Singer Nadeera Zaini's new song 'Cuba Jadi Aku' born from personal essay
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Singer Nadeera Zaini revamped her latest single, 'Cuba Jadi Aku,' to ensure it deeply resonates with listeners.
- The lyrics were derived from a lengthy personal essay detailing her emotions and experiences.
- Nadeera delayed the song's release to refine its musical arrangement and vocal delivery, aiming for a higher standard of artistic expression.
Singer Nadeera Zaini has revealed that significant revisions were made to her latest single, 'Cuba Jadi Aku,' before its official release, all in an effort to ensure the song would profoundly touch the hearts of its audience. The 33-year-old artist, whose real name is Farah Nadeera Zaini, explained that the song's lyrics originated from a lengthy personal essay she penned, pouring out her innermost feelings and experiences.
When I wanted to create the lyrics, I told the composer, Hael Husaini, that I wanted to make a song about what people around us feel.
Nadeera shared that she initially informed composer Hael Husaini of her desire to create a song reflecting the sentiments of those around her. Challenged by Husaini to "write an essay," Nadeera responded by producing a substantial piece of writing, which she then submitted to the composers. Husaini and Iqie Hugh subsequently adapted this essay into the song's lyrics.
Hael then challenged me by saying, 'Nad, write an essay.' So I wrote a very long essay. I poured out all the stories and what was in my heart before sending it to him.
Fans had to wait a considerable time for Nadeera's new solo single, following the success of her previous hit, 'Bukan Lagi Kita.' The winner of Big Stage 2023 explained that she intentionally postponed the launch of 'Cuba Jadi Aku' because she wanted to guarantee the final product met her desired standards. "This song was actually recorded a long time ago, before last year's Hari Raya," she said. "But when I listened to it again, I felt something was not right. I felt like I was just singing without conveying the emotion and soul."
I felt like I was just singing without conveying the emotion and soul.
Dissatisfied with merely releasing a song for the sake of it, Nadeera sought permission to re-record the track and alter the musical arrangement, including the drums and guitar parts, to achieve a truly satisfying outcome. She also hinted that 'Cuba Jadi Aku' serves as a prelude to a full album she is currently working on, with a release expected in the near future. Nadeera expressed gratitude for the positive reception of 'Cuba Jadi Aku' since its release, noting the growing number of social media users creating cover versions of the song, which she finds highly encouraging.
I don't want to just release a song for the sake of it. That's why I asked for permission to re-record it, as well as change the musical arrangement.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.