Latest news with #Exists'
New Straits Times
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Ajai: Exists' Mamat is making good progress
SEPANG: Pop rock group Exists' original lead singer Mohd Ali Kamarudin, better known as Mamat, is "a lot better now" after undergoing drug rehabilitation at Persatuan Pengasih Malaysia's (Pengasih) Cinta Manis complex in Bentong, Pahang. The group's founding member, acclaimed composer Ajai, told Berita Harian yesterday that Mamat was getting on very well with his fellow residents at the centre, who reportedly look up to him as an icon. "We've been informed by the centre that Mamat is doing great. He has shown real initiative in wanting to improve himself. "Let's all pray that he'll be fully rehabilitated," said Ajai at a press conference to announce his group's new concert, Exists Premium Live @ PJ, at IOI City Mall here. Another Exists member, Musa, added that they had kept in constant contact with Mamat, who appeared to be in good spirits. "He's been in Pengasih for a year now, and he's upbeat about the changes in his life." Ajai also mentioned that while Mamat wouldn't be able to make their upcoming concert, he was likely to be back for their major reunion concert next year. Exists Premium Live @ PJ will be held at JioSpace in Petaling Jaya on Oct 4, where guests can expect to enjoy almost all of the group's most popular hits.
The Star
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Malaysian 90s top band Exists breathe new life into their hit song "Alasan Mu"; group also all set for their concert in October
AFTER more than three decades in the Malaysian music industry, legendary rock band Exists returns with a soul-stirring remake of one of their most emotionally charged songs, 'Alasanmu.' Released under Sony Music Malaysia, this new version is more than just a musical refresh — it is a heartfelt retelling of a story rooted in truth, pain, and perseverance. A Band That Grew, Fell and Rose Again Formed in 1991, Exists comprises original members Along (lead guitar), Shah (second guitar), Musrad (bass), Ujang (drums), Ajai (keyboardist), Mamat (vocalist), and current frontman Ezad Lazim, who joined the band during their mature years. Throughout their career, Exists has produced over seven studio albums, leaving a strong mark with hits from albums like "Anugerah, Jesnita, Julia, Rahsia Pohon Cemara, and Untukmu Ibu". According to Ezad, he found a new musical purpose in Exists. 'I didn't come in to replace anyone. I came because of my love for music and the connection we share as a band. Alasanmu reflects real emotions we've experienced — betrayal, disappointment, and the strength to move forward,' shares Ezad. Exists' Achievement – Surpasses 2.2 Billion Digital Streams! The band has achieved an extraordinary milestone, with their music catalog amassing over 2.2 billion combined digital streams across all platforms to date. This achievement encompasses Exists' entire collection of audio and video releases, previously published under the Sony BMG label and now managed by Sony Music Malaysia. Timeless hits such as Alasanmu, Mengintai Dari Tirai Kamar, Masih Terserlah Ayumu, and many more continue to resonate with fans across generations, consistently maintaining high streaming numbers on digital platforms. The Real Meaning Behind 'Alasanmu' Originally released over three decades ago as one of the tracks in "Diammu Gunung Berapi" album, the 2025 version of "Alasanmu" features new musical arrangements and more powerful vocals. But more importantly, it now tells a real story — a chapter in the band's life that was never publicly spoken about until now. 'Back then, people listened to it as a love song. However, the truth is that Alasanmu was written from a place of betrayal — not romantic, but professional. It came from a personal event that shook us as musicians,' says Along. 'We've been through some dark moments. At one point, we thought we might never return to the stage. But this song gave us a way to heal. It's not about revenge – it's about closure,' adds Ujang. Reimagined With Purpose The production of the new version took several months, with significant changes in song structure, instrumentation, and vocal delivery to reflect the emotional weight of the story. The cinematic rock arrangement underscores the raw vulnerability in the lyrics, voiced powerfully by Ezad. 'This isn't just being nostalgic. We've never had the chance to fully tell our side of the story. This new version is our truth — finally put into words and sound,' says Along. The band's honesty resonates not just with longtime fans, but also with anyone who has faced betrayal in their personal or professional life. It is no surprise that "Alasanmu" was once used 'informally' by a prominent political figure during the GE14 in 2018, due to its 'hidden meaning' about betrayal and false promises. 