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SINGAPORE: They may have performed for the last time as a group way back in 1983 and had their own individual careers since they disbanded some 30 years ago.
But Singapore’s most popular vocal group in the 1970s and 1980s, Stardust, prove that they have not lost any of their pizzazz and most importantly, have held true to their common passion for singing through the years.
In fact, they may have even gotten better!
“It feels fantastic!” said an enthused Clement Chow, one of the four former members of 1970s vocal group Stardust (the others include Robert Fernando, Ann Hussein and Pat Chan) who have recently reunited to perform at trendy nightspot Zouk as part of the upcoming Singapore Heritage Festival.
The reunion this time, however, is missing two other members, Jacintha Abisheganaden and Elizabeth Teo.
“The whole idea is to try and bring back everyone from the past,” said Fernando, “to try and give an opportunity for the younger generation to enjoy music of groups from the past.”
But don’t expect to see a ‘young guy’ beat boxing or rapping along with them anytime soon.
“Same songs, but new voices,” said Fernando of what audiences can expect at their upcoming performance, “because 30 years later we are new now.”
While it has already been 30 years, performing together on stage probably just seems like yesterday for this group of veteran singers. Fernando also reveals that the four only got together for the first time a couple of weeks ago to rehearse for their gig, which will take place on Saturday, 26 July.
Even then, one whole hour was spent just reminiscing about the past.
When asked what they miss most about the good old days?
Chow lamented, “A lot of the music in the good old days was not only very musical, but it had a lot of heart.”
“A lot of music today, it just leaves me cold, you still listen to it but it doesn’t grab you,” he added.
The group will not be the only ones reminiscing come Saturday night, as Stardust will be performing favourites from their past repertoire which include hits from the 1940s and 1950s, like "Tuxedo Junction", "Lullaby Of Broadway" and "In The Mood".
Some of these songs may even be given a slightly different treatment with new arrangements, remakes and solo performances.
Don’t be too quick to write off Stardust as just another group from the past as audiences can expect a good heart to heart singing session this weekend.
Fernando aptly wrapped it up.
“You know we are all going to one day be a face of the past. I am happy with the past, with the present, and I’m looking forward to Saturday the future!”
Catch Stardust and other local music legends this Saturday, at Zouk, 7pm.
Tickets are available from SISTIC.
- CNA/os
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