Music - A Lesson in Unity

Gig Triple Play a rockin' good time - Bunkface, Hujan & Nidji

The thought did cross my mind.  Would there be Indonesians throwing chairs at Malaysians or Malaysians shouting obscenities at Indonesians.  TV9’s Gig Triple Play over last Saturday was a combination of 3 Bands from 2 Countries on 1 Stage.  Nidji from Indonesia, Bunkface and Hujan from Malaysia.  Entrance was free but restricted by invitation to control the number of people in the hall but was broadcast live for those that could not get in.

But the scene was far from that of unrest and violence.  It was not only an amazing show of musical and performing talent but I walked away from the show with a feel good feeling in my heart and humming songs in my head.

Here were three band who were very comfortable with their musical direction, ability and image.  Confident about performing.  No qualms about singing each other’s song.  No insecurities.  Their only concern was doing the best for their fans who they had all worked hard in getting to come to the gig.  And that night you couldn’t tell the Bunkers from the Raingers to the Nidjiholics. 

For 2.5 hours all the fans sang each other’s song, they jumped around and a danced and just plain enjoyed themselves without a thought of what country, race or creed. And when the three bands closed the show together the musical bond of friendship between them was evident on their faces.

The Malaysian bands were gracious hosts respecting the ability of the awesome prowess of Nidji and the Indonesian band in return paid a shining tribute to the formidable talent of both Bunkface and Hujan.  

Giring, the lead singer of Nidji summed it up on stage in front of the audience, “Di pentas ini kami lupakan dari mana kami datang. Kami bukan dari Indonesia dan juga bukan Malaysia. Tiada perbezaan langsung, malah muzik telah menyatukan kami. Di atas pentas ini, kami lupakan semua itu.” (Translation : On this stage we forget where we come from.  We are not from Indonesia and also not from Malaysia.  There is no difference between us, music has united is.  On this stage, everything becomes insignificant.”)

Sudirman "Chow Kit Road" 100,000 Malaysians came in support

Yes, words of wisdom.  We in the entertainment business have always known that music has the ability to inspire and unite.  P. Ramlee did that.  Sudirman did that.  They have entertained Malaysians of all ages, race, creed. The fans of music (or film) in unison, watching one artiste, singing along, clapping or waving hands, laughing, crying and for the duration of the show all the differences are forgotten. 

Now if only governments and world leaders could be artistes.  Artistes NEVER things of themselves they perform for the crowd, uppermost in their minds is serving the people watching them and the only gratification is when the crowd (fans or not) walk away happy.  The medium is different but the means to an end is the same.  You cannot achieve unity if you have your own interest at heart…. When you serve others, to the best of your ability, they in return will serve you.

Peace, Love and Respect