"Muzik Melayu Sejak 1940... an": Oleh Yusnor Ef

I was invited to Yusnor Ef's latest book launch at the National Library at North Bridge Road (image 1). It was held at the Pod on the 16th floor. The gathering, that included Minister Dr. Yaacob Ibrahim, was well attended and many of the invited guests enjoyed good food and music performed by Sri Gemilang, an 8 piece orchestra that featured traditional Malay music like Bunga Tanjong and Bengawan Solo. Their lady singer Cha Cha provided soothing vocals in air-conditioned surrounding.

The book, which is in Malay, traces the development of Malay pop music from the 40s to the 70s. Content has philosophical quotes about music from Mencius, Aristotle, Beethoven, P. Ramlee and a host of other well-known personalities.

Interviews with the various Malay artistes, composers, their lyrics and songs abound as stories are told complete with record-cover images and photographs from yesteryear. The different genres of Malay music, that include discussions on its roots, growth and final blossoming, are appropriately covered by the author.

My favourite pages are those that trace the development of music from Malay movies, the Pop Yeh Yeh kugirans (garage bands) and Lagu Lagu Jenaka (humorous songs). To reveal more about this exquisite book would not be fair to Yusnor Ef. Besides, I am still reading it. Best is to get a copy if you are keen to learn more about Muzik Melayu Sejak 1940... an.

Oh yes, there's a CD with 25 Malay classic songs included with the book.
This posting is not a book review.

Image: Invitation card of which the left half is the book cover.

Original article: Andy Lim.

(SINGER AHMAD JAIS HAD PASSED AWAY. LISTEN TO GELISAH ON YOU TUBE AT RIGHT BAR).

Dr Lee's Rendition of Silverstein's 'The Giving Tree'

To all the children on Children's Day:
So you think only Singapore seniors are active? Think again. My friend Dato Dr. Lee Yan San (image 2 left) who hails from Penang is not only a good medical doctor but a great singer as well.

He has a family that backs him musically during his singing stints at home, on stage and in the recording studios. He has provided me with a few CDs and I have encouraged him to put his songs on You Tube.

Recently Yan San took a popular story/song from one of Shel Silverstein's (image 3) vast collection, recorded it with his music group and posted it on You Tube. It's called, The Giving Tree (image 1) and made popular by Bobby Bare in the 60s.

It tells a touching tale of a tree so giving with a boy that not only does it provide the child with a shade but allows itself to be cut down and be made into a boat. The song ends with the tree, now a stump. And the child? You must listen to the song to appreciate what the lyrics suggest. Actually the song reminds me of Elvis Presley's, Old Shep, with a slightly different theme of course. The Giving Tree is posted on the right bar.

Shel Silverstein was an American poet, singer, songwriter, composer, screenwriter, cartoonist and author of children's books. His books have sold over 20 million copies and translated into 20 languages (Wikipedia).

On a less serious tone here's another dose from one of Silverstein's books, Falling Up. It is called, Danny O'Dare:

"He did a dance called the Funky Chicken,/ He did the Polka, he did the Twist,/ He bent himself into a pretzel like this./ He did the Dog and the Jitterbug,/ He did the Jerk and the Bunny Hug./ He did the Waltz and the Boogaloo,/ He did the Hokey Pokey too. It's easy to see... Danny O'Dare wants to dance with me." You'll be surprised to find out who Danny is!

[About image 2: Yan San also has a knack for making friends. He met We Will Make Love 60s British megastar Russ Hamilton several years ago and they became great buddies. Russ had since passed on.]

1. If you like to read more about Russ Hamilton and Yan San check him out by clicking Labels below.

2. If you like to read Silverstein's books go to the bookshops or libraries. Tons of them around. Get Falling Up and Where The Sidewalk Ends. Read them to your children or grandchildren on Children's Day.

Images: 1) from You Tube, 2) from YS Lee Collection, 3) Google Images.

SINGAPORE CHILDREN'S DAY: FRIDAY OCTOBER 7th, 2011.

Aku Dia Dan Lagu: Lagu2 Nostalgia Lirik Yusnor Ef

In February this year, Yusnor Ef gave me a 5CD presentation box of about 128 of his original compositions, sung by the top 60s and 70s Malay pop yeh-yeh artistes from Singapore and Malaysia.

The singers are too many to be named but they include Ahmad Jais, Eddie Ahmad, A. Ramlie, Sanisah Huri, Sharifah Aini, Rozainah Baharudin, Milah Husain, Mariah Bachok, Anita Sarawak, P. Ramlee, A. Razak, Ahmad Daud, Salomah, Rahimah Rahim, A. Romzi, Sugiman Jahuri, Rafeah Buang, S. Rossley, Junainah Amin, Kartina Dahari, Saadiah Saad, Fazidah Joned, Elmi Salleh, J. Mizan and a host of others.

In the accompanying 140 page booklet of glossy photographs, thumb-nail sketches, music sheets, lyrics and testimonials from the top hierachy of the Malay music community, the set represents Yusnor's lifetime achievements packaged into a compact gift-box that is a treasure trove of musical gold pieces.

So as you listen to Yusnor's compositions sung by artistes who are still household names, you can browse and enjoy viewing his 40 plus years of photographs and documented anecdotes titled: Kisah Di Sebalik Lagu and the reasons why he pens the songs which he holds so dear to his heart.

