I LOVE TO SING 2017 back for the 4th year!

Posted on 11:21 AMby
 Proudly brought to you by Magnum, Magnum I Love to Sing Singing Competition is back for the 4th year! The most highly anticipated bi-dialectal singing competition aims to promote the native Chinese cultural heritage as well as to remind the younger ones of their root. This competition will kick off from 17th September 2017 till 19th November 2017 throughout Malaysia at Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Kuantan and Penang.

The Malaysian Chinese community have managed to maintain their Chinese heritage especially their mother tongue (various dialects) but sadly there are more and more that have lost the knowledge of their own mother tongue. Thus, the objective of this competition is to encourage the Chinese community by using music as a communication tools to spread our native languages. It also serves as a platform for the Chinese Dialect music lovers to showcase their unique talent.

This year, aside from Hakka and Hokkien category, an Open category has been added due to overwhelming requests. This singing competition is open to all Malaysian Citizen regardless of age, gender and ethnic group.

On top of that, we are pleasure and proud to invite Mr. Kelvin Chai, who is a well-known folk singer as our competition director. A line-up of experienced panel judges is ready to watch the spectacular singing performance by the participants and decide who will qualify to enter the grand finale. Moreover, a total worth of RM40, 000 in cash prizes are to be given out to the winners together with subsidiary awards: The Most Popular Singer Award, The Best Personality Award, The Best Image Award and Finalists Award!

Magnum “I Love to Sing” 2017 is proudly brought to you by Magnum, and organized by Mega Music World. To all talented multi-dialectal singers, don’t miss this golden opportunity to join Magnum “I Love to Sing” 2017 Singing Competition!

Visit our official Facebook page and register now! For more information, please log on to our official page at www.facebook.com/womaaichang. You may also contact Rainie Yap at +6019-310 4220 or +603-9101 5857 for enquiries 

Magnum “I Love to Sing” 2017 Singing Competition Winners Cash Prizes:

Hakka Category
Hokkien Category
Champion：RM 6,000 + Trophy
Champion：RM 6,000 + Trophy
1st Runner Up：RM 3,000 + Trophy
1st Runner Up：RM 3,000 + Trophy
2nd Runner Up：RM1,000 + Trophy
2nd Runner Up：RM1,000 + Trophy



Open Category
Adult Category
Children Category
Champion：RM 5,000 + Trophy
Champion：RM 2,000 + Trophy
1st Runner Up：RM 3,000 + Trophy
1st Runner Up：RM 1,000 + Trophy
2nd Runner Up：RM1,000 + Trophy
2nd Runner Up：RM800 + Trophy

ALOFT HOTELS AND MTV SPOTLIGHT TOP REGIONAL MUSIC TALENT WITH THE FOURTH ANNUAL PROJECT ALOFT STAR, AMPLIFIED BY MTV IN ASIA PACIFIC

Posted on 10:53 AMby
Designed for the millennial traveler, Marriott International’s Aloft® Hotels and the biggest and boldest global youth brand, MTV, is now accepting submissions for the fourth Asia Pacific edition of Project Aloft Star, amplified by MTV. With the success of the past three years, the reach of the competition is now extended to Australia and Indonesia. Providing an annual platform to discover music talent, the competition will identify and support aspiring music acts in nine markets: Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand.

ALOFT HOTELS AND MTV SPOTLIGHT TOP REGIONAL MUSIC TALENT WITH THE FOURTH ANNUAL PROJECT ALOFT STAR, AMPLIFIED BY MTV IN ASIA PACIFIC

Bigger and better this year with new entrants from Australia and Indonesia in the competition

Starting 5 July to 21 August 2017, aspiring musicians are invited to submit original songs to projectaloftstar.mtvasia.com, for a chance to win a mentor-ship by MTV and Believe Distribution Services, a Believe Distribution Services deal for marketing and distribution, and US$10,000 to fund their music journey

SINGAPORE, 3 July 2017 – Designed for the millennial traveler, Marriott International’s Aloft® Hotels and the biggest and boldest global youth brand, MTV, is now accepting submissions for the fourth Asia Pacific edition of Project Aloft Star, amplified by MTV. With the success of the past three years, the reach of the competition is now extended to Australia and Indonesia. Providing an annual platform to discover music talent, the competition will identify and support aspiring music acts in nine markets: Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. Last year, the competition drew over 500 entries and 600,000 public votes.

