For Marcell, life begins at 40

After 15 years in the industry, the Indonesian singer tells Syahirah Mokhtazar about his transition from pop to the jazz genre

FLASHBACK to 2002. Indonesian singer Marcell Siahaan was 15 years younger and had a more, shall we say, flamboyant sense of style. Look up — his hit song with fellow Indonesian Shanty which shot him to fame — especially the music videoon YouTube, and you’ll be reminded of his signature afro hairstyle which he vibrantly paired with a leopard print jacket and blue sunglasses.

“I cringe when I think about my style back then. I don’t think I can go back to that!” said Marcell with a laugh.

Fast forward to today and Marcell’s curly locks are gone. He now rocks a squeaky clean bald head and opts for a more minimalist style.

Perhaps the only thing that has evolved throughout the 15 years of his career is his fashion sense and music. Marcell’s down-toearth personality remains. There is not one ounce of the diva in that man’s soul.

In fact,he made sure to be the first to greet reporters with his warm and friendly demeanour during this interview

PLENTY TO CELEBRATE

Most people worry at the thought of getting older but not Marcell, who just turned 40.

“Life begins at 40, no? The fact that my 40th birthday coincides with my 15th anniversary as a singer calls for a celebration,” he said.

And he will hold his first solo concert here, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, tomorrow.

“This concert is a gift for my Malaysian fans who have supported me since day one. I wouldn’t be here without them. Malaysia will always hold a special place in my heart.

“Plus, some of the biggest highlights of my career happened here, after the release of he said.

Fans can expect a few surprises throughout the two-hour show.

Two guest performers, who have been announced, are Noh Salleh, frontman for the alternative rock band Hujan, and Indonesian actress-turned-singer Raline Shah.

THE TRANSITION

Marcell is also taking baby steps to expand his career into being a music producer and he is working on his seventh album.

He has just released ,a song which he arranged and produced.

On his seventh album, Marcell said the musical direction will resonate with the jazz genre.

“This is my first attempt at singing jazz songs. It is a challenge because I’m used to the pop genre.

“But I’m positive about this album because I’m working with great music producers such as Irsa Destiwi,” he said.

His decision to transition from pop to jazz is a reflection of his maturity in terms of age and career path.

“It’s my seventh album, I want to create something different and fresh for fans.”

Marcel gave a sneak preview of the album through his single which he collaborated with Raline Shah.

“Raline was an absolute pleasure to work with. She’s so dedicated to her career, andshe works hard to deliver her best.

“She took vocal classes to polish her singing skills. Her soft, melodious voice is a perfect match for this song,” he said.

TO BE APPRECIATED

On what Marcell hopes out of his career after 15 years in the industry,he said: “To be appreciated. That’s more than enough for me.

“I want to stand on my own as Marcell without being compared to other artistes.

“Everyone has his own strengths and what we bring to the table is what differentiates us from one another.

“As an artiste, it’s the best feeling in the world when your music gets the appreciation.”