Here are a few one-liners from the dozens of tributes he received through the years.

1. 'He is a prolific writer of more than 250 songs... one of our greatest music icons in the 20th century.'

2. 'His phenomenal ability to pen human emotions of his cultural situatedness... his own conviction of music as makanan jiwa.'

3. 'His works in Bahasa Melayu and English have been held in high regard throughout the Malayworld... shedding fresh light on the development of Malay music.'

4. 'He is a true teacher in my eyes, perhaps that is probably why I still call him Cikgu till this day.'

5. 'My husband and I introduced him to P. Ramlee...'

Some of the songs in the series and randomly picked are: Gelisah, Anak Zaman Ini, Tiga Gadis Jelita, Taj Mahal, Tangisan Malam, Ros Merah, Senjaka, Joget Aidilfitri, Suasana Riang Di Hari Raya, Si Bujang Tua, Sinar Hidupku, Normila, etc.

About Pulau Tekong (Island), Yusnor Ef and me:

I have known this patient and talented gentleman since 1963 when both of us took a daily boat ride from Changi Jetty to the two schools we taught in. He was the Malay che'gu at Selabin Malay and I at Pulau Tekong Chinese.

In the rain and sunshine as we rocked n rolled in the boat, our friendship continued through the years. Although Mohd. Noor taught for about 5 years in his, I was lucky enough to serve for only one year. Those were hard times indeed.

Image/Original article: Andy Lim Collection.

TO ALL MY MUSLIM FRIENDS AND READERS, SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDIL FITRI, 2011.

Singapore 60s Vinyl Covers Are Works Of Art: Pt 1

The 3 vinyl cover images above are taken from my record collection of Singapore, Malaysia and SE Asian 60s and 70s pop music stars and they fill my drawers to the brim. What amazes me is the illustrative work done by some of our graphic designers who had taken time and trouble to draw these pieces of art.

The images shown are only samplings of the hundreds of local record covers that have hand-drawn portraits. Frankie Cheah, The Quests and Sugiman Jahuri are some of the musicians who have credibility in the 60s to attract record buyers with their own rendition of imported western music.

The first vinyl cover shows Johore (Malaysia) teacher Cheah's hit single Woman In My Life (image 1: S-CHK 1074), with Denver on the flip. Produced and marketed by EMI/Columbia, the music was arranged and produced by Reggie Verghese/Kassim Masdor.

The photography and illustrations were by Freddy Ang. The white bold lettering with light green background announces the stylishly drawn image of the singer and guitar who appear in black and white.

As hippie music invaded SE Asia, a new release in March 1968 by EMI had The Quests instrumentalizing 4 Asian songs (image 2: ECHK 587) with new psychedelic sounds*. The cover shows the usual flower-power design significant during that period of pop music.

Psychedelia was rearing its head, and as the EP sleeve shows, only the ladies in Singapore could have long hair, not the guys. This time 4 colours were used, a dull greyish blue and black contrasting the yellow flowers and white faces. The illustrator of this intricately designed cover was not named. Pity. The songs in the Quests EP are The Indian Maid, Return Of Spring, Sayonara and Why Go To The Temple.

In 1968 when the man from Bukom Island (Singapore) took second prize in the Radio Television Singapore Talentime, he recorded four sentimental songs. Sugiman Jahuri became an overnight sensation and a sketch of the man appears on the cover of EMI record (image 3: ECHK 593).

The detailed yet simply crafted portrait of Sugiman with his suede-coloured spring jacket, purple batik top, white pants and loose belt echo his easy going singing style and fashion of the day. Again the original illustrator is unknown but the design and photography was by Unigraphic Studios. Songs on EP: Look At You, It's Not For Me To Say, You Make My Life Worthwhile, Born Free.

So, even before the advent of Lucas Films and Walt Disney Films in Singapore today, we had our stable of talented illustrators who have done justice with their creativity.

Images from iPhone4: EMI Records (SE Asia Limited).

Original article/record collection: Andy Lim.

*Thanks to Jap Chong, well-known music personality and Quests rhythm guitarist, who personally explained to me the use of the fuzz-box on this recording.

The Singapore General Election 2011: Vote Wisely, Vote With Care On Election Day: 1955 Advice

SONGS I LOVE:

(This posting is not a propaganda to vote for any party.)

Radio broadcast coming from Malaya was nothing special and many Singaporeans listen to the news and entertainment provided. So when the Malayan elections were about to be held on July 27th in 1955, announcements were common. It wasn't the election that attracted me but the song, composed by a humorous, radio personality called Zainal Alam.

He had a successful career in broadcasting in Malaya and to improve himself took up a Government Management Program in the USA. According to a website, "his course-mate friend was John F. Kennedy" who later became the President.

Besides Malay, Zainal speaks the local languages and dialects. He peppers his songs using colloquial catch phrases that everybody understands. One of these songs I love was Vote, Vote, Vote. I searched in vain but could not find the English version of this very popular song. It was an attractive jingle and played like a commercial day and night before election time, encouraging the populace to vote wisely. Perhaps someone in Singapore could compose an election song with just as serious a message but palatable for local consumption?

Below is part of the English version which I could remember. The Malay version is on the right side-bar. And the message is clear. Whether it's the American citizen choosing Barack Obama for his second presidential term or our Singaporean selecting a candidate for Parliament, remember to: "Vote wisely, vote with care because once you vote there is no 'lagi sa-kali' (one more time)." Anyone has the full English version?

