IF Sudirman Haji Arshad’s name is mentioned, many among the youth of today would not know much about the star who once received the ‘Asia's No. 1 Performer’ award at Royal Albert Hall, London on March 19, 1989.
However, his contribution to the local entertainment arts industry is huge because he helped make a name for the country internationally at several levels, especially in the field of singing.
Known as 'the Singing Lawyer', thanks to a bachelor's degree in law from the University of Malaya, the late Sudirman Haji Arshad is also listed as one of the most respected performers by his fellow countrymen.
However, his death on February 22, 1992 left a vacancy in the local art arena which has not been filled by any performer, even up to now.
His songs are still remembered by many fans and many also often get a spin on the radio these days. Indeed, there is only one Sudirman Haji Arshad and his position in the Malaysian music landscape will not change.
Even so, like most legendary singers, their works are a legacy given to us all. Here we list five of his songs that are considered iconic and are often re-sung by today's generation.
Balik Kampung
Probably his most popular song, due to the mood raised through the melody and its interesting lyrics. Talking about the fun of returning to the kampung, this song is an anthem every time a festive celebration comes up.
More interestingly, although it is categorized as a 'hymn' and is played every year especially before Aidilfitri, there is no indication that it is a festive song because the word raya or Aidilfitri is not mentioned in this song at all.
Terasing
The popular group KRU once re-recorded this song with an amazing Star Wars -style music video. Getting the touch of the words of the famous Malaysian lyricist, Habsah Hassan, this song is also sung a lot by local artists at various concerts and awards.
Even the five best new artist candidates Dina Nadzir, Nikki Palikat, Shila Amzah, Alyah and Ayu Damit sang this song at the Music Industry Awards in 2010. A soulful song that plays all the time on the local radio.
One Thousand Million Smiles
This is probably one of the most popular locally made English songs. The song was written by Paul Ponnudurai while the arrangement of the song was by Michael Veerapen. This song is included in the album Asia's No. 1 Performer.
During the finals of the Asian Popular Music Awards, he won the competition with this song along with two medley songs, namely 'Send in the Clown' and 'Smile.' The song was recorded as a single and marketed in Europe.
The recording process was done at Abbey Road Studios, which has been used by artists such as The Beatles and Cliff Richard. This song was also chosen as the Malaysian theme song during United Nations Day.
Chow Kit Road
Who does not know about Chow Kit Road, which was once one of the most popular streets in Kuala Lumpur. On April 14, 1986, the late Sudirman held an open concert at Chow Kit Road that was filled with over 100,000 spectators on one Monday night. It caused traffic congestion from Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Raja Muda to Jalan Raja Alang.
Now even though the Chow Kit area has changed, its legacy continues with various interesting buildings that stand out. Sudirman's song 'Chow Kit Road' enlivened the atmosphere of the area in the early 80's and is still relevant when heard on the radio. The lively rhythm invites you to dance together!
Salam Terakhir
As the name suggests, this song was recorded as a 'goodbye' song from Sudirman. Expressing one's greetings and a last message to their loved ones, this song reminds Malaysians of his passing.
In fact, every time there is the departure of an important or famous person, this song is often used to describe the sad atmosphere. It really touches the heart, 'Salam Terakhir' will always make Sudirman remain in the memories of Malaysians who knew him. Al-Fatihah for him and may he rest in peace. – The Vibes, February 22, 2021
