Penang bids farewell to veteran musician Austin Rajamoney
GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s music industry bade farewell to musician Datuk Austin Rajamoney, whose musical influence left a strong impact on budding talents across many generations.
The 89-year-old was one part of the Rajamoney brothers who were active in the local music scene since the 1940s.
Austin, an accomplished drummer and bassist, was the third of five brothers – Wilson (bass), Sydney (drums), Edwin (keyboards, accordion and Hawaiian guitar) and Lionel (vocals).
Their passion for music saw the brothers performing at many functions in Bukit Mertajam in the 1940s and 50s.
They were the resident back-up group for Joe Rozells whenever Joe was invited to perform in Bukit Mertajam.
More than 100 family members and close friends paid their last respects at his funeral at St George’s Church in Farquhar Street here yesterday.
Austin, also a former member of the late Jimmy Boyle’s band, passed away at his home in Western Garden here around noon on Wednesday.
He leaves behind his wife Datin Joyce Sundraj and three children – Janet, Elena and Lenny.
Joyce said Austin was a lovely husband and true gentleman.
“He was caring towards our family, and never failed in providing as a husband and father,” she said tearfully.
Elena said her dad was also fond of gardening and had a passion for hockey, rugby and tennis.
His close friend, Robert Moses, 69, said Austin was kind-hearted and a devout Christian who regularly attended church services on Sunday.
Austin also used to play for the Island Rhythmics, a band started by his brother Edwin until the late 1970s.
The band was a household name back then and an inspiration to many young musicians.
His grandnephew Justin Joel, 44, in his Facebook tribute to Austin said: “Guess the four of you (referring to Wilson, Sydney, Edwin and Austin) are having a band meeting up there now.
“You were my drum hero when I was beginning to play.”
A brief write-up on the history of the Rajamoney brothers can be found at the Penang House of Music in Komtar.