sulung Keagungan Mu (bawah)itu. Antara ciri-ciri penting dalam album itu ialah nilai-nilai kekeluargaan, persahabatan dan kepercayaan. Beliau mengambil masa lapan bulan untuk merakam kesemua enam keratan lagu. Selain menerbit, menggubah dan menulis seni kata, Zaibaktian turut menyusun muzik dan vokal untuk album ini. Rakaman untuk gitar, gitar bes dan susunan rentak untuk setiap lagu dilakukannya sendiri. Album Keagungan Mu itu akan dilancarkan pada 3 petang hari ini di King Satay, Clarke Quay. Mereka yang berminat menghadiri majlis ini bolehhubungi talian 9739-1770.
- Oleh ZAHARIAN OSMAN.

Album Launch 010907 @ Hjh Esah's Cafe

2007-09-05T16:02:00.000+08:00

The album launch held at Hjh Esah's Cafe on the 1st of September. The scheduled start time was delayed for about 30 mins to give ample notice to Berita Harian readers who had went to the location published in the paper. My apologies as I couldn't inform the change in venue in time!

What can I say about the album launch? It's something that I will remember till the day I die. I'm short of superlatives here to describe my feelings but let's just say it was an amazing experience :)
(story to be continued....hehe)

I do hope everyone's that had ever known me, know that I have you guys in my heart forever.

The people who made this album launch possible are very dear to me........without them I am nothing......so I would like to take this opportunity to say my heartfelt thanks. I should have and would have said my thanks to some people and group if given the chance again and I'm hopeful, insyaallah, that I will have that chance!

Thanks to All my families & friends, whether you are present at the launch or not.......you guys are the reason I'm able to do this. Your support and encouragements help me keep my fire burning!

Thanks Niezza for planning with me my album launch right from the start! It was a pleasure working with you, babe!

Thanks Ays, Seema & Irfa for your great work at the launch! For the constant support, you gals are in my hearts forever!

Thanks Rafiz for your undying belief and support for me! You're the man!

Thanks Meraj. My blood brother. Enuff said.

Thanks Mahadir, Izam, Amin, Sophian, Hazan, Hernee - getting you guys to play my songs with dedication was a great honour!

Thanks Azlan for the concept and design since the beginning of this project. From the cd to the poster design.....it's been a blast...it can only get better!!

Thanks Kak Ifah & family for lending me a shoulder to cry on just when I thought the launch would never been possible.

Thanks Zoul, Azli, Awil, Yan, Iqmal and the whole team for the hardwork and dedication to ensure things ran well at the launch!

Thanks Didicazli for hosting the event with style and aplomb! For supporting me on such short notice. You deserve the best!!

Thanks Mahadir, Izam, Amin, Sophian, Hazan, Hernee - getting you guys to play my songs with dedication was a great honour!

Thanks Rafaat Hamzah for your presence and support for me from the start. Giving me the chance to perform at your wedding was a great honour!

Thanks Zaharian Osman for the article in Berita Harian.

Thanks Hajjah Esah Cafe for the venue, food, drinks....

Thanks MERBUK PLATOON

YOU MADE MY ALBUM LAUNCH A SUCCESSFUL ONE!!

The Making of An Album Launch

2007-08-31T17:19:00.000+08:00

Can't really describe my feelings at the moment. I'm scared, excited, delighted, sense of fulfilment all rolled into one big pile.....kind of 'rojak'....hahaha But I could not help thinking that whatever efforts I have put thus far, hinges on the outcome of this album launch. Just yesterday, I was in a huge dilemma. The venue that I was supposed to hold the album launch put in a request that I wasn't able to accept and just like that, my album launch was so close to being cancelled or postponed. Thanks to everyone especially Zoul, Rafiz, Azli, Kak Ifah, Niezza for your understanding and efforts to make sure the show will go on! Thus my album launch will still be scheduled on the 1st of September, 3pm, but at a new venue: Hjh Esah's Cafe @ No 62 , Bussorah Street nearby Masjid Sultan. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Plans and preparations had otherwise been great. The CDs and posters had been printed. Sound and music equipments available for use. Stagehands and crews are fit....hehe.....Merbuk Platoon which will be running the event, spearheaded by Niezza, Ays, Seema & Irfa, are raring to go! My friends and I have tried our very best to ensure that everyone invited had been informed of the change in venue. Now I'm just hoping for the best and my launch will be a success. With your support and presence.....I'm sure it will be!!

