Latest news with #JoeFlizzow
Malay Mail
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
Back to the cyphers: Raising The Bar returns for 15th anniversary with fresh battles, showcases and renewed hope
KUALA LUMPUR, May 29 – Local hip-hop festival Raising The Bar (RTB) is returning for its 15th anniversary despite having said their goodbyes last year. However, this time around they are reimagining everything from the ground up and RTB is looking like they are going back to their roots of cyphers showcases and hip-hop battles. RTB began in 2010 as a monthly gathering for local hip-hop heads to hone their craft and find community and it has grown into a platform that pushes local hip-hop artists forward and eventually turned into a full-blown festival– four to be specific. Over the years, many local and international hip-hop artists have graced the RTB stages and cyphers with the latest one last year includes US rapper and producer Oddisee, Indonesian rapper TuanTigaBelas along with local talents such as 53 Universe, Airliftz, Sonaone, Balan Kash and Joe Flizzow. 'In 2024, we tried to level up with the fourth RTB Fest, despite limited time and budget. It was our biggest swing yet and we missed. 'The consequences were far-reaching, setting off a ripple effect that, regrettably, impacted those around us. 'A year later, we're rebuilding from the ground up with a renewed sense of purpose,' RTB wrote in a post on their Instagram. They added that they are now committed to laying down a stronger foundation for future generations while assuring fans that the best is yet to come. What to Expect at RTB 2025? Although no details are available on the main RTB 2025 or whether there will be any festival yet this year, they have already announced two events that will take place this June at local cafe bar Triptyk in Kampung Attap, KL. Happening on June 13, RTB will be presenting their first BAD RAP series which is a rework of their monthly rap showcases from 2010. The first BAD RAP is set to feature Singaporean sarong-wearing rapper AbangSapau alongside Ban Huat's multilingual rapper Dametrill as well as Ampang rapper and producer SXPH who will be performing new tracks from his upcoming project ATLANTIS68. They are also joined by duo Moghul Miz and Mister Two Five along with an after-party set by local DJ and producer I-SKY and the event will be hosted by one of RTB founders Old Head Jin. BAD RAP is a ticketed event where online tickets are available for RM45 while door sale is RM60. Meanwhile for aspiring rappers, there will be an all-out rap battle coined as the Under Pressure series, happening this June 26 at the same location with the theme 'rap battle, but make it weird'. The Under Pressure series is more than just a normal rap battle where participants would have to rap battle through a set of four challenges which includes freestyling on a topic, don't say that word, compliment battle and the impossible beat. The winner will get to go home with 30 percent of the night's ticket earnings where online tickets are sold at RM25 while door sale is RM35. For more information on RTB's BAD RAP and Under Pressure series, please click here.
Malay Mail
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
From Texas to Kedah: Malaysian rapper Zamaera gears up for national ‘Epiphany Tour' after SXSW high
KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 — Malaysian singer-songwriter Zamaera is back in the country and she's hungrier than ever. The 29-year-old from Subang Jaya, Selangor is riding high after making her debut at not one, but three showcases at SXSW 2025 in March. SXSW, or South by Southwest, is a renowned annual festival and conference in Texas, the United States, celebrating the intersection of music, film, interactive media and education that has been running since 1987, drawing global creatives and industry players each year. Now, building on the momentum from her SXSW appearances – and fuelled by a last-minute cancellation of her Japan tour – Zamaera has her eyes locked firmly on the future. But before we look ahead, here's a quick rewind on the rapper behind the single 'Z vs Z' Zamaera was previously featured on Joe Flizzow's acclaimed album 'Havoc' in the track 'Aku Tak Kenalmu'. — Picture by Raymond Manuel Zamaera, whose full name is Sharifah Zamaera Syed Zafilen Al Edros, began her journey in the local entertainment industry at nine years old, transitioning from TV hosting to becoming one of Malaysia's prominent female rappers. Early in her career, she was featured on Joe Flizzow's 2013 Havoc album in the track 'Aku Tak Kenalmu'. She later emerged as runner-up in