Having given fans chart-topping hits, such as the infectious duet Kalau Aku Kaya with Singaporean singer-songwriter, Awi Rafael, rapper Altimet will bid farewell to live performances for good when he turns 40 on Nov 27, next year.
A bankable name in the hip-hop music scene for almost two decades, the Petaling Jaya-born artiste, whose real name is Ahmad Abdul Rahman, said his decision was neither sudden nor the result of unhappiness with individuals.
Far from being disappointed with the local music scene, Altimet, who made his musical debut in 1999 as a member of hip-hop group Teh Tarik Crew, said: “It’s part of my long-term plan which I’ve actually conveyed to fellow musicians years ago.
“I’ve been singing for almost 20 years and after such a long period, I’ve decided to move to the next level, which will include producing, writing and composing for artistes full-time.”
While Altimet’s singing days will be over next year, he will always be optimistic about the industry that made him who he is.
“As a recording artiste, I’ve found the industry most fulfilling, and I’m thankful to have worked with many talented singers, composers and lyricists over the years.”
He said 40 would be the right age to move out of his comfort zone and do something different, while still related to music.
“Challenges make me grow as a person and I want to help new artistes establish themselves.
“I plan to become a mentor and compose music for these yet-to-be-discovered gems. However, I prefer to introduce them through new singles as fans will appreciate their talents better,” he said, adding that he also planned to produce music videos.
Altimet, who also runs an Islamic men’s fashion business, Benua Clothing in Plaza Masalam, Shah Alam, since three years ago, is promoting his latest single, Amboi, from his third album of the same name.
“Amboi, like Kalau Aku Kaya, is a critique of the ‘me first’ mentality among Malaysians,” he said.
Altimet is gifting his fans with his final album, set for an early 2018 release.
There are nine other tracks, and they include duets with The Kawan Band, Aman-Ra, Diandra Arjunaidi, Adeep Nahar and Amir Jahari.
“The composers who have helped me with this album are SonaOne, DJ Fuzz, Noh Salleh, Emir Hermono, Fauzi Marzuki and Switch.”