Indonesian jazz singer Tulus kicked off his concert tour in Kuala Lumpur recently to rousing success
CONSIDERING that Tulus is a relatively new singer from neighbouring Indonesia, the recent Tulus Sewindu Tour — Kuala Lumpur concert at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre’s Plenary Hall was a rousing success.
Some 2,400 fans filled up the hall, which could accomodate up to 3,000 people.
Marking the second time the 31-year-old singer-songwriter has performed here after his first performance at Istana Budaya in September last year, the recent concert was part of Tulus marking his eight years in showbusiness. It was also the first of the tour series to be held in Indonesia later.
“I’m very glad and grateful to be back here in Kuala Lumpur. After the response I received from my first performance here, I knew I had to return to entertain Malaysian fans,” the singer declared in between his performance.
“Sept 28 will mark my eighth year in this industry. Because of that, I have named this tour series Sewindu, which means eight years,” said the crooner, whose full name is Muhammad Tulus.
Throughout the two-hour performance, Tulus kept thanking the audience for their support.
Although Tulus, known for his jazzy tunes, may appear to be a serious person, the atmosphere was relaxed, with him even cracking some jokes.
It was good to see his die-hard fans singing along with him, even to recently-released tunes such as Adu Rayu. In the audience was also none other than Malaysia’s No. 1 singer, Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, who was accompanied by her husband Datuk Seri Khalid Mohamad Jiwa.
Recognising Siti, Tulus jokingly said that he was becoming a little nervous.
“It’s as if there’s a jury assessing my singing tonight. Hopefully, I’ll be forgiven for any minor mistakes,” he said.
Tulus also acknowledged the other Malaysian singers and celebrities who were also present — Datuk Sheila Majid, Dayang Nurfaizah, Hael Husaini, Datuk Fazley Yaakob, Sherry Alhadad, Nabila Huda and Atilia.
“Although we don’t really know one another well, it’s heartening to see all of you here tonight. Thank you for your support,” he said.
Although Tulus has only been in the business less than a decade, the maturity showcased at the concert was extraordinary. Vocally, he excelled and he had the audience enthralled right from the start when he took to the stage to sing the song Baru.
The audience obviously enjoyed listening to his sharing life stories and his journey so far.
“I still remember the time before I had my own record. Many recording companies rejected me, it was only Ari (Renaldi) who believed in my talent and music. Until today, he is still producing for me,”said Tulus as he introduced his record producer who was on drums that night. Besides Ari, Tulus was also accompanied by 16 experienced musicians and back-up singers.
While some may think that with only three albums under his belt, it would be impossible for him to stage a decent concert, Tulus proved that with the right ingredients, a good singer can have the audience enamoured.
His melodious voice, excellent musicians, world-class sound system, and Tulus’ relaxed and warm demeanour that evening made it all an enjoyable experience for those who turned up at the concert.
About 23 songs were performed, including Gajah, Ruang Sendiri, Adu Rayu, Monokrom, Langit Abu-Abu, Tuan Nona Kesepian, Teman Hidup, Lagu Untuk Matahari, Pamit, Manusia Kuat, Sewindu, Baru, Jatuh Cinta, Tukar Jiwa, Cahaya, Teman Pesta, Kisah Sebentar, Labirin, Tergila-Gila and Sepatu.
Originally from Bukittingi in West Sumatra, Tulus also paid homage to his heritage by giving a beautiful rendition of Minang folk songs in a medley consisting tunes Tari Payuang, Mudiak Arau, Tak Tontong and Dindin Badindin. His rendition reminded me of my favourite version performed by Elfa’s Singers, a vocal group founded by the late Indonesian composer Elfa Secioria.
Tulus also sang Saloma’s Bila Larut Malam and Cinta Jangan Kau Pergi, a song composed by Indonesian duo Ryan Kyoto and Balyanto which had been sung by Sheila. While many Indonesian singers have also covered the song (including pop diva Vina Panduwinata), Tulus made the song his own that evening. Even Sheila gave him a standing ovation!
And at the end of the show, the crowd rose to their feet to join her in giving the talented crooner the endorsement which he truly deserves.