the 2016 Red Bull Blend Cypher, standing out as the only female competitor. She officially debuted as a solo rapper in 2017 with her single 'Helly Kelly', and has since continued to break boundaries. She was the first artiste to headline a hip-hop show at the prestigious Istana Budaya during the 2020 Asean-Korean Music Festival (AKMF Round). In 2023, she launched Queendom Fest through her company Mean Malaya Entertainment. The event, Malaysia's first all-female music festival, featured acts such as Dolla, Hullera, and The Impatient Sisters. In 2021, she parted ways with US indie label Lakefront Records and has since been moving independently, with Mean Malaya now at the core of her creative journey. SXSW debut Performing at SXSW had always been a dream for Zamaera and in March, it became a reality. Over two days, she took the stage at three showcases: Taiwan Beats Day Party, Women in Music Canada, and Sounds of SEA (South-east Asia), the latter spearheaded by Malaysian music advocate Arin Sharnaz Rashdi of Tala Records Asia. She secured her spot at the renowned festival after applying through SXSW's official platform in September 2024 – just days before the deadline, and received confirmation two months later. 'I was celebrating a friend's birthday when I got the email, we were jumping up and down,' Zamaera said. 'I immediately called my family. My parents have always been a huge part of my journey. I had to tell them first.' That excitement translated into her performances, where her opening act at the Taiwan Beats Day Party drew nearly 170 people out of a 200-capacity venue. 'That showcase really set the tone for the whole trip. Because of it, people came to the next two shows,' she said. Her SXSW set featured her original songs, as well as remixes including a unique take on 'Ikan Kekek' by legendary singer Saloma. Beyond the stage, Zamaera also made industry connections, including with US producer Theron 'Neff-U' Feemster, known for working with Michael Jackson, Eminem, and Dr Dre. 'This time around, I didn't feel like a fish out of water,' she said. 'In 2018, everything was overwhelming – it was fast-paced, and I didn't know how to navigate. I was 23 then. I've grown since, especially in terms of mindset.' The Epiphany Tour Zamaera had planned an eight-city tour in Japan this April, including stops in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, but the trip was cancelled at the last minute due to organiser issues. Refusing to lose steam, she redirected her energy into a national six-state tour, dubbed The Epiphany Tour. The tour kicks off in Kedah, Penang and Perak from May 9 to May 11, followed by Melaka (May 14), Sabah (May 16), and Sarawak (May 17). She will wrap up the tour by headlining the Road to FAM (Future Asian Music) show at Over & Above Club in Kuala Lumpur on May 21. FAM is a collaboration between major record label 88rising and denim brand Levi's. Zamaera will be joined on tour by long-time producer and collaborator I-SKY, and will spotlight at least two local acts at each stop. For instance, Alor Setar audiences can catch DJ NZHN as the opening act. Fans can expect a refined version of her SXSW sets throughout the tour. This marks her second national tour, following a self-funded four-state tour in 2022. 'That first tour, I did it all on my own,' she said. 'I took the bus, set up my own shows, worked with each venue's DJ. The Epiphany Tour is a result of the relationships I've built since then.' The 'Epiphany Tour' is built on the experiences and connections Zamaera made during her 2022 tour. — Picture by Raymond Manuel Planning this time around has been smoother than expected, with support not only from guest artistes but also venue providers and local partners. The tour is officially supported by BYD Iroll EV, who are providing transportation for the journey. Looking forward, Zamaera hopes to see more 'plug-and-play' venues around Malaysia to support local creatives and boost the economy. She also encourages other local artistes to consider touring but stresses the importance of being financially prepared. 'My manager helped break down everything – venues, accommodation, transport, food, production – so we could really track expenses,' she said. 'Financial literacy is so important. I used to be scared of facing the numbers. But when you understand the cost, ticket sales, and audience size, you can plan properly.' Beyond her national tour, Zamaera is also finalising an Asia Tour, with plans to perform in six countries including Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand. She is also set to perform at FAM 2025 in Bangkok this June.