Project Aloft Star, amplified by MTV; promotes Aloft’s commitment to supporting self-expression by identifying the latest emerging music talents in the region. The response every year from musicians and fans has been tremendous and the competition is a highly anticipated event that’s become known for showcasing original music from aspiring acts. Together with MTV, Aloft has helped boost the visibility and quality of original compositions amongst musicians and continues to be a catalyst for musical creativity, with Project Aloft Star serving as a platform for showcasing the hottest up-and-coming artists.

Rocking the world since its debut in 2008, Aloft Hotels is a trailblazer in the live-music scene worldwide. The brand has always been committed to cutting-edge music programming, leading the way as an industry innovator by supporting live acts in its hotels through its Live at Aloft Hotels music program held at its buzzing W XYZ bars across the globe.

“Aloft Hotels is designed for those who love open thinking and open expression, and Project Aloft Star captures the brand’s belief in self-expression through music,” said Mike Fulkerson, Vice President, Brand & Marketing, Asia Pacific. “We’re excited to be exploring new talents this year by opening up entries to include Australia and Indonesia. We also want all music-lovers to be involved by voting for their favorite musicians via the projectaloftstar.com website as well as engaging with us on our social media channels.”

Partnering with music and entertainment powerhouse MTV, Project Aloft Star is expected to create region-wide awareness and buzz for the latest instalment of the exciting competition. MTV is the only global music player with coordinated local on-air and online teams, reaching millions of music fans every day. From large-scale live shows to on-air programmes such as MTV Ok Danceoke and MTV PUSH, MTV is widely recognized as a youth destination for discovering music and talents.

“This partnership is truly a testament to MTV’s and Aloft’s common vision of supporting aspiring artists for four years running, and through the passion point of music. The Asia Pacific music scene is diverse and constantly evolving, and our expertise lies in working with the newest acts, and helping them uncover their passion as well as connecting them with new opportunities and fans across Asia Pacific. We are looking forward to build upon our successful collaboration with Aloft Hotels, to discover and shape the music stars of tomorrow,” said Paras Sharma, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Southeast Asia, Viacom International Media Networks.

Submission details

The competition covers key markets in the Asia Pacific via three contest clusters consisting of Greater China (China, Hong Kong and Taiwan), Southeast Asia and Australia (Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand), and South Korea.

Bands, artists and songwriters are invited to submit their original compositions[1] – either through YouTube, Youku, or SoundCloud[2] links to the website at projectaloftstar.mtvasia.com, between 5 July to 21 August 2017.

Public voting for People’s Choice Finalist

Four finalists will be shortlisted for each cluster – three will be selected by judges from MTV, and the fourth will be a People’s Choice finalist. From 25 August to 11 September, the public can vote for their favorite artist from curated entries on projectaloftstar.mtvasia.com. One voter per cluster will also stand a chance to win US$1,000.

Live finals at the newest Aloft Hotels in Asia

The four shortlisted finalists[3] in each cluster will perform at the finals in front of a live audience, and a panel of judges from Aloft, MTV and the music entertainment industry. Aloft and MTV are partnering up with Believe Distribution Services - a leading independent distributor and services provider for artists and labels worldwide - to offer a career-changing prize. Each winning artist will receive a mentorship from MTV and Believe Distribution Services, a Believe Distribution Services deal for marketing and distribution, and US$10,000 to kickstart their music career.

Finals will be held from October to November 2017 at Asia’s newest Aloft hotels: Aloft Perth for the Australia and Southeast Asia finals, Aloft Seoul Myeongdong for the South Korea finals, and Aloft Taipei Zhongshan for the Greater China finals.

