"RAW VIBES OF THE URBAN ARIES"

Nana & The Vibes

2008-09-23T08:20:00.000+08:00

RECENT PICS OF NANA & THE VIBES

Hi frenz...

Don't wanna write much.. Just wanna put some pics up for your viewing pleasure...
Wedding pics not uploaded yet because my hub is too busy nowadays... So have to wait lah hor...

:-) :-P

Meantime, you enjoy these aite.... Cheers...

Nana & The Vibes

Nana (Vocals)
Rayhul (Lead Guitars)
Aida (Keyboards)
Rafi (Drums)
Bai (Bass Guitars)

Random

2008-09-02T05:19:00.000+08:00

RANDOM....

I love Allah, my Mak, my Abah, my Bebe, my 2 bros, Amin n Amrien, and my 2 sistas, Diena n Afni, I love my whole family....

I love Nana & The Vibes!!!! I love my job, I love da people around me, lovers n haters alike.....

I love my old school mates from Madrasah Al-Sagoff Al-Arabiah...

I love my mates from Methodist High School, Malacca.... I love Stamford College of London!!!

I love my ex-bfs, hits n misses.... ;-p

I love LIFE!!!!

I love me!!!! N Of coz, I love YOU, past n present...

And I love not knowing the future....

Cos the future will always be beautiful...

At least to ME.....

And to the people who love me,

I THANK YOU WITH ALL THE LOVE IN MY HEART!!!!

Just Married

2008-08-29T02:49:00.000+08:00

JUST MARRIED....

Hey peeps...

Hell yeah I'm married!!!! I can't believe it!! Still trying to get use to the idea of being a unit in the eyes of law and religion hahahaha... I've been so independent my whole life, that now to have someone to really share it with, well, let's just say it's an experience of a lifetime hahaha....

Pictures are a lot I tell you, Almost 800 of 'em.. I will try to find time to upload some of the best ones soon... But I'd have to say the memories will always be embedded in my mind forever after... Especially the time when my abah sang my favourite song, Angin Malam, for me and he cried during the song and my siblings converge on him and sang together with him... That's a priceless moment.. It shows that my family is really tight and we love each other with all our hearts.. Mak was crying silently in a corner watching us... Sigh... priceless..

Another thing is, my husband surpasses my expectations during his akad nikah hehehe... For all of you who knows how Fairoz is, you know that it's a feat for him to even speak hahaha... Before our marriage, I told him that I don't expect him to lafazkan akad once, but if he an do it in 3 trys, I'll be happy... Kept telling him to practice but he said no need cos he wants it to be impromptu, so I told him to say the abbreviated version which is like, " Aku terima nikahnya Nur Hasanah Zakaria dgn mas kahwinnya tersebut"...

On the nikah day, he really amazed me when he lafazkan nikah "Aku terima nikahnya Nur Hasanah Binte Zakaria dgn mas kahwin nya sebentuk cincin berlian beserta seratus dua puluh dolar tunai"...

He said clearly and we're officially husband and wife with that one try.. I'm so blardy proud of him.. and boy, am I glad he proved me wrong hehehe.... Sigh... Priceless...

Btw, my song with Jaliboy and Sani, entitled "Lafaz" won 2nd for Projek WarnaRia, but I'm happy... We got what we wanted and frankly, when I get to hear the song on radio, I feel pride burst within myself and thankful for the efforts that we all put in for this... Thanks a lot to Warna, Ria, Mediacorp, Jaliboy, Sani Hussein, Fiza O and etc... If I didn't mention your name, it doesn't mean that I don't appreciate you... all the support that we get, I appreciate it with my whole heart... Thanks a lot!!! For making it happen....

Alrighty now... Gotta go but will come back soon to upload pics...

Til then, take care and God bless y'all...

A million thanks...

2008-07-29T04:15:00.002+08:00

A MILLION THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO VOTED!!!!!! (FOR LAFAZ ON PROJEK WARNARIA)

I received a call today at about 6pm from Jaliboy. He sounded pretty excited so I asked him wassup...

Our song made it to Top 2 of Projek WarnaRia.. And I almost cried...

You see, when I first heard that song demo in 2004, it was very different from what you've heard on the radios... The song even had a different title back then... Jaliboy rearranged the whole song and I came up with some adlibs to enhance the song.. It's a labour of love between two musicians for our music... When we redid the song for the contest, our main intention for it was just meant to be put on air so everyone can share the song and honestly, we did not expect the song to go as far as it did, cos it's almost 4 years old... Yeah, it took that long hehehehe... But I guess it's really worth it...

So here I am, with a million thanks to everyone who made it happen, you know who you are, and I'll always keep you close to my heart... Jaliboy bro, what a combination we make.. I'm so proud of you and I'm glad that you have enough faith in me to pull this through... Really appreciate it... And to Sani, your words are magic.. Direct and so full of passion... hehehehe just like me... I really enjoyed working with you guys, and I hope this doesn't stop here.... And to all those who voted and believe in the song... A million thanks and tons of appreciation for your faith in it..

Thank you so very much... :-)

And here's the big date some of you are waiting for....

10/08/08 (Sunday)

You're all invited to celebrate my happiness, witness my joining with the man who loves me with all his heart, Fairoz Bin Samil. The lunch reception will be from 11am-5pm (Buffet)and I've lined up some entertainment for y'all... It's gonna be an afternoon of music and laughter...

The venue is at my parents' modest heaven located at
Blk 133, Bedok North Ave 3, S(460133).

Please come and share my beginnings as a married woman....

I think by the time I put up my next post, I'll be married hehehehe... What a way to celebrate Life... I have to say today has been a very good day for me... In all terms...

Thanks to YOU, Allah... Shukran Ya Rahman wa alhamdullilahi rabbil 'alamiin..

Lafaz

2008-06-27T03:53:00.006+08:00

VOTE!!! VOTE!!! VOTE!!!
(COMMENTS AND CRITICISM VERY MUCH APPRECIATED)

Hola frenz!!!!

Please check out this video and tell me what you think of this song yah....

This song has been written since 2004 but redone over the years and finally, we (Jaliboy, me & Sani) decided that this is as good as it gets... It's a labour of love for this particular song that we devoted three years of our time and we hope you're gonna like it...

But still,

We know we can't please everyone so we'd really appreciate all the feedbacks that you may have for us. Don't forget to rate the video yah!!

Hugs and kisses....

P/S : You can type this link and go direct to the video on YouTube...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQvb9Z6gFf4

Or you can go to YouTube and search under "Nana Lafaz"

Thanks a million everyone!!!!!!

Wedding Pic Preview

2008-05-14T03:57:00.000+08:00

IN CASE YOU'VE FORGOTTEN....

Aloha moi frenz....!!!!!!

Some of you have been emailing me and asking what do I look like after Sg Idol 2004... Most of you know that I've put on a lot of weight since then LOLOL... Due to my current state of emotional and physical contentment, I've put on like 8kg since 2004.. Some say I look healthier now cos to them I was emancipated last time.. But there are others who thought I looked like a pig LOLOL.... Well, to each his own... All I can say is that moi bebe is very happy with my physique now... And so does my family...

Just in case you've forgotten how I look like then, this is how I look like nowadays....

And this was how I looked a year ago..... During Hari Raya...

I don't think I looked very different though... Maybe happier now, yeah... I still have the habit of changing my hairstyles every now and then though... Occupational hazard I guess.. Need to look presentable yet up to date most of the time.. That's why I don't dress up when I'm not working cos it's really tiring sometimes... And to those who know me really well, I'm just a tomboy at heart....

Lastly, I'm putting up one of my wedding pics for your preview hehehe... See what you think and leave me a tag yeah... Btw, to my friends whom I lost touch with over the years, and who's reading this blog, I want you to be at my wedding. So please drop me an email with a msg and your address so I can snail mail you my invitation card. That includes you too... yeah you... who's reading this at the moment... What can I say.. I want a lot of people to be at my wedding and witness our union... The more the merrier...

So... Here it goes....

NANA AND FAIROZ
MUSIC MEETS LOVE, MEETS LIFE
IN PERFECT HARMONY

P/S

2008-04-16T04:41:00.000+08:00

P/S.....

Ooopsss, I forgot...

My birthday's in 2 days...

Hahahaha.... Old already sia... Blardy 28 years old!!!!!

2008-04-16T04:02:00.000+08:00

PICTURE TIME!!!!

Hey fellas...

I got a lil time on my hands so I'm putting some pics for your viewing pleasure... I know it's been a while so I should have a lot of pics right? Wrong!!!! I only gonna put some up (like about 4 of 'em) hahaha... And it's all taken from moi hp... Pics that I took from my digicam are all uploaded in my hard disk and guess what? My desktop at home crashed yesterday! Luckily, moi bebe backed up all the files. But it's gonna take a while before we can wire it up cos I don't have a backup pc at home.. And now moi bebe is talking about buying a new iMac... Sigh, with all the marriage expenses we've incurred now, plus the payments for our house and car, damn, it's hard to think about a new desktop... But what the heck, he can afford it, so I just sit back and let him do it...

Alright.. On a lighter note, let's put up some pics....

Here's a sample of one of the gowns that's fitted for my wedding... Gorgeous, isn't it?! I'm in love with it the most!!!! Moi bebe also lurves it hehehe.... :-P

Next here, is a pic of moi bebe's gorgeous new drumset... He's endorsed by Mapex now for 2 years... I'm sooo proud of him and he soooo deserves it...

Here is a pic of my keyboardist's, Aida, new baby girl, Adalya Fatin... She is sooo cute!!!! I think she's gonna be a singer tho cos she has a very loud wail... hahaha...

I saved this pic for last cos its of my two younger sisters Diena and Afni... I can't believe how grown up they are... Especially Diena.. It seems like yesterday when I first held her tiny body in my arms and she was wailing like there's no tomorrow ( I was 9 years old then) ... And now, she's all grown up, all 19 years of it, with problems of her own, but I must say I'm so proud of the way she turned out cos I know she's got a good sense on her shoulders... I've always been the type of sis who never restrict her freedom too much cos I believe everyone's entitled to make their mistakes and learn from it... But she knows that I'll give her a piece of my mind if she ever gets too nottie... And that makes our relationship so tight she tells me about everything that's going on in her life.... Right now, she's going thru a phase in her relationship that she's so attached to, that her words are so mature, so balanced, that I am glad I taught her right...

Diena, I love you... You and Khai are both young and you both have a lot to look for in your lives... If you're meant to be together, then good cos I like Khai too... But just in case, things don't work out the way you want them to be, just remember that being friends sometimes is always better than being lovers... Then as you get older, if you still have love between you, maybe, just maybe, things will be happy ever after... Right now, both of you should be focused on your single lives as individuals... Think about this aite...

And not forgetting, I love Afni too... and Amrien... and Amin...

To sum it up, I love my family to death...

But everybody knows that... hahaha....

Till next time, cheers everyone, and I love y'all too....

P/S : Of coz, I love you too, bebe....

Too many things....

2008-03-29T06:47:00.000+08:00

TOO MANY THINGS, TOO LITTLE TIME....

Ooooohhhhh my gooooodddddd!!!!!!!

I won't count the months that I haven't been posting updates here, but one thing's for sure, I damn well miss it!!!!!

Firstly, let me apologize for not being very enthusiastic lately.. The pressures of work and preparing for my marriage are taking its toll on moi... As I've been working in more places on different days, 5 days a week, it's a little too much right now, but what the heck... It's all for the extra income... I know that after my wedding day, I'll definitely be a more relaxed person... Cos then I'd become Mr Fairoz Samil's wife... hehehehe :-)

Gotta go now frenz... So sorry for the very short post but I'm really tired... Haven't slept for the past 18 hours... Wanna catch some winks now. Know that I treasure you and I will do my very best to drop in as soon as I can... Til then,

CHEERS!!!!

A THOUSAND APOLOGIES...... AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

2008-01-14T22:07:00.000+08:00

A THOUSAND APOLOGIES.......
AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!

Hi, everyone!

First and foremost, I'd like to apologize for my absence. Due to major professional reasons and some personal ones, I have to take a break and concentrate on everything else around me. So that means no internet for a while... hehehe...

I'd like to wish everyone a very happy new year and may your resolutions be fulfilled in year 2008!!!

Well, now I'm back, alive and kicking, with loads more stories to tell and experiences to share... Like the new year's eve countdown gig that I did in Ho Chi Minh city in Vietnam (happening!!!) to Muddy Murphys' 47th anniversary party last friday... and some other not so nice things that happened along the way, I'd say I've had a pretty eventful 2007... Too many pictures to upload (and y'all know how lazy I can be hahaha) so I'll do it when I can(cross your fingers!!)

I will come back again and update soon... For now, I'd like to bask in the thoughts of me getting married in 7 months time! Haha! Can't bloody believe it! It's coming soon!!!!!

See you all soon and God bless!!! Muackz!!!

MIA

2007-09-08T03:48:00.000+08:00

MISSING IN ACTION!!!!!

Ello, everyone!!!!!!

Sorry I haven't been updating for a while... Been busy and my home internet are down at the moment... Sigh... I'm doing this at McDonlads hahaha....

I've been missing a lot of parties due to my schedule but I hope I'll be able to catch up on those pretty soon (by which I meant next year hahaha cos loads of shows lined up til then)... But I managed to organize a bbq for my band members last Wednesday at moi bebe's sis' condo at Faber Crest... It was cool man! Me thinking of doing it again soon... :-)

And I've got a two page interview on Think magazine recently. Issue no.29. It's a freebie mag for clubbers so if you ever come across it, do take a peek and tell me what you think yah. It's right in the center of the magazine. Aptly titled "Goin' Nanas" LOLOL.... I'd like to thank Ms Elizabeth Bennett, the features editor of Think, for giving me the lovely opportunity to speak about my music and my band... Nana & The Vibes are really thankful for the exposure...

Hmmm... maybe I'll find a copy and scan it to my comp so I can upload it here.. for all of you out there...

Till next time, God bless all of you and I love you all from the bottom of my heart.... :-D :-*

New Straits Times

2007-08-23T13:38:00.000+08:00

NEW STRAITS TIMES, MALAYSIA
AUGUST 14,2007

For your eyes only....

P/S : I'm in heaven.... ;-) Thanks to Sara from 7ate9 Restaurant @ Ascott, KL.

Pictures!!!

2007-08-15T01:45:00.000+08:00

PICTURES THAT MEANT THOUSANDS OF WORDS......