The Voting Song (English version: Zainal Alam)

Vote vote vote

Everybody vote

Remember 27th is the day (change to: the 7th of May)

Don't forget

That you must not delay

Vote wisely vote with care

Everybody vote

When you vote You must vote wisely

What people say

You 'jangan peduli' (don't bother)

Use your head

Think very carefully

Because once you vote

There is no 'lagi sa-kali' (one more time)

Image: http://shawbrother.multiply.com/journal/item/1

SINGAPORE GENERAL ELECTIONS: 2011

Kamahl: From Bricksfield, Kuala Lumpur To Sydney Opera House, London Palladium And Carnegie Hall

From Kuala Lumpur:

I thought I had lost the album (image) but after a thorough search last night I found the LP between Bing Crosby and David Seville's Chipmunks. So here he is, the man who was a regular face on Singapore television in the 70s. I remember him well but didn't realise he was a Malaysian from Bricksfield, Kuala Lumpur until I read about him some years ago in the newspapers. Last year, in my usual search for vinyls, I came across his Christmas album at a record dealer. So, for those who's never heard of Kamahl, a posting as a present, the second one this season after Turn, Turn, Turn.

To Sydney:

Kandiah Kamalesvaran of Sri Lankan heritage, was born in Malaysia in 1934 and studied at Victoria School. When Rupert Murdoch heard him sing, the tycoon spurred him to move to Sydney where he became a successful artiste. After his first public coencert in 1958 he was encouraged to sing in pubs and clubs all over Australia.

To Carnegie Hall:

His magic moment came when he became one of the first few artistes to appear at the Sydney Opera House. Since then he had sung at a Royal Command Performance in Brisbane, at Carnegie Hall and at the London Palladium. His singles and albums sold in the US, Commonwealth countries and Europe, having cut records under the Philips, Mercury, EMI and other labels.

To Albums:

Kamahl had his first album in 1967 with A Voice To Remember. The title was prophetic because fans love and remember his deep, operatic voice, booming out pop songs that others could only croon. There was Dreams Of Love (1969), a gold hit and recognizably, End Of A Rainbow (1974). The World Wildlife Fund documentary had a song on its soundtrack by Kamahl which became a hit in 1975. An Australian citizen now, he had pressed more than a dozen albums.

For Peace and Happiness:

He had a message for his listeners on his Christmas album, "The Summer of '75 has been the summer of my life - thanks to the Elephant Song. May I wish you peace and happiness. Kamahl."

Christmas Album:

(Philips 6357 035. Christmas With Kamahl. Side One: Silent Night, Both Sides Now, Mary's Boy Child, Through The Eyes Of A Child, All I Have To Offer You (Is Me), I've Gotta Be Me. Side Two: White Christmas, I Could Try, How Small We Are, How Little We Know, Vincent, Sunrise Sunset, The Holy City.)

Why Are People So Unkind?
During a stage introduction, an Australian MC carelessly called him "camel", so he changed his name from "Kamal" to "Kamahl." He had always been teased about his name and skin colour but he always had the same question for them, "Why are people so unkind?" Yes, why?

Wake Up S. E. Asian Composers:

(It's a great pity that local musicians are not composing new songs so older generation singers like Kamahl and others can record them. No market I suppose? It's so sad since the cultural scene in South East Asia and the region is so varied and colourful. Only the Indian continent and its Bollywood enterprise are able to challenge the Western music scene. Bhangra especially, with its dizzy, upbeat rhythm has been able to attract the youths in Los Angeles and the U.S. Why not Singapore's?)

Image/Original Article: Andy Lim.
Information: Wikipedia and Websites on Kamahl.

Young Musicians Play Western Oldies At Asian Resorts But They Are Not Playing South East Asian Pop 'Oldies'

Rest and Recreation:

During trips to Melaka and the Indonesian islands at the beginning of this year (2010), my family and I were entertained by young musicians who were able to sing and play songs from the past. These singers were either Philippinos or Indonesians.

Shadows to Dire Straits:

The top image shows a trio from the Philippines that were playing at a nightspot in a hotel at Mahkota Parade in Malacca. They had a repertoire of guitar instrumentals that ranged from The Shadows to Dire Straits. With fingers flicking on the accompanying synthesizer, one lone guitar plays the tune. Versatility is the name of the game as requests from the crowd came fast and furious.

Seniors and Connie Francis:

Surprisingly the two pretty ladies and young man were able to please the crowd of junior and senior merry-makers with whatever songs they wanted. Favourites for the night included selections from Cliff Richard, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Diana Ross and Connie Francis. After a little chat with the young man, he remembered he worked in Singapore in the 90s. He told me his 'boss' was Audie Ng (bass guitarist of the Silver Strings).

Bintan Island:

The second image shows a quartet from a holiday resort at Bintan Island. This group was playing in the large and airy restaurant that had its dinner tables extended to the pool outside. There were no requests as the young musicians, comprising of Indonesians, belted out songs accompanied by the keyboardist during our big 'makan' under the starry skies.

Calypso and Mambos:

Their repertoire was different as they played rhumbas, cha-cha-chas, calypsos, sambas and mambos. To cool the warm, tropical night the singers ended the evening with a selection of soothing songs.

