Sabahan releases heritage-inspired Dusun album
KOTA KINABALU (May 13): Sabahan singer songwriter, Velvet Aduk, has released her long-anticipated Dusun language album, titled 'Ogingol', on 10 May 2025, now available on all major streaming platforms.
Featuring nine original tracks, 'Ogingol' is a powerful and personal celebration of her heritage, deeply rooted in the diverse Dusun and Kadazan dialects of Sabah.
Written and composed mostly by Velvet herself, the album is co-produced and co-arranged by longtime collaborator Brandon Laurie, with Andy O'Mail as the lead guitarist. The track 'Kaandaman,' written by Brandon in Kadazan, marks his debut as a songwriter as well.
'This album is my way of promoting and preserving my culture, just as we do every year during Kaamatan,' says Velvet. 'It's not just music, it's my way of learning, remembering, and giving back.'
Velvet draws inspiration from her hometown of Kampung Inobong, Penampang, where she was raised speaking and listening to the language of her ancestors. Her lyrics reflect the rich linguistic variations of
Dusun and Kadazan spoken across Sabah, making the album a heartfelt testament to the region's cultural identity.
But this is no traditional folk album, Velvet blends contemporary styles and fresh arrangements to present Dusun music in a new light. From modern elegance to radio-friendly familiarity, each track showcases her unique musical identity.
'I want Dusun songs to sound elegant and classy,' Velvet shares. 'There's a mix of my personal style with what's easy for listeners to enjoy. This is not your typical Dusun sound.'
The album also features a duet with fellow Sabahan artiste and Anugerah Industri Muzik (AIM) 23's Best Male Vocal award winner, Arddley Nicholas, on the track 'Nouyan.'
With this release, Velvet hopes to spark renewed interest in indigenous languages and inspire more people to embrace their cultural roots. The full album is now streaming on all digital music platforms worldwide.
Listen now on iTunes or stream directly on Spotify and YouTube Music!'
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