I can't believe it's over... When I look at these pics, I wish I could turn back time and do it again!!! But never mind, I will do a show in KL again soon... Meantime, I'll spend my time looking at these pics and reminisce about the times when I was working with these very, very talented, groovy individuals... I hope you enjoy them as much as I did :-)

The View from Ascott KL and 7ate9 Restaurant Decor (CLICK HERE)

The Guests at 7ate9 Restaurant's 1st Anniversary (CLICK HERE)

The Staffs and the Musicians performing at the Event (CLICK HERE)

On stage pictures performance time (my segment is not available cos I can't possibly take pics when I'm performing right? hehehe... and I'm too shy to ask people to take it for me.... sigh) (CLICK HERE)

These are the pics when we're on the way to KL on Nice Executive Coach and our first night out in KL... (CLICK HERE)

A video of moi studio suite in Ascott KL, compliments of 7ate9Restaurant... (CLICK HERE)

And these are a bit outdated already but I posted it up anyway... Sometime ago, taken when me and Diana were karaoke-ing at Cash Studio and also some pics from the celebrations of Nigel Mosbergen's, my manager, 50th birthday party at Bar None... (CLICK HERE)

Until next time, folks!! Cheers!!!!

Back and kicking...

2007-08-11T09:29:00.000+08:00

BACK, ALIVE AND KICKING!!!!!

Hey everyone!!!!

I'm back in Singapore on Wednesday, safe and sound... but terrible case of jet lag!!! ***shakes head***

I know, I know, you must be thinking... What jet lag? Only 45 mins flight right from KL? Hah, for me, it's forever... To those of you who didn't know, I have terrible, terrible fear of heights... The SQ plane I took went into an air pocket some more... Those few seconds of terrifying drop in the air, OMG, I was bloody scared I tell you!!! I came back and thought everything's fine so I took a short nap... I woke up feeling very dizzy as if I've been spinning on a fan for hours... Took two panadols and went to work at Durty Nelly's (very tough to sing in that state, sigh)... After work, went straight home to sleep at around 1.30am and guess what time I woke up the next day.... 7.30pm... That's right!! 7.30pm in the evening for God's sake!!! Do the maths, will ya?
:-P

Show in KL was a blast!!! I hope to go back there again to work.. They sure have very good musicians there... I had lots of fun working with them and they're such pros!! Jamie, Mac, John, Awa, Kak Ruhil, Kak Maria Angela, Mohar, Bada, Jose, Eric, The Horny Horns(LOL) and etc... I thank you all for a memorable evening....

And to Sara and Janet, thank you so much for making my stay at Ascott a most comfortable one...

To Michelle, thank you so much for giving me this opportunity to perform with these very, very talented people....

And to those whom I did not mention their names, you know I can't thank you enough for this experience... You are remembered in my thoughts... Thank you so much....

P/S : Pictures and videos will be uploaded soon... when I'm not so tired, hehehe....

How fast my life went by....

2007-08-03T05:47:00.000+08:00

HOW FAST MY LIFE WENT BY.....

Hola, frenz....

I'm done with my Harry Potter book... and I must say that J K Rowling outdid herself this time.. I salute her brain for twisting our minds... I've decided not to tell you all how's the ending like... The best way is to read it and find out... I guarantee you won't be disappointed hehehe....

I have so many new pics and videos to post up, but alas, so little time.... Or maybe I've been lazy... Who knows?...

But here's one for my upcoming KL gig E-Invite...

I'm off on the 6th for a show with Louis Pragasam's band and will be staying at Ascott, KL... Woohoo! Can't wait lah... But I'll be back on the 8th in time for my nightly Wednesday gigs at Durty Nelly's, so it's a short trip, not enough time for shopping I guess.... Sigh... Work, work, work... it keeps me going on and on.... But thank Allah for work also, cos at least, I have one.... :-)

Atok, I pray for you... Get well soon...

Btw, peeps, fyi this is my 100th post... I never thought I could keep it up like I did with this blog... I must say I'm kinda proud of it... And I hope it will go on for another hundred posts.... Went through so many changes and updates, that it looked soooo different when I first started out... In the name of modernization... whatever...

I'm blabbing, right? I know.... And I don't know why... :-(

Harry Potter madness...

2007-07-25T01:46:00.000+08:00

THE MADNESS OF HARRY POTTER!!!!

I'm sorry if I haven't been blogging lately..

Blame it on Harry Potter!!!! Bought the last book "The Deathly Hallows" and gonna read it till I drop....

Then I will blog and tell everyone whether Harry lives or not hahaha....

Excuse me while I start on the first chapter.... LOL :-D

Thank Allah for You....

2007-07-17T22:59:00.000+08:00

THANK ALLAH FOR YOU, BEBE....

I'm seriously disappointed with some of the things that has been happening to me lately... It hurts a lot when you think you've done the right thing, only to find out that it's actually wrong (to some people anyway)... Well, that's life, always a new lesson to be learnt...

I won't apologize cos I've done nothing wrong... In fact, I did my best not to hurt anybody and be neutral... But if my silence depicts my guilt, so be it... Cos at the end of the day, I am not the one living with someone full of lies.... I've been where you are, girl, and trust me, I admire your strength and courage, but I sure DO NOT want to be in your shoes... Not since I met Fairoz, who taught me that I can be loved without being told lies, who taught me that I am worth more than just love and marriage and children, who taught me not to change for the sake of changing, and most importantly, who taught me to accept truths and make your choices and changes....

I choose to be free of the unnecessaries....

I pray you have a good life....

When you love someone, then you should love that someone without any insecurities, without any prejudices, and without any insensibilities...

Like how Fairoz Samil love me..... I love you, bebe.... I love the fact that I don't have to worry about you... Kisses...

PALME

2007-07-10T07:39:00.000+08:00

PALME ( Pro Audio Lighting, Music and Entertainment ) Festival e-Blast!!!!

YOU ARE ALL INVITED!!! DO COME DOWN AND HAVE FUN WITH US!!!! CHEERS!!!!

Miss Earth Singapore 2007

2007-07-04T14:49:00.000+08:00

MISS EARTH SINGAPORE 2007

Hey everyone!!!

I'm sorry I haven't been blogging for a while now cos I've been so busy with work I didn't even have time for myself!! Work at Penny Black, Muddy Murphys and Balleymoons have been a breeze so far and please take note that Gaelic Inns' new baby outlet Durrty Nelly's are currently open to public... It's situated at Marina Shopping Center (opposite Balaclava) and you just have to be there to see how beautiful it is!! It's so chi chi yet so cozy and inviting... I get a warm feeling when I stepped into the place cos it's so beautiful and everyone is sooo friendly... Moi will be performing there soon, among all the other Gaelic Inns' outlets, so do watch this space for more details yah... And everyone's invited to the grand opening of Durrty Nelly's on the 25th of July, so you'd better be there or be square!!!!! :-)

I'm actually more tired doing the extra shows, though I thoroughly enjoyed every single one of them... I recently did a charity show for Children's Cancer Foundation cum tribute show for Michael Isaac at Club 392, alongside some big names in the local entertainment industry, which was definitely an experience not to be forgotten.... More recently I did a roadshow for Miss Earth Singapore 2007, the first of many roadshows to come, at Chinatown Point, which was a blast!!! My guitarist's girlfriend is one of the finalists! Lucky Talib! Anyway, I think this beauty pageant is different cos the beauties taking part are not only pretty girls but they also have a conscience to do their part for the environment... to preserve our mother nature.... I think these beauties have to be commended for their courage.... The finals, tentatively in September, will be held at Zouk, so again, watch this space for details!!!

Ok, enough for now, but more to come soon... In the meantime, lookeee here!!!!

Emilee, Shirin and I.....

Muahahahahahahahahahahahah....... Funny sia! Trust Nigel to come up with that!!!! I didn't know we are!!!! LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL....

More pics (CLICK HERE)

Faster Shirin!!! Grab, grab, grab......!!!!!!

Enjoy, folks!!!!

Sg Drum Fest '07!

2007-06-18T01:22:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE DRUMFEST 2007!!!!!

Woah... things been pretty busy the past week, what with the Singapore Drumfest going on... Moi bebe is one of the artiste performing on the first day of the event (Sat) so moi got backstage clearance... hah! I got to meet all these great drummers from all over the world like Gorden Campbell (Usher and Ne-Yo's drummer), Nate Morton (Rockstar Inxs, Supernova and American Idol Tour) Tony Royster Jr (voted Up and Coming Drummer), Greg Bissonette (most versatile drummer who played with Steve Vai, Toto, Santana etc), Grant Collins (voted world's Hottest Professional Drummer) Derek Roddy (Death Metal Drummer)... Moi bebe played with Steve Thornton (World Class Percussionist) and Mohd Noor (Singapore's very own version of Luis Conte hehehe).... There was, what I called a DrumShed, between Tony Royster Jr, Gorden Campbell and Jimmy Lee... Nerve-wrecking!!!!!

But the best thing is, I got to meet my favourite drummer of all time, Jojo Mayer (Nerve) all the way from Switzerland... He's the human drum machine, man! The drum battle between him and Tony Royster Jr was bloody awesome!!! I was like watching porn for drummers, man! LOL....

I'm not gonna blab much about the affair cos I wanna keep the memories in my brain... Suffice to say that I'm so very looking forward for next year's DrumFest... I would like to take this opportunity to thank Tan Boon for making it happen and you deserve all the respect from me for proving the non-believers wrong! Tan Boon, I salute you!

P/S : I've got some vids of the event but am not allowed to circulate due to infringement rights... So sorry guys! To all those who's been waiting for the pics, here it is!!!!!

Derek Roddy

Gorden Campbell and Tony Royster Jr

Grant Collins

Moi favourite drummer, Jojo Mayer…

Tony Royster Jr

Nate Morton

Steve Thornton

Tony Royster Jr, Moi Bebe and Gregg Bissonette

2007-06-07T18:24:00.000+08:00

SHEER POETRY

Someone wrote this especially for me on the 2nd of May '07...

"Finally...
I see what I seek
and it's in your eyes.
BLISS

Rollercoasters of instability
became sad, predictable
routine.

It was...
what I called Life.
Still I pursue with such
determination.

In reflection of contradictions
I speak of it :-
to entertain
me.
In truth... emptiness
in my void heart.

Finally...
It's in your smile;
I find clarity
I find peace
I find comfort.

It's you... that keeps me
happy.

(Written by Gulbakawali)

Thanks dear... such meaningful words are meant to be kept forever... :-)

2007-06-07T13:38:00.000+08:00

P/S

I forgot to mention that... I've decided not to join Live The Dream due to financial commitments... I've thought it over and right now, my responsibilities far outweigh my ambition... Sorry to disappoint all you friends who was rooting for my participation yah.... I hope you'll understand my take on this... But I'm definitely not closing my doors to competitions indefinitely... If ever such an opportunity arise again in the future, I will give it another shot, God willing...

To all you dear friends, thank you so much for your support and encouragement, and please, do not stop your support cos I will be nothing without all of you.... God bless!!!

2007-06-07T13:05:00.000+08:00

BUSY, FUZZY, WUZZY...

Hello all...

Wow, I can't believe how fast time flies and it's been almost two months already since I've moved on to my new venue and I'm telling y'all, I'm loving it!!! It's totally a different ballgame altogether and I reaaly appreciate the fact that my suggestions are heard.... And I have one of the best bosses in the world!!! Hee... Work has been shit-crazy busy at the moment with our new venue opening very soon in mid June, Durty Nelly's, at Marina Shopping Center... Watch this space for more details....

I've had a wonderful time last Monday performing a one-night only gig in Bar None with Bai and Talib... It brought back some lovely memories... But I must say it made me appreciate my new post much much better... I came to realize that in Bar None, tho' the staff and management were cool people, there was such stiff competition among bands to be their resident act... A resident band in Bar None has to always come up with new ideas and looks to keep out other competitions, lest they'll be ousted.... It's positive in a way that new challenges emerges every once in a while, but therein such atmosphere also emerges bad characters such as animosity and envy, thus forgetting the very important factor to keep a club going, which is, entertainment... I stress entertainment here because, what good is music if others are not entertained? Therein lies the question.... I, for one, am very grateful for my new job..... and am very sad to hear that Bar None, which holds so much lovely memories for me, will close its doors for good in June, tentatively....

I've been lazy with the camera lately... Haven't been cam-whoring for the longest time, man!!! Shall find time soon to do that cos I'm getting pissed about the un-color-fulness of moi blog!! I'm thinking of changing the skins again as well... heh, if I should ever find the time as well hehehe...

Oh btw, I'm officially a fan of local band, B Quartet... They're SO cool and effing talented, man!!! I'm so proud that I caught up with one of their gigs in Bar None... I've never seen a local band with so much international potential ever... why can't they be more popular, like that, whatchamacallit? Uhhh... Electrico.... B Quartet are much much better than them (I've seen Electrico perform live before in Bar None and I always left for coffee in The Living Room after 5 mins) so I really think they deserve a chance on the global stage... B Quartet reminds me a lot of Muse... Sigh... and before all you Electrico fans come and blast me, let me just say that my opinion is subjective, and it's up to you whether you wat to agree or not, but please don't make an issue out of it... I pray B Quartet will get a big break they truly deserve...

Woah... so much for random blabbing... Will catch up with you folks again soon.... Cheers and God bless!!!! :-D

Vocal class notice!

2007-05-24T03:02:00.000+08:00

ATTENTION!!!!!!

Hi, friends!!

You know, I've always been approached by friends and sometimes people that I don't even know of, about this one thing. That if I'm able to teach them how to sing. Frankly speaking, I've always been a self taught singer and over the years, I've learnt to improve myself, by my own. It's something that I can't explain but vocal theory wise, I'm a dummy.

My manager was urging me to start teaching vocals cos he feels that I am ready. Personally, I'm still not sure. But I'm willing to try definitely. So here goes :=

To all who's interested, I am open to teach singing. My class will focus on the proper ways to breathe and to sing in key, but none of the musical theory stuffs. I will share with my students what I've learnt over the years that I've sung professionally. I will also let my students choose the songs that they wanna work on so they can sing it well.

For a start, I am only going to accept 5 students because of my busy schedule and also because I want to teach them well, on a one-on-one basis. So if you're interested, please email me (see above) for details....

Thank you and cheers to all of you :-D

Judging Nana...

2007-05-21T00:09:00.000+08:00

JUDGING NANA....

Hey ya frens....

Actually, I'm in a pissed mode right now, caused by this stupid idiot who goes by the name Priest... If y'all screen my tagboard, you'll know that I'm in a word fisticuff with this seriously sick and mental (faceless btw) entity... It all started after I agreed with what a friend of mine (Effa) thinks... To know her full story, please go to her blog and read her posts and comments as well...

