Malay rock legend Rosli Mohalim is a busker now
But today, Rosli Mohalim, ex-lead guitarist of Singapore's most illustrious Malay rock band Sweet Charity, has a more humble stage - you can catch him busking in Changi Village, Tampines, Admiralty Village, and Jurong Park.
The Singaporean musician suffered a stroke in 2021. After a year of treatment which included acupuncture and physiotherapy, the 71-year-old found his proficiency as a guitarist had drastically diminished.
"I was slowly recovering, but I still could not play the guitar like before," he told Berita Harian.
He felt his dexterity returning in 2023, but performance offers were not forthcoming. Rosli then decided to take matters into his own hands - he started busking in Johor Bahru, where he has lived since 2002.
Last year, he auditioned successfully for a busking licence in Singapore, and now performs here three to four days a week.
He makes a two-hour trip from his home in JB, arriving in Singapore between 11am and noon, and performs for three to four hours before heading back across the Causeway. He also performs weekly at Plaza Angsana in JB.
"I'm grateful that I'm earning quite well as a street musician," he told Malaysia's New Straits Times. "I've recovered about 90 per cent, but the stroke did affect my performance slightly. Nevertheless, many people still come to listen to my music."
A rock legend
Sweet Charity ruled the Malay rock scene in Singapore and Malaysia from the 1970s to the 1980s, and hits such as Teratai (1979) and Kamelia (1980) enjoy regular airplay on Malay radio.
As recently as 2023, Rosli performed with the band in a reunion tour which included shows at the 3,000-seat Stadium Arena Larkin in JB and the 5,000-capacity Star Theatre in Singapore, along with stops in Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak.
Busking seems like a much smaller gig compared to those, but Rosli is unfazed. For him, it beats doing nothing.
"At this age, it's not good to just sit still. I have to stay active. I occasionally bump into my old bandmate Datuk Ramli Sarip, and he approves of what I'm doing," he added.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Straits Times
3 hours ago
- Straits Times
My Perfect Weekend with singer Jasmine Sokko
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox Who: Jasmine Sokko, 29, is a singer, songwriter and producer known for electronic pop songs like Tired (2019) and Hurt (2018), tunes that have racked up millions of plays on music streaming platforms. She is one of the Singaporeans featured in Nothing Comes By Chance, a short film by Marina Bay Sands to celebrate Singapore's 60th birthday. It is scripted and narrated by Amanda Lee Koe, one of Sokko's favourite authors, and directed by Kirsten Tan. Being part of the film gave Sokko a new lens on Singapore, one that is tender and full of quiet power, she says. The film also stars other local personalities such as actor Pierre Png and actress Tan Kheng Hua. Sokko, the first Singaporean to win MTV Europe Music Awards' Best South-east Asia Act in 2019, released her first full-length album, Burnout Dynasty, in March. She describes it as a series of songs that captures the journey of moving through different phases of life growing up in Singapore. 'I usually wake up without an alarm whenever possible, even on workdays, because I function at the combined capacity of three people when I'm well rested. I'll put on my playlist and take my time with my morning routine, such as washing up and eating breakfast. I usually make my own oatmeal with blueberries and bananas, but my favourite breakfast is kaya toast, iced Milo and, in a bit of an unexpected twist, a hash brown. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Some ageing condos in Singapore struggle with failing infrastructure, inadequate sinking funds Singapore Wastewater overflow in Bedok and Chai Chee due to choked sewer at BTO worksite: PUB Singapore Water gel guns among newer tools NParks uses to manage monkeys in estates Singapore Teen's love of dance powers her through cancer to perform at NDP2025 Singapore Man handed three vaping-related charges including importing 3,080 pods Business DBS shares hit record-high after Q2 profit beats forecast on strong wealth fees, trading income World Trump's 100% semiconductor tariffs may hit chipmakers in Singapore, other SEA nations World Trump eyes 100% chips tariff, but 0% for US investors like Apple I'm a homebody with mostly indoor interests. Besides producing music, I dabble in designing accessories using my 3D printer and I'm currently learning a visual coding program. I tend to continue whatever I'm working on straight through lunch, so I either cook my own salmon, avocado and quinoa bowl or go for something that reduces decision fatigue but is still healthy and satisfying, like yong tau foo. I'd likely squeeze in a run too, anywhere from 5km to 10km, depending on my mood. I usually leave dinner open-ended. If I'm out with friends, they're often the planners. Since I'm so hands-on at work, I tend to be the opposite when I'm off. That said, I've been lucky to try dishes from countries I've never visited. I love learning about new cultures and different ways of living fascinate me, thanks to my friends' choices. Kafe Utu (African cuisine) and Kapitan (Eastern European) come to mind. Honestly, my weekends are extremely varied – I rarely commit to specific plans or people, and I really revel in that sense of open-endedness and spontaneity. Some days, I might read for hours on end or reorganise my space; other days, I'm trekking through MacRitchie with friends and ending up at Ming Kee Chicken Rice in Bishan. My friendships are low-maintenance but deeply nourishing. And while I'm definitely an introvert who guards her space, I find so much inspiration from the energy of these hangouts. They fill me up in quiet but powerful ways. I guess this is how I recharge in general.'
