Hard to find composers with traditional music knowledge - Noraniza Idris

Noraniza Idris, a celebrated figure in Malaysia's ethnic creative music scene, has voiced concerns about the scarcity of composers who possess a genuine grasp of traditional and ethnic musical knowledge. She observes that contemporary composers frequently lean towards modern influences and artificial intelligence, which can lead to creations that feel soulless and lack distinct identity.

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Works like those from the past are indeed difficult to find now. Perhaps the knowledge or soul of young people towards our ethnic songs is still lacking. When the reference is not strong but they want to create a concept, the result becomes diluted. Sometimes when I listen, I myself am confused whether this song is from China or which country. Its identity is lost.

"Works like those from the past are indeed difficult to find now," Noraniza stated. "Perhaps the knowledge or soul of young people towards our ethnic songs is still lacking. When the reference is not strong but they want to create a concept, the result becomes diluted. Sometimes when I listen, I myself am confused whether this song is from China or which country. Its identity is lost."

She questioned whether composers capable of producing such authentic music have become extinct, speculating that the pervasive influence of AI might be a contributing factor. Noraniza has been seeking suitable songs for the past two years, emphasizing her reluctance to simply follow current musical trends.

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I don’t know, have composers who can truly produce songs like this become extinct? Perhaps also because the influence of AI is too strong right now.

However, the singer expressed gratitude for composers like Hafiz Hamidun, whose work she feels embodies the qualities she seeks. She noted that Hamidun's approach is remarkably close to that of the late Pak Ngah (Datuk Suhaimi Mohd Zain), making collaboration smooth and efficient. "Alhamdulillah, recently I collaborated with Hafiz Hamidun. The way he works is very close to the late Pak Ngah's way. It's easy to discuss and the process is also very fast," she said.

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Alhamdulillah, recently I collaborated with Hafiz Hamidun. The way he works is very close to the late Pak Ngah. It's easy to discuss and the process is also very fast.

Noraniza praised Hamidun for possessing a strong "Melayu soul" in his compositions, ensuring they remain rooted in their original essence. She expressed hope that he will continue to be a long-term successor for Irama Malaysia (Malaysian traditional music), as the industry critically needs such authentic touches.

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I didn't expect that we still have composers who have a strong Malay soul and their work does not stray from the original 'bouquet'. That's what I've been missing all this time.