Comment on Pop 60s Music In South East Asia:

1. While the trio in Melaka pranced and danced on the tiny stage provided, the foursome at Bintan were cool and relaxed in their seats. Different styles naturally. But both groups were effectively entertaining.

2. Sixties music lives on, even on the little islands and provinces in South East Asia. It would also be a good idea if some of these local artistes learn 60s music from their own countries, ie: the Malaysians learning 60s Malaysian pop music, the Indonesians playing 60s Indonesian pop music and so on. The Philippines has a wide repertoire of local pop music from the 60s. Why aren't they doing so?

3. Bands in the South East Asian region must play their own pop music 'oldies' from the 50s and 60s otherwise these local classics will just fade away. There are many more songs beyond Bengawan Solo, Rose Rose I Love You and Singapore Cowboy.

But a personal comment here; these highly skilled music people are lowly paid. What a pity because they deserve much more...

Image/Original article: Andy Lim Collection.

BRUNEI FM News: Our 60s Music Neighbours

Brunei:

The popularity of musical group D Idaman reached its peak back in the 1960s. D Idaman comprises lead guitarist Ahmad Laini Abdul Wahab, rhythm guitarist Haji Masli, bass guitarist Haji Mashud, drummer Malik and lead singer Haji Matussin.

This musical band was formed in 1965 and became very popular along the likes of other existing bands such as Saroja, The Hunters, Irama Perindu, Rayuan Irama, Lima Sekawan, Melati Puteh and more.‘

D Idaman was always in the hearts of their fans, especially teenagers. This musical group had won numerous awards through several talent competitions organised by the Malay Broadcasting Section of Radio Brunei.

The group also performed at wedding ceremonies in the Brunei-Muara, Tutong and Belait Districts. Their music recordings were played on local radio stations as well as in Limbang in 1969. Moreover, their stage performance during the royal birthday celebrations was eagerly anticipated by die-hard fans as seen in huge crowds gathering prior to their show.

Singapore, Malaysia:

Looking back at popular live musical groups in the 60s, the most renowned ones from Malaysia and Singapore included The Siglap Five, Reydham Boys, Sand Blues, Orkes Nirwarna, Seri Wana Combo, The Shawollas, D Faction, Kafillah and Sangam Boys.

Popular male singers from neighbouring countries included Ahmad Jais, Salim I, Jeffry Din, M Osman, A Ramlee, A Romji, A Rahman Onn, Halim Yatim, Husin Marican and A Karim.

As for the female singers, names like Raefah Buang, Hasnah Harun, Rogiah Latif, Azizah Mohamad, S Roha, Senisah Huri, Fatimah M Amin, L Hasnah, Siti Zaiton, Kamariah Ahmad, J Kamisah, Zaleha Hamid, Rahimah Rahim and Orkid Abdullah were on the lips of every musical enthusiasts back in the late 60s.

(Anyone familiar with Brunei Pop 60s bands and singers?)

Images/Article by: HJ MOHD ABDUL RAHMAN Dec 26th, 2009. and extracted from News Brunei fm.

http://news.brunei.fm/2009/12/26/local-live-bands-of-the-swinging-60s/

Valiants - Melaka, Malaysia, Bristol, England

(A) SOME SLEEVES SPEAK (Sleeve liners):

"Most pop fans here have been demanding a new sound in music for ages. Now Philips have found this sound and introduce to you - the Valiants (image). Malacca-based Valiants have been together for three years.

Last year they were joined by John K. Couzens - a modern musician from Bristol, England. With John's guidance they have sprung from being a popular instrumental group to the top close-harmony group in Malaysia.

For the past six months they have become the most popular vocal group in Malacca. Their act on stage has the two main essentials - versatility and variety. Just listen to these four numbers penned by lead singer John and you will agree that this new sound is here to stay."

(B) Andy's Comment:

The above sleeve-liner was written by one M. Hanny and some scribblings on it noted that the vinyl was catalogued by a radio station on 24th January, 1968. Using this date as a guideline, Couzens could have joined them in 1967 and the band could have been together since 1964 or '65.

They must have reached some peak in popularity in Malacca, Malaysia or else Philips would not have invited them to record.

Vinyl info: The songs include: Big Wheel, My Elaine, Running Wild, Daddy's Home. All songs are by Couzens. Vinyl #437833 PE. It is a mono recording.

The group members: John K. Couzens (lead singer), William Rodrigues (rhythm), Roger Foo (bass), Gerald Dionysius (lead), Nik Pinto (drums) and Peter John Cutting (manager).

(C) *Peach Fuzz Forest Blog Posting:

"John was in the army and posted to Asia, where he hooked up with the band. The Valiants were an instrumental band until he arrived and added vocals, morphing them from **Indo-Rock to British beat. He wrote all the materials on this EP, although the band still sneaked in some twangs from their instrumental days.

John's wife was called Elaine (one song title) and came from Australia. He moved to Perth in the late 60s and formed Stonewall Jackson's Virginia Volunteers."

(D) Blog Comments:

1. Absolutely rare indeed, I wonder 'bout the other 2 tracks of the EP...

2. The other two tracks aren't as interesting, unfortunately! Pretty ordinary harmony pop.

3. Rare and great stuff, especially Running Wild; should've been an instant garage comp classic!

4. Very nice tunes!!! Rare and unique!!!

5. John Couzens looks like the singer in our rock band here in Perth around 1968/69. Does anyone know where John is at present?