Straits Times
5 hours ago
- Straits Times
Concert review: Choral concert showcases composer Zechariah Goh's wide-ranging works
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox The Taichung Chamber Chorus was the best ensemble performing four works. Victoria Concert Hall Aug 6, 7.30pm Singaporean composer Zechariah Goh Toh Chai, recipient of the Young Artist Award in 2003, was once described as promising. Twenty-two years later, he has established himself as one of Singapore's most important composers.
New Paper
6 hours ago
- New Paper
I listened to every NDP Song and rated them, so you don't have to
It's that time of year again - the roar of fighter jets echoing overhead, spectacular fireworks lighting up the sky, and suddenly everyone's belting out Home like it's 2004. National Day songs -- love them or roast them -- they show up every August like clockwork. Right on schedule alongside red and white outfits, supermarket flags, and traffic jams near Marina Bay. From certified bangers to the more "experimental" tracks that left us scratching our heads, these songs have a strange power that makes us feel equal parts nostalgic, emotional, and awkwardly patriotic -- all at once. But why do some of them tug at the heartstrings, while others barely make a ripple? I listened to them all and rated them - so you don't have to. Best for karaoke singalongs Some National Day songs are just built different. These are the tunes where everyone knows every single word - whether they mean to or not. Like a national earworm, they live rent-free in our heads and make their annual comeback every August. Home (2001) by Kit Chan is the gold standard. A classic. A cultural reset. Young or old, Singaporean or PR, if you don't at least hum along to this one, are you even from here? SCREENGRAB: MIKE EDKINS/YOUTUBE The gentle build-up to that emotional climax - "This is where I won't be alone" - was made for full-volume belting, eyes closed, hand over heart. Pure karaoke gold. Yes, the OGs are hard to beat. But once in a while, a newer track sneaks in and surprises us - and in 2024, Not Alone did just that. With a melody that flows effortlessly into the chorus - "If we just look to each other, then this house will feel like home" - it's the kind of song you'd actually add to your Spotify playlist, unironically. Add a soaring key change and Benjamin Kheng's silky vocals, and you've got a track that's not just catchy - it's cathartic. SCREENGRAB: NDPEEPS/YOUTUBE Because in the end, it's not about how loudly you can scream-sing it. A true karaoke hit is one that hits you back - right in the feels. Most likely to make you cry on the MRT You know the drill - just minding your own business, staring out the MRT window on your way to work when, suddenly, a National Day song comes on. Next thing you know, you're getting misty-eyed between Botanic Gardens and Caldecott, wondering when you turned into an emotional softie. Who remembers My Island Home ? Released back in 2001, this oldie-but-goodie never fails to hit like a nostalgic freight train. The laid-back rhythm and its gently yearning melody are like a warm hug and a homesick sob rolled into one. SCREENGRAB: NDPEEPS/YOUTUBE Now picture this: You're a Singaporean living overseas, on a train that's not the MRT. You put this song on. I dare you not to cry. And then there's the emotional landmine that is In A Heartbeat . The 2011 song may sound tender and almost fragile, but don't be fooled - it's out to wreck you. The melody floats gently along, while the lyrics quietly destroy you with the themes of growing up, moving on and clinging on tightly to the past. If you miss your mum, your childhood friends, or the early days when your family was still squeezed around one dinner table - brace yourself. This one doesn't just pull heartstrings, it yanks them. SCREENGRAB: NDPEEPS/YOUTUBE As August 9 rolls around and you're hit with all the warm fuzzies, fret not as you're not alone. Whether it's childhood memories, homesickness, or just a random wave of nostalgia mid-commute, these songs remind us that patriotism isn't always loud. Sometimes, it's just a quiet lump in your throat. Best for singing in the shower (secretly) Let's be real - some songs may not top the charts or stir national pride in public, but throw in the right acoustics and the sweet, sweet privacy of your bathroom, and