Latest news with #XPDC
New Straits Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Ailing XPDC vocalist Ali offers heartfelt advice amidst band dispute
KUALA LUMPUR: XPDC singer Ali has offered some poignant advice to the two splinter groups of his band, led by Izo and Zua, respectively. The brief but heartfelt message has deeply moved their loyal fans. Ali, who has been receiving treatment at Shah Alam Hospital for shortness of breath over the past week, was visited by his friend Isma Halil Hamzah, founder of the online radio station yesterday. During the visit, Isma Halil spontaneously asked Ali for his thoughts on the strained relationship between the two factions. The dispute stems from the use of the band's name, XPDC, which is owned by the recording company Life Records. Speaking with a choked voice due to his difficulty speaking, Ali said: "God willing, whatever happens is a test from God, just pray. Hopefully, each one has their own identity and brings their own character. God willing, God will grant it. God will give us good things. God willing. That's all." Isma Halil's post on social media sharing Ali's words has already garnered nearly 100,000 views and over 100 shares from fans. Ali first joined XPDC in 1997, replacing the late Mael. His first album with the band was Samurai in 1998. The band later split into two groups. Ali initially performed with the Izo-led faction, which also included Izo on guitar, Eddie (bass), and Lola (drums). However, due to his health issues, Ali's role has since been taken over by Mamu Fazli. Meanwhile, the other group, XPDC Kita Peng Yu (KPY), is made up of Zua (bass), Jef (guitar), and Amy (drums). The late Mael's position in this group is now filled by Ary, the former singer of Fahrenheit. The rift between the two groups has become more public recently. At a press conference for the recent XPDC Metalkestra concert, Izo announced that his group was the legitimate XPDC, having signed a contract with the original logo. This ongoing feud has spilled over onto social media, where fans of both XPDC factions are actively engaging in arguments.
The Star
30-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Malaysia's heavy metal boys are back - legendary group XPDC aims to rock it up in the 'MetalKestra' concert on Nov 8
XPDC, Malaysia's first and foremost heavy metal band, are back again, and this time they aim to rock the fans and the arena in their large-scale concert at Zepp Kuala Lumpur on Nov 8. With over four decades of experience in the local music scene, making history after history through their work and still being considered the greatest heavy metal rock band ever born in the 80s, XPDC has promised fans an unforgettable night on November 8. Aptly named "XPDC MetalKestra", the concert is backed by Republic Mokhmah Records. Team leader and lead guitarist Izo said their concert this time will also have a backing of a full orchestra set-up. On top of that, the concert producers are also offering three personalised electric guitars for the fans at the super concert. One will be represented via a lucky draw, and the other two guitars for the best-dressed female and male fans at the show. Photo provided by Najib-KRU ( Back in 1998, the group won many admirers with an amazing show at the XPDC Konsert Raksasa at Stadium Negara and also in Shah Aam, where a total of more than 50,000 watched them perform. This year, they aim to recreate that magic led by lead guitarist Izo, the original member since 1988, together with Eddie (bass), Arif (guitar), Lola (drummer) and Mamu (lead vocals). Izo, whose real name is Mohd Zulkifly Nik Hussin, himself turning 61 this year, is considered among the foremost guitarists in the game in the country over the last four decades. "The team from 1988 and 1998 and now are very much different. I admit that. But our music is always the same to its core. That will never change. We were the first heavy metal guys, and we will always be that. And you will see that in our concert this year. "We will also make sure Ali, another founding member of XPDC, is present at the concert too. We will see if he can even join us on stage. But all that depends on his health, too." Ali of XPDC is also a household name in Malaysian music, said to be among the best rock vocalists in the business. But he has not been well with heart issues in recent times. However, Izo said he will make sure Ali joins them at the concert, but whether he will perform with them or not will be decided much later. Meanwhile, Musa dari Republic Mokhmah Records said his team are very excited and honoured to be part of the show as the concert producers. "First and foremost, I would like to say that I'm a very big fan of these guys. I have been listening to them since I was a kid, and it is an honour to be able to work with these super rockers," said Musa. "And in honour of these guys, we promise the best of set-up and background that will honour the legacy of XPDC. It will be a show that one will not forget, come Nov 8 and also in the future." "XPDC are among the stars who introduced 'Rock Kapak' to Malaysian music fans. And they are still proving this genre is far from over. They just keep rocking, and Malaysians keep enjoying their music." Meanwhile, XPDC described the "MetalKestra" theme, which combines the metal genre with orchestral playing, as the right choice, as they wanted to present something fresh but still within XPDC's strong genre. 'Fans will not only enjoy the heavy metal that is synonymous with XPDC, but the orchestral combination will add to the richness of the songs that will be performed live to the fans. 'XPDC Metalkestra is also our appreciation for the spirit of the fans who have never lost and supported us through many ups and downs over the past four decades. "This concert is also a benchmark that XPDC will not stop here,' said drummer Lola, who is also a veteran of the band and has been with them since 1997. The group members also promised fans that they will be singing songs from the four decades that the band has been famous for. "And you can bet our famous songs like 'Apa Nak Di Kata, Nafisa, Kita Peng Yu, Hidup Bersama, Hijau Bumi Tuhan and CT Cinta Kenangan Silam' will be played for the fans," said Izo and Lola. Tickets for the show are priced at RM198 (Cat 4 - Samurai -- Normal numbered seating) ; RM338 (Cat 3 – Brutal -- VIP numbered seating, tshirt & poster) ; RM138 (Cat 2 – Darjah Satu -- Free standing) ; RM168 (Cat 1 – Kita Peng-yu -- f ront row standing) ; and RM5,008 (Royal box - 10 pax, meet & greet, goodie bag s ) . Ticket sales will begin from Wednesday (July 30) at iLasso Tickets ( ).