Aloft and MTV as the platform for emerging artists

Both MTV and Aloft have built a reputation for advocating and supporting emerging artists, with several Project Aloft Star winners achieving further success. Southeast Asia cluster winner in 2016, Soph Retief, produced and released her first music video “Guys Like You”, the song that clinched her win and will be performing at the Tunbridge Wells festival in July 2017. Winner of the Greater China cluster in 2016, Wang Dazhi (a.k.a. Big Tattoo), appeared on hip hop reality show ‘Rap of China’, made an appearance on the movie “Miss Puff”, and was the special guest at well-known Chinese rocker Cui Jian’s 30th anniversary concert. Meanwhile, Jenny & the Scallywags from Thailand, the winner of the 2015 Southeast Asia cluster, went on to release their 10-track album, ‘Shaking Heart’, amidst a collaboration with indie artist Phum Viphurit and performances at festivals. GTXperiment from Malaysia, the winner of the Southeast Asia cluster in 2014, won the “Best Collaboration” award at the VIMA Music Awards 2017, and their single "Terus Menunggu" reached the TV3 Muzik Muzik charts.

Korean comedy sensation, JUMP in Singapore for 30,000th show

Posted on 10:41 AMby
Having performed worldwide in over 152 cities in more than 87 countries, Red Spade Entertainment brings wacky action-packed Korean comedy sensation, JUMP, to Singapore for their 30, 000th show. Bold, funny and fascinating, JUMP is set in a typical Korean home, revolving around an average yet dramatically agile family.

Combining comedy, martial arts and acrobatics, eight kick-ass shenanigans showcase an incredible display of gymnastic and combat moves with a generous dosage of slapstick humour sure to tickle your funny bone.

From the dictatorial grandfather, drunken uncle and Tae Kwan Do savvy mother to the daughter’s inappropriate suitor, each member is a martial arts expert possessing championship levels of Taekwando, Taekkyum and butt-kicking moves.

The plot thickens when two burglars daringly break into the house in the middle of the night. When the family discovers the intruders, a mighty battle begins, entertaining audiences with their skilled yet hilarious antics as they try to get rid of their unwanted visitors.

Catch jaw-dropping moves and be prepared to laugh out loud from October 6 to 8. Suitable for the whole family, this non-verbal theatre comedy will be staged live for four shows only at Resorts World Singapore Theatres. Tickets priced from $38 (excluding SISTIC booking fee), are available at all SISTIC outlets.

“Fresh, fun and entertaining! Just Go!” NY Theatre, New York
“Amazing! A great new show! An incredible cast! Dazzling martial arts moves!” – Sunday Today in New York, WNBC TV
“This is one of the most entertaining, hilarious and gravity-defying nights of Tae-Kwon-do kicking slapstick in the world.”- Sunday Mail Adelaide
“JUMP will capture and entertain people of any nationality or culture; there is no hype in the success of this fantastic production.” – Arts London News
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[Interview] Malaysia's hidden gem "Nadhira"

Posted on 3:11 PMby



Nadhira Shamsuri is a Malaysian based singer known for her soulful yet sweet voice. Audience can expect new music from Nadhira soon, she's currently working on an EP and it will to be released this coming year. She mentioned she's thrilled to be collaborating with local artists for the upcoming EP. Nadhira's music style is versatile and can appeal to people of other cultures, when asked if she has any plans to hold a showcase in other countries, she explained that she would love to hold a new showcase in a different country, although she shared that she had the opportunity to perform in countries like Canada, Australia, and France. "I think once I release my new EP, and more singles, I’ll be able to plan properly for a showcase." 

Which song you've released that personally defines you?
I would say “Do It Again”, “Feel That” and “Tear Us Apart” Those 3 songs really resonate with me on a personal level.