suddenly, you're the soloist of your personal NDP choir. Enter: Reach out for the Skies (2005), the ultimate guilty pleasure of National Day songs. SCREENGRAB: NDPEEPS/YOUTUBE So corny, yet so catchy. The lyrics sound like they came straight off a motivational poster, and yet, somehow, you know every word. Shower head in one hand, the other reaching dramatically for the skies - or, you know, the ceiling - don't worry, your secret's safe with me. Now, Where I Belong (2001) might raise a few eyebrows. Yes, it's beloved. Sure, it's iconic. But let's face it - it's also kind of a cliché. It wears its heart unapologetically on its sleeve, complete with the kind of lyrical earnestness that makes you roll your eyes... while secretly clutching your chest. "Whether rain or shine, it's still beautiful," states one line. Say what you will, it's oddly comforting. SCREENGRAB: NDPEEPS/YOUTUBE It builds gently from soft verses to a soaring chorus made for emotional solo performances - ideally when no one else is home. Best for baby nap time Let's talk about this year's National Day song - Here We Are . Look, it's not a bad song. It's soft, gentle, and easy on the ears. But maybe... a little too easy. SCREENGRAB: NDPEEPS/YOUTUBE Compared to past NDP tracks that were big, bold, and emotionally charged, this one feels more like a hot decaf latte - warm and soothing, but unlikely to keep you awake. The mellow melody and choral-style vocals have a calm, almost lullaby-like energy. Before I knew it, I drifted off halfway through the second verse. It gives bedtime story vibes - ideal if you're trying to put a baby down for a nap, soothe a sleepy cat, or catch a moment of peace after all that flag-waving and fighter jet spotting. Not every National Day song needs to be a showstopper. And honestly, speaking as an introvert, sometimes a breather track is exactly what we need between the emotional belting sessions. Most likely to be turned into a TikTok dance Then, there are some National Day songs that come with choreography so intriguing, you just have to try it. Take the 2021's The Road Ahead . With its slow, soothing melody and hopeful message, you'd expect it to soundtrack a candlelight vigil - not a living room dance session. But then ActiveSG dropped a full-blown choreography video meant for a workout routine, and suddenly, everyone stuck at home during the pandemic was waving their hands dramatically in sync. SCREENGRAB: NDPEEPS/YOUTUBE It was hilarious - and oddly unifying. The power of TikTok, truly. And let's not forget Stronger Together (2022). With its steady rhythm and motivational hook, it was practically made for wholesome, slightly cringe TikTok dances. SCREENGRAB: NDPEEPS/YOUTUBE Think: sweeping hand gestures and a dramatic double bicep pose the moment the line "stronger together" drops. Instant TikTok gold. Whether intentional or not, these songs prove that a little choreography goes a long way - especially when TikTok gets its hands on it. Best 'Majulah' energy These are the songs with oomph. The grandeur. That unmistakable National Day zing that screams: "I'm proud to be Singaporean", fireworks or not. Some songs don't just sing, they salute. We Are Singapore (1987) is a prime example - a full-blown power anthem made to rally the nation. And that spoken-word bridge? Basically the National Pledge with a backing track. Majulah vibes all the way. SCREENGRAB: NDPEEPS/YOUTUBE One United People (2003) also earns a rightful spot in this category. It's not the loudest in the room, but it radiates quiet strength. With its steady build and choral swell, it delivers that resolute, hand-over-heart energy fit for a grandstand moment. SCREENGRAB: NDPEEPS/YOUTUBE Whether it's thunderous pride or calm conviction, these songs don't just sound patriotic - they embody it. If any songs deserve a salute, it's these. This is home, truly National Day songs hit each of us a little differently. From chest-thumping anthems to guilty-pleasure bops, they've soundtracked our parades, our childhoods, and those quiet moments of Singaporean pride. Yes, it can feel a little embarrassing knowing every word to these corny classics, but sometimes, it's worth revisiting the songs we grew up with. To remember the thrill of waving a flag as a Primary 5 kid at your first National Day Parade. Because at the end of the day, this is home. Truly.
