SINGAPORE, Oct 13 — Hanafie Warren is a veteran in the local music industry, but not one who is afraid of reinventing himself.
This year, the Singaporean Malay rock legend, who has sold 65,000 records in his 35-year career, is teaming up with five musicians in their 20s, including his son and keyboardist Fifi Leong, acoustic guitarist Iliya Zaki, guitarist Melvin Cyril, bassist Caspar Francis and drummer Lee Joon Lei, on his ninth studio album Riwayatku (Malay for My Legacy).
It is also Hanafie’s first major solo release in 10 years.
Speaking at a press conference for the official release of his title single yesterday, Hanafie, who is also the lead singer of rock band The Unwanted, explained that he decided to work with Leong and the other young musicians because he wanted to move away from his usual style of music.
“They are good musicians, so I just needed to guide them here and there,” he said, adding how he had stressed that they should not replicate the sound of the 1980s.
The 62-year-old said he plans to continue making music until he can no longer do so.
“Rock, honestly, is energy. I love all kinds of music, but rock is in my blood,” said Hanafie, who will soon embark on a concert tour in Singapore and Malaysia.
“I’m not sure when I would want to stop, but if I still have my voice, I will carry on; just like the Rolling Stones and Aerosmith.
“They are still rocking in their 70s! I’ll probably follow in their footsteps, God willing.” — TODAY
* Riwayatku the album will be launched on December 19.