The Master CD

2007-08-19T22:31:00.000+08:00

My heartfelt thanks to Zul and Azli Sadan for being my ears during the mastering session in KL.! Today heard the master cd for the 1st time and I really am delighted. Even though I was sure I could have done a better job given more time, preparation and resources, I must say at this point of time I had done the best I could with the means available to me. The cd mastering process had certainly added gloss over the tracks in this album. It may not be clear to inexperienced ears but I'm glad to say it sounds way better now than previously. The songs I had chosen on this album are dear to me....personal accounts of my journey of love, family, friendship and faith. I do not have a clear favourite song in this album but I'm sure my friends and fans will have something to say about that.....

Post Production

2007-08-14T15:28:00.000+08:00

Exhausted and relieved....Words to describe the state I'm in after an eventful last few days. Exhausted physically and mentally. I have spent the last 2 weeks doing post production works on my songs and album. Editing, mixing and decision making were just some of the processes I had undertaken and it was tough work.....tougher than I had expected initially. Relieved cos as of today, I had finally achieved a milestone in my own music journey. At last , I had given birth to my own debut album. This final product will be what I would have, to show for all the efforts and hardwork spent.....blood and sweat I had shed. Whatever the outcome at the end of all this, my gut feeling is it had been worth it!! It's now time to add the final piece to the puzzle. The album's will be off to Kuala Lumpur to be mastered at ProDG Studios by Faisal Ghazali. My fingers' crossed that by the end of this mastering session, I would have a great product in my hands and be able to share the album with you guys!

My Apologies!

2007-07-31T23:14:00.000+08:00

I would like to start by thanking everyone who had requested for my song "Taman Cinta" to be aired on radio up till now but to no avail. Iwould like to apologize because in the midst of my excitement of having my song approved for airplay, I wasn't au fait / well versed with the way radio airplay works. Technically my song had already been approved for airplay. Presently, I'm making arrangements for "Taman Cinta" to be aired during the 1st week of August. I will update you guys on the timeslot where my song will debut on Ria 89.7FM. Do hope everyone reading this will enjoy that moment with me!!

A Day @ Mediacorp

2007-07-23T23:23:00.000+08:00

I had arranged for this day for a meeting with Ria 89.7 FM boss, Hassan Salleh. The purpose was the submission of my single "Taman Cinta" for airplay. My first time meeting Abg Hassan was thru my participation in Akademi Radio in March 2007 and subsequently met him again at my Expo performance in April 2007. Since then , I stayed in touch with him and he had been kind enough to accord words of encouragement and support to me. So I was kind of relishing the meeting and probably having casual talk with the man. My meeting was scheduled at 4pm. Picked up my copies of CDs printed at Bt Merah and I kinda liked the final product. From Bt Merah to Mediacorp, I was experiencing mixed feelings. Was actually thinking how the guys @ Ria & Warna would perceive my product. Hoping for the best!! Upon my arrival @ Mediacorp, I immediately proceeded to Ria's office. A warm welcome from Hassan Salleh and the DJs at the office namely KC, Nity and Brader Bo, I then dished out my CDs personally to the guys. Then Abg Hassan, Brader Bo and myself converse on the subject of my upcoming plans and album. When Abg Hassan popped the CD into his player, I must say I was scared as hell. As much as I am proud of my product, I was expecting the worst possible scenario. But after playing the CD, I guess they were OK with it. After passing my CDs to some DJs at Warna, I then took my leave. On my way home, I kind of reflected on my paths and choices I have taken to that present moment. I'm still pinching myself because as much as I believed in myself, I could never believe it that I'm actually sending my songs for airplay on radio. What was once just a far-fetched dream was slowly manifesting in real-time. I felt really blessed to be able to do what I'm doing! Alhamdullillah

Awesome!!!