Anyone know this band? Are they still around?

Edited article/Image: Andy Lim Collection.

*Information (b & c): http://peachfuzzforest.blogspot.com/

**Could be Pop-Yeh-Yeh since they were from Malaysia.

Malaysia's Melaka: Malam Melody Makers (Pt I)

(LISTENING TO LAGU2 IN BIBIK COUNTY):

Sultanate Palace, St Paul's Church, Stadthuys, Bukit China, A'Famosa, Baba Nyonya Museum, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock and Tranquerah Street will tell you that you are in Historic Melaka. But is Melaka only full of historical sites and sounds with nothing else?

The image reveals the other side of Melaka because, while walking through Jonker Street and its surrounding, I ended up in a nightspot and found myself listening to both Malaysian and western pop music.

Young and handsome Aloysius Kessler (*image) strums his guitar five nights a week and provides "Live Sentimental Oldies" on a first floor bar at Lorong Hang Jebat a.k.a. Jonker Street. Outside, just across the road flows the quiet Sungai (River) Melaka.

In the day, Jonker Street sells antiques and other paraphenalia you may not find in the other shops in Malacca. But at night the street is transformed into an attractive playground for music lovers. Name any song and the melody makers there will play it for you.

On Friday and Saturday, Jonker Walk Pasar Malam (Night Market) in Malacca's Chinatown closes down Jalan Hang Lekir to traffic and the colourful bars along the boulevard are filled with tables on the sidewalks and lively tunes in the air.

Songs from the 60s is the craze in Malacca too and these entertainers have a wide repertoire of melodies. If shopping is your preference, you can "bask in the moonlight, visiting stalls upon stalls of traders" peddling all sorts of goods and food in Malacca. Otherwise, just buy a drink and enjoy Malacca's troubadours at their best. And don't forget the nyonya pineapple tarts! Dondang Sayang lagu Melayu...

I honestly spotted a bibik in baju panjang and chewing sireh. Amboi!

(This article is blogger's experience in Jonker Street. It is not an advertisement.)

Original article: Andy Lim

Image: email: taragon@streamyx.com

*Taragon Bar flyer, Melaka, Malaysia.

Asian 60s Music Hits Appeal To Western Ears

CDs like the above (image) are re-issues of 60s music recorded previously by our local Singaporean, Malaysian singers and bands who have put in much time and effort to press them on vinyls. Now these compilation CDs are for sale on the internet. Without copyright and free legal advice to help our musicians nothing can really be done to channel the earnings to them. But production of these yesteryear hit collections has been in practise for many years. So who cares anyway.

The writer below explained that the selection was his "favourite find" and he wasn't concerned which of them were hits but rather, which ones appealed to "this pair of western ears." Even the susu chap junjong jingle (Milkmaid Milk advertisment) attracted the writer's western ears. It is given away as a 'bonus' track. Interesting indeed. Perhaps the compilation is done and sold just to cover cost?
(Original article above: Andy Lim.)

Read the story below about this enterprising person who came to Singapore 11 years ago to buy up the vinyls:

“Funny thing happened to me back in 2001, during my first trip to Singapore. I was in a clothing store in Causeway Point, and an old ‘60s tune was blasting out of the stereo speakers. It sounded like your typical ‘60s pop hit, but the lyrics were sung in Malay! I was entranced, and wouldn’t be satisfied to just hear it just once. I spent the rest of my trip combing the local antique stores and flea markets, grabbing all the vinyl I could find.

My first purchase was The Mysterians’ Forget the Time b/w My Girl Les, found at an antique store on Orchard Road. The cover, featuring the band wearing black masks and standing in green background, is such a classic that I spent a few weeks admiring it before finally purchasing a turntable so I could hear it. But when I finally did, lo and behold, an obsession was born.

Nine years and five overseas trips later, my collection now boasts more than 600 rare titles from the region, which also includes Malaysia and Indonesia. In this first volume, I present a handful of my favorite finds. Some of these bands experienced regional success at best, while others disappeared after one or two recordings. Very few left behind any written history.

I didn’t concern myself with which songs were hits, but rather which ones happened to appeal to this pair of western ears. I have included a variety of tunes, from rockers to ballads, covers and originals, all sung in a variety of native languages. A few instrumentals have been thrown in for good measure. Now on to the music, Let's A Go, Go, on Silver Tortoise. CD."

Tracklist:

#1 Flamingo By The Bees, #2 One To Nine Walkin By Patrina, #3 The Second Spring By Hai Fei, #4 Just Because By The Dee-Tees, #5 You've Got To Move On By Leroy Lindsay with The Mysterians.

#6 Mean Woman Blues By Rocky Teoh, #7 The Girl From Alishan By The Blue Beats, #8 Let's A' Go-Go By Charlie and His Go-Go Boys, #9 Oh! Salina By M.Ishak Dengan Five-55, #10 Things We Said Today By S.K. Pauline.

#11 Bang Bang By Betty Chung, #12 Wooly Bully By Charlie and His Go-Go Boys, #13 Then I Kiss Her By Lotus Liew, #14 Mun Li By Orkes Tropicano, #15 Let's Dance By Lotus Liew.