This twisted individual make it his/her aim to come to my blog and spouts idiotic nonsense! So what if I agreed with what Effa thinks! Why should that bloody stupid Priest care? I don't go to his/her personal space and spouts nonsense... So what if I'm judgemental? For your info, Oh Stupid Idiot Priest, everyone gets judged everyday in our not-so-perfect world! I get judged everyday, all the time in my line of work.... Lots of people think I'm whatchamacallit and whatevers... Seriously, you think I bloody care? But I don't go hunt them down... I don't go around trying to change what they think about me.. Some of these people know me personally and even then, I don't bloody try to change what they think about me, like what you're doing by coming here and terrorize my PERSONAL space.... So I ask you (if you can understand English)... Why bloody should YOU? Don't you realise that you're being a bloody hypocrite? Fancy calling others Minahs and you say, don't be judgemental? How stupid can you be? Your tiff is with Effa... I happened to agree with what she says (at HER blog)... Even if I don't know the full story of your tiff with her, I still think she's right in voicing her mind on HER blog... and again, I stressed, that I agree with HER opinions... So what if I don't know you personally? You think it's gonna make a difference? I think bloody not....

So, poooffftttt.... Off you go, Oh Stupid Idiot Priest... And don't EVER let me find out who you are.... You definitely picked the wrong person to mess with....

To all my friends out there, I'm an Aries ( if you don't already know hahaha )... This reaction is expected of me when my line is crossed... LOL... Thanks for your understanding.....

Live The Dream!!!

2007-05-16T00:50:00.000+08:00

LIVE THE DREAM.....

Greetings, my peeps!!!

Woah, the whole town's buzzing with the news about this new reality singing competition open to all above 25yrs.... I've got a few calls already from friends urging me to take part... It's all so exciting! And about time too this kind of contest are held for the mature audiences....

Honestly, the bottom of my heart wants this SO VERY much... but the topmost of my brain has its doubts.. I've been there, you see, in Singapore Idol 2004, only to be crushed... I remember the feeling of exhilaration when I got through the rounds and I remember the feeling of disappointment when I was let down by mere votes, to the shocked expression of my judges, Florence Lian and Dick Lee. I can still feel the nervous tension when I was about to perform on Mediacorp's stage... I don't even feel the nervousness when I get on stage every night in the various clubs I've worked in, but yeah, I got VERY nervous in Singapore Idol...

My mak told me that I have her blessings and my dad's if I ever decide to join... That's a first... She's always been against my singing in public cos she don't think it makes a good future... For her to urge me on this, I'm kinda glad and I know she realised finally how much I love to sing... But I'm still confused about taking part...

Should I? Leave me a word if you think I should or shouldn't... I need desperate help!!!

Ya Allah, please show me a way, the way you think I should take... Amiin...

New Beginning!!!

2007-05-08T08:29:00.000+08:00

NEW BEGINNINGS!!!!!

Hallo, peeps!

Haven't been blogging for almost a week now but I must say nothing much happened except that my new workplace has been nothing but a joy so far :-D Initially, I was so nervous about tackling the new workplace, what with the different concepts and ambience that they provide... Heck, I haven't done acoustic sets for the longest time, man!! But everything went very well and I can't believe how lucky I am to land this job. It is the most satisfying gig so far and I'm so very happy that my bosses are VERY happy with my performance. Especially on Friday night 4th May, Penny Black anniversary, my boss Billy came to me and said, "There's more people here today than last year. Well done!" That made my day , man!! I would like to wish Billy a belated happy birthday... I hope we will have a good working relationship for as long as we can. I'm gonna try my best and not disappoint you, boss!

And Sat nite at Muddy Murphys, OMG, it was so enjoyable and entertaining! I say entertaining cos I was entertained by some of the customers while I entertained them on stage. Never happened to me before hehehe.... The 'ang-mohs' are very funny bunch, especially after pint loads of beer... Jade and her band was there through out the night too... In the morning, my manager, Nigel, received this email from Billy, which simply states, "Excellent!" I'm on cloud nine now....

And least I forget, my bebe's Nissan Murano 2.5l is out already... Yayyness!!!! I can't even start to tell you how sleek it is! And damn! The engine is so smooth and so silent! I can't describe it to you fairly so I'm just gonna let the pictures do the talking! In my next post hahaha....

In the meantime, y'all take care aite... will post up the pics soon... Good day, mates!!!!

E-Blast!

2007-05-02T07:10:00.000+08:00

Press Release

2007-04-29T08:59:00.000+08:00

MOI PRESS RELEASE!!!!!

GAELIC INNS PTE LTD PRESENTS....

Live with Nana in May

Live music by Nana @ your favourite Gaelic Inns outlet!

1. Singapore, May 2007 – Nana, one of the most notable singers / entertainers in Singapore is performing LIVE at Muddy Murphy’s, The Penny Black and Ballymoons this coming May!

2. Nana – A dedicated performer and a soulful singer with great passion for singing has been performing in various popular bars & pubs since 1998. Packed with a big voice in a tiny package, bundled with passionate and energetic performance, she is sure to surprise and impress you!

3. With a wide repertoire, Nana brings Live Music to a different height be it a 2-piece or a 5-piece band. There is Nana & Talib – 2-piece acoustic band, perfect for a chill out evening after a hard day's work. Looking for something more upbeat, we have Nana & Friends - 3-piece. Plus on weekends, party with Nana & The Vibes – A 5-piece band that will definitely make you rock.

4. Check out Nana’s LIVE performance now! Starting from Wednesdays to Saturdays.
Every Wednesday, Nana & Talib @ 8.30pm
@ The Penny Black Victorian London Pub. 25/26 Boat Quay. Tel : 6538 2300

Every Thursday, Nana & Friends @ 9pm
@ Muddy Murphy’s Irish Pub. #B1-01 Orchard Hotel Shopping Arcade. Tel : 6735 0400

Fridays (11th, 18th & 25th), Nana & The Vibes @ 9.30pm
@ Muddy Murphy’s Irish Pub. #B1-01 Orchard Hotel Shopping Arcade. Tel : 6735 0400

Saturdays (12th, 19th & 26th), Nana & Talib @ 10pm
@ Ballymoons Spirits Bar. #01-06 Orchard Hotel Shopping Arcade. Tel : 6735 0400

Eagerness...

2007-04-29T07:48:00.000+08:00

PRESENTING....

Hi, everyone!!! I so can't wait to start singing in my new work places soon.. Two more days left before I wave goodbye to Insomnia (possibly forever cos I think I pissed some people in the management hahaha... P/S: Sir Ced, you want R.E.S.P.E.C.T, you've gotta EARN it!!! Even from your lower subordinates. Sorry, but your working and business ethics are not up to MY standards!! All the best to you and your kakis.... Pae earned my respects but not you...)

You know, I have never had a bad experience with a management before, from Ipanema, Bar None, JJ Mahoney's and etc... I've been performing in so many clubs and pubs around Singapore in my 10 years as an entertainer and I have always maintained a good relationship with various club managements (dat's why I never pay cover charges hehehe!) and they're always offering me a chance to come back and work WITH them... That was PREVIOUSLY the case with Insomnia, when Pae was in charge.. Not quite so currently... Sigh... I'm really sad to say goodbye to BNI and the staff of Insomnia... They're cool!!! But, looking forward positively, I am eager to embark on a new journey with my new line up....

To those of you who didn't know by now, I am moving to Muddy Murphy's and Balleymoon's at Orchard Hotel Shopping Arcade, opposite Orchard Towers, and Penny Black at Boat Quay, which are all under the same management, Gaelic Inns Pte Ltd.. I'll be working 4 days a week, starting from the 2nd of May (this coming Wednesday)... Wednesdays at Penny Black as a duo (Nana & Talib), Thursdays at Muddy Murphy's as a trio (Nana & Friends), Fridays at Muddy Murphy's with a band (Nana & The Vibes) and Saturdays at Balleymoon's as a duo (Nana & Talib)... Sometimes, I will be performing on Sunday afternoons as well at Muddy Murphys with the band. In fact, on the 13th May is confirmed so we'll be at Muddy Murphy's from 4.30pm til about 8pm so don't forget to make a date with me, y'all!!! My performance schedule will differ monthly but I will always update y'all up here... Better yet, any queries about my schedule, you can email me at anytime, and leave your number so I can reply you via sms... Please notify me if you're dropping by so I can get good seats for you guys and girls!!! Meantime, take a peek at my new line up's photos...

NANA & THE VIBES

NANA & TALIB

NANA & FRIENDS

Cheers, y'all... And hope to see you soon at Penny Black, Muddy Murphy's and Balleymoon's....
Kisses.....

Tagged!

2007-04-27T18:45:00.000+08:00

TAGGED AGAIN!!!!!

Hey, fwens.... Me got tagged by lisvstarr. For her, I'll do my best....
Here goes....

Rules of the game:
Each player of this game starts off with ten weird things or habits or little known facts about yourself. People who get tagged must write in a blog of their own ten weird things or habits or little known facts as well as state this rule clearly. At the end you must choose six people to be tagged and list their names.

No tagbacks!

1. I behave and think like a man most of the time.
2. I burp VERY loudly hehehe...
3. I have this sickness called "Melatah" since primary school.
4. I think of myself as a selfish biatch sometimes.... but my close friends say that I'm too generous at times... Ironic hah?
5. I was a tomboy when I was 8-12 years old. Me known as Tomboy of Bedok Police Boys' Club, led by Officer Yeo...
6. I was best friends with my fiance for 5 years before we hooked up.
7. I was engaged once before in 2001.
8. I was involved with a lesbo before (but I thought she was a he then) Silly me!!
9. I was a gold medallist in Methodist High School Malacca for competitive swimming (freestyle 100m) in 1996.
10. I am conversant in 5 languages.. (Malay, English, Indonesian, Mandarin and Arabic)

Now, I tag....

1. Emilee
2. Effa
3. Hida
4. Diena
5. Faye
6. Shirin

Enjoy yourselves!!!!

Birthday!!!

2007-04-20T06:10:00.000+08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!!!!

Hehehe.... Me so happy cos my birthday gathering went so well that all the food is finished by end of the night! Thanks to Jefri Brown Catering hehehe... So many presents, so little time... LOL

I'd like to thank everyone for your time and for making it SSOOOO special this year.. I had so much fun (even tho I lost my voice again by the end of it!) that the excitement lasts all the way till morning hehehe... I shall not elaborate too much but I shall let the pictures do all the talking hehehe...

MOI BDAY PICS

But I just have to show you all the cake that Naz bought for me from Hyatt Mezz9... Deeelissh I tell you!

And special thanks to Jarmo and Hida for their taking the pics at my party! Silly me!!! Was so excited that I brought my camera but left the battery at home in the charger, hahaha... Thank God for Hida and Jarmo stepping in to be my photographers!!!

This is Jarmo... Cute , isn't he? He plays drums as well... I loike!!!!

And this is Hida, my long lost sister, separated at birth hehehe.... Don't we look alike y'all???!!!!

Another thing, Hida took this video while I was jamming with Energy on stage. Sound's kinda bad cos it was videoed from her hp but I hope you'll enjoy it! Once again thanks a lot Hida!!!

ENERGY AND ME

Last words, thanks again everybody, for making it special for me this year!!! Muackz muackz!!!!

Invitation!

2007-04-16T13:39:00.000+08:00

INVITATION TO EVERYONE!!!!

DEAR FRIENDS,

YOU ARE INVITED TO A SMALL GATHERING IN BAR NONE @ MARRIOTT HOTEL TOMORROW 9PM-1AM TO CELEBRATE MY 27TH BIRTHDAY. THERE WILL BE FOOD PROVIDED AND A FREE FLOW OF SOFT DRINKS UP TO 1AM. ALCOHOLIC DRINKS ARE AT YOUR OWN DISPOSAL, BUT AT A SPECIAL PRICE OF $10 PER DRINK. EXCLUSIVELY FOR MY GUESTS. PLEASE RSVP BY TOMORROW 2PM. THANK YOU AND I HOPE YOU'LL JOIN ME TO CELEBRATE THIS SPECIAL DAY.

CHEERS, NANA.....

2007-04-15T16:57:00.001+08:00

Thank God For....

PHOTOSHOP!!!!!

You know, I've always believed in trying everything once... (except for drugs and bungee jumping, of course!)

But some feats really require a lot of courage, and I mean, REALLY lots of em... like taking a naked pic of yourself and put it in public for all to see!!!! Hehehe... I can never do that even if I admit I do have the inclinations to sometimes LOL...

Hence, enjoy these pics doctored to perfection by a very talented friend of mine, Charlie... She took my face and gave me gorgeous bods!!! Worth keeping I tell you!!!

Charlie even gave me an expensive and gorgeous bridal gown hehehe....

To Charlie... You don't know how happy I am to get these from you. I really appreciate it, sweets!!! Thank you for fulfilling something that I never dared to do, LOL!!!!!

Natural Woman

2007-04-12T19:09:00.000+08:00

YOU MAKE ME FEEL...... LIKE A NATURAL WOMAN

I just got this video from a friend who took this while I was performing in Muddy Murphys in October 2006 with Raw Vibes. It amazes me how we sounded cos everything was raw, the sound came directly from the amps and the drums were not even mic-ed up.... Only my vocals came from the mixer, and even then the whole band sounded good... I'm so proud of them!!

This is one of my favourite songs from the great Aretha Franklin. I can onlly hope I did justice to this song. Enjoy it, friends! And kudos to Zainal and Bai for this video!!!!

P/S : Please click on the link to my live vidz segment on top bar ( Natural Woman ), thank you.... :-D

Disturbed....

2007-04-08T00:15:00.000+08:00

DISTURBED.....

Parts of a conversation I had with someone today.... ;

*Friend : "You really don't care what others might think? Nobody's done that before!!"

*Me : "Why should I care? When I fall, it's going to be me who feel the hurt! You think the others wanna fall with me? I don't think so!!!"

*Friend : "But then you'll lose your stability babe!! You're sure about this?"

*Me : "You're DAMN right I'm sure!! At least I still have my credibility. I need to do this on my own dear. I need to know how to rise and fall on my own. I need to learn something!!"

*Friend : "But Nana, you have to care about what others think of you! You always said you don't want any stress, and if stress comes to you, you get rid of it asap! But some people think it's your ego talking and to them, your indifference is insulting!"

*Me : (ponders a while) "To a certain extent, I do care what others might think of me, but I really don't want to bother myself thinking about it, cos at the end of the day, others can talk and talk about my so called indifference, but my pain and suffering, only I and God knows! At the end of the day, if they want to understand how I feel, they can come to me straight in my face, like you did, instead of talking BS behind my back!! Isn't that more insulting?"

*Friend : "But that's human Nana...."

*Me : "Yeah, well, I guess I'm not exactly human maybe, hahaha..."

*Friend : "You're really going ahead with this, aren't you? Don't take it wrongly, I totally understand why you wanna do it, but that's because I understand you. I'm just not sure if others will...."