2007-07-22T23:11:00.000+08:00

Performance day once again! Always looking forward to every single one of them. This time, I'm performing as a guest artiste at a Dikir Barat competition entitled "Piala Raja Panggong 2007 Dikir Barat Competition". This showcae were jointly organised by MAEC Kg Chai Chee CC & Kumpulan Dikir Barat Cucu Datuk Merah/ Hulubalang. It featured Dikir Barat groups, established and new, to showcase themselves and see who comes out of it tops! So after the last group had performed, came my turn to showcase myself. With the backing of my music brothers: Guitars - Amin, Zool, Hernalis, Rafiz Box Drums - Hazan Djembe -Hernee we then proceed to take the stage. Then the emcees started with introducing me. Kinda funny when they were introducing me as someone who was somehow associated with the dikir barat scene years ago. Haha....to those who recently know me.....yes, i did participate way back in 2005....my very 1st time in dikir barat and i was 'tok juara' then.....tough work, man! Got involved with dikir barat fellas from hulubalang/cucu datuk merah albeit through soccer......hmmm....and that's about it, folks! Glad to be there performing there as I could meet and reminisce with some familiar faces. Once the stage curtain is up, I commence on the 1st of my 3-songs set. Sang "Keagungan Mu" for the start as I felt it was the song most suitable for a cultural showcase as this one, with its ethnic beats and 'joget' melody. I encouraged the audience to clap with me as the song begin. To my surprise, they readily obliged. And I could already felt at that time, it was going to be an awesome show after all! How right I was! By the end of the 1st song, I could feel myself slowly being comfortable on stage. Trying my best interacting with the crowd...fuhhh.......the crowd was superb......playful banter were exchanged and soon I was off singing the 2nd song, a cover of Lovehunters' "Ku Ukir Namamu". I could sense the crowd building up as I sang thru the verses. So as I approach the ever infectious chorus lines "Lautan api....Sudah pun ku renangi....".........I called on the crowd to sing with me and sang with me they did......Haha, for brief moment I understood and felt wat's it's like to be a rockstar...hahaha! And the crowd sang with me thru the rest of the song......."The show's getting better and better" , I remembered saying to myself. Momentum was me after the 2nd song ended and I proceeded with the last song "Taman Cinta". Before I started, I said my thanks to the organisers and the crowd as well. I did some self-promotion, informing the audience that this next song will be my 1st song on Ria 89.7FM and also told them to come for my impending album launch on 1st of September. Do hope they'll remember to come! Did my heartfelt rendition of "Taman Cinta" and as soon as the song ended....said my thanks again....and bid farewell to the crowd. But to my shock, sections in the crowd began calling for an encore. "Wow....this couldn't be happening" I said. So after seeking permission from the organisers and the green light accorded to me to continue, I was in a dilemma on which song to perform. I was pretty sure the crowd wanted a cover song which they can all sing along with. Unfortunately, I had not prepared any other cover songs so I decided to perform another original entitled "Destinasi Impian". Since it was a fast number, I hope the crowd enjoyed it as well! So when the time came for me to end my performance, I thanked the crowd again for making the occasion my best show so far!! So after the show's over, me and my brothers did a casual post mortem and I'm ecstatic that everyone enjoyed themselves too. Special thanks to Kg Chai Chee CC, kumpulan dikir barat Hulubalang & Cucu Datuk Merah for having organised this wonderful showcase! A million thanks to the Dikir Barat fellas at the showcase, the audience, the crowd for making my performance something to cherish forever. My heartfelt appreciation to my music brothers and their families, my family, Merbuk Platoon guys namely Niezza, Ays and Seema for being present for this great experience. Can't thank you guys enough for the support since Day One. Please continue to embark with me as I keep going on this unknown journey.

Work In Progress

2007-07-21T09:53:00.000+08:00

The above is the cover for my CD single "Taman Cinta". I've been invited down to Ria 89.7 FM office this coming Monday-23rd July to hand over my CD for consideration for airplay. I'll keep you guys updated on this one. Hoping for your kind support for the song.....do request for it to be played on radio k!

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Another peformance coming up tomorrow Sunday-22nd of July. Will be held at Kg Chai Chee CC, live and accoustic! The event is a dikir barat competition featuring veterans and newcomers in the dikir scene. I'm sure it'll be a blast. I'll be performing as a guest artiste for the event. Looking forward to the opportunity to showcase my original and promote my radio single and upcoming album launch.