Nadhira has branched out to an acting career with an Indonesian movie titled "Senja". She's definitely open to more acting gigs.When asked how she sees herself as an artist in the Malaysian entertainment industry, she stated "I think I’ve been a tad bit quiet for the last few years, just kind of stepping back a little bit and recharging myself. I definitely see myself as an indie artist, threading the edge of the mainstream scene…but barely there!". As a budding singer, she expressed that there were challenges tied to releasing an English song such as trying to get her music out to the people outside of Kuala Lumpur. 
"It is to make songs that people can relate to as well, and since the mass market are more favorable towards Malay songs, it’s best you reach them with a Malay song if you want to reach mass market! Since most my songs are in English, I don’t reach as much people as I want to in Malaysia. Maybe what I need to do next is sing more Malay songs." 

What is that X factor that differs your music from other Malaysian artists?
I’m not sure really, maybe the fact that I wasn’t brought up in this country, growing up. In terms of music, there have been emerging artists whose music direction is the same as mine..so I can’t really say.

In the age of social media, how do you go about and widen your audience?
It would have to be through platforms like IG, people love seeing photo’s. I guess you have to be really creative with your posts to get more likes and follows. My FB as well serves as a platform to reach out to more people because you can advertise by paying and you can choose who you want to target to.

What's your motto in life to keep you going?
Always be present. To everything around you, that way you appreciate life better because you are always in the moment.

How do you relax after a long day?
I either take a reallllly long nap or just laze on the couch and watch TV. I used to swim a lot to relax but now that seems more like a chore to me. Haha

 Stay updated with Nadhira by following her on Instagram and like her page on Facebook. 
Check her out on www.nadhiramusic.com.

[Exclusive] Interview with The Sam Willows

Posted on 2:36 PMby

The Sam Willows are back with an all new look and music! The recently released music video “Keep Me Jealous” features zesty aesthetics and an electronic pop sound. When asked what the video is about, member Narelle answered "It kind of aligns with the song “Keep Me Jealous” which talks about the balance you've to keep in your relationship. In a sense, it's to keep your partner interested, not to let go and to take everything for granted. But also, too much jealousy kills the relationship. The tension between jealousy and love. The little character in the music video is kind of like “jealousy”. Four of us just play like characters in the house, quite a loosely based thing so it flips and causes the destruction of everything. So at first it was all like fun and games and suddenly you start to get a bit of jealous and jealousy turns to anger and in the end we all explode. And it's just there because he won."


The Sam Willows expressed their gratitude towards Sony Music as they were able to travel around the world. Benjamin shared that they were given a chance to go to Sweden to write an album and it was a mind-boggling experience as they never thought they'll be able to do music professionally outside of Singapore. Narelle shares that the experience in Sweden making music was a dream come true.

When asked what advice would they have for those who wanted to start making music, Narelle states that to just do it and to have commitment. The one thing that separated The Sam Willows from the others were that they've made a conscious effort to pursue music. “If we are going to invest the time, friendship or whatever, we're not going to leave half-way. We're here to the long run.” - Narelle

“I think what's important is that we never have a plan B. We weren't going to say if our original music doesn't work out, let's just a play in a bar or a club. We only have plan A and we're stuck with plan A and still sticking to it.” - Jon

The Sam Willows debuted on the music scene five years ago, and have stick together throughout. Sandra shares that they have graduated from friends to family. “Family is a lot of different from friends, it's like you cannot quit family”.

The group showcased a different style of music compared to their previous album, when asked if they had anxiety, Benjamin shares “Yes and no because if a band doesn't change in the span of it's life, then it's kind of boring. For us, we know that whatever creative decision we made no matter if it's music or fashion, some people will be on board and some people will not but that's just life”. The four members recognized that everyone has an opinion and that they were cool with whatever the feedback they received from the fans. The Sam Willows are known for their acoustic take on music, with their upcoming album, Narelle articulated that they do in fact love the acoustics but they want to move pass that. However, fans will certainly still hear their acoustics cover of their songs when the group performs live.

Their new song is catchy and a great dance track. Benjamin and Narelle shared that their favorite line from the song is the chorus - “To Keep Me Jealous ~”, Benjamin shares it is quite a hard line to sing however they were really happy when they wrote it. Jon states the line “I used to love our mind games made me feel alive” is his favorite line from the song.