*Me : "I am , and I'm glad I have you understanding it, that's enough for now. The others will. In time."

I know some of you might be confused by this, but you'll understand. In time. And if God wills.....

You'll never know til it hits you smack in the eye....

2007-04-01T23:01:00.000+08:00

YOU'LL NEVER KNOW TILL IT HITS YOU SMACK IN THE EYE.....

Hey friends....

I haven't been well lately. Been singing professionally for 10 years now, and by God, this is the first time I've been hit with the dreaded malady of all singers.... I lost my voice due to a throat infection and having a hard time recuperating....

I haven't been to work for the longest time in all my working history.. 4 days in a row, and I'm so NOT enjoying it! I get very bored at home with nothing to do but read and watch dvds... Nevertheless, the rest is doing me good... I hope to be recovered by the time I get back to work tomorrow... I miss BNI!!!!

One advice to all singers out there! The reason I got a throat infection is due to sharing microphones with other singers and the air ventilation in Insomnia is very bad... I'm a non-smoker for 2 and a half years already, but I'm constantly inhaling second hand smoke all around me in the club.... So my advice is, get your own microphone for your own personal use if you're singing everyday ( preferably a good one ) and try not to smoke too many cigarettes or better yet, don't smoke at all... And avoid hanging around in the club during your breaks in case of poor ventilation....

Singing for me is the main source of income, not to mention, a passion in my life... I'd do anything not to lose my voice and since my voice is my responsibility, I'm prepared to be choosy about the choice of clubs that I work in.... Hence, to all of you who reads this, you'll know that my last day of performing in Insomnia will be on the 30th of April... And I'm moving on to greener pastures... and healthier environment....

I feel so sad about the fact that I'm leaving BNI soon, cos they are one of the best bands I've ever worked with... The chemistry is strong and our relationship is tight... I'll never close my door to working with BNI again, anytime... But I can't help this nagging feeling that this is not the end of me with BNI, in fact, it's only the beginning to a bigger collaboration... Hhmm... For me to know, and for you to find out.... Soon enough, hehehe.....

BNI, if you're reading this, take note that I love you guys and we WILL work together again someday!! Keep your fingers crossed!!

New Updates!!!!

2007-03-19T12:02:00.000+08:00

Hey friends!!!!!

I'm back to post some more beautiful pictures for your viewing pleasure... And guess what? The legendary singer Awie was at Insomnia last Thursday and I'm so honoured to make his acquaintance... Note to all who didn't know, Awie is a multi platinum selling singer in Malaysia with his former band, Wings, and now a very successful solo artist as well... And he said I did well that night and gave me his thumbs up!! Hehehe, let me float in the air for about 10 secs, will ya? ;-D

Anyways, I've also got some pics of my friends at Insomnia, all of them of course VERY picture worthy (like the 5 gals crammed in 1 pic hehehe), and a couple of pics of my bro (Amin) and sis-in-law (Ema)....

But let me start off with a couple of pics of my band, Batteries Not Included, in all our glory....

(BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED)

(THE LEGENDARY AWIE, ME, MY DRUMMER RUNI, AND DIANA, OUR FRIEND WHO BROUGHT AWIE DOWN TO INSOMNIA)

(MY BRO AND HIS LOVELY WIFE, EMA)

(DA 5 DARAs AND A HANDSOME BOY - FAYE, ME, AIDA, DIWI, DIANA AND KYLE)

(HERE'S THE WOMAN WHO GAVE BIRTH TO THE BEAUTIFUL BOY, KYLE'S MOTHER, PRINCESS.. THAT'S HER REAL NAME , Y'ALL!)

(AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST, ANOTHER PIC OF MYSELF HEHEHE.... WHAT CAN I SAY, I'M LOVING IT!!!!!!)

All right, that's all folks.... me off to JB now for a short trip with moi bebe, Faye and her husband, Dino. And before you ask, of course, I'll definitely come back with more pics to feed your eyes, hehehe.... See you all again soon!!!!!! Muacks muackz!!!

Camwhores

2007-03-14T00:45:00.000+08:00

Ooopss.... I forgot...

Here's some new pics for your viewing pleasure... All taken at Insomnia@Chijmes....

The spotlight's on me and Alif... The undisputable camwhores of BNI, hahaha....

Irreplaceable Live Video

2007-03-14T00:33:00.000+08:00

Hey y'all...

Been quite some time since I posted some live vids so here's a couple of new ones from me to all of you out there....

I don't quite like this song by Beyonce initially, but I have to say it kinda grows on you...

A video taken of my live performance with my band, Batteries Not Included, singing "Irreplaceable" and "My Immortal".

Enjoy them.....

Lips of an angel

2007-03-14T00:25:00.000+08:00

LIPS OF AN ANGEL - HINDER

Honey why you're calling me so late?
It's kinda hard to talk right now
Honey why you're crying? Is everything okay?
I gotta whisper cos I can't be too loud

(#)
Well my girl's in the next room
Sometimes I wish she was you
I guess we never really moved on

(*)
It's really good to hear your voice
Say my name, it sounds so sweet
Coming from the lips of an angel
Hearing those words it makes me weak

(c/o)
And I never wanna say goodbye
But girl you make it hard to be faithful
With the lips of an angel

It's funny that you're calling me tonight
And yes I've dreamt of you too
And does he know you're talking to me
Will it start a fight?
No I don't think she has a clue

(Repeat #, * and c/o)
(Music Instrumentation)
(Repeat * and c/o twice)

Honey why you're calling me so late....

2007-02-25T13:46:00.000+08:00

THE STATE OF BEING....

What can I say? As a self confessed camwhore, I just love taking pictures of myself and others... Which girl in their right mind doesn't? And I pretty much indulge in this hobby of mine every other day, as and when I feel pretty, hehehe...

And I felt pretty yesterday.... Thus, here's the proof....

Don't I look purrrttyy??? Hehehe.....

Let me tell you guys and girls a secret....

The secret to beautiful hair is,
to wear a hair that's not yours....(a.k.a. a good expensive wig!!!!)

I'm having the time of my life!!!!!!!!!! ;-P :-D

Nurul Hannah...

2007-02-17T13:43:00.000+08:00

EVERYBODY IN THE HOUSE, HERE'S PRESENTING TO THE WORLD.... NURUL HANNAH BTE KHAIRUL AMIN....

Hi frenz.... here's to welcome the newest addition to my family, the birth of my brother's daughter and my beautiful niece... Nurul Hannah... on the 15th February 2007, 6.01pm @ East Shore Hospital. Albeit a tiny one weighing 2.4kg at birth, she is still a beautiful and perfectly healthy baby, an extra alert one at that, hehehe... She's not very fussy for a newborn child, preferring to keep quiet and take in her surroundings, as if to absorb whatever sights and sounds she has.... Smart, ain't she?

Well, I've also captured a few short clips of the newborn in all her glory... Do enjoy...

And do check out my new do'.... The before and after effects, hahaha....

(Before) (After)

Organ Donations

2007-02-16T10:55:00.000+08:00

TO EACH HIS OWN.....

Greetings, everyone...

You know, it breaks my heart to read about the family who was hoping for a miracle to happen when one of their own is certified brain-dead. And to go through all the emotions when being told that there is actually no hope and to delay for another day(organ harvesting) is impossible. I feel deeply for the family, yet, at the same time, if that were to happen to me, I will not want to see my family suffers through the decision-making(life and death) process....

I am a Muslim, so I am exempted from the HOTA(Human Organ Transplant Act). But picture this, if it was me or any of my family members who needs organ donations, I wouldn't want them or myself to wait for long and at least, I want to have hope that the organs needed WILL come our way. And the thought of giving others a chance to live when I've lived out mine, well, is not such a bad idea, but in fact, it's generous and a selfless act....

So, in order to ease my family and my loved ones' burden, I am declaring my organs for donation if and when I'm certified brain-dead. Certified brain-dead, mind you. Not Coma. If I'm in a Coma, NO ONE is allowed to do anything to my body or organs for as long as there are still brain activity, cos I believe I can still wake up from a Coma. Whereas if I'm certified brain-dead, my whole body and organs are useless to me, so why not I give somebody else a chance to live with my usable organs?

Who knows, one day my future descendants might need organ donation, and somebody might remember that I donated mine to give others a chance to live, so he/she might return my descendants the favor. I truly believe that Allah has guide me through this decision as wisely as He can make me be, and that I have His love, support and forgiveness with my choice....

"Allahu akbar wa asyhadu an laa ilaaha illallah wa muhammadur rasulullah...."

P/s: I am officially an aunt to a healthy, bouncy and beautiful baby girl by the name of Nurul Hannah on the 15th of Feb, 6pm... YIPPIE!!!!!! Pics coming up real soon.....

Patience

2007-02-10T05:50:00.000+08:00

PATIENCE AND PERSEVERANCE

Damn, shit's been crazy lately at Insomnia... As usual, my band Batteries Not Included are rocking the house down with vital rocking stuffs... But we're miffed actually... about the working ethics of some people... Sigh, you know you just can't have everything, don't you Nana?! Well... all I can say is, I will do something about it when the time is right, and when the opportunity presents itself right in my face... All in good time...

Boys (BNI)... we must always be the better person and make things happen the right way. Then, and only then, can we reach our goal and deserve it at the same time.... Only through patience and perseverance, do we all move forward to better times...

As the saying goes,

"Good things come to those who waits...."

Believe in ourselves.....

Thoughts...

2007-01-27T06:59:00.000+08:00

SHARING THOUGHTS A WHILE....

Hey peeps....

I can't sleep so I thought I'd doodle a lil' something here and share my thoughts with y'all...

Someone struck a chord with me today... He's a good friend of mine, someone who I've known since I was 13 and literally watched me grow up to the woman that I am now...

We reminisced for a while until this came up... He reminded me that I have this nick when I was younger... "Ice princess"....
Shan't elaborate how I got it but the nick reflects my attitude to things that don't matter or related to me... In other words, figuratively, I have a cold heart.... Sigh... You know, the funny thing is, I used to be proud of it cos I felt like nothing or no one is able to get to me.... In some ways, I still think like that... But I have to admit that as I get older, I AM definitely more sensitive, whether I like it or not....

And I AM most definitely a better person now because as I'm able to struck a balance in my thoughts with maturity, I say that nothing or no one is able to get to me now, unless I ALLOW them to....

Be gone, ye Ice Princess, and make way for the Snow Queen :-D ;-p

Kyle's World...

2007-01-26T09:54:00.000+08:00

ALL HAIL KYLE!!!!!

I just wanna share with y'all my beloved male of the moment....

Presenting the cutest, the naughtiest and the most adorable boy in all of Chijmes....

My one and only,

KYLE....

Plus here's a pic of me with Raafiah Bulqiah, princess of Mazuin....
Taken on New Year's Eve.....
Thanks for the memories, gerl...
Hugs and kisses.....

Moods...

2007-01-24T11:20:00.000+08:00

NOT IN THE BEST OF ME....

Hi, friends...

Sorry for not updating for sooo long... Was sick for a while and now recovered, but it took about three weeks to my recovery... Lucky I got 4 days MC for a while... At least I'm able to recover fully... Alhamdulillah, I'm feeling much better now and thanks to all of you who has been so concerned about my health... Thank you so much and I really appreciate it...

I shan't babble too much as I'm still kinda slow mentally nowadays (hehehe) and I'm just so afraid I'll babble stupid stuff and bore you guys... So, I shall take a backseat for now and wait till I come up with some juicy topics to discuss ;-p

Belatedly, I would love to wish all my friends and acquaintances out there a very happy new year and may all your resolutions be fulfilled!!!! (Like I wish for mine)...

P/S: New year eve's party was, OMG, sooo delightful for me and BNI.... Happpy memories :-D

Enjoy these..... :-D

( INSOMNIA FAMILY )

( ME WITH NOTHING BETTER TO DO )

( AND WELCOME TO THE WORLD - PUTRI NUR JESSENIA)
thus your powerpuff girls are complete, my dear Faye.....

Live...

2006-12-25T09:06:00.000+08:00

A GIFT TO ALL....

This live video of me singing "Unfaithful", dedicated to all my lovely friends on this merry christmas day.... Hope you enjoy it :-D

Kisses...

Tagged by Effa

2006-12-25T08:22:00.000+08:00

HERE I GO AGAIN...... (TAGGED BY EFFA)

1. Are you single, taken or crushing?
Taken...
2. Are you happy with your life now?
Never been better... Alhamdullilah....
3. When you meet the right person, do you fall in love with him fast?
Not exactly....
4. Have you ever had your heart broken?
Once is too many times....
5. Do you believe in some circumstances where cheating love is acceptable?
Depends on the circumstances....
6. Would you take someone back if she/he cheats on you?
Been there... Done that...
7. Have you ever talk about marriage with another before?
Constantly...
8. Do you want children?
The essence of being a real woman is to be a mother... Of course!
9. How many?
One is a gift from God, two is a blessing from God while three is His trust on us....
10. Would you consider adoption?
Definitely...
11. If someone likes you right now, what do you think is the best way to let you know his feelings?
I like it straight up...
12. Do you enjoy getting into a relationship?
It takes two to clap... Won't work if I'm on my own...
13. Be honest, what is the furthest thing you and your ex did?
Almost destroying others' happiness... Forgiven but not forgotten... It's a lesson well learnt...
14. Do you believe in love at the first sight?
Unquestionably yes...
15. Are you romantic?
I am romantic... But also realistic... It's a good balance...
16. Do you believe you can change someone?
I believe in accepting someone as they are... To change is individual...
17. Do you easily give in when you are fighting?
Not on your life... I stand up for what I think is right... But if I'm wrong, I'll be the first to admit it...
18. Do you have feelings for someone right now?
Fairoz Bin Samil...
19. Have you ever wished that you could have had someone but you messed it up?
I did, once...
20. Have you ever broke a heart?
Twice... No more hopefully...
21. If one day your best friend falls in love with the boy you are deeply in love with, what would you do?
I don't know... My best friend thinks if such a thing happen, it will be incest... LOL right, Em?
22. Are you missing someone right now?
Moi family...

Now you have to ask 5 of your friends to do this survey in their blogs.
(1) Emilee Kang
(2) Noel Desmond Boyd
(3) Cute Hida ;-)
(4) Shyanne De La Cruz
(5) You.....

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all my friends a merry merry christmas and a forthcoming happy new year!!!!!
Enjoy your holidays, everyone.... Muacks muacks...

Getting it out of my chest....

2006-12-22T12:03:00.000+08:00

GETTING IT OUT OF MY CHEST......

Hi,everyone....

I'm disturbed at the moment...