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Speaking of album launch, I'll be launching my mini album "Cintaku Bukan Mainan" on the 1st of September 2007 (Saturday). The venue will be King Satay @ Clarke Quay. Thanks to Kak Azhria (Diva) for acquiring the venue and to June, owner of King Satay for allowing the use of her facility for the launch. My heartfelt appreciation!

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I'll elaborate more on my mini album in the coming weeks....

I dedicate this song.....

2007-07-11T14:59:00.001+08:00

Finally, got the final mix of my 1st single "Taman Cinta" in my hands. With regards to my limited experience in music, I believed I've done well thus far. However, I'll be looking to constantly improve....every aspects.....yeah!! Doing the mastering down at Greendoor Studio very soon. Once done, I'll be submitting my cd to RIA for consideration for airplay, latest by end of next week. Hope the guys @ RIA will love it....keeping my fingers crossed!! I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who's been supporting, encouraging, criticising.......learnt a lot from each and every single one of you! Thanks to the guys who put work in for the completion of "Taman Cinta"......the musicians: Hernalis, Mahadir, Izam, Rafiz, Herman......Azlan for design and concept.......Sham for the beautiful photos.....I won't be able to complete this without you guys' help. Also to everyone....a long list to mention.....thanks for listening to "Taman Cinta" from the time it was just a raw mix till its completion as my 1st single. Your comments and feedbacks were priceless!! This song is dedicated to all of you........my sincere gift to the people I love!!

My 2 Songs' Worth!!

2007-07-03T23:14:00.000+08:00

Did my vocal recordings for 2 songs today. I must say I'm pleasantly surprised by my performances today......did enjoy myself thru the process. Upon reaching home, listened again and again to the rough studio mixes and I must say it's a job well done. Happy with the recordings! I would love to relate to everyone about the stories and messages in my songs. Finding it hard though. But I'll try my best to describe and summarise them to you ppl. The first song is entitled "Mawar Merah" (Red Roses). A song about unrequited love. How someone goes thru the pain and suffering to acquire a gift (in this case, a red rose as a metaphor) for his love....only to find out soon enough .....that the woman he crave was not meant to be his. And all he had left was the red rose as a companion. He was faced with a dilemma....Should he hold on to the rose and keep it as a memento of his unrequited love......or should he throw it away and forget about the whole thing... The second song "Destinasi Impian" (Dream Destination) meant a whole lot to me. It's the song I first penned down as a 'war' anthem....the sort of song which I could always refer to for motivation in embarking on my music journey. The words in the song reflects accurately what I think and how I felt in trying to achieve my dreams. A song of hope and dreams....hope you could use the song as your source of motivation as well to reach the destination that you dream of!!

Blood & Sweat

2007-07-01T11:27:00.000+08:00

It's been a chaotic last few days. Dedicated my time and efforts on my album production. Finally, completed my vocal recording for 3 songs : - "Taman Cinta", "Pesona Rindu" & "Keagunganmu". I'm satisfied with the way things have gone by. Been listening to the studio rough mixes and I must say I am pleasantly surprised by the results. Been doing my recordings at Focal Pro Studios since February. Thoroughy enjoyed my sessions wif Gavin (recording engineer). He's been such a bro! But alas, exhausted my recording package already. So I took the decision to record my new songs at Greendoor Studios, home of Singapore's own talent, Sound Salvation. Enjoyed my discussions with Andry Kamsani , frontman of Sound Salvation. Hoping to learn more from him and the band as time goes by. I thoroughly enjoyed the vocal recording process. Even though I must admit that I'm pretty tense most times. Now and then...while listening to the rough mixes, I can't help but contemplate whether I could have done better with a certain phrase or a part of the song. But a decision to record always meant I had to accept that whatever I had done for the day, was the best I could possibly had done. Furthermore, taking into account that studio time is not cheap and I am not a rich man ....... I had to enforce restraint and limitation on how far I could develop each song. So after doing a couple of calculations and some simple maths, I realised that I could never possibly release my album in neither August or September. Guess I've overestimated myself as cashflow is a major problem for me at this point in time. Unless I strike it lucky at Toto or 4D the next few weeks (hahaha) , I might have to postpone the album launch to early next year perhaps. Rest assured, I'm gonna bleed and sweat for this album...just for all u guys who had been supporting me thus far.