#16 These Boots Are Made For Walkin By Charlie and His Go-Go Boys, #17 Swim Swim Swim (She and I) By The Spacemen, #18 Merindu Kasih By The Click IV Dan Jaffar-O, #19 My Girl Les By The Mysterians, #20 Dream Wonder By The Tones, #21 Beli-lah Susu Chap Junjong (Bonus track) By Malay-Tamil-Malay.

Just wondering. Collecting the vinyls can be an eye-opener because of the art work on the sleeve covers but listening to some of the songs? That is a problem. Not to sure about Betty Chung's, Bang, Bang (side-bar).

Article above flagged by: Mark Wong.

1) Another similar article posted on Sunday, March 14, 2010:

Girls In The Garage? How Others View Our 60s Asian Lady Singers. Stereo-Typed Again?

2) Information: http://www.midheaven.com/item/lets-a-gogo-singapore-and-southeast-asian-pop-scene-196469-by-va-cd

3) (B) Mysterians Singapore 60s - Truth Revealed

Been A Long Time Since Elvis Came To Malaysia

FROM HT LONG's SITE:

(1) "I fell ill and lost my voice last night, but I don't want to disappoint you, because you have travelled from as far as Puchong and Cheras in Malaysia to my concert," apologized Long profusely to a crowd of about 120 people at Soon Heong Teow Chew Seafood Restaurant.

As he stood up on a stool, he started singing away and just as the audience was warming up, his singing came to an abrupt stop. His his lips were still moving but without a sound. The audience applauded as he apologised: "Well, ladies and gentlemen, see I told you I have lost my voice, but what you just heard is my own recording. You can buy my CDs and take me home tonight!" His sense of humour sent the audience in stiches. And what a plug!

(2) Although he has 14 albums to his credit singing Presley hits, Long said he was inspired to compose one of his favourite gospel songs, He Is My Everything to the tune of Elvis' rock n roll style. Thousands of people have since heard his composition. In Hong Kong, people pay $1,800 just to watch him perform. "But, here in Aman Puri (Malaysia), you only pay RM20 (Malaysian Dollars) for good food and good performance, " he enthused.

(3) Wilfred Pilo, (Eastern Times - October 7, 2007), from Kuching, Sarawak reported that if the King were alive today, he would probably give HT Long a pat on the back and say, "Well done buddy!" in his strong Memphis accent. Long and many other Elvis impersonators had never crossed his mind as he was neither an Elvis fan nor appreciated impersonators because he grew in a different era. However, after listening to Long's performance, he was, "completely blown away." He said although Long did not resemble the King physically he was impressed with his voice.

(4) Long staged a three-hour "Elvis Forever in Asia" concert and attracted 1,500 people. The event, sponsored by Japan's 5,000-member Elvis Presley Fan Club, was the first of its kind. "No one can replicate him. I just try to do justice to his songs," said HT Long who wore gold-rimmed sunglasses during a rendition of All Shook Up that was punctuated with pelvic thrusts.

(5) Remembering his youth, Long reminisces, "My mom bought me Elvis' records when I was younger. It costs her RM2.50 for a single and RM4.00 for an EP. When I was about 12 years old, I persuaded my mom to buy me a portable record play so I could bring it out every day." But today his own albums have been getting reviews worldwide.

(6) "I did one show in Perth. I looked like a typical Chinese fellow on the posters and the Australians thought it was just another William Hung. When they heard me sing Love Me Tender, they were shocked. Some of the ladies even broke down and cried." (Edited for space constraints by Andy Lim)

Information/Image: http://htlongelvis.weebly.com/index.html

H.T. Long: Elvis Tribute Artiste From Malaysia

Paul Dowling from Worldwide Elvis USA calls him, "The man with the golden voice of Elvis". One Walter Pacheco, president of the official Elvis Fan Club in Canada said that HT Long's singing voice is so versatile that he can handle the songs from all three Presley era (50s - 70s) and does an excellent job that not many are able to.

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Ray Cordeiro MBE, well-known radio DJ in Hong Kong told his audience on air that HT Long's singing voice is unbelievably similar and definitely the best he has heard. Besides Hong Kong, Long has sung all over in home town Malaysia including Sabah and Sarawak. He is also internationally known and jets to Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Australia and even the UK and US to bring Presley "live".

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It has been ages since the discipline master at Klang High School reprimanded Long for keeping curry-puff hair and Presley side-burns. Now the Klang Elvis has made many Malaysians proud and because of his association with the King, dating back to the early 60s, he has even met Presley's legendary manager, Colonel Tom Parker, being a special guest to Memphis in 1984.

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Long was also the founding president of the Elvis Fan Club of Malaysia (1968), the first to be registered and recognised by Graceland Elvis Presley Enterprise at Memphis, USA.

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And how did it all start for HT Long? At 9 years he heard Elvis Presley sing in the movie, GI Blues at the Cathay Cinema in Klang, Johore (Malaysia). The King left a deep impression with Long. The rest is history.

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Listen to him at the side-bar. Does he sing like the King?

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Above image: HT Long with Gurmit Singh in Singapore, 2008.

Information/Image: http://htlongelvis.weebly.com/index.html

Falcons: Road Shows And Recordings (Part VI)

Article is written in good faith and part of Joseph Chin's articles on The Fabulous Falcons:

"In 1965, we toured with Rocky Teoh, the Elvis Presley of Malaysia in our road shows within Malaysia and for one road show in Singapore. In this one show in Singapore we performed alongside some of the leading bands from Singapore like The Quests . It was during this show that an untoward incident happened and the Singapore audience, being territorial, booed us throughout our whole performance. This didn’t go down well with our own Malaysian fans. Later the action of the Singaporean audience will backfire.