The Star
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
'Please be more responsible', says Karyawan, on certain parties misusing the name or brand associated with musicians and bands
The Malaysian Artistes Association (KARYAWAN) wishes to firmly state its position regarding the misuse of the name and brand 'XPDC' by certain parties who do not possess any official authorisation but continue to use the name in promotional materials, public performances, and commercial appearances. This action has confused fans and event organisers and has the potential to damage the integrity of the local music industry. The name and logo 'XPDC' are registered trademarks exclusively owned by Life Records and are fully protected under the provisions of the Trademarks Act. This brand carries significant commercial value and a reputation built since the early 1990s, making it one of the most influential rock bands in the history of Malaysian music. To date, only two entities have been officially and formally authorised to use the name 'XPDC,' namely XPDC (Kita Pengyu) and XPDC (Militia) – both consisting of original members of the group and officially under the banner of Life Records. However, KARYAWAN has been informed of the existence of another group identifying itself as 'Real XPDC,' which actively performs, promotes concerts, and uses the name 'XPDC' in various promotional materials without any official authorisation or endorsement from the rightful owner. Although the term 'Real' is used as a form of differentiation, the fact remains that the name 'XPDC' is still prominently used, causing public confusion and potentially giving the false impression that they represent the original band or, in this case, the groups that are officially authorised to use the name. From a legal standpoint, this act may constitute a violation of trademark rights, and legal action may be pursued. KARYAWAN does not dismiss the existence of tribute bands as a form of appreciation in the arts. However, it must be carried out responsibly, ethically, and without misleading the public. If the true intention is to pay tribute, then the use of an alternative name that avoids confusion and fosters goodwill with the original group must be the moral and professional basis on which such groups operate, says KARYAWAN. Given no other option, KARYAWAN will most likely refer this matter to the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) to verify whether the name 'Real XPDC' has been improperly registered or falls under a category that causes conflict with the rightful owners. If there is a clear breach of trademark rights, appropriate action will be supported and taken. We urge all artists, organizers, and fans to continue respecting intellectual property rights, artistic legacies, and the legal principles that uphold the stability of the nation's music and entertainment industry. In an official statement to the media, Life Records said that it recognises only the following eight individuals as the genuine and original members of XPDC since the founding of the group and the release of their debut album. Each of these members has entered into an official artist agreement with Life Records: 1. Syed Ismail Bin Syed Ibrahim (Mael); 2. Mohd Zulkifly Bin Nik Hussin (Izo); 3. Azuar Bin Md. Tasi (Zuar); 4. Rosly Bin Abdul Samat (Lee Space); 5. Suhaimi Bin Abu Bakar (Amy); 6. Mohd Ali Bin Ismail (Ali); 7. Saiful Rizla Bin Kamarudin (Lola); 8. Amran Bin Marsiman (Yan). In a statement to the media, Life Records said: "The XPDC logo is a registered trademark owned exclusively by Life Records. Any use of the XPDC logo, name, or any derivative thereof—including but not limited to reproduction on merchandise, apparel, digital or printed promotional materials, or online content—must be licensed and approved in writing by Life Records. Unauthorised use or misrepresentation of the XPDC brand constitutes a violation of intellectual property rights and will be subject to legal action."
