KUCHING: Dayak Artistes and Musicians Association (Dama) Kuching said more and more Iban listeners are listening to independent music and if the trend persists, they will move away from the mainstream Iban music to that of contemporary ones.
Isa Lee
Dama Kuching secretary Isa Lee said independent music had become increasingly popular in Sarawak.
“More and more indie bands and singers are coming out to produce songs in English and Malay. Iban music is also taking the heed in producing this kind of music,” he said when met yesterday.
“Music that is free and easy attracts listeners. More and more Ibans are listening to such music; moving from the mainstream Iban music to that of contemporary ones,” he added.
The Dayak Music Industry is looking for new genres of music with fresh melodies and ideas, he added.
On the Iban music industry in general, Isa said that Iban musicians must be different from the others if they wanted to popularise and commercialise the industry, especially in terms of identities, uniqueness and ability in producing something new.
“Composers should create more award winning tunes so as to get new listeners especially from the younger generation. A good song does not need a huge budget to produce. Even music which has simple melody can be popular if it is unique, has good arrangement and use the right choice of instruments,” he said.
“Our Dayak music industry like any others in the country is greatly influenced by the music from the West. We have to grasp this evolution to remain relevant,” he said.
Singers and composers should also consider taking another step and not just make it as a hobby, said Isa.
“We tend to be more creative when it becomes a business entity,” he said.