I've been reading my past posts for the whole year... And I noticed that I'm a bit more subdued in my writings, especially after the middle half of the year. I think I'm learning to be careful with words so as not to anger some people.... Too late, I realised I'm being too careful that I didn't see this coming...

I've been asked a very stupid question from a very ignorant person in this music industry (won't mention names here, but YOU know who YOU are!).... He asked me this question.... (in a joking tone but serious mood) SO HOW DO YOU FEEL, BEING DEMOTED FROM A BAND LIKE JIVE TALKIN' TO BNI? MUST BE BAD HUH? (snicker)

My first reaction was, where did this guy come from? I don't even KNOW YOU and vice versa, yet YOU are stupid enough to judge me or my work, when YOU know nothing about my achievements. I know I've already answered YOU personally (which left you speechless) but let me just repeat what I said to YOU over here, so YOU won't forget where YOU stand....

First and foremost, again fyi, I am much much happier with BNI now... I don't think I'm DEMOTED because, the difference between Jive Talkin' and BNI are only in terms of musical experience... Salary wise, I'm getting better and PLUS, I'm signed directly to the company with CPF and MEDISAVE included. I have 14 days paid leave annually and if I should ever fall sick, my medical expenses are covered BY the company. PLUS, I have staff meals provided AND great staff discounts... And I have a chance to go to Hong Kong every year that I'm with the company... I didn't get all that with Jive Talkin', so I consider myself PROMOTED.... Go and do your research, try to find out how many other female club singers get the benefits that I have now...

I'm not even done yet, YOU dumb@ss.... I did learn a lot with Jive Talkin', they are, after all, one of the best bands in Singapore... But I can't practice what I've learnt with them cos they are so good they don't need me.... As when I'm with BNI, I feel much more appreciated, cos at least, I AM making a difference to the band, and I am practicing what I've learnt and putting my knowledge and creativity into good use, and the best part is, I GET TO BE MYSELF.... I have to say my rapport with the rest of the band members are much better because of our understanding and our mutual goals FOR our company AND ourselves.... and in terms of the music, BNI WILL BE BETTER THAN BEFORE.... I promise YOU that.... YOU are SO ignorant of the fact that when YOU insult me with your STUPID question, YOU were insulting BNI as well... And to think they consider YOU as a friend... Sigh..

In case YOU were wondering, my relationship with Jive Talkin' IS STILL good as before, even if we're not working together... We are, after all, professionals and our agreement was mutual... It's a waste of ten years of my life in this industry if I don't understand the nature of the music business...

So for YOU to ask me that STUPID question in the first place, have YOU ever thought of yourself and YOUR achievements?

Btw, I have my own entertainment company right now, in case YOU don't know... If YOU ever need a job, feel free to come and look for me...

Wake up and smell the roses... Even if YOU're older, doesn't mean that YOU're smart, or should I say, privileged? YOU've proven to me otherwise.... I respect YOUR age, but I don't respect YOU...

Learn how to tell the difference....

P/s : To everyone who's reading this, please bear with my outburst... This post is only directed to ONE person, and that person KNOWS who he is....
I promise to the rest of you that I will be nice again after this entry.... ;-p

Survey

2006-12-20T09:09:00.000+08:00

1. Are u photogenic? *Wat do YOU think?*
2.What time do you go to bed? *When the sun rises....*
3. What was the last thing you did before this? *Reading 8 Days mag and watching CSI...*
4.Who's the one you always meet the most? *Moi Bebe...*
5.Who's the person you'll call if you need help? *Moi Bebe...*
6.What's on your mind right now? *My family... miz dem loads lah...*
7.What do you prefer? american idol/ malaysian idol? *Singapore Idol? LOL...*
8.With whom do you wanna be with to have fun? *Moi Bebe, Em & my lovely sis, Diena...*
9.What movie do you wanna watch now? *The Holiday...*
10.When was the last time you went out? *This morning to Mustafa Center. Everything under one roof, hehehe...*
11.What do you hate the most for now? *Conflicts and arguments*
12.What do you do everyday besides eat and sleep? *Work non stop...*
13.Colors that make you happy? *Lilac...*
14.Most fave thing in your room? *Ma bed...*..
15.Miss someone? *Pls refer to the above...*
16.Plan to buy something? *Nissan Murano for Moi Bebe...*
17.Are you satisfied with you life now? *It can only gets better...*
18.Do you like seafood? *Yup...*
19.Breakfast or dinner? *Both...*
20.Like chocolates? *Adore 'em...*
21.Do you have a laptop? *Soon...*
22.Whats your favourite food from fast food? *Arnold's Friend Chicken...*
23.Cats or dogs? *Meoow.. ;-) *
24.Salty or sweet? *A lil' bit of both...*
25.City or country? *Definitely both...*
26.Is kissing normal for your age? *Next question pls...*
27.Are you athletic? *Definitely WAS...*
28.Favourite bands for now? *MUSE...*
29.Do you have your own cell phone? *Who doesn't? *
30.What do you wear to bed? *Me...*
31.Ever had a crush on a teacher in high school? *Never...*
32.Coke or pepsi? *Iced Milo...*
33.Sugar or spice? *Anything that is nice...*
34.Can you use chopsticks? *Most definitely...*
35.Do you care about getting good grades? *I did...*.
36.Have you ever fallen asleep in class? *Not that I remember...*
37.Get a job or ask your parents for money? *Get a job...*
38.Is your mom strict? *I don't think so...*
39.Do your parents give you enough privacy? *I believe so...*
40.Do your parents trust you? *I'm sure they do...*
41.Would you ever wanna lose your best friend(s)? *Not in my lifetime...*
42.Does your best friend(s) get on your nerves? *It's part of their duty to do so, right Diena? Em?
43.Do you make friends quickly? *Not always...*
44.Do you tell your mom everything? *Nothing that might hurt her feelings...*
45.What do you & your parents fight about most? *We never fight...*
46.If you love someone & she/he rejected u, what will u do to her/him? *I let it go...*
47.Can you sing or rap? *I'm paid to do both...*
48.If you have one wish, who would u make ur wife/husband for life? - Fairoz Bin Samil
49.What do you think about this survey? *A mental scrutiny? *
50.Would you do another survey such as this? *Why not? *

Now you have to ask 7 friends to do this survey on their blog.Write down their names below.

(1) Emilee Kang
(2) Noel Desmond Boyd
(3) Hida
(4) Effa Bakar
(5) Shyanne De La Cruz
(6) Lisvstarr
(7) YOU

Condolences....

2006-12-14T13:40:00.000+08:00

CONDOLENCES....

Just a quick pass by to acknowledge the passing of two of my comrades in the entertainment industry....

First to remember Zali, the former bassist of Class Act, who passed on this morning. He will always be remembered by me for his jovial personality and energy.

Next is to remember DJ Sunny, former dj in Naughty Girl, who passed on a few days ago. He will always be remembered by me for his infectious hip hop and dance beats, and most definitely his skills on the pool table.

May Allah have mercy on their souls.... Al-Fatehah....

Let me catch my breath....

2006-12-12T22:04:00.000+08:00

LET ME CATCH MY BREATH......

Pheww!! It's been like what? A month since I last update my blog... Woah...I've been so busy with work and projects that I've no time for myself... Sigh... but fret not, my blog is still active, thanks to Shyanne and Manjoe for making full use of my Cbox, hehehe... thanks you guys ;-D

I'm doing very well at the moment, and I think I've gone one up further than before as in, I'm establishing my own company at the moment to handle and supply new talents to entertainment venues... We're still a baby at the moment but I appreciate the fact that a lot of people has been supportive... Their help will always be appreciated.. At the moment, I'm still looking for new talents to be groomed and of course, if all goes well, I might be able to provide the venues for these young talents to perform in... So if anyone's interested, drop me an email aite (nana_rawvibes@hotmail.com)

Got some pics for all to see.. Check them out!!!! My boys from BNI (Batteries Not Included) performing nightly except Tuesdays at Insomnia.... and friends included...

First up, the man on bass, Mat Noh, poised with the instrument of his work...

Next, is the man on drums, Runi, with the "rock drummer" pose all done up, hehehe....

Here's the man on keyboards, the one who's responsible for the music, Boy Suhaini....

Presenting the baby of the band, Alif, on guitars, who at 22, already making the girls swoon over his antics, hehehe....

This is my current partner-in-crime, Ibrahim aka Bryan, who has the stamina of a horse, but wait, check this out, he's got asthma... Ironic, isn't it? Hehehe.... He's real fun to be with on stage...

And this is where all the music happens... the live stage in Insomnia...

Gals nite out at Insomnia, after dinner... Insomnia has one of the best menus in Singapore... I personally recommend Grilled King Tiger Prawns.... SSSllluuurrrppp!!!!

A friend of my cousin, Cindy, dropped by to say hi... In the center is my cousin, Doris....

Gaylie was so in love with my digicam, she went and took photos of everything in sight!!!! Hehehe... here's one of her baby experiments that night....

I dropped by 1 Nite Stand to say hi to the band Six In The City... Pictured is Mus on vox, Azman on bass, Herman the sound engineer and Jali on keyboards....

That's all for now, peeps.... Have a nice time, y'all, and I'll catch up with you guys soon!!!! Muackz muackz!!!

For Your Viewing Pleasure....

2006-11-14T13:40:00.000+08:00

FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE.....

Finally, I can put up some of my Raya pics today... It's been so hectic for me, that I only find time to chill on Tuesdays (my off days).. Hereby, I present to everyone, the pics that I took during Raya (some of them, not all, it's too many hehehe!) with moi family and friends.... Hope you enjoy them as much as I did :-D :-D :-D

My family... Em is one of us, in case you don't already know...

The woman who brought me into this world and the one I love to death, my mak...

I know, I know, my sisters are charming.... Diena has broken a few hearts before (already!) and Afni is so sweet and obedient, you'd wish she'd be naughty once awhile, hehehe...

Of course you all know by now that he's the one who gave my life its meaning.... Bebe, je respire pour toi...

Me and Em in Raya splendour... Best Friends Forever.... (Tacky, hehehe....)

My lovely girl cousins on my mother's side, excluding the young ones... Pretty, aren't they? Well, they're prettier on the inside... I love them all to bits!!!

Me and Em can't get enough of this cute lil cousin of mine, Andy... He's a cherub lil thing, is he not?

And I can't get enough of this another young cousin of mine, Laila.... Such an angel...

Moi bebe's cousin and twin nieces... Cousin Hazzline comes all the way from KL to celebrate Raya with us...

Eli, Em, me and Sarah.... One of our best mate's daughters, Sarah, is Em's Goddaughter....

Singapore Idol finalist, Nurul, invited us to her open house.... Her mom cooks the best chicken wing I've ever tasted!!! And her curry is oh so tasty....

The Idols took a break to celebrate a joyous occasion.... One great thing about Hari Raya, the food is always delicious!!!

I forgot this lil boy's name but he's so gorgeous, I can't resist putting up his pic... A cousin of Nurul...

Me and Em, nothing better to do....

I've known this family since I was 15... Wan (in dark green) has been my best mate, friend, confidante and in my blood for so long, I can't remember how we got together....

Finally, just posting up this pic cos I think it's cute.... taken a few days before Raya, while we have nothing better to do hehehe....

Pheww... and that's only some of them pics... If I were to put all of them, I think it would take me at least one whole day to finish it up.... Anyhow, I hope you guys had fun viewing them.... Till next time, adios....

2006-11-08T09:17:00.000+08:00

HEAR YE...HEAR YE....!!!!!!

Hello, everyone! Here's to promote an upcoming movie, which is slated to open in February 2007 in theaters....

Two reasons to watch it are: (1) Two of my favourite men are involved in it.... Gurmit (acting) and Afdlin (acting and directing).
(2) If a movie is made by Afdlin, then you all HAVE TO WATCH IT!!!!! cos he's one of the most talented and gifted actor/director I've ever known.... You won't be disappointed!!!

Let's all wait for the movie to be released on our shores... Meantime, Gurms and Afdlin, if you're reading this, I love you both!!! hehehe....

2006-11-07T15:06:00.000+08:00

ATTENTION!! ATTENTION!!

Hi, everyone! I'm currently looking for fresh new talents. I have regular weekend gigs on hand and what I need now is available female singers or cover bands( preferably a 5pc outfit ). Music genre more to Blues, Rock&Roll, Soul and current hits. If you're interested, please drop me an email at nana_rawvibes@hotmail.com to secure an audition and if you have visual or audio demo, pls send it in by 15th Nov. Thanks and God bless!!

2006-11-05T08:58:00.000+08:00

Your Dominant Intelligence is Musical Intelligence

Every part of your life has a beat, and you're often tapping your fingers or toes.
You enjoy sounds of all types, but you also find sound can distract you at the wrong time.
You are probably a gifted musician of some sort - even if you haven't realized it.
Also a music lover, you tend to appreciate artists of all kinds.

You would make a great musician, disc jockey, singer, or composer.

What Kind of Intelligence Do You Have?

I'm so glad to know this.... I've always been musically inclined since I was 4... Mak n Abah always said that I'm going to be a Qari when I grow up...

Well, I grew up singing tho'... hehehe...

You've Changed 56% in 10 Years

You've done a good job changing with the times, but deep down, you're still the same person.
You're clothes, job, and friends may have changed some - but it hasn't changed you.

How Much Have You Changed in 10 Years?

I thought so too.... Deep down inside, I know I'm still the same person 10 years ago...

Your Element Is Air

You dislike conflict, and you've been able to rise above the angst of the world.
And when things don't go your way, you know they'll blow over quickly.

Easygoing, you tend to find joy from the simple things in life.
You roll with the punches, and as a result, your life is light and cheerful.

You find it easy to adapt to most situations, and you're an open person.
With you, what you see is what you get... and people love that!

What's Your Element?

Now I know... kinda like it hehehe....

2006-11-03T12:55:00.000+08:00

You Are 80% Weird

You're more than quirky, you're downright strange.
But you're also strangely compelling, like a cult leader.

How Weird Are You?

Anyone care to agree on this about me? Hehehehe...

2006-11-03T12:35:00.000+08:00

You Are A Romantic Realist

You tend to be grounded when it comes to romance.
Sure, you can fall hard... but only for someone you've gotten to know.
And once you're in love, you can be a total romantic goofball...
But you'd never admit it to your friends!

Are You Romantic or Realistic?

Something very true about me.... I thought I should share, hehehehe....

2006-11-03T12:14:00.000+08:00

You Are A Maple Tree

There's not anyone in this world quite like you.
You are full of imagination, ambition, and originality.
Shy but confident, you hunger for new experiences.
You have a good memory and learn easily.
You are sometimes nervous and always complex (especially in love).

What's Your Celtic Horoscope?

What's a maple tree? Is there any maple tree in Singapore? (Someone please answer me if you know the answers)

I only know maple syrup... slurrrppp....