A Day For Satay

2007-06-24T00:36:00.000+08:00

I had another performance yesterday. This time it was for a birthday bash held for Anjung Aksara's pioneer member Zul (Medic). The venue was King Satay down at Clarke Quay. For those who don't know where it's at, Ministry of Sound (MOS) is just beside it. But man, I was lost upon reaching Clarke Quay....it's been ages since I last set foot there. Great place if you are looking for a night of fun. Anyway, it was a fun day getting to know members of my extended family. I sang 3 songs:- 'Keagunganmu' , 'Mawar Merah' & 'Taman Cinta'. Felt good to be performing again after a short break. I had Rafiz to accompany me on guitars onstage. I'm considering the place to do my album launch. The place has a nice layout and a laidback ambience to boot. Hmm...pending for now. To bro Zul (Medic)...happy birthday once again. Thanks for evrything you've done for me. Best wishes for your future!

Tweaks & Updates

2007-06-21T15:20:00.000+08:00

Spent my time yesterday, tweaking my songs. Performed vocal takes.....guess i need lots of practice before my upcoming studio recording. Take care of my health more, cut down on the cigarettes, more physical exercise.....haha, i'm gaining weight as i speak.....somehow i love being chubby....hahaha A few days ago, Azlan mailed me a draft copy of the single cover he designed for me. Boy, i was impressed with it. Only needed minor tweaks and it'll be superb. My belated congrats to my bro and sis, Sham & Siti for their new bundle of joy. Haven't had the opportunity to visit them yet but I will soon... Zaid had proposed to me to perform at an upcoming dikir barat comp held at Kg Chai Chee CC on 22nd July. I guess 3 songs at most....keeping my fingers crossed on this one.

My Debut Album Part 1

2007-06-09T01:40:00.000+08:00

Give me a hell yeah!! My dream of producing my own album is still on. Sure it's hard work but the experiences - the achievements and the mistakes - were well worth it. Picked up valuable lessons and pointers along the way. Still dreaming and looking forward to the day when I'm holding a copy of my debut album in my hands. I guess I'll be a proud man and will be grinning from ear to ear when the time finally comes. Hahaha... I've finished recording the tracks for all the songs in my upcoming album except for one. All's left now is for my vocal recordings followed by the mixing and mastering process. I haven't done very well for my previous vocal takes. So many reasons for that though...lack of practice, mic settings wasn't right for my vocal delivery.....maybe I'm just feeling insecure all of a sudden. I'll admit that I'm not wat u would call a technically gifted singer but I believe I've got great feel. Somehow, I just gotta do it.....instill more confidence in myself....let it all out! I've targeted the 1st week of July to be the period when my first single - 1st song of my upcoming debut album - will be up for airplay. Still a target for now but I'm still in with a chance of making it a reality. Entitled "Taman Cinta" (Garden of Love), it is a song about love and redemption.....2nd chances.....how true love elevates you to a better position...makes you a better person. Hope you guys will enjoy the song very soon!

Lucky Me?

2007-05-25T00:49:00.000+08:00

I've never had a fruitful relationship wif luck. When something bad happens to me....luck would always be one of the main contributing factors...in this case, bad luck. When something good happens...it's always good luck! So luck becomes an easy excuse if ever I need to describe my failings and successes. If I fail....it'll be "no luck" or "bad luck"......and I succeed in something..."good luck" would be the main factor. I used to think that luck is closely associated with fate. If I am fated to achieve success, then good luck is "automatically" bestowed upon me by the powers that be. But now, not anymore...... After all I've been thru in this rollercoaster life of mine, I realize that luck starts and ends with me. I have to create my own luck. So to everyone, at a point in time when you feel that success had been achieved and you feel like giving all the credit to the streak of good luck you're in....do take a deep breath, take a step aside and ponder for a moment.....retrace the steps you've taken to get to that point........the paths that you had chosen....the doors you opened.... Not sure if you get my point......but it's all in YOU! Whether you realised it or not.....you're one who took the risks, performed the work needed, opened the doors to be where you are now! So the next time you achieve success, don't credit good luck! Congratulate and credit yourself for the job well done.....

