KUALA LUMPUR: It's been a long time coming for singer Ning Baizura who last released an album in 2013. This time, she is back with a stirring new tune.
Titled Perwira (Heroes), it is co-composed and co-written by Aubrey Suwito and Primeworks Studios chief executive officer Datuk Ahmad Izham Omar.
Describing it as a moving tribute to the country's "heroes and warriors", Ning said: "I've always wanted to pay tribute to our national heroes with a special song, and I'm delighted that Aubrey and Ahmad Izham have come up with Perwira."
"We recorded the song on June 30, and it took us a couple of hours to wrap it up."
The 45-year-old artiste said it was fun working with Aubrey in his studio.
"I felt so blessed to be able to sing again, after a having to stay home due to the MCO," she said.
When asked how she had spent her time during the MCO, Ning said that she managed to write several songs, spent quality time with her loved ones and learnt a few online business courses.
"A few media events were postponed, and as a result I have been itching to perform live again.
"Engaging the crowd is always a wholesome experience for me, as I am an entertainer. I want to do more of that and I'm glad rules have been relaxed now," said Ning, who teamed up with 11 local artistes for the song Make It Through, part of Maxis' #KitaSapotKita campaign during the MCO.
"From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank Aubrey and Ahmad Izham for giving me the opportunity to perform Perwira. It's a first time the three of us have come together for a music project. We'll also have a music video soon, so stay tuned everybody!"
Ning uploaded the promotional poster of Perwira on her Instagram account today. Netizens, especially her celebrity friends, congratulated her for making a "splendid comeback".
"Yay! Congrats sis Ning. A splendid comeback," said actress Nur Fazura Sharifuddin.
"Lovely song. Full of energy," said actor Arja Lee.
Ning who began her singing career in 1992, excels in pop, soul and R&B music. Her best known songs include Awan Yang Terpilu, Bebaskan, Curiga and Kau Dan Aku.
She is also an actress whose best known films include Mimpi Moon, Lady Boss, Diva and Muallaf.
Perwira is available on all digital platforms, such as Spotify and Joox.