Independent Singapore
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Independent Singapore
Desaru Coast unveils a bigger and bolder 2025 Ombak Festival
- Advertisement - MALAYSIA: Desaru Coast has just unveiled its bigger and bolder Ombak Festival for 2025. The action-packed weekend includes Simply Red headlining the event with a star-studded ensemble, including international and local acts. Happening from Sept 12 to 14, 2025, it will be fun for everyone and a celebration of creativity, culture, and community. The event is being hosted by Desaru Coast, the perfect award-winning destination resort and home to five-star resorts all within walking distance of the festival village. 'For our second year, building on our intentionally diverse ethos, we are going bolder in vision, broader in scope and bursting with Southeast Asian soul. The play this year is to intrepidly represent the best of ASEAN by uniting global icons with regional talents to stage an unparalleled experience of live music, taste explorations, and artistic expression in one ultimate weekend,' said Karina Ridzuan, director of Ombak Festival. 'We are thrilled to present Simply Red's exclusive Southeast Asian performance as the band celebrates their 40th anniversary. The festival also welcomes funk legend George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic, while Joss Stone offers a soulful preview of her upcoming 2025 album and DJ duo Flight Facilities make their long-awaited Malaysian debut. Taking the same stage are ASEAN powerhouses of talent — Thailand's Phum Viphurit, our very own anak Johor, Joe Flizzow and friends, SonaOne and Ismail Izzani, Malaysian ska veterans Gerhana Skacinta, Singapore's The Pinholes, and Indonesia's Diskoria and Tanayu — and we have more Southeast Asian acts to announce in July,' Karina said. - Advertisement - 'With iconic acts and culture-defining moments, Ombak Festival 2025 is set to deliver another year of extraordinary experiences in our intimate coastal setting. Driving our ambition is the vision to establish the event as Southeast Asia's must-attend festival, setting the stage as we build momentum towards Visit Johor and Visit Malaysia Year 2026. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of the state authorities and the communities across the Greater Desaru region, whose collaboration was instrumental in bringing Ombak Festival to life,' she added. Grab your early bird passes! Early bird passes are now available, so don't miss the opportunity to secure tickets to one of the most highly anticipated music events of the year at or Ticketmelon. 1-Day Pass 2-Day Pass - Advertisement - 3-Day Pass Friday (Sep 12) RM200 (S$58) - Advertisement - Saturday (Sep 13) RM300 (S$87) Sunday (Sep 14) RM300 (S$87) Saturday & Sunday (Sep 13 & 14) RM550 (S$167) Friday, Saturday & Sunday (Sep 12, 13, & 14) RM650 (S$197) Main Stage Flight Facilities LZZY Main Stage Simply Red Joe Flizzow, SonaOne and Ismail Izzani Phum Viphurit Tanayu Vanthan Main Stage George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic Joss Stone The Pinholes Gerhana Skacinta Don West Keyana Main Stage Simply Red George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic Joss Stone Joe Flizzow, SonaOne and Ismail Izzani Phum Viphurit Tanayu Vanthan The Pinholes Gerhana Skacinta Don West Keyana Main Stage Simply Red George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic Joss Stone Flight Facilities Joe Flizzow, SonaOne and Ismail Izzani Phum Viphurit Tanayu Vanthan The Pinholes Gerhana Skacinta Don West Keyana LZZY Studio Ombak Blackout Agency feat. Miss Lil, Sivanesh, Zig Zach, Ouissam, JonnyVicious Studio Ombak NADA Diskoria Studio Ombak Blackout Agency feat. Miss Lil, Sivanesh, Zig Zach, Ouissam, JonnyVicious NADA Diskoria Studio Ombak Blackout Agency feat. Miss Lil, Sivanesh, Zig Zach, Ouissam, JonnyVicious NADA Diskoria Village Stage Golden Mammoth Masia One & The Jah Jah Army Village Stage The Filters Kyoto Protocol Village Stage Golden Mammoth Masia One & The Jah Jah Army The Filters Kyoto Protocol Village Stage Golden Mammoth Masia One & The Jah Jah Army The Filters Kyoto Protocol To enjoy the festival at your doorstep, book your stay at one of Desaru Coast's 5-star resorts: Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, and Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas. The Ultimate Weekend redefined through sound, taste, art, and play Be it soul, funk, pop or hip-hop, the festival stages come alive with legendary musicians. Get ready to be wowed by the classic Simply Red as well as George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic. Revel in a soul session with Joss Stone or go on an electronic journey with Australia's Flight Facilities. Enjoy dreamy indie-pop tracks by Thailand's Phum Viphurit. Joe Flizzow, Sona One, and Ismail Izzani are Malaysia's homegrown talent. Don West brings fresh and zesty energy