M. Nasir Breathes New Life Into 1903 Song 'Nuri Terbang Malam'

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- Singing legend Datuk M. Nasir’s latest work ‘Nuri Terbang Malam’ is a refreshed rendition of a classic song from the early 1900s.

The original song, performed by Qasim – a Wayang Semarang singer from Penang – is believed to be the first Malay song ever recorded on a gramophone record around 1903 by Gramophone Company, an international recording company in the United Kingdom.

Luncai Emas Sdn Bhd production director Keon Omar said ‘Nuri Terbang Malam’ is among 100 popular classic songs that have been revitalised under a collaborative project, '100 Lagu 100 Tahun', between Luncai Emas and World Business Affairs Sdn Bhd.

"The '100 Lagu 100 Tahun' project is the brainchild of Prof Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Mustafa Ishak and well-known composer and producer Dr Mohd Azhar Abu Bakar, also known as Azmeer. The objective of this project is to compile 100 popular Malay songs from the 20th century into audio format and a book. 

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"This project is expected to bring new appreciation for the history of local music and reintroduce these classic works to modern audiences," he said in a statement today.

In the same statement, M. Nasir said he aims to bridge the gap between past works and the new generation without forgetting their origins.

"This song (‘Nuri Terbang Malam’) is part of our music history and it is our responsibility to preserve it," he said.

The song is now available on all digital platforms, including YouTube, Spotify and Apple Music.

-- BERNAMA