The album was written by the four of them and also two other writers from Sweden. With several people making the album, it was easier to find out if a tune or a line works well stated by Narelle.

"I think the most important thing is that even if it's a pop song, there must be an element of truth to it. For us, it was like we're all 20s and had relationships which were muddy and complicated. Jealousy was a thing we wanted to paint a relationship that was real. Even a song like this, there's truth to it". - Benjamin. 


[Exclusive] Rising from the ashes : An Interview with James Arthur

Posted on 8:46 PMby

James Arthur touched down to Malaysia for Sony’s Music - Stars In Sight showcase. He graced the stage with his guitar and played several covers and tracks from his album  -"Back from the Edge". He has sold over 200k singles - "Say You Won't Let Go" in Malaysia and have received the Platinum Sales Award by Sony Music Malaysia. After winning X factor back in 2012, he has resurfaced with an all new album and continues to top charts all over the world.

What was your through process while making the album?
A : Well I have lost my record deal and went through a very hard time after the X Factor. I was struggling with some mental health issues I kind of felt like I’ve lost everything and my purpose. The idea of the album was just to write some songs and hopefully to help inspire people and connect with people. It was basically me just speaking my mind. It was a cathartic and therapeutic experience.

Which song is your personal favorite?
A : Probably, “Train Wreck”. I feel like it’s vocally, the most honest and I’m proud of the lyrics as well. Another theme of the album is honesty, songs like “Train Wreck”,“Finally” and “Remember Who I Was” those kind of songs feels like heartfelt and honest.

The recently released music video, “Can I be Him”, could tell me a little about the song?
A : Well I think it’s just that unrequited love thing, you know everybody probably have been in love with someone and they don’t know about it. It’s kind of self explanatory, you know being sad about wanting that person.

“Say You Won’t Let Go” has become of the most successful song, how do you feel about that?
A : Good! Yeah whenever I write songs I hope people could relate with them. To see so many people to relate with that song is a dream come true.

You mentioned being through a lot after the X Factor, how do you keep up that spirit to keep making music?
A : Because I’m not really good at anything else probably. But it helps me channel my energy. I guess I have a lot of nervous energy and when I make music, it makes me feel better. I think it’s what I’m supposed to do, it’s my destiny to make music.

When you started off with your career, is there a British artist you want to emulate in the charts?
A : Yeah, of course. There’s many. Anyone who’s made hits really. I’m a fan of people like Plan B. There’s a lot of British artists right now that are doing really well.

Were doubt that you won’t be able to pull off this comeback?
A : Of course, but realistically, I thought there wasn’t much chance of coming back. X Factor winners usually you never hear about them again. I thought maybe I was one of those guys, just someone who disappears but I believed in my ability and my music. That has what got me through.

Can you tell us more about your upcoming book?
A : It’s an autobiography but it’s also kind of a self-help book. It talks about my struggles with mental health and I’m hoping that it will help as a self-help book for people as well. I was asked if I would like to write about my story because it’s been inspirational and it’s such an underdog story. In my country anyways, people were amazed that I managed to comeback. I guessed people wanted to know how I did it, and know more about me and my life. It’s been an enjoyable experience writing this book.

Do you keep in touch with the other X factor contestants?
A : Yeah I do such as Ella Henderson, Rylan.

You are known to be a soulful singer,
A : Yeah I mean the album, has a lot of diversity on there. There’s R&B, Rock and Hip Hop. In the next album, I intend to try lots of different things. I wanna make albums that are diverse and have different styles.

Could you describe a little on how you regain confidence?
A : I think it’s from seeing the fruits of my hard-work. I worked very hard to get back to where I am. I’ve put the hours in the studio and writing music. Getting my health back to where it should be. To see how to manifested and brought me so much success, it has gave me much confidence.

What’s in your definition a beautiful song and which song you’ve heard before in your opinion is a beautiful song?
A : Well I think a beautiful song first of all is relatable and something you can believe in. Something that gives you faith and hope. Honest lyrics as well. The one that springs to mind is probably Adele’s Make You Feel My Love. There’s a song by Miguel called Leaves.

