Latest news with #AlaAmerika
New Straits Times
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: The nation's gracious rock queen delivers her best
AN icon and an institution, Malaysia's rock queen Ella Aminuddin always delivers her best. And her first major concert in Genting Highlands was a blast, attended by 5,000-odd fans who packed the Arena Of Stars recently. Beautiful and youthful as ever, the music legend belted out 20 of her songs, including medleys, and got everyone partying non-stop for two hours. That extravaganza, which featured six talented musicians led by music director Datuk Acis, was the Ella USA 30th Anniversary Concert which kicked off at 8.30pm and was power-packed throughout its run. AMERICAN Ella began with the most "American" of songs from the 13-track 'Ella USA', her best-selling 1994 album which she recorded in California, the United States titled 'Ala Amerika'. 'Ala Amerika' spoke to fans about striking a balance between American and Malaysian ways, This was followed by 'Itulah Saya', a song which summed up the rock queen's philosophy of being herself. Ella's third song 'Risau' spoke to fans about examination worries during her schooldays. She ended it with a Happy Teachers Day greeting. "Without our teachers, we would not be standing tall," said Ella to roaring applause. ORPHANS Ella continued with 'Esok Lusa Selamanya', about reaching out to orphaned children. "I've visited them many times and it's great that many are my big fans," said Ella, before belting out a "love triangle" song. 'Aku Kau Dia,' was about her feeling "left behind" after witnessing her elder siblings getting married. "Thankfully, I found my life partner, and he is a wonderful man!" Next up, 'Rindu' was a poignant tune about Ella missing her loved ones whenever she goes overseas. This also included her month-long stay in Japan when she recorded 'Ella USA'. Ella continued her heartfelt tunes with 'Penawar', a plea to care for people in pain. "There are many people who suffer in silence. Please be their friends," said Ella. 'Nuri', an anthem of freedom, was easily recognised by Ella's cooing prelude. This song was paired with 'Permata Pemotong Permata', a motivational song about aiming high in life. It has always served as Ella's clarion call for Malaysians to reach for the stars and she led by example by working with Japan's guitar legend Kyoji Yamamoto. YAMAMOTO In fact, Kyoji rocked the stage throughout and when Ella introduced him, he waved and smiled at the audience before shouting "Apa khabar Malaysia?" Ella's next song, 'Mungkin', was one of the 10 in 'Ella USA' which Kyoji composed for her. "I love you forever, ladies and gentlemen!" said Ella. After a power-packed song about peace, 'Bendera Damai', Ella introduced her longtime collaborator Datuk M. Nasir who appeared in a special video on the large screen overlooking the stage. Nasir, who smiled at Ella and congratulated her, said that he and Kyoji were the producers of 'Ella USA', and its songs were "modern, yet full of heart and soul". Ella's Mr Right finally appeared on stage, dashing as ever. Muar-born Azhar Ghazali wore a black outfit that complimented Ella's white dress, and they sang 'Peace Love Rindu' which began with "miss you so". They followed this with the adventurous 'Kembara Kita' and here Azhar showed that he could hold his own. Ella and Azhar wished all firemen Happy Hari Bomba, and paid tribute to all Abang Bomba as the country's unsung heroes. CLIMAX The climax of the evening finally arrived when Ella pointed her microphone at the crowd, who sang the entire chorus of 'Layar Impian'. Ella also sang five "sad songs" with them, about longing, breakups and lost love. 'Pengemis Cinta', 'Sembilu', 'Pedih', Retak', and 'Sepi Sekuntum Mawar Merah', marked the height of sing-alongs and everyone was standing up and waving. Ella wished everyone goodnight and safe driving home, but the crowd began chanting for an encore. They had their wish and Ella returned with Azhar and Kyoji to sing four upbeat, motivational and Malaysia Boleh songs. These were 'Permata Biru', 'Kitalah Bintang', 'Standing In The Eyes Of The World' and 'Gemilang'. Ella has been rocking since she was 18. Forty years on, she remains unbeatable.
Hype Malaysia
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Ella's 30th Anniversary Concert Review: A Rock ‘N' Roll Time Machine With A Heart
Ella rocked Genting Highlands' Arena of Stars to celebrate 30 years of her iconic album Ella USA over the weekend. Over 4,200 fans packed the venue, turning it into a roaring rock party fuelled by powerful vocals, unforgettable hits, and endless love for one of Malaysia's true rock legends. From the moment the iconic opening track 'Ala Amerika' echoed through the arena, the crowd was instantly swept back to the 90s – the era when Ella's fiery voice first stormed the local music scene. Fans leapt to their feet, dancing and belting out every lyric like time had paused. It was a shared moment of pure nostalgia, reminding us why her music has transcended generations. Rocking With Kyoji Yamamoto – A Legendary Collaboration Adding an electrifying twist to the night was none other than legendary Japanese shredder Kyoji Yamamoto. Flying in all the way from Hawaii, Kyoji's blistering riffs injected pure rock adrenaline, especially on anthems like 'Rindu' and 'Penawar.' His presence wasn't just a cool cameo – it was a rare reunion recalling the original 1992 Osaka and Tokyo tour with Ella, plus the recording sessions in the chilly studios of LA and San Francisco where 'Ella USA' was born. On stage, Kyoji's guitar work was a masterclass in precision and passion, sending chills through even the most stoic fans. Then came the slow burners 'Menanti' and 'Mungkin,' pulling at heartstrings so deeply that a few couldn't hold back tears as raw emotion spilled from the stage. More Than Just A Concert – A Storytelling Experience Ella did more than sing – she pulled the crowd backstage with tales of recording 'Ella USA' in snowy LA, sharing stories that gave a raw glimpse into the grit and passion behind the music. Vintage footage flickered on the big screen, making us feel like we were right there beside her through those creative days. This wasn't just nostalgia; it was a celebration of artistry and resilience, giving Malaysian fans a unique insight into a rock legend's journey. Sleek, Powerful & Unfiltered Production The stage design was sleek and timeless, stripping away distractions to keep every eye glued to the music and its makers. Lighting shifted perfectly – intimate blues during the emotional ballads, vibrant reds and purples for rockers like 'PLR' and 'Kembara Kita.' Lyrics projected on screen invited the entire arena into a massive sing-along – a communal joy that felt almost sacred. Sonically, the show hit the mark – zero autotune, zero fluff. Just raw, powerful vocals and jaw-dropping guitar wizardry. The drums and bass locked in tight, driving every track with precision. It was a perfect reminder of why Ella and Kyoji still rule the rock throne 30 years on. Rocking Beyond Music – Honoring Malaysian Heroes This wasn't just a concert – it was a celebration of community. Genting Malaysia's CSR program gifted free tickets to local heroes – teachers, firefighters, and rescue squads – recognising their everyday rockstar moments. This heartfelt tribute added a layer of unity and gratitude that made the night even more special, reminding us that real-life heroes often don't get the spotlight they deserve. Why Ella's Fire Still Burns Bright As someone who wasn't a die-hard Ella fan growing up, I found myself swept up in the magic. This was more than a concert; it was a cultural heartbeat bridging generations, blending stories, memories, and the enduring spirit of Malaysian rock. The emotional rollercoaster – from tearjerkers to anthems that made the whole crowd dance – showcased Ella's ability to evolve, inspire, and unite us in sound and soul. Ella isn't just a rock legend – she's the heartbeat of Malaysian music, still setting stages ablaze 30 years on. With every note, every story, and every roar from the crowd, she reminds us why her fire never fades. Here's to many more decades of Ella owning the rock throne and inspiring every generation that follows.
