KAMAL Chopra, a lawyer turned professional singer based in Penang, won the Best International Artist title at the UK Bhangra Awards 2022 for the second time, beating six other nominees from Canada, Denmark, India, Japan, the Netherlands, and Australia.
Kamal previously won the same award in 2019, when she became the first Malaysian to do so.
Chopra expressed her gratitude to her supporters, family, and fans worldwide for helping her win the award.
“It means a lot to me. I feel this award has given me due recognition for all the hard work I have put in, whether it was for my studio work or live performances. I am so proud to have placed Penang and Malaysia on the map for my music,” she said to The Vibes.
“The community around me has been so encouraging. It was such an honour to win it the first time because there were so many countries involved, but to win it for a second time, my goodness, it has been a blessing. To be noticed internationally, where you are judged based on your merits, and not on fame or connections means a lot to me,” she added.
Chopra's multilingual performances, which include Hindi, Punjabi, English, Malay, Tamil, and Chinese songs, caught the attention of the UK award team.
She has a wide repertoire of languages and genres and is the lead singer of a six-piece rock band called Vintage Rising.
The singer, who left legal practice a decade ago, was first encouraged to pursue her love for music by her husband. What started as a hobby turned into a more serious pursuit when she started receiving invitations to sing at parties, charities, and competitions.
“After I got the award in 2019 was when I started concentrating on original music. My first song was in Hindi, followed by two Punjabi songs. I have several songs coming out in the next few months, and I hope to have an album by the end of the year,” Chopra said.
She added that the honour has expanded her horizons. “This achievement has made me want to go further. I hope to be able to break into Bollywood, which I’m certain I will.” – The Vibes, February 16, 2023
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