These blogthings are addictive, man!!!!

2006-11-03T11:42:00.000+08:00

Your EQ is 133

50 or less: Thanks for answering honestly. Now get yourself a shrink, quick!
51-70: When it comes to understanding human emotions, you'd have better luck understanding Chinese.
71-90: You've got more emotional intelligence than the average frat boy. Barely.
91-110: You're average. It's easy to predict how you'll react to things. But anyone could have guessed that.
111-130: You usually have it going on emotionally, but roadblocks tend to land you on your butt.
131-150: You are remarkable when it comes to relating with others. Only the biggest losers get under your skin.
150+: Two possibilities - you've either out "Dr. Phil-ed" Dr. Phil... or you're a dirty liar.

What's Your EQ (Emotional Intelligence Quotient)?

Who would've thought??? Hehehehe.....

2006-11-03T11:32:00.000+08:00

Your Attitude is Better than 60% of the Population

You have a good attitude. While a realist, you do see the positive side of most things. People love to be around you.

How's Your Attitude?

Hmmm, interesting.....

2006-11-03T11:08:00.000+08:00

YIPPIEE!!!!!!!!

Once again, I'd like to wish everyone Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri n Maaf Zahir Batin...
It's been a while since I last update... Been very busy with work lately...

Latest news... I'm officially the resident singer of Insomnia @ Chijmes since Ist November... I praise Allah for being generous and merciful with me, Alhamdulillah... To all staff and management of Insomnia, I foresee happy working relations in the near future and I hope we'll last for the long run......

My history with Insomnia goes all the way back to 2004 (yup, that was even before I was with Jive Talkin').... I left Insomnia with the best intentions to broaden my experience.... Now that I've come back to familiar grounds, I must say that I realised that I've missed the place more than I've ever admitted... I have an affinity to the company as my boss understood my needs then and now...

Here's a video of my first night back at Insomnia on the 1st of November.... I'm singing the song "Hurt" by Christina Aguilera live on stage... Hope you enjoy it as much as I do....

Btw, I've yet to attach the Raya pics with my family, moi bebe and Emilee.....
I'll do it as soon as I have more time, folks!!!!!!
Muacks muacks, I love you all straight from my heart......

2006-10-29T07:15:00.000+08:00

What Your Soul Really Looks Like

You are a warm hearted and open minded person. It's easy for you to forgive and forget.

You are a grounded person, but you also leave room for imagination and dreams. You feet may be on the ground, but you're head is in the clouds.

You believe that people see you as larger than life and important. While this is true, they also think you're a bit full of yourself.

Your near future is a lot like the present, and as far as you're concerned, that's a very good thing.

For you, love is all about caring and comfort. You couldn't fall in love with someone you didn't trust.

Inside the Room of Your Soul

2006-10-29T07:11:00.000+08:00

Your Pride Quotient: 35%

You're a little prideful, but nothing out of the norm.
Like everyone, you enjoy attention. But you're also good at sharing the spotlight!

How Much Pride Do You Have?

OOOppsss....

2006-10-23T15:40:00.000+08:00

OOOPPPSSSSS.... LUPA PLAK!!!

Another quick one, just to wish all Muslims and Muslimahs out there,

A VERY HAPPY EID CELEBRATIONS AND MAY YOU FORGIVE ME FOR ANY UNDOINGS, IN BEHAVIOUR OR SPOKEN, AND TO LET YOU KNOW I'VE FORGIVEN AND FORGOTTEN....

Selamat hari raya aidilfitri, minal aidi wal faizin...Kulli 'Aam wa antum bi khair... Astaghfirullaha min kulli zanbin wa atuubu ilaik..

"Jika tersilap kata, terkasar bahasa, terbuat dosa, dari apa segi sekalipun, harap maafkan zahir dan batin, serta halalkan makan minum hamba yang tak sempurna ini..... Sesungguhnya kita saling bermaafan di bulan Syawal yang mulia ini, Amiin...."

2006-10-23T12:35:00.000+08:00

You Are a Chick Rocker!

You're living proof that chicks can rock
You're inspired by Joan Jett and the Donnas
And when you rock, you rock hard
(Plus, you get all the cute guy groupies you want!)

What Kind of Rocker Are You?

What can I say? I don't mind being a punk rocker, a glam rocker or whatever.... as long as I'm a ROCKER!!!!!!!

Those who knew me well enough... Will know that I'm a born rocker, inside out... hehehe

Condolences....

2006-10-23T11:47:00.000+08:00

CONDOLENCES....

Just a quick one to offer my condolences to the family of the late Mr Ali Ahmad, Singapore's very own Tom Jones of the 70s...

He passed on recently (not quite sure if it's last night or today am) and I felt a loss for Singapore. This was a man who believed in his art. God, I was one of the judges who judged him last year during Devils' Idol competition. Compared to him, I am a nobody. I respect him for the very reason that he was still actively pursuing his passion in singing, even though age was catching up, and health was a major obstacle.... Yet, he still went on as far to the final rounds of the contest (despite being the second eldest contestant in the competition) and he was the first runner up. It was an honor to be able to watch his final performances....

I pray to Allah, may He have mercy on Ali Ahmad's soul, Insya Allah....

Al-fatehah......

Wowwie!!!!!

2006-10-19T06:49:00.000+08:00

WOWWIE!!!!!!!!

Hey y'all....

Real sorry for neglecting this space for some time. I've been busy settling some business with few parties lately. I thought this is the month where I could have my month long holiday, but nooooo.... I'm working every Fridays and Saturdays this month for Muddy Murphy's and Penny Black with my new project band line up, aptly named, Raw Vibes....

Some introductions are necessary over here..... Drum roll....^^^^^^^^^^^

On drums, Wan, on bass, Bai Fero, on keyboards, Steve Vernell and on guitars, Talib..... One of the most promising line up I've ever worked with... And it's been a while since I'm on my own in the frontline (four years to be exact), but I'm loving it at the moment!!!!!

We had so much fun on our debut on the 13th and 14th of Oct at Muddy Murphys. Coincidentally, the US Marines were in town that night and they were VERY supportive of us. Me, Bai and Talib was jumping up and down on the tiny stage, but we don't mind about the lack of space, really.... It was a successful debut for the band and I believe I can be proud of that. I will post a couple of videos that some of our friends took during our performance. So hang on!!!!

I will move to Insomnia on the 1st of Nov. Will be performing with the band B.N.I, six nights a week (except Tuesdays). Don't forget to drop by (it's at Chijmes) and say hi, y'all.... Will fill this space with updates soon....
Meantime, do enjoy these pics I have for you
(pardon me for the wig, peeps... was having a bad hair day, that's all, hehehe)

;-)

Quickie....

2006-10-11T21:39:00.000+08:00

QUICKIE....

Just a quick update here... I've been quite busy lately shuttling to and fro for my new band and my new venue...
Watch out for this space for updates yah..

Sorry peeps... I just wanna say hi to those of you who has kept in touch with me thru this blog, and a million thanks for remembering me... You guys make me feel good whenever I read your msgs, so please.. keep it coming!!!!

I love you all from the bottom of my heart and I really appreciate your friendship. Thank you all so much and of course I will be here whenever you need me to be around.

I will upload some good pics soon. So remeber to tune in and don't surf out yah.... Cheers!!!!!!

Everything's Changing....

2006-09-30T12:37:00.000+08:00

EVERYTHING'S CHANGING......

(20TH SEPTEMBER 2006)
(BAR NONE)

Hey ya' all, peeps!!!!!
Posted up a new blogskin for everyone to enjoy.... Courtesy of blogskins.com (linked) and of course, my sweet and smart sis, Diena... I love the motifs to this skin... I find the elf fairy so suitable to describe me, hehehe.... (well, I am short, for God's sake!)

Anyways, let me tell you a story about what happened on the 20th Sept 2006....

Bar None celebrated its 7th anniversary on that date. And as per normal every anniversary, all the proceeds of the night will be matched by our boss, Mr Jason Choo, dollar for dollar, and donated to charity. For this year, the lucky beneficiary is MILK (Mainly I Love Kids) foundation. We raised the second best amount for charity that night in Bar None's history, of about $60K plus!!!!! Like to post up a shout out to everyone involved and congratulate ya' all on a job well done!!

We've got loads of talented people performing that night... for example, all the way from Malaysia, Paul Ponnudurai (pictured), one of the best guitarist and singer Singapore has ever seen, who never disappoints with his impromptu musical musings... The beautiful Shirlyn with her band The Unexpected (pictured)... and a good friend of mine, our local rock Dj, Super Mario of Power98fm (pictured)... the band Raw Energy from Devils Bar (the band Emilee(SI2) and Hady (SI2) was from, not pictured).... and lots of others as well....

Guess who dropped by to say hi to me.... Hahaha, yeah, it's the man himself, Taufik, our very first Singapore Idol.... It's really nice of him to drop by... Thanks for the favour, sweets...
He said I looked better now that I've put on some weight, in all the right places, hehehe, and my assets are bigger now woohoo!!! Hahaha, he meant my voice lah.... And to think he requested for me to sing Kelly Clarkson's "Since You Been Gone".... You should see his expression when I hit that high note... Original key babe! Hahaha.... He remains sweet as ever with me, even after his newfound fame with Singapore Idol.... Friendships are meant to stay connected and on the ground... It's not easy being friends with someone as famous as him. A lot of understanding is required, especially about his career.... But I'm very glad that he remembers his true friends.... Taufik is a real life story about a boy done good, and he's an inspiration to everyone who really knows him....

To Taufik, in my heart, you will always be The Singapore Idol!!!! You have a huge heart to suit your fame.... You know you'll always have my support in whatever you do, as long as your heart's in the right place... Remember Fik, put your mom above anybody else.... It's her blessings that got you where you are... Along with your hard work, I'm sure greater things are in store for you.... I owe you loads, sweets.... You'll always be in my heart...

To the Bar None Family, congatulations for staying strong for seven whole years (not an easy feat for a nightspot)!!!!! May you guys prosper and continue to persevere in the industry as one of the best live music venue in Singapore!!!! Happy belated 7th brithday, Bar None!!!!!

2ND SINGAPORE IDOL...... HADY MIRZA!!!!!!

2006-09-26T15:02:00.000+08:00

2ND SINGAPORE IDOL..... HADY MIRZA!!!!!!!!!!!

Just a quick one to note and applaud our 2nd Singapore Idol..... the talented HADY MIRZA!!!!!

Well done, babe! We, in the circle always knew that you could sing well.... It's about time someone from the club industry create a new image on the biz.... Whoever thought a club singer could make it good and popular? I always did. I tried in 2004, only to fail but not without leaving an impression (whether it's good or bad, is subjected to individuals, hehehe).

I always have faith in club singers who's trying to make it big. It's never easy. Lots of sacrifice and hard work. And we have to live with the stigma of singing in a club, like name-branding and cat-calls.... That is why I've always encouraged Emilee to do it and never think twice... And it's also the reason why I can understand Hady and Emilee's reasons for wanting to break through the market.... Opportunities will only be available if you're willing to sacrifice certain things... Whether it pays off or not, in the end, you always learn some new things.... I applaud young talents out there who has the courage to take a step and propel yourself... Those who just sits back and criticise, I think it's time for you to do some soul-searching....

CONGRATULATIONS TO HADY AND OF COURSE, ALL THE REST OF THE IDOLS.....
YOUR JOURNEY IS NOT OVER YET....
'TIS ONLY THE BEGINNING OF A NEW CAREER PATH.....

2006-09-25T09:51:00.000+08:00

Live Unplugged version of Can't Let Go.... Awesome!!!!!

One hell of a great singer.... What can I say?

When am I going to sing this live? Haisshh....

Ed, if you're reading this.... Let's jam this song, man!!!!!

Sigh.....

God Bless The Internet!!!!!

2006-09-25T07:52:00.000+08:00

GOD BLESS THE INTERNET!!!!!!

You know, I just realise, that we should all be grateful for the easily available communication tools that we have at our disposal. Especially the internet....

You see, I am an independent girl who's been living on my own since I was 18 years old. Not that I don't want to live with my mak and abah, but it made me appreciate and love them a lot more if we're not under the same roof, where relationships are often taken for granted. My mak and abah understands this about me, and they respect my decision for as long as I know how to respect myself. I still try my very best to visit them at least one or twice every two weeks, while mak and me always send messages to and fro almost daily. I know some people might disagree with the way I live my life, but all I can say is, you live yours and I live mine, the way it's supposed to be. No one can truly understand what you're going through, so no one's actually allowed to be judgemental. Best to keep your opinions to yourselves and live life without hurting anybody.... Physically or emotionally.... It's been 8 years now and our family ties are tighter than most that I know of, Alhamdulillah....

Now, I've got two younger brothers and two younger sisters (yup, I'm the eldest).... Amin, who's married my sis in law, Imah, and blessed with a son, Alfie (coming up baby no.2), Diena(my closest, smartest and naughtiest sister), Amrien(my breakdancing, soccer-playing and crybaby 4th brother) and Afni(my most lovable and obedient youngest sister). So many siblings, you say? How to keep up with news of them? That's where the mobile phone and the internet comes in handy. I keep in touch with Amin, Amrien and Afni through the phone, while Diena will use both means of mobile phone and the internet...

I recently read her latest post on her blog, which is linked to me now, about what my abah said when my sis and abah was discussing our sick Tok Long in SGH. Of course, I wouldn't know about it word for word if not for the internet, hence the title above.... I find it wise, although sad but true..... And I wish to share it with all my friends out there... Please read it and hope to appreciate life but know when to let go..... An inspiration to me and my sis, my abah said...

"WHEN SOMEONE IS SICK, AND YOU CAN TELL THAT THEIR TIME IS NEAR IT'S BETTER, THAN THEY GO WITHOUT WARNING....
COS IF SO, THEY DON'T GET TO SEE YOU BEFORE THEY GO, COS YOU DON'T GET TO BE THE LAST ONES THEY SEE BEFORE THEY GO..... YES, IT'S TRUE THAT IT'S PAINFUL WHEN THEY ARE SICK, BUT NEVER THINK OF IT AS A SUFFERING, NEVER SIGH AND NEVER GIVE UP, KEEP TRYING TO FIND WAYS TO LIVE.... COZ BEING SICK IS ACTUALLY CLEANSING YOUR SINS... GOD GIVES YOU SICKNESS AS A REMINDER FOR YOU TO TURN TO HIM...... THERE'S ALWAYS SOMETHING GOOD BEHIND EVERYTHING'S BAD THAT HAPPENED...."