'People interpret songs in their own way — and that's the beauty of music. But for us, this song comes from a place of truth, and that's what matters most,' reflects Ezad. Exists & Slam Concert: A Historic Concert Collaboration In celebration of their journey and enduring brotherhood, Exists is gearing up for a joint concert with fellow legendary band Slam later this year – 'Konsert Slam X Exists Our Journey' in Kuala Lumpur, and 'Konsert Exists X Slam Live In Singapore'. Both concerts will be a monumental collaboration, bringing together generations of fans and two giants of Malaysian rock on one stage. 'We may not be in our 20s anymore, but our passion is stronger than ever. This concert is our way of saying thank you to the fans who stood by us all these years,' says Mustard. On top of that, the band is also taking a step further with their showcase "EXISTS PREMIUM LIVE @ PJ" at JioSpace, Petaling Jaya on Oct 4. Now Available On All Digital Platforms The single 'Alasanmu' is now available on all major digital streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and many more. The showcase "EXISTS PREMIUM LIVE @ PJ" on Oct 4 at JioSpace, Petaling Jaya "EXISTS PREMIUM LIVE @ PJ" which is scheduled to take place at JioSpace, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, on Oct 4, will provide a premium experience for the fans, a promise which has been taken by the band and organisers. According to Sean Ng from JioBuddy, as the organisers, they are aware that Exists can be seen 'everywhere' because the demand for the group founded in Johor Bahru is quite high. However, as the organizers, they see Exists as a group that has its own strength to attract fans to fill the JioSpace space come October 4. Specially for their ardent fans "We cannot deny that Exists has played in many performances and concerts and has been watched by many fans in recent years. Their concerts are 'back to back'. But this time, I can guarantee that "EXISTS PREMIUM LIVE @ PJ" will be as premium or luxurious as the title chosen. Premium in terms of music playing, premium in terms of audio and premium for the fans who attend because this concert is more intimate," said Sean Ng from JioBuddy. Group members of Exists said the showcase will be different for all their fans "This is a promise and a surety for our fans and our followers alone. It is called premium because it will be special. None of our fans will be disappointed. The other concerts we are in now are collaborations. This is one is for us and the fans alone," said Along. Tickets for the show are priced at: Premium (RM588), VIP (RM488) and Diamond (RM368). Tickets can be purchased via or hotline +6011 1660 1122 (specifically for fans with disabilities - OKU)
New Straits Times
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Ajai urges constructive discussion to resolve Man Senoi, 4U2C concert dispute
KUALA LUMPUR: A dispute between composer Man Senoi and his wife, Mama Rap, and the organisers of the WE 4U2C Live In Concert can be resolved through amicable discussions. Popular composer and member of rock band Exists, Ajai, believes that all parties should engage in friendly dialogue to achieve a positive outcome. "This can lead to a 'win-win' situation, and they need to meet each other halfway. Our music industry is small. If we're too rigid, nothing will progress," he said. "Perhaps they have internal issues that we're unaware of, but this matter can definitely be settled. Let's discuss it," Ajai added, speaking at the Exists Premium Live @ PJ press conference held at IOI City shopping mall yesterday. The event announced Exists' upcoming concert, scheduled for Oct 4 at JioSpace, Petaling Jaya. Ajai stressed the importance of artistes being aware of copyright issues and resolving any problems constructively. "The licensing body, Music Authors' Copyright Protection Berhad (MACP), is for writers. What Man Senoi and Mama Rap have raised relates to 'sound audio' or recorded material," he explained. "When it comes to recorded material, it belongs to the 'investor'. Remember what happened to Dayang Nurfaizah, where the song I composed, 'Seandainya Masih Ada Cinta', couldn't be sung for almost four years." "However, once the court proceedings were finalised, Dayang was able to sing the song again," he recounted, advising all music enthusiasts to familiarise themselves with international copyright practices. Meanwhile, Exists guitarist Along said that 4U2C members are within their rights to discuss royalties with Man Senoi. "For me, there's nothing wrong with 4U2C performing a concert, because Man Senoi will still receive royalties," Along commented. "In our view, there's no issue with 4U2C staging concerts for the benefit of the local music industry's development." Recently, Man Senoi and Mama Rap reportedly claimed they were not informed about the WE 4U2C Live In Concert, despite fully owning the copyrights to songs by the popular 1990s hip-hop group. Man Senoi was quoted questioning how 4U2C could stage a concert when the 25 recorded songs are the property of their company, Zman Production. The WE 4U2C Live In Concert, organised by Juss Event, will feature seven members of 4U2C: Datuk AC Mizal, Aren, Yanz, Rinz, Lanz, Charlie, and Azam. It is set to take place on Sept 15 at the Idea Live Arena in Petaling Jaya.