Looking back, would you have done things differently?
A : Nope, no regrets. There’s somethings I’ve said that I would love to take back. Like I said, I was going through a nervous breakdown because I went from absolutely nothing to everything overnight. It was very difficult to wrap my head around it, I was doing a lot of self medicating. Some of the things I’ve said were irresponsible and childish and I’ve set a bad example to the kids who may have been looking up to me at that time. There’s certain language I’ve used that were irresponsible. I regret some of that but it made me who I am today. It shaped my future. I believe everything happens for a reason.

Do you still feel nervous before going on stage?
A : Not on stage anymore, it’s always good to have a little nervousness before going on stage. If you’re nervous before a show, you can turn that into power and good energy. I think anybody does, even guys who’s been doing it for decades will feel nervous for sure but not in the way that I used to.

What advice would you give to those who are diagnosed with mental health issues?
A : The best advice I would give is not to look too for into the future and not look back very much because if you look back, all you gonna feel is guilt and regret. If you look forward, you’re just gonna feel the anxiety. I think anybody who suffers from any mental health disorder needs to take it day by day and live in the now as much as possible.  

Do you consider your comeback the biggest milestone you've achieved in your life and what would you like to achieve in the future? 
A : I would consider coming back and having a number one single the biggest milestone in my career. Being recognized on other side of the world and having a hit in America. This was something six months ago, a ridiculous idea. Not many people know but I'm very interested in moving into other forms of creativity like acting. I would love to be featured in a film or be involved in the making such as soundtracks. I love movies 

2017 SEVENTEEN 1ST WORLD TOUR “DIAMOND EDGE” IN KUALA LUMPUR

Posted on 5:06 PMby


SEVENTEEN to bring “2017 SEVENTEEN 1ST WORLD TOUR "DIAMOND EDGE" to Kuala Lumpur!

The wait is over! Korea uprising boyband, SEVENTEEN will be making their way to Malaysia for their very first world tour!

Debuted in 2015 under Pledis Entertainment, Seventeen has been gaining so much of attention both domestically and internationally. By popular demand, IME Malaysia will be bringing the boys to Kuala Lumpur for 2017 SEVENTEEN 1ST WORLD TOUR “DIAMOND EDGE” IN KUALA LUMPUR.

2017 SEVENTEEN 1ST WORLD TOUR “DIAMOND EDGE” IN KUALA LUMPUR
Date: 9 SEPTEMBER 2017
Venue : STADIUM NEGARA

I-SEOUL-U CONCERT TO TAKE KUALA LUMPUR BY STORM

Posted on 5:32 AMby

Korean fans in Malaysia, mark your calendar to catch the one-night-only I·SEOUL·U Concert at KLCC Convention Centre on May 23. With heartthrobs like YeSung best known as a member of the K-pop boy band Super Junior who has recently released his second solo album ‘Spring Falling’, Red Velvet one of the hottest girl group acts right now and NCT 127, a sub-unit of the Korean pop boy group NCT, the two-hour show will leave fans wanting more. Malaysian rapper Altimet and pop trio De Fam will serve as opening acts.

In conjunction with this star-studded concert, the Seoul Metropolitan Government who is also the sponsor of the show, will be hosting a Korean-themed pavilion at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur to promote Seoul as a key tourist destination on the same day. Fans can pop by the venue and indulge in all things Korean such as the halal Korean food, ski-jump in virtual reality experience, K-pop dance performances and many more. 


Admission for both events are free*, however, fans will have to redeem tickets to the I·SEOUL·U Concert from May 11. For more information on ticket redemption, please visit www.ticketcharge.com.my or call +603 9222 8811.

As the official media partner of the I-SEOUL-U Concert, Astro customers can redeem passes to the concert via www.astrocircle.astro.com.my .

* Individual under 13 years old are not permitted.
* School attire are strictly prohibited.
* Free-come-first-served basis.
* Tickets are not-for-sale.
* Terms and conditions apply.
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