SABAHAN pop princess Wani Kayrie is back to doing ballads, slowly but surely, and describes the process as “moving to more mature music”.
The talented and charismatic beauty from Sandakan has just marked another important milestone in her career with the launch of her debut extended play (EP) titled ‘W2K’.
The launch was held at the Wani Kayrie Listening Party at MyTown Kuala Lumpur in Cheras recently.
While ‘W2K’ still features mostly upbeat and fast numbers that are often associated with Wani, it prominently features one tear-jerking and soul-stirring ballad titled ‘Biarkan’.
MINI ALBUM
In the event organised by Rocketfuel Entertainment, Wani said after almost 10 years in the music industry, she is overjoyed to finally realise her dream of having an EP — the result of the encouragement of many fans who never stopped believing in her.
“Finally, after so long, I can present this mini album to all those who have been waiting for me.
“This is one of the most meaningful moments for me.
“I am touched, excited and very grateful — especially because the requests for this album came from fans, family and friends who believe in my talent,” said Wani.
TITLE
On the EP’s title, Wani explained: “I was born in 2000, so the name W2K is not only symbolic of the year I was born, but also represents a new side of me as a singer.
“The five songs in this EP are all different, there is no same vibe, so it shows the diversity of my music,” she said.
Wani explained that the concept of ‘W2K’ is also in line with the current trend of young people who tend to live the Y2K lifestyle in terms of fashion, music and self-expression.
“I want this EP to be relevant, trendy and close to the soul of my generation.”
‘W2K’ brings together five tracks, namely ‘Cak Cak Cekuk’, ‘Serius Ah’, ‘Aiman Tino’ and ‘Matahari’ besides ‘Biarkan’.
COMPOSERS
Each song is produced with well-known local composers and lyricists, such as Iqie Hugh, Hanis Rafi, Omar K, Shazriq Azeman, MFMF, Ezra Kong, Shane Kennedy and Karim Karam.
“The combination of these big names makes ‘W2K’ a work that encompasses various genres, emotions and refreshing energy,” said Wani.
When asked about the song that is closest to her heart, she said: “I like the upbeat and catchy ‘Cak Cak Cekuk’ because I like songs that give encouragement and uphold positivity.
“In life, we don’t run away from challenges, so songs like this can make us feel positive, confident and entertained.”
TRADITIONAL
Wani said that the music video for ‘Cak Cak Cekuk’ has a lovely traditional Malay dance, led by herself, and it was shot in a traditional bungalow in Bentong, Pahang.
“Many love the video, it has over 700k views on YouTube to date,” she said.
MOVING
Her second favourite song in the EP is ‘Biarkan’ which she described as a moving and deeply soulful ballad about an unrequited love.
“This sad song is about letting go of something that is no longer good for us even though we still have that feeling of love.
“Sometimes, letting go is the best way for us to heal,” said Wani.
“I had to record this song on different days and had to maintain the same emotions every time.
“It’s challenging but worth it because I gave my all and I am satisfied with the results.”
WOMEN
As for the other songs, ‘Matahari’ is about women’s empowerment and reminds them that they should stand up for themselves as each of them is as beautiful as the sun.
“The song ‘Aiman Tino’ is about being infatuated with a celebrity look-alike, while ‘Serius Ah’ is about not fooling around when it comes to making major decisions in your life.”
Wani specially thanked her mother Rokiah Kalapulong for being her biggest fan and friend in life.
“My mother supported me all the way, and she’s my biggest constructive critic. It’s she who encouraged me to do more ballads, and with her encouragement I’ve also become a part-time music and dance teacher at my very own studio,” she said.
“While I’ve only got about three to four students since opening it last year, I consider it a pretty good start.”
HEALTHY
Wani, who has a younger brother and sister, also said that she feels a lot better now after being treated in hospital for a fainting spell recently.
“I suffer from low blood pressure and am on medication. Thank God, my health problem is under control now.”
In future, Wani would love to release songs in English, Chinese and even Kadazan-Dusun.
ENCOURAGING
When asked about fan feedback, Wani said that it has been very encouraging.
“Many are excited because each song has its own style. I hope ‘W2K’ becomes their daily playlist!”
She concluded: “I hope ‘W2K’ is not just entertainment — but an inspiration.
“If I can achieve this dream, everyone can. Don’t be afraid to create your own space in your life. Believe and keep going.”
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