A tribute to my whole family....
Abah and Mak, I love you and respect you with my whole being....
Amin, Imah, Diena, Amrien, Afni and Alfie..... You all know I love you unconditionally and I will be there for you in times of love and need....
I love all of you with the greatest love I've ever learnt to appreciate... and I appreciate all of you with the greatest respect I've ever learnt to give....

Unconditionally yours, Nur Hasanah Zakaria....

P/S:
R.I.P, Ibu....
(Even though I don't know you that well, you'll always be remembered to me as one of the people that loved Diena unconditionally, therefore, you're family.... May Allah bless you with peace, Amiin)

2006-09-24T06:24:00.000+08:00

SUPER CUTE AND TALENTED!!!!!

Check out this vid I found in YouTube.com. This cute little girl is super talented, man!!!!! Check out her expressions while performing the song.... And she's only 3 years old!!!!

Enjoy, peeps!!!

Can't Let Go of.... MARIAH CAREY

2006-09-10T20:04:00.000+08:00

Folks everywhere out there......

Here's my all time favourite heartbreak love song of all time.... Sung by my favourite Idol of all time, my inspiration and someone that I look up to in terms of singing........ the Great and Talented Mariah Carey, Diva of All Time!!!!!
I've found this vid on YouTube and I LOVE IT SO MUCH!!!! The title of the song is "Can't Let Go" and it still makes me cry just by listening to it.... My ultimate dream is to perform this song live in front of thousands of people.... Sigh, I wish it will come true one day....

I LOVE YOU, MARIAH!!!!!!

My Turn, My Turn.....

2006-09-10T19:24:00.000+08:00

MY TURN, MY TURN.........

Hehehe.... Finally, a segment dedicated to lil' ol' me, lol..... Hence the title lah....

I'm a terrible vainpot!!!! Hehehe.... What can I do and what can I say, ma frenz? Moi bebe just loves to take my pics..... I've got more where these came from, hah! Me, a self-confessed camwhore, hahahaha.....

All these pics were taken by moi bebe, cos he's got nothing better to do, bwahahaha.... I love you, bebe.....

Enjoy, peeps, and you can leave some comments on them if you want..... I'll definitely answer your enquiries, hehehe.....

Till then, cheers ;-)

More Coming Up....

2006-09-10T18:35:00.000+08:00

MORE COMING UP.....

Up next.... Is a pic of the 3rd generation heroes in my family on my mother's side!!!! All the good looking boys and men whom I call brothers and cousins.... Funny thing is, my mom wanted moi bebe to be in this pic, hehehe... You can't imagine how awkward it is for moi bebe.... He's part of the family now, better get use to it ha.... And not forgetting a duet pic of me and my bestest cousin on my mother's side, Emelda, or affectionately called Emy.... Cute, isn't she? Smartest brains in the family, bundled with a biggest heart... I heart you, Emy!!!!!!

On Friday night the 8th of September, Jive Talkin' was graced by the presence of a very talented saxophonist all the way from Puerto Rico, Mr Edwin Sepulveda..... He was one hell of a blower, man!!!! Lots of soul and melody, without overpowering our music.... A true musician through and through..... I salute you, Edwin!!!! Hope to see you again soon in lovely ol' Singapore....

The band took a picture for memories with Edwin, but I can't help wishing Jefri Brown was there though.... It would make a complete pic then.... Sigh....

Season's Latest.... From The Block!!!!!

2006-09-10T16:43:00.000+08:00

SEASON'S LATEST...... FROM THE BLOCK!!!!!!

Hey, everyone....

Got loads of pics posted up for your viewing pleasure right now....

For this segment, I've got some pics of my uncle's wedding to Ustazah Kalthum of Pergas. My uncle is sure one lucky man!! He's the one whom I look up to cos he's got a fantastic voice and pure talent on acoustic guitar.... If he had chose the music industry, I'm sure he would have made a name for himself.....
But as he chose to live a fulfilled life as a promising husband to a kind, good-hearted and religious woman, therefore, he has to be commended on my pages for being the MAN that he is....

To Cik Aai and Cik Kalthum, I pray for your well-being and may God bless your union everafter..... Love you loads

I've also put up some pics that I took at Mediacorp with Adeline (Emilee's younger sis), while we did a video shoot of Emilee's fan segment (too bad it didn't make the cut, haisshh)..... Along with one of our buddies, Faye and her cute family.... This is like a tribute to them for supporting Emilee wholeheartedly during her journey in Singapore Idol.... Especially to Sarah, Emilee's numero uno youngest fan......

Ooopsss.... (SI Season 2)

2006-09-06T23:57:00.000+08:00

OOOPSSSS...... (SI SEASON 2)

Haishh... forgot to inform all you peeps that my best fwen is back...

We've been spending loads of time together that I forgot to update y'all... So sowie....

Well, we rented an SUV a few days earlier (Hyundai Santa Fe 2.4litre Auto) and travelled to Johor for a day of leisure... Shiok man!!!! But I have to say driving in JB is an experience.... Seasoned drivers will know what I'm talking about, hehehe...

Anyway, I've never commented on Singapore Idol this year so far (only been promoting Emilee lah).... So I'd like to give my two cents' worth right now, as we're left with the top 4 Idols at the moment, and every single week, we're one step closer to find our next Singapore Idol....

SINGAPORE..........

Can you all seriously imagine Jasmine Tye and Paul Twohill as the next Singapore Idol? Unleash them on the world stage? Honestly, I've met and communicated with Paul on a personal basis, and he's a VERY nice boy.... but that's it! He's A Boy!! He will go far if he works hard in this music industry but sincerely, now is not the time for him. He needs to polish his identity, and of course, his singing, before he can truly represent Singapore. Same goes to Jasmine.... Nice face, nice tone... but I think she's a bit deluded with her song choices so far.... I mean, pardon me, the songs that she has chosen are far too big for her, and far too difficult... It's not just about singing Christina Aguilera's songs, girl, it's about emulating Christina's SPIRIT and ESSENCE when you sing her songs.... It's about SOUL and ATTITUDE.... and Jasmine just don't have that yet... and of course, the singing techniques still has a long way to go... I'm sure Babes and Iskandar would agree with me on this, heheheh....

To all Jasmine's and Paul's fans, don't get angry hah... It's just my two cents worth... You can either or not agree with me... but after all, this is just my space for doodles, hehehe..... So pardon me for doodling away..... ;-)

I can only see either Hady or Jon as an Idol.... but either way...

ALL THE BEST TO ALL THE IDOLS, PAST AND PRESENT, AND REMEMBER, EVEN IF YOU DON'T MAKE IT IN THE COMPETITION, YOU SHOULD ALL BE APPLAUDED AS YOU HAVE TAKEN THE FIRST STEP TO PROPEL YOURSELF ON NATIONAL STAGE.....

IT'S JUST A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE DESTINY AND FATE REVEALS YOUR FUTURE IN MUSIC, SO BE PREPARED TO WORK HARD AND CONTINUE TO PERSEVERE.....

GOOD LUCK!!!!!!

Doodles...

2006-09-02T18:11:00.000+08:00

DOODLES.....

I'm feeling kinda bored...

Let me doodle a lil' something over here...

I was reading all my previous posts and I noticed that I started off sounding quite happy initially....

But in recent posts, I've been a bit sad.... And it shows in my writings....

Almost a year has gone by, with so many things happened and so many lessons learned...

But I wonder if the people around me learn as much as I do?

My wise abah said, "No one stops learning, even til the day we die".....

But sadly, there's too many people around who thinks that they know a lot, if not everything....

Take for instance, in regards of the Malaysian Wedding of The Year, between Siti Nurhaliza and Datuk K.... Some of her fans were angry at her choice for a husband... Saying that she should marry a young, eligible and good looking guy, instead of marrying a 40-something and divorcee with 4 teenage children...

To me, who better to judge, rather than the person who's going through with it? Who knows what's best for a person other than the person in question itself? Are we so materialistic now in modern times that a pretty woman has to be matched with a handsome man? Does that mean a plump woman with mediocre looks can't date with a gorgeous guy? Or a geeky looking guy can't pair up with a beautiful,sexy curvy woman? Seems to me that more and more people are judging books by their covers nowadays.....

I'm sure no one likes to be told.... and of course major decisions, like our choice of life partners should only be determined by ourselves, not anybody else.... Parents can give their opinions but at the end, it is still, as it should be, our choice....

I've heard people around me saying that... this girl 'should' go out with this guy lah, this guy 'should' go out with this girl lah.... Hey!!!! C,mon!!!!... Who are we to determine what makes others' lives happier?

After all, we're not God... Let Fate do its thing... and be sure that things will work out in the end....

Having a good and kind heart is above all greatness... Thus, live and learn.....

P/S : The pics attached are of my Mak, Abah and me when I was a baby... I thank Allah the Great, for blessing me with my Mak and Abah... The two key peple in my life, who's responsible for what I am today... Who made me think the way I do, speak the way I speak and love the way I love.... Mak, Abah, I love you both so much from the bottom of my heart... Thank you for standing by me, as you both always do... And thank you for having faith, as well as trust in me.... I'm lucky to be blessed and given both of you as my mom and dad.... Alhamdulillah...

2006-08-26T11:42:00.000+08:00

ON DRUMS..... ME'LATAH' TECHNIQUE!!! (SUPER FUNNY!!!!)

You guys have to check out this video....

It's fun to laugh at ourselves once in a while...

I've been 'melatah'-ing for as long as I can remember... Thanks to moi bebe and Jefri Brown, this vid is produced unintentionally while we were chilling out at work after rehearsals... Trust Jefri to sneak behind me... and I didn't even notice it coming!!!! Haishh...

But while looking back on this vid, I laugh myself silly, and thought Gosh! I looked so funny!!!! Hence, my decision to put it up here for your viewing and I hope you'll laugh as much as I did....

Cheers ;-)

Pictorial... and Declarations

2006-08-20T09:47:00.000+08:00

I can't sleep...
So I decided to put up these images just for the fun of it...

Dedicated to Manjoe, who requested for more pics.... I hope you enjoyed these as I don't have much recent pics lately... hahaha, no time lah babe....

Me missing my best fwen cos I've got no one to chum with these days....sigh, one more week to go before she gets back to lovely ol' Singapore....

To moi bebe, I heart you so much.... and we'll get thru this together, and by Allah's Grace and Willing, till death do us part....
Insya Allah...
(Note: You're the First to receive this vow from me, let's work together to keep it alive...)

Ups and Downs...

2006-08-15T08:36:00.000+08:00

Hi, everyone...

Nice to be back again on these pages, even if only for a while...

It's been quite sometime since I last jot down something here, and even then, it wasn't for myself, but for a lovely girl I called my best friend.... Y'all know who she is, so I won't elaborate aite...

Now is the time for myself, as requested from Manjoe... Sorry babe, no pictorials for now cos been thru loads of Ups and Downs lately, life just seemed like a roller coaster ride....

After Emilee got eliminated from SI, we hang out loads together, just like always.... Part of my Ups came from the moments I, my fiance (yes, we're well and truly engaged) and Emilee just goofed around town (in her mother's car, hehehe) and camping out at the posh Marriott Hotel for three whole days (courtesy of a good friend, Amin). On the fourth night, she slept over at my place and watched dvds... And of course, no pictures were taken as we believed that those memories are meant to be emblazoned in our minds, personally.... So, sorry folks!!!!

Alas, Emilee left soon after for the UK for a short holiday... Sigh, can't wait for her to get back and goof some more...

I won't write about my Downs at the moment cos it's too sensitive... Frankly, I just don't wanna talk about it.. It's best that I move on to the good things in life and just keep my conscience clear... As long as I went down a straight path without bad intentions or bad motivations, I can safely say that with every step that I take, and in whatever move that I make, it is with my parents' blessings and the blessings of my loved ones... I have done nothing to be ashamed of and I have done nothing to shame my family and loved ones, so if Allah is willing, Our dreams for Our future will be a challenge to those who don't have faith, Insya Allah...

"Rabbanaa aatinaa fid dunyaa hasanah.... Wa fil aakhirati hasanah... Waqinaa A*zaabannaar...."
Amiin, amiin ya rabbal A*lamiin.....

For Shyanne... You are one of those women whom I admire, just for your guts and bravery itself... and of course, your honesty is a breath of fresh air, just like your lovely disposition... I declare you a Formidable Lady.... I admire you well and truly....

Kiss kiss

2006-07-30T20:32:00.000+08:00

EMILEE'S SWANSONG....

Here folks!!!

Emilee left Singapore Idol with her head held high cos she was one of the best performers that night. Really wonder why Singapore didn't vote enough for her. Or maybe they thought her fanbase was big enough so some felt that she didn't need their votes. Well, sadly, they thought wrong. But I am very proud of Emilee making it this far (Top 10 out of 3,900) and I know she'll make it big one day.

Enjoy this video of her swansong "Makin' Whoopee" and to all Emilee's friends and fans, thanks a million for your unconditional support through out her ordeal in Singapore Idol. It was a journey worth remembering.......

2006-07-21T02:57:00.000+08:00

So proud of you, babe!!!

Hello, everyone...

Got this video of Emilee singing "Just Like A Pill" during her 2nd Spectaculars. I think she improved A LOT and she sure showed a lot of people what she's capable of, if you just give her a chance....

You'e my pill, babe, and congrats on making it to the Top 10. You so totally deserve it!!! I'm so damn proud of you!!!! Muacks muacks...

ALHAMDULILLAH.....

2006-07-14T12:54:00.000+08:00

Good day, everyone...

First and foremost, praise to Allah S.W.T, my prayers were answered again last night when my gerl, Emilee, made it to the next round of Singapore Idol. She's now officially one of the Top 11 in the finals right now. I can't tell you how proud I am of her at this moment...

I still remember when I first met Emilee in early 2003 in a recording studio at Woodlands. We hit it off immediately even though we just met. Never would I have thought that one day, she'll become one of my most trusted friends, let alone living under the same roof. She was there through some really bad times I've had and vice versa. Occasionally, there'll be some quiet times between us, but never for more than three days. We always end up looking out for each other. Saying "I love you" or "I miss you" between us is so normal that narrow-minded people might've thought us 'weird' since we're both girls, hahaha...

I would like to take this opportunity to tell the whole nation/world that I'm with Emilee all the way up, and all the way down. I know you'll read this, babe, and I know you've heard it from me lots of times, but I just need to tell everyone how proud I am with you... You've gotten this far with loads of blessings from people who love you unconditionally. Just remain true to yourself and whatever happens, keep your conscience clear. Having a good and kind heart is above all greatness...

Remember that I love you with all my heart.... And you know I mean it... muackz muackz

2006-07-11T08:39:00.000+08:00

Here's another one...

Next, me singing "Super Duper Love" by a truly talented, young and budding female soul singer, Joss Stone. Again, I can only hope I did enough justice to my rendition of the song...

