Malaysian composer and singer Lenny Ooi (left) said Singaporean artiste Wang Lei went overboard with his comments. Photos: Lenny Ooi/Facebook, Sin Chew Daily
Malaysian composer Lenny Ooi has called out Singaporean artiste Wang Lei for belittling the efforts of local artistes and content creators who produce Chinese New Year songs.
According to Sin Chew Daily, Wang recently held a Facebook Live where he ridiculed the quantity and quality of CNY songs in Malaysia.
During the livestream, the 63-year-old getai singer took aim at Malaysian talents, claiming that in Malaysia, anyone – regardless of age – can break into showbiz despite lacking talent.
“Malaysia is amazing! Anyone can release a CNY song, even if they’re singing out of tune.
“Malaysia is truly infuriating. Malaysia is number one; anything can be released! In the whole world, Malaysia produces the most CNY songs,” he said sarcastically.
Wang further doubled down on his criticisms, claiming that while Malaysia has produced over 200 CNY songs, not all of them capture the festive spirit.
“Some of the songs are giving funeral procession vibes,” he said.
In response to Wang’s remarks, Ooi said that composing and performing CNY songs have long been a cherished part of Malaysian Chinese culture and shouldn’t be dismissed.
Ooi, who’s also a singer, then slammed Wang for “crossing the line” with his comments, describing them as an insult to the efforts and contributions of Malaysian talents.
“If you don’t like a song, you can choose to not listen to it. Why do you have to knock down all Malaysian artistes and belittle their hard work? Such behaviour is disappointing,” he said.