Later, The Quests from Singapore had a show with some other Singaporean artistes in St John’s Hall in Ipoh. Of course the Malaysian fans had not forgotten the ugly incident when Rocky Teoh and The Fabulous Falcons performed in Singapore a few months back. Halfway through the performance of The Quests, the crowd got really rowdy and uncontrollable and starting booing and taunting the band.

As a consequence, the show had to be called off and they had to be escorted back to their hotels. This was an incident I would rather forget, but somehow the story of this one incident, will be the one thing everyone wants to hear when I mention about the band much later on in my life.

Somewhere in mid-1965, we did a recording in Kinetex Studio in Singapore. It was my first recording with the band although for the rest of them, it was their second recording (the first one being Midnight Express). We spent several days in Singapore where we befriended Vernon Cornelius of The Checkmates, a Singapore band. We recorded 4 songs on two singles. Mayflower and Hotspot on one record and Lonely Star and Misty Breeze (image) on the other.

We were disappointed that we were not allowed to use our own amplifiers as it was a requirement of the studio that we use theirs. As a result we actually didn’t get the sound we wanted. That was a big let down for us. This was something that we were sore about but had to contend with.

Though we were disappointed that offers from renowned recording labels never came our way, and record sales for our singles were not up to expectations, we were still proud of the fact that we were recording artistes, at a tender age of seventeen. On hindsight now, I guess it was down to poor or non-existent advertising on the part of our band as we were inexperienced and lacked managerial expertise. (Joseph Chin)"

Click: Fabulous Falcons to read the series on this blog. For his full memoirs read Joseph Chin's Travelling Foodie and The Falcons blog:

http://thefabulousfalcons.blogspot.com/

Frankie Cheah - To Sir, With Perfect Diction

SONGS I LOVE:

When I heard Frankie Cheah, a Malaysian Chinese, singing *Woman In My Life for the first time, I didn't believe he is Asian. He has perfect diction that is practically non-existent amongst singers in this region, with a strong and clean voice to match, one that suits the ballads he sings. His interpretation of this lovely song has an appeal that is still fresh today. It will definitely be a big hit if released again and is one of very few songs by a local singer that I appreciate.

Frankie Cheah was a mathematics teacher from across the causeway at Segamat, Johore Bahru, Malaysia and recorded with giant EMI. His other big hit, Cheryl Moana Marie, also won accolades and Cheah is as much a household name in Singapore as he is in Malaysia and the region. During pop concerts in Singapore, Cheah's performance usually draws a full house at the National Theatre (Tank Road), the Early Bird and Musical Express gigs at cinema halls in Singapore.

In the early 70s, besides recording in EP and LP format in English (produced by Reggie Verghese of The Quests), he has also recorded some Malay songs. His English selection includes popular ballads like, Chotto Matte Kudasai, It's Impossible, You've Got A Friend, Lovers, Help Me Make It Through The Night and Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.

The above image shows a bootleg EP which has My Name Is The Wind, Love Story, Song Of A Sad Man and Why. Because his records sold well, as they were all number one in the Malaysian Top 20 in the early 70s, the pirates took advantage as usual.
Even with his Malay album Cheah sings with feeling and conviction keeping to the difficult rhythm of the Malay 'asli' beat. The selection includes one very popular EP with Amalan Suci (ReggieVerghese/Ismail Haron). The other three songs are Putera Putri (Jimmy Boyle/Dol Baharin), Putus Sudah Kasih Sayang (P. Ramlee) and Syurga Pura Pura (Ismail Haron).
**Cheah has since retired but his achievement in the pop music field did not go unnoticed as he was recognised by the Malaysian music industry and awarded the Anugerah Sri Wiramar (2004). He was at EMI (UK) in 1977, headhunted by Warner Music, Malaysia and managed it a year later. When he left, he started Pacific Music which was bought by BMG Malaysia/Singapore where he rose to Chairperson.

*Has been recorded by Bobby Vee, Engelbert Humperdinck, Dutch group called, Left Side.**Information: YouTube/keithyoong.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=METjtMKnUUM

Image/Article: Andy Lim Collection.

(9) From Dr. Lee, Penang With Russ Hamilton - The Malaysian, UK, Sing60s Music Connection

A note about Russ Hamilton from Dr. Lee Yan San, Medical Practitioner, Penang, Malaysia.

Dr. Lee said...
"Thanks for your nice tribute to Russ Hamilton. Russ is an exceptionally great and friendly gentleman. I am so glad to have met him (image: Russ Hamilton, sister, Dr Lee, family) and done a long interview with him for our Malaysian radio station few years back. We became close friends.

I was so sad when his twin sister contacted me to let me know that Russ had passed away. He once told me that We Will Make Love was his most successful song and of the songs he wrote, he loved Little One most... a lullaby he wrote for his niece in Canada. He said he wrote and sang Reprieve of Tom Dooley after meeting his friend Lonni Donegan at the studio when he was recording the hit Tom Dooley.

He had also given me his unreleased songs which are now a real treasure to me. I have collected all his released songs and made into a CD to keep. I contributed to his biography at Wikipedia some time ago."