Enjoy, peeps... And feel free to let me know what you think ;-)

2006-07-11T08:35:00.000+08:00

Finally....

YES!!!!

Finally, I'm able to broadcast this to public viewing. Remember our roadshow in Raffles City? The Jive Talkin' goes to town event was recorded by a friend of mine and so here it is....

First up, yours truly singing "Respect" from the great Aretha Franklin. I hope I did enough justice to this great soul number....

2006-07-07T11:45:00.000+08:00

Malam (Song of The Night)

Check this out!!!
I found this video that I did with Jack Steady & The Funk Family in the name of charity. All proceeds from the song and video went to Tabung Amal Aidilfitri...
My hair was a lot different then, like maggi mee hehehe...

Enjoy, peeps...

OH HAPPY DAY(S)!!!!!!!!

2006-06-24T03:54:00.000+08:00

Greetings one and all!!!!

22nd and 23rd June 2006 are a few of my most memorable nights of my life!

Why?

My best gal, Emilee, made it to the Top 12 of Singapore Idol 2006 on the 22nd of June 2006. I was like a madwoman among the studio audience shouting her name and blowing whistle throughout her results show. And I made my bebe lift the posters that I did, high up in the air (cos he's tall, what...) while me and my younger sis, Diena went mad with cheers, hahaha... I was so happy that she made it that I shout out loud when they announced her name, jumping crazily and then cried the next minute. Amoy, you make me crazy lah....

And my 2nd gal, Mira, gave birth to a small, cute, healthy baby girl on the 23rd of June 2006, at 23.04pm. Her name is Hashira Emilia and she weighs slightly less than 3kg. Small, I know, but healthy all the same. And she's so fair plus she has her father's features. Big eyes, thin lips. But she definitely inherited her mama's voice, hehehe...

Ok, here's a few pics of us at the mediacorp auditorium and of course, of the new baby girl in town...

Enjoy!!!!

Kinda slow...

2006-06-16T06:09:00.000+08:00

Hello, peeps...

Woah, it's been near a month since I've posted anything here... Been through a lot of personal mishaps this time around and too caught up with life changing events. Can't reveal too much as I know some people might be offended so it's best that I keep my mouth shut... But a shout out to all my real friends out there... Let me make it clear to you guys and girls, that when I consider you my close friend, I am loyal to you to the core and that my friendship is honest and sincere.. I would NEVER compromise anyone that I consider a close friend, and so, I expect the same in return... These few days, I found out that friendship can mean little to a lot of people, well, all I can say is, I treat people the way they deserved to be treated..

Anyone who's close to me, would know that I am a direct person... Sometimes rude, I admit, but then, don't ask for my opinion if you can't take it. I've never had a way with words, though I tried hard not to offend anyone, I always end up doing it unintentionally. But that doesn't mean that I can't take a hard shove occasionally. I've had a few so far, and I don't think it's gonna stop.... Good..... Cos I need the shoves every now and then. So to my close friends out there (you know who you are) and to my 'pretend-to-be' close friends (I definitely know who you are), please stop and re-think before you get close to me. Cos when you enter my life, you enter at your own risk...

Anyway, here's my picture of the month... My numero uno Muse of all time... Nothing beats this perfect relationship between Jezebel and me. I love her so much cos she's the loveliest creature I've ever known. Loyalty unquestioned, smart as hell and blessed with a sweet and gentle disposition. If only she's human... Sigh..

Singapore Idol 2006!!!!!

2006-05-29T14:22:00.000+08:00

Singapore Idol fever is back again!!!!

But before that, let me post a shout out to, the one and only, TAYLOR HICKS!!!!!

Congratulations on winning the American Idol Season 5, man! Ever since the semis, I've been rooting for either Taylor or Mandisa. You can't imagine my shock when the Man'Diva' was voted out of the show, but hey, it's a reality show so anything can happen. I prayed and prayed that Taylor will at least be in the top two, so it's a bonus for me when he's crowned the American Idol!! To me, Taylor Hicks is pure, raw talent, embodied in a figure so normal that he relates to everyone of us. To me, he represents the common people with passion, pure love and soul for the music and he proves that mediocre looks are not a hindrance towards achieving your dreams. So, thank you, Taylor, for being an inspiration and making a difference.... GO, GO, SOUL PATROL!!!!!

Ok, back to Singapore Idol... posted here in this space is photo clips of The One who I'm rooting for this season. Her name is EMILEE KANG, and why? Cos she's my best friend!!! Hah... She's already made it as far to the top 28 and now it's all up to the audience to ensure her path to idol stardom... So whoever comes across this page, please vote for her cos I think she'll make a wonderful celebrity!! She has the face, a voice that's unique and a pleasant demeanor ( though she can be quirky sometimes!! Hehehe... ) Anyway, she's a lovely person and I couldn't ask more for a best friend. So, I really, really hope that you all will vote for her in this season...

Btw, just in case if you wanna get to know her better, do log in to her blog, which was set up recently ( with my lil' help, hehehe )... Hear her own words and see her through your eyes, not the camera lens...

The URL address is http://www.emilee-kang.blogspot.com
Enjoy the rest of her journey, but of course don't forget me lah ; )

P/S : I have a friendster account so do drop by if you're free, so you can drop me a testi... hehehehe...

The URL address is http://www.friendster.com/nanazakaria
Have fun, folks!!!!

Misty Memories...

2006-05-21T13:41:00.000+08:00

Wow!

I can't imagine someone actually kept these pics all this while...
My longtime friend, Manjoe ( whom I met again on Friendster ) kept all these pics of me over the net and diligently kept up with updates on my career. By his courtesy, I'm able to recover these moments in my life and able to share it with all of you. Thanks, Manjoe, you're a big help and a true friend.

The first pic was taken when I was 16, in Malacca. The two kids with me kept saying that I'm pretty and kept looking at me like I'm an object from the zoo, that I can't resist taking a pic with them for memories. Of course, I bought them lots of chocolates as well ( as a bribe ) hehehe....

The third pic was taken when I was performing at JJ Mahoney Pub at Duxton Road with my ex, Juli and my guitarist Joe. We were called J Jive then ( how corny! ) Don't I look different?

The last pic was taken when I was working for the "Broadcast Asia 2001" event, promoting a Russian multimedia company. It was my first big paycheck for a gig. I was paid SGD2K for two days work ( 6 hrs daily ). Sigh...

The rest of the pics were taken when I was 21, for a sponsored makeover.... Look at the poses!!! Hahaha...At least I have something to look back and laugh..Can't imagine doing that nowadays...

Once again, I'd like to thank Manjoe for his diligence. To the rest of you, enjoy these pics...I'm sure ( and I hope ) more will be recovered, so more to come...

Oh, Happy Day....!!!!

2006-05-17T08:00:00.000+08:00

I can't tell you how happy I am when my bebe got back from Bali. It was the longest four days I've ever been through, and boy, am I glad he's back safe and sound. Well, he bought me lots of stuff I can't even begin to elaborate. But there is this gorgeous choker with a very lovely pendant that I'm so totally in love with. He told me Jefri Brown chose it and I must say he has great taste. Thanks a lot Jefri and of course, I can't say how much I love you, bebe, and thanks a lot for the gifts.... Look out in this space soon for the pics taken in Bali.

In the meantime, Sunday 14th May, Delon (1st runner up of Indonesian Idol), drop by Bar None with his friends..(Indonesians who has businesses in Sg), and surprise, surprise, he actually recognizes me as Nana, the Wildcards contestant in Sg Idol.. hehehe, I didn't know they can actually get Channel 5 over there in Indonesia (how backdated I am). He told me that one of the contestants in Indonesian Idol, told him about me. I wonder if it's the former Indonesian singer in Hard Rock? Hmm...

Anyway, we had fun talking about our experiences in the competition (different country, but same nonetheless). We exchanged some personal details and he promised to call me up the next time he's in Singapore. Sigh, he is so friendly and approachable. I can't wait to see him again next time.

Got some gigs coming up next month. I'm pretty sure it will be successful and of course, fun to begin with. Don't worry, I will keep you posted and loaded with nice pics. Meantime, enjoy the current ones that I have for you...

Feeling the Blues...

2006-05-09T07:54:00.000+08:00

You guys must be wondering why I'm feeling the blues right now... My bebe is leaving for Bali tomorrow morning on work and I have to stay behind in Bar None... He's going away for 3 days and this will be the first time we're actually spending the longest time apart from each other... And let me tell you, both of us are so not looking forward to it... He's really sad that I can't come along on this trip cos I have to work in the bar, and I'm actually sad for the fact that no one's going to iron his clothes, or put massage oil and powder on his back, and literally be on hand for him... Sigh, no one to cuddle with these three days, but what to do, it's work and it's never easy on the path of romance... No worries, we'll survive.. I've made him promise to take lots of nice pics so I can upload it here, hehehe....

Anyway, Sunday 7th of May, was one of the best nights of my entertaining career... I only performed one set ( the middle set ), and I've got a Japanese gal, who dressed like a Harajuku girl, came up to me and said that I looked the coolest on stage!!! She said that I'm not too casual and not too dressy, and it's easy for her to see that I looked like I'm enjoying every minute that I'm on stage.. And not half an hour later, a very pretty Ang Moh girl with her bf came up to me and said that I reminded her of Pink, with my style... Lots of spunk and zest, she said... She even proceeded to tell me that she've met Pink in person and said that I'm almost the same height with her... hehehe, I never thought that Pink is actually kinda short for an Ang Moh... but of course, to be compared with a singer of Pink's calibre, that really made my night.... But I have to admit that another man's meat can be another's poison, and not everyone feels the same way, so I've gotta stay on the ground... But at the same time, there's no harm for a girl to float in the air for about 10 mins after being complimented like that, right?? hehehe, so let me enjoy my flight for a while.....

P/s : As promised, here's a couple of my birthday cake pics.. I know it's so long over by now, but I do hope you'd still enjoy it as well as I did....

Happy May Day!!!

2006-05-02T03:09:00.000+08:00

To all workers out there, Happy Labour Day!!!

We all work hard everyday to put food on our table. Living in a fast paced city like Singapore demands hard work because competition is all around . But I do think that it's good to sit back and relax for a day. On a day like this, we should be pampering ourselves with that heavenly 10 hours sleep and maybe a spa treatment or two, hehehe... So, enjoy yourselves everyone!!!! (with the money the Government just gave us, of course!!!)

Ok, ok, ok... my birthday gathering went better than I expected.. I mean, more people turn up this time around (more presents for yours truly, hehehe), even though some turned up quite late cos they were working. Some can't make it cos it was a Tuesday and they have to work early the next day, but all in all, I was very happy and satisfied cos the food was good (thanks, Jefri!!), my guests were comfortable and the friends who mattered to me was there (minus Mira, of course!! Stomach's getting bigger lah!! Hehehe, I'm gonna be a godma soon...) Aby was drunk, oopss, no no, high is more the appropiate word for it, cos he has to drink all the alcohol that was meant for me as a birthday present, hahaha... Gurmit sent me a very nice birthday message, as he can't make it due to a busy schedule. Thanks, Gurms... It's really the thought that counts.. As for everyone who was there to celebrate my birthday with me, thank you so much and your presence mean a lot to me... As for the ones who couldn't make it, but sent me countless messages, thank you also for your thoughts.. I really appreciate all of you...

Newsflash!!! As of now, I am the unofficial fiancee of Fairoz Bin Samil, and it's gonna be official in a month's time. Yayy... He presented me with a gorgeous grade 1, 0.4 ct diamond solitaire cut set in 18k white gold ring with all his beautiful simplicity embedded in the design. A few days before that, he vowed to take care of me no matter what happens... Sweetest thing on earth for me right now... Look out for updates in this space, hehehe....

Alrite, time to go now... Sorry, but I have to leave you guys empty handed... Not much pics this time around, but there will be two clips of my birthday cake soon, specially ordered at Angie The Choice... Mmmm, nice.... Will upload the clips next time around... ta ta..

Singapore Idol Season 1 Photo Gallery!!!!

2006-04-11T10:17:00.000+08:00

Wokey... Some of you have been asking for the pics taken during my season in Idol... Here are some of them. Enjoy at your hearts' content, as you won't be able to get these anywhere else... Taufik, Sly, Jeassea, Bev, Daphne, Leandra, Christopher, Haizad, etc.. these people are my friends, still, so I will appreciate it if you just enjoy these pics at your own discretion.. Thank you...

P/S : These pics were taken during interviews, practice sessions, imaging, etc....

Favourite month of the year!!!!

2006-04-10T06:16:00.000+08:00

Greetings one and all!!!!!

My favourite month of the year is here. Why? Cos my birthday's coming up!!! 18th April 1980...Yup, born in Kandang Kerbau Hospital after 12 hrs of labour ( thanks, Mak! ) hehehe.... Last year, there was a big party organized at Bar None with all my close friends and some regulars celebrating my birthday.. It was nice and the memories are embedded in my mind forever... As for this year, frankly, I still don't know what I want... Was thinking of doing the same thing like last year, but at the same time, I want to keep it down low and see if anybody remembers my birthday... I'm confused as I'm not sure whether I can take it if the people that I'm closest to does not remember my birthday... Sigh, we'll see how it goes then, cos my baby wants me to have a nice party ( ain't he the sweetest? :) ).... I'll be sure to keep this blog updated...

Anyhoo, here's a shout out to my gerl, Faye Lisa, who just got married on the 2nd of April 2006, to a nice guy by the name of Dino... Nice event you got there, gerl, and don't worry, as I've said to you, what really matters is the number of people who turned up to bless your marriage, and obviously on that lovely Sunday, you have loads of them... Attached are a couple of pics taken at the wedding lunch, with me, Emilee, Mira and of course, the beautiful couple on their special day.. You guys are so lucky... got sponsored honeymoon some more... Enjoy Bali and Genting , babe...

Bar None organized a promotional event for the theater/musical Grease, which is going to be staged in Singapore approximately a month from now. They actually brought in the main actor and actress from the show all the way from Korea, where the musical is right now. And man, they really looked their part, and I must admit, they paired together really well... I forgot their names but the actor is from USA and the actress is from Estonia... they actually praised my singing "Respect" and said that if I ever want to try out theater, I should do really well... Sigh, I wish I knew how to act.. Well, never mind, when I'm ready to try something new, I will give theater a thought... who knows, it might just work well enough.. Of course, I didn't pass up the opportunity for a smiley picture, hehehe...

That's all for now, folks!!! Will be sure to keep you updated on upcoming (boring) events in my life... as if you people are actually interested, har har...'tis an outlet to let go...

P/S : Work's kinda crazy right now.... I just wanna sing and dance!!! Have loads of fun on stage!!! I love the stage!!! That's it!!! Everything else is just B.S!!!!!