Chelsia holding up “Book One: Songs for You and I” album that is available in thumb drive. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
AS MUSIC is a universal language, more artistes worldwide are embracing multilingualism.
They include Malaysian singer- songwriter Chelsia Ng who has released a trilingual album.
Titled “Book One: Songs for You and I”, the debut album has been written in Bahasa Malaysia, English and Penang Hokkien.
Chelsia, who grew up in Mount Erskine, Penang, said this reflected her identity and the country’s multiculturalism.
“Malaysians are naturally multilingual, but this is something we often take for granted.
“It’s a gift that not many people in other countries possess.
“Writing in different languages allows me to better express myself because there are certain words or phrases that would lose their intended meaning in translation.
“I believe the album would resonate with diverse audiences,” Chelsia said in an exclusive interview with StarMetro at a cafe in Hin Bus Depot, George Town.
Over a decade in the making, Book One comprises 12 original tracks.
Chelsia and her brother Charlie who also contributed to the creation of the album.
These are listed as chapters that explore themes of resilience, hope, love, human connection and self-discovery.
Presented in an encrypted thumb drive, it comes in a box designed to look like a vintage book.
Chelsia’s unique voice brings to life the stories in each chapter.
“Each song represents my journey and, hopefully, a part of the listeners’ journeys, too.
“These songs remind one of certain moments in life.
“I hope they bring comfort, peace and joy,” she said.
Among the tracks are “Peeh Hun Suann e Kim Hwa” (Kim Hwa of Misty Hill) which is about her mother Rose Oon Kim Hwa.
Peeh Hun Suann is the Hokkien name for Mount Erskine.
The song is a family effort as it also includes music and vocals from Chelsia’s brother Charlie as well as her father, niece and nephew.
“I’ve been based in Kuala Lumpur for 20 years, but return to Penang regularly.
“Everything about me is about family and the people I love,” said the 43-year-old who is also a well-known actress.
Chelsia describes Book One as a collection of stories that everyone can relate to.
Indeed, the experience of travelling with loved ones is reflected in the song “6am Sushi” which she had written at a sad point in her life.
Also, a popular hawker stall most locals would know is referenced in the song “Balai Tu Bin Hokkian Mi” (Hokkien Mee Opposite the Police Station).
Chelsia also spoke about the creative process that led to the album.
In “Jangan, Sayang”, the lyrics spontaneously came to her as she was driving one day.
“Bererti” had a longer creation process as it had first been composed by Charlie about 20 years ago and was finally brought to life during the making of the album.
Book One was produced by music director, composer and multi-instrumentalist Irena Taib, who is also part of the indie band The Impatient Sisters.
Irena’s co-producer is musician Raja Farouk.
The album includes a booklet with Chelsia’s personal notes and lyrics of the songs.
Digital wallpapers and stickers, unique art pieces, behind-the-scene videos and karaoke versions of selected tracks all come with the thumb drive.
The album’s cover art was done by her mother Rose, and depicts Chelsia with her dog Lara in a dreamy storybook style.
“My mum has always been my biggest supporter and taught us to see the beauty in every situation.
“As a child, I participated in many contests and even when I didn’t do well, she would compliment me like I had achieved something great.
“My brother and I really had the perfect childhood.
“People often think of success in monetary terms or climbing the corporate ladder, but for me, success is simply about being happy,” the songstress said.
Charlie added, “The whole family is very excited for her.
“Chelsia has so much love for music and it finally manifested in an album.”
The album was made possible with the support of the Communications Ministry and MyCreative Ventures.
Fans can buy the physical copy of the album through www.chelsiang.com
The album is also available on streaming platforms.