The Star
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Veteran Malaysian comedian Joey Daud is back at his zany best but this time it's in a single, his first song after more than two decades
Veteran comedian Joey Daud is back at his best and this time he is turning it on with his new single 'WamWamSam' which was officially launched in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday (May 20). And it is indeed a special collaboration as the song is done under the tutelage of his mentor, Malaysian music legend Datuk M Nasir , and on top of that, it is an experimental collaboration of a song that has a mix of comedy, pop rock and rap. But the song, which has been produced by Nasir's record label Luncai Emas Sdn Bhd, is also a very meaningful one as is tells the youth the importance of education and why knowledge can make a person to be more confident in his/hers path of life. At the launching event, Joey also announced that the 'WamWamSam' song will be the OST (original sound track) for his new movie 'Daud M'. Nasir said he is not surprised that Joey is so adept in his acting and also brilliant as a singer even though it has been more than two decades since he made his last single. "No surprises, really," said the music legend Nasir during the press meet after the launching event. It is also noted that Nasir was also the person who brought Joey into the industry after seeing him perform at a singing competition in 1994. For a time, Joey even became top group Exists' vocalist after Ezad Lazim left the group. "It is more of a coming home event for Joey. He is back where he started. You know his first ever single was with our group. But the path for artiste is always challenging yet exciting. "While Joey cut his teeth as a singer first, but, he has made his name as a comedian. And I think he is having a great run as a comedian and all of us have always been happy for him," said Nasir. "But the team felt for Joey's new movie, he should try to be the singer he was with a new single. "And it is an experimental track which Joey decided to go for it after much discussion. I'm glad he took the step to be a singer again as I always felt he is a splendid singer as well as a comedian." "WamWamSam" was also officially launched in YouTube on Tuesday under the 'Luncai Emas' channel. It will also be available in all other digital streaming channels including Spotify from June 6 onwards. For the 51-year-old Joey it was a labour of love which is now a reality. The idea and composition was started by Joey but it became the fruit he desired thanks to the help younger and more vibrant composers. The song became the experimental track Joey wanted when he received the much needed-assistance from Luncai Emas composers - Ilham Nasir and Hidayat Nasir (M. Nasir's children) - that gave the song the rock vibrancy and unique sound that it needed. "This song, the character, the idea and also the message - is all from my personal experience of my life. Even the character is actually of my classmate that I knew from school," said Joey at the launching event. "And I always wanted a message of education in my song. Education is the most important aspect of a young man/teen life. Young people must understand that. "I hope this song will be one that stick in the mind of youngsters in a long time to come. It is also a labour of love and I thank all these talented youngster who had played a big part in making this single a reality." The song is further strengthened with the inclusion of rising star A.D. who puts in a superb rap effort that gives the song an extra bite and a major pull for the young listeners. For the record, A.D. is a member of the Sabah hip hop group, Isohbatos, an upcoming band that is making waves in the Borneo side of Malaysia. As for the video for the song, it is directed by Amen Khalid, the son of the late and legendary director Mamat Khalid, who in fact, had included Joey in his movies. "This song is fun but the message is strong and I do hope it strikes a chord with the young music lovers. It is a very special project that brings out the fun in life but at the same time has education has its central theme," said Joey. "And that is my parting message for this song - you have to be confident in taking up challenges of life but at the same time ensure yourself to be well-educated. Because with education, the best of it, you can be confident of anything. "And I'm bringing this message for all in my own fun and comedic way. But the subject is very important, education matters and it is very important for all the upcoming generation. That by far, is the underlying theme of this single," added Joey. At the launching, the team behind the new single, are also hopeful that the new generation will enjoy the nostalgic feel of the music video and the relevance of the message it harbours for the young generation. The team behind Joey Daud's Touch of Nolstagia Single : WamWamSam Artiste : Joey Daud Composers : Joey Daud , Ilham Nasir & Hidayat Nasir Lyrics : Joey Daud , Ilham Nasir & Rahman Saharddin Arrangement : Joey Daud, Ilham Nasir, Hidayat Nasir & Faliq Mohd Genre : Comedy Pop Rock /Rap Music Video : Amen Khalid Producers : Ilham Nasir, Hidayat Nasir , Joey Daud Music Production : Luncai Emas Sdn Bhd Song Production : Luncai Emas Sdn Bhd
