Hijau hitmaker Datuk Zainal Abidin turns nostagic when he talks about his time with Headwind. Loong Wai Ting reports on their upcoming reunion of sorts and why the band won’t be releasing a new album
AT the height of its popularity, local pop rock band Headwind enjoyed tremendous success, with fans from around the world.
But when its lead singer Datuk Zainal Abidin announced his exit from the group citing personal reasons, it sent ripples throughout the local music industry with fans crying foul over his decision.
Almost three decades later, Zainal, who has enjoyed a great music career so far, reminisced about the good old days.
“I do miss the old days when everyone in the band performed together onstage. Thinking back sure makes me feel nostalgic. It makes me feel young again,” he said at a Press conference to announce The Musical Journey Of Zainal Abidin — 35th Anniversary Concert.
To be held at the Plenary Hall of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on Feb 25, the concert celebrates Zainal’s journey and involvement in the music industry.
Although Headwind — made up of Zainal (vocals), Zulkifli Kasim (guitarist and vocals), Nicky Ooi (bass), Abdul Razak Salleh (drums) and Kudin (keyboard) — has faded out of the limelight, there is no doubt that fans are yearning for its return.
REUNION OF SORTS
“Everywhere I go, the fans have been asking if we will ever get back again, even if it’s just for one show. The thing is, everyone is busy with their own lives and careers. It’s not easy to get everyone on the same page again after all these years,” he said.
But the longstanding artiste has indeed managed to get everyone together again. They’ll be performing at the anniversary concert.
“It’s a reunion of sorts,” he said, adding that it took him a year to get everyone to agree to the schedule.
When asked about some of the highlights of performing together with the band, the Hijau hitmaker said: “There were so many beautiful memories including the time when we opened for the American band Miami Sound Machine when it performed at Stadium Negara.
“We were a fairly new band then and nobody had heard of us before. But the moment we went up on stage and did our thing, the crowd went crazy. I can still hear their screams to this day. It was indeed memorable,” he said proudly.
In 1989, the band, known for evergreen hits such as Suraya, Kita Serupa and Hanya Di Radio, broke up after releasing its sixth studio album, Meditasi.
Zainal went on to pursue a successful solo career, bass player Ooi set up his fishing paraphernalia business, while the rest of the band members performed occasionally at events and clubs.
STILL IN DEMAND
Right after his Plenary Hall performance, Zainal and the band will be heading to Singapore for a one-night performance. And this will be the final time to catch the band in action live.
“The demand was high for us to perform in Singapore. Fans were sending us requests through social media. After some discussion with the rest, I thought ‘why not?’ We’re in the midst of finalising the details,” he said.
As for plans for another album, Zainal said it will never happen. “That’s for sure. No more albums from Headwind. There’s no intention to craft anything new with the band. We’re getting together solely for the concert and everyone has agreed to that,” he said.
Personally, though, Zainal said he will be releasing a final solo album by end of this year. He cited his age as a factor.
“I’m getting old,” said the 57-year-old, who barely looks his age. “Age is catching up. I even plan to retire this year. But the more I want to do so, the more singing offers there are for me. If health permits, I will continue to sing,” he said of his decision.
FIT FOR LIFE
These days, his priority in life is to stay fit and healthy. “I exercise a lot and maintain a balanced diet. I’ve been going to the gym almost everyday and doing cardio workouts.
“Perhaps this is the reason why people say I still look the same after all these years!” he said, before breaking into a laugh.
The 150-minute show at Plenary Hall will be backed by some of the biggest names in the local music industry, including Mac Chew, Jenny Chin, Andy Peterson, Aji and Steve Thornton.
Fans will get to listen to Zainal’s classic tunes such as Hijau, Orak Arek, Puteri, Bongkar, Kau Di Hatiku, Debu Liar and Damai.
Using state-of-the-art technology with high production value, the concert, organised by Shiraz Projects, promises to be an unforgettable affair, just like his legendary 1992 sold-out event, Konsert Ikhlas.
THE MUSICAL JOURNEY OF ZAINAL ABIDIN — 35TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT
When: Feb 25, 8.30pm
Where: Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, KL
Admission: Between RM158 and RM958
Visit: www.myticket.asia
Call: 03-8076 6700 or 03-8076 6500.