with diverse sounds. Diskoria delivers infectious grooves, while Gerhana Skacinta specialises in the ska musical style. The Pinholes exude indie charm and dynamic renditions of funk, soul, and pop together with classic rock and roll. Blackout Agency from Singapore is set to make waves while on the decks, Miss Lil, Sivanesh, Zig Zach, Ouissam and JonnyVicious will bring down the house. While Keyana, Kyoto Protocol, LZZY, and Masia One & The Jah Jah Army bring smooth rhythms and daring performances to the festival, Disko Santan and Golden Mammoth will keep the dance floors crowded. In a celebration of sound, culture, and unadulterated joy, NADA, Tanayu, The Filters, and Vanthan from Cambodia all contribute their distinct styles to the stage, making every moment amazing! Besides music, Ombak Festival has something for everyone. There will be immersive art installations, creative workshops, gastronomic adventures and fun zones for children. Taste and toast to good times Savour both Malaysian and ASEAN ingredients and flavours by the top chefs from the region. While Carbon KL offers Smoke & Fire, which elevates grilling with innovative techniques, also savour the Flavours of Johor, an outstanding feast that showcases the best of local tastes. Festival attendees will also be treated to the magnificent Sazón Tapas & Grill by Andrew Walsh. Nurture the Artistic Side Through carefully designed exhibits that showcase cultural narratives, ancient techniques, and modern expressions derived from Malaysia's rich artistic past and the region's creative energy, art enthusiasts may immerse themselves in a captivating experience. Pasar Seloka is a vibrant marketplace filled with artisanal mementoes. Pulau Pulao DIY and upcycling workshops are perfect for those who want to craft their creations. All Tiled Up is where you can learn how to play mahjong just like in Crazy Rich Asians. Big Fun for the Little Ones At Ombak Kids, children can immerse themselves in the Funfair of Forgotten Future, a build-and-play experience with the LEGOLAND Speed Building Challenge. There is also interaction with the festival's specially commissioned giant puppets, Meera & Fiz, by Thailand's Nice Monster puppetry studio. The 10-foot Meera & Fiz represent figures from Johor's rich folklore and were crowd favourites last year, together. There will also be kitemaking lessons with Go Fly Kites and super-sized garden games by Mereka Games, both returning due to popular demand. Getting to Desaru Coast • From Singapore: A two-hour drive OR a 90-minute ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. For more information, visit
Hype Malaysia
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Taiwanese Star Sunny Wang Hangs Out With Joe Flizzow & Chows Down On Local Dishes While In KL
Kuala Lumpur recently welcomed many international stars, from HK actor Oscar Leung (梁競徽) to Korean actress Song Jihyo (송지효). Taiwanese actor Sunny Wang (王陽明) was also recently in town, busy playing tourist and checking out the local food scene. The Taiwanese-American star was recently in town to attend an EDM music festival. Upon his arrival last week, Sunny took to social media to ask locals what food he should try while in KL as it's been years since his previous visit. He also teased that the dishes will be featured in his ongoing food vlog series, 'Lao Wang Food Special'. The comment section saw all sorts of food recommendations, from roti canai to nasi lemak. After a few days in the city, Sunny updated his social media to share with fans what he did in KL. As seen in his Instagram post, the 42-year-old ate a lot of local dishes, including nasi lemak, nasi kandar and satay. He also met with Malaysian rapper Joe Flizzow and visited a local night market. Sunny also shared a clip from his performance at the 404 Club Not Found nightclub in TREC KL. In the posts' captions, Sunny thanked local fans for the warm welcome and the kind response during his visit. He also said that he ate a lot of good food while in town and filmed a lot for his food vlog. Sunny also mentioned looking forward to returning with his wife, Dizzy Dizzo (蔡诗芸), asking fans to recommend food for their next trip. The actor also gave a shoutout to Joe Flizzow through Instagram Stories, thanking the rapper for his hospitality. Fans reacted to the post, expressing excitement upon learning that Sunny had a great time in KL. Many also said they look forward to seeing his food vlog and seeing him return with his wife. Some also responded to his request for food recommendations, saying he should visit other states, like Penang and Sabah. Joe Flizzow also dropped a comment, saying he's looking forward to hanging out with Sunny the next time he's in Taipei. It definitely seemed like Sunny had a great time in KL. Perhaps the next time he's here, he'll meet more stars and discover more local dishes! Sources: Instagram, XiaoHongShu (1)(2)
