Melayu Pop Yeh Yeh 60an Swallows with Andy

  UP TO 7,100 VIEWS  

28 CHATS, COMMENTS

Most Successful Malay Guitar Group:

The SWALLOWS first line-up with ANDY YOUNG (standing, 2nd left) and their manager (bow tie) at the Victoria Theatre in 1964. The Swallows is one of the first and most successful *Kugiran Melayu Pop Yeh Yeh in the 60s. It was only after the success of this group that other Malay guitar groups followed.

*Kumpulan Gitar Ranchak Melayu [Malay Group of Energetic/Active Guitars).

Similar Management:

The particular photograph above shows The Swallows first line-up in one of their very first appearances. It was taken backstage with Andy since he sang with both the group and The Velvetones who were also under similar management.

Respected Gentlemen:

Andy was supposed to have fronted them and had performed once at the Victoria Memorial Hall in Singapore. He enjoyed being with them during the show. Personally, these boys were clean cut, exceptionally well-mannered and respected gentlemen both on and off the stage. Andy remarked that they were unassuming, fantastic guitarists and incomparable! No wonder they remained at the top after all those years.

Songs In English:

They were an exceptional team and received thunderous applause when the group was announced before they performed. Andy shared his magic moment during the occasion he appeared with this group. He sang two songs in English and was pleased with the accompaniment, which according to him, was perfect and gave him much confidence since it was the first time they were together.

Songs In Bawean:

They have cut many records since and were on the scene for many years. Kassim Selamat has one of the most popular Bawean hit ever, "La Aube" (La-O-Be), a classic today. Another hit is "Nga Lompak A-Go-Go". My favourite? "Mak Itti Mai Illa." Some of their records have been found to be on sale in certain parts of Europe.

Getting In Touch:

Andy has been trying to get in touch with some band members of the group and has not been successful. If you happen to be in contact with any one of them, please write in.

Andy has since contacted 3 members of the Swallows through Erwin Maisch - October 2010.

Senandong Malam - by The Swallows - one of their instrumental hits. A fantastic group indeed. YouTube video from hassny hussin. Thank you.

Image: Andy Lim Collection (All Rights Reserved).

Edited original article.

Video - hassny hussin.