New Straits Times

Ben proves he has not lost his touch

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KUALA LUMPUR: “It is good to be back. I am ready to face the world,” said former 1980s singer Ben Nathan in an appearance on TV1’s Selamat Pagi Malaysia’s morning show yesterday.

Ben, 54, sported a fresh and dashing look after his locks were chopped and beard shaved.

He proved he had not lost his touch, by belting out Ilusi Satu

Penantian.

Accompanie­d by Yayasan Artis 1Malaysia (YA1M) president Datuk Irwan Shah Abdullah, better known as D.J. Dave, he said he was happy to be back in the spotlight and had begun rehearsing songs with his brother, Bob.

“I wish to thank the media, the staff of Kuala Lumpur Hospital, my family and friends for their support,” he said.

Ben had been seeking a comeback, and looks forward to producing new songs.

For 26 years, he wandered the city, then lived on the streets after a recording deal fell apart. After much persuasion, Ben was reunited with his family last month.

Dave told New Straits Times yesterday that YA1M was joining hands with Jojo Events Sdn Bhd to organise a charity concert for Ben on May 21.

The concert, titled Konsert Kasih & Harapan Ben Nathan’ will be held at Saloma Bistro.

“After all these years, it is good to know my old pal is back,” said Dave. “I am happy that he has received many accolades from fellow Malaysians.

“Ben’s health has improved but he is still receiving treatment at Kuala Lumpur Hospital,” he said, adding that the hospital staff had been very helpful.

Dave also debunked rumours that Ben was mentally unstable.

“The rumours are not true. Ben is perfectly normal.”

“When Ben was found last month, he was kept under strict observatio­n and attended counsellin­g.”

Dave said YA1M was preparing to go to Jakarta, Indonesia, where Ben would compose and record songs with Bob.

In the 1980s, Ben was famous for songs, such as Ilusi Satu

Penantian and Stanza Sekeping

Hati. He had recorded six albums.

 ??  ?? Ben Nathan (right) and brother Bob performing for TV1’s ‘Selamat Pagi Malaysia’ at Wisma TV Angkasapur­i in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
With them is Datuk D.J. Dave (left). PIC BY SAIFULLIZA­N TAMADI
Ben Nathan (right) and brother Bob performing for TV1’s ‘Selamat Pagi Malaysia’ at Wisma TV Angkasapur­i in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. With them is Datuk D.J. Dave (left). PIC BY SAIFULLIZA­N TAMADI

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