March 3, 2010 4:14 PM

Thank you, Dr. Lee for writing. I must say that Russ Hamilton and his songs will always be with us as we remember 60s music. He's one of the greatest singers really. It would be wonderful to have a copy of his CD with the unreleased songs as a souvenir.

Regards,

Andy Lim

(You can access Dr. Lee's blog by clicking on his name above.)

Elvis Presley, Cliff Richard, Ricky Nelson, Matt Monroe Of Ipoh, Malaya (Part V)

During this time in the 60s in small town Ipoh, Malaya, there was also an explosion of singers who really made names for themselves by impersonating and singing songs by Cliff Richard, Elvis Presley, Matt Monroe and Ricky Nelson.

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In my hometown our well-known *impersonators include: Ho Kok Onn - Cliff Richard, Les Lee - Elvis Presley, Johhny Lee - Matt Monroe, and Richard Ng - Ricky Nelson.

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Our band The Teenage Fentons, was always the back-up band for all of them when they performed at the movie theatres like the Lido and Rex Theatre.

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*There are impersonators of western pop singers from all over Malaya in the 60s.

Image/original article: Joseph Chin Collection, Ipoh, Malaysia.

Teenage Fentons - A Falcons Offshoot (Part IV)

The Falcons were happily playing for gigs around Ipoh and were proud and thankful they were the only band with a manager and had instruments provided for. Everything was hunky-dory until the day Robert called the group for a meeting. Things were to change drastically as he told us that his father wanted him to stop as our manager to concentrate on his family business. It came as a shock to us.

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Together we formed another band called the Teenage Fentons (image). A friend agreed to manage the band and would provide the necessary instruments for us. We started practicing as a new band playing songs mainly by the Shadows as we just had a new Fender Stratocaster. It wasn’t long before we were offered gigs to perform at dances and as guest artistes at talentimes.

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In the 60s, it was common that a band performed live before the start of a screen musical and we were offered to play at the Shaw Brothers chain of cinemas. The Shaw Brothers are two movie magnates with cinema halls in Malaya, Singapore and parts of South East Asia. We had our fair share of fun and fame although we were only paid $40 for a night’s gig. After a few changes with our band members we decided to call ourselves The Drifters.

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Image/original article (edited): Joseph Chin Collection, Ipoh, Malaysia.

The Fabulous Falcons Fly At The Federal Hotel Cameron Highlands, Malaya 60s (Part III)

PART III: THE FABULOUS FALCONS, IPOH, MALAYA (60s).

Michael Ho, a school mate and I decided to form a band. We knew a guy called Christopher Choong. He played the drums really well and together with Thomas Ham, we formed a band. Forming the group was easy but we didn’t have funds to purchase expensive instruments.

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We cracked our heads wondering what we should do and our prayers were answered in our schoolmate Robert Ng whose father was a tin miner. As he came from a wealthy family he agreed to be our manager and would purchase all the necessary instruments. Cool!

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In those days, it was really something to have a manager in the band but we didn’t see the necessity to give it a name. We would gather at Robert’s house, a bungalow in Greentown, for practices everyday.

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We worked really hard and played even harder then. The hard work paid off when we got an offer to play in Federal Hotel in Cameron Highlands. We were really excited at finally getting a chance to perform especially on Christmas Eve. But what do we call the band? We can’t just go on and perform without a name.

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So we all sat down and picked our brains as to what name to give. We noticed that Robert’s dad had some stuffed and beautiful eagle-like birds, so as we took one. Robert mentioned that it was a falcon. We unanimously agreed that very minute our group would be named after the powerful, beautiful bird and thus The Falcons as a band was born.

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It was a great experience for us that night in Cameron Highlands playing till way past midnight and seeing people enjoying our music. After our first gig at The Federal Hotel in Cameron Highlands, our spirits were lifted and our confidence as a band grew. We were to play for many more gigs all over Ipoh and we continued to practice to increase our repertoire.

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Image/Original article (edited): Joseph Chin.

(1) Malaysian Connection - Joseph Chin (Lead) - The Fabulous Falcons (Part II)

It was around 1961 after giving up hockey that I found a new interest - music. It all began with the school talentime. In my school at St. Michael's Institution, Ipoh, the talentime was held every year featuring the Hawaiian Rhythmaires as the backing band for every hopeful contestant.

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The band consisted of my school teachers. I was particularly impressed with one teacher whose bass guitar resembled the one used by Paul McCartney of The Beatles.

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After watching them, I was really eager to learn the guitar. My brother was just an occasional player and played the guitar just to amuse himself but at least he knew a few chords. So that was how I started. I was also fascinated with talentimes too as they were really popular then. I recall several popular contestants at each talentime contests in at the YMCA, Ipoh. Deep inside I was wishing that some day, I would also make it up there on the stage doing my thing.

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In my parent’s house there was a Grundig gramophone and I used to play the black vinyl records over and over again so I could pick up the songs and commit it to memory. With guitar in hand, and an ear as near as possible to the gramophone speaker, I slowly and painfully picked up the notes of the songs. I was 14 years young then.

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Image: Joseph Chin today from 'Facebook'.

Edited Article: Joseph Chin Collection, Ipoh, Malaysia.

Blog: http://thefabulousfalcons.blogspot.com/