1001 Reasons - A Friendly Thought

2007-05-24T00:10:00.000+08:00

Met up with an old friend the other day. He got wind about the music dream I'm pursuing and the core of our conversation became somewhat a Q&A session as to why I am pursuing something that he considered beyond wat I am capable off. It quickly turned into a "lecture" session. He peppered me with his 1001 reasons as to why I shouldn't stick with my plans of embarking on my music journey. Anyway, I wasn't willing to counter his arguments and just listen to him like a good boy. Anyway, I sat there unaffected. Haha, I'll bet you guys been in this situation before. You wanted to pursue something you want but all you get are 1001 reasons why you shouldn't do it. So being a buddy you are, you followed up your friend's advice. Then soon enough, you're left feeling flustered as you've let the opportunities you're presented pass you by. All you have left know is the feeling of wonder....wondering wat the outcome is had you pursued the things you want. So when is a friend,.... a friend? I believe that he/she is a friend when instead of preaching to you his/her 1001 reasons why you shouldn't be pursuing our dreams........He/She gives you 1 reason....offers to you 1 day...1 hr....1 minute...of his time......wateva amount of help he/she can accord to you all in the hope you can achieve your dream. That is a friend! I'm delighted that I have more friends than friends. So to all my friends......give me a chance and let us be friends...Cheers!

My Candle's Getting Shorter!!

2007-05-19T17:00:00.000+08:00

My birthday's coming again a few days time......it's that time again to reflect on the life I've been leading as my candle of life keeps getting shorter by the day. So much had changed since the last year and I'm amazed by wat I've been able to accomplish thus far. I'm not being narcissistic here but by committing to small changes to various aspects of my life, I've made a big difference to my life...and yes I'm enjoying life very much I'm also humbled by the powers of Allah. Yup, He has laid the paths in front of for me, answered my prayers, given me good health.....hmm.....relax baby, too deep now... So cheers to me as I turn old, to my families, to my buddies , to frens , to everyone who loves and hates....... LOVE YOU ALL!

My Performance at Singapore Expo 28th April 2007

2007-05-07T12:36:00.000+08:00

A million thanks to Mega Express (Kak Sha) for their faith and trust in giving me the opportunity to perform on the opening day, 28th April 2007, for the "Asian Consumer Showcase, Indonesia Today & Halal Food Expo Exhibition" held at the Singapore Expo. Thanks to everyone who were present for my performance....to my loyal batallion - family, buddies, brothers, Anjung Aksara - you lifted my spirits and made it happen! To eveyone who showered me with messages of support - Thanks, you made my day! Thanks to my sessionist a.k.a. the musicians a.k.a. my brothers who sacrificed just about everything else just to assist me with my show. I'm humbled by the powers of friendship and thanks again for tolerating my antics....haha....... Percussions - Azan & Hernee ; Bass - Izam ; Guitars - Rafiz, Herman, Amin VJR Personally, it was an enriching experience to perform on that day. I've never performed in front on a crowd as huge as this....haha....even though the crowd was there obviously for Danielle (thanks bros!)....haha...but it was my great pleasure to have performed that day. Got to admit that I'm still raw in this music biz and the performance iself wasn't perfect but i guess to commit mistakes now will bode well for my future success, Insyaallah. Cheers!

Ingredients For A Feast

2007-02-03T14:25:00.007+08:00

I've just dabbled into songwriting about few months ago. Been proud of my progress so far. Been an avid music listener all my life and somehow certain songs stuck on me. It could be the catchy tune, the haunting melody, the pounding beats, the intricate basslines, the "as if crying" guitar sounds, the "over the top" vocal delivery, the "this seems like my life story" lyrics or it could just be plain and simple... i'm just a fan of the singer.

But ever since i gained admission to the brotherhood of songwriting...yeah, sworn in for life.....my life has not been normal.... been pretty out of sync: - have not read the papers for days....my bed, pillows and my love had been spared of "molestation" - mind you, tat's a bad thing! Anyway, i guess i got to take it easy for a while. Won't be too difficult i think......haha....lying down on my sofa....my eyes halfway closed...wat the f*#k?....wait....i think i hear something.....could that be a demon or a fairy whispering a tune in my ear.....yeah, baby yeah....then f*#k, i'm back sitting strumming my guitar aimlessly till kingdom come....just for the endless pursuit of a melody...(wat a stupid idiot! haha)

Back to the subject of music...on a serious note( pun intended) my involvement in songwriting and music production process had taught me one thing. While the artistes do deserve credit for their intrepetation and delivery of a song, more often than not, the person/s responsible for creating the song in the 1st place don't usually get the credit they do deserve.

For me personally, everytime i give birth to a song that i can rightfully call my own, it's always satisfying. Even though an endless amount of perspiration, luck and hope goes into it....it's all worth it to me even if it's for my own listening pleasure. Now and then , I'm constantly evaluating my songs' recipes...juz to ensure i have the right ingredients in them....not just to be a feast for my ears....For yours too!

P.S. ( Pls do give me comments/support if you came to my blog by chance or on purpose. I'm not yet an artiste...I'm a beggar. So pls I beg u for ur comments :)

2007-01-31T11:48:00.000+08:00

My World

2007-01-28T11:27:00.000+08:00

Ever since I announced to my people, my desire and dream to set foot in music land and to record my debut album, I've been receiving mixed reactions. Appreciated wat they had to say, every single one of them. Be it positive or negative, love or hate, honest or white lies. However to fully understand the world that I am in, I juz can't help but categorise my people in 3 different groups. 1) The BELIEVERS - The ones who's at the top of my list. The ones who's always asking " How I can help you achieve this music dream?". Keeping me focus. Utilising their resources (time, money) on me. My dream is beginning to be a part of their dream. I'll be forever indebted to you guys. Rest assured, disappointing u guys had never even crossed my mind. 2) The SUPPORTERS/ WELL-WISHERS - The ones in the middle. Could make their way up to No 1 or tumble to No 3. "Good luck" , "Best wishes", "May you succeed".....The order of the day. Still an essential part of my world. Observing from afar. My failure or success don't really matter to them but they will want to share my happiness if i do succeed. 3) The DOUBTERS / NON-BELIEVERS - Not even a slightest ounce of confidence in my dream. Expert in planting seeds of doubt. Juz waiting to say " I told u so". My failure would be a delicacy to savour.

The Path Ahead

2007-01-16T11:26:00.000+08:00

I've kickstarted my music career. Constantly reading up and researching all that's to know abt the music biz. Meeting. sharing and conversing wif nice people who's got all to do wif music. Enjoyed every moment of them! It's still too early to say if I'll succeed but then I wouldn't call it a dream, would I? However would like to say my heartfelt thanks to everyone (u guys know who u are!) who helped initiate and assisted my chance to dream. Presently I'm making good progress for my album production. Come to think of it, 6 mths ago I wasn't even thinking of making music..haha...now i'm sitting in my "half-cooked" studio, possessing adequate tools to produce my own music. Thanks to Allah....without whom I would never be able to undertake His assignments. Alhamdulillah..... I have about 12 songs, all self-written, in my collection whereby I've finalised the arrangements of 4 songs. If circumstances permit, I'll be making my entry into a recording studio for the very 1st time at the end of Feb 2007.

When Tears Flow....

2007-01-15T08:21:00.000+08:00

I believe strongly in always looking ahead with optimism and positivity. However got to still reflect the past. The past has led me to the present. It's wat made me today. Looking back at 2006: i'm describing it as a time where tears flow freely: a period of reflection and discovery. It was all gloom when 2006 came and it ended with bright, shining lights illuminating my every way. I'll remember it as the time when I was given the chance by God to examine my life, family and friends. Got my life back on track, loved my family to death..appreciated their presence even more and friends ??? it was an opportunity to sieve....the diamonds came out sparkling, the fakes' just a whisper in the wind.

2007 - Wat will it be for me??

2007-01-07T11:58:00.000+08:00

i'm going to kickstart my new year's resolution as of today....one of them will be start posting in this blog as often i could. Life as a journey??...would be a waste if i don't pen it down in words. presently i'm embarking on a journey towards a music career. it's funny...mind boggling, at least to me, that i've never even thought of pursuing something major at this stage of my life. But life's a game and the choices you make determines ur path. got to thank Allah for this! He has given me the courage and open doors for me to live this dream. Anyway, little baby steps have been taken to ensure that it's won't juz be a dream.