WITH almost five decades in the music scene, Datuk Ramli MS has a wealth of experience.
In this aspect, the composer feels that it is time for him to groom a new generation of singers. One platform that can make this a reality is
Panggung Tok Ram, he says.
The 62-year-old promises that this will not be another run-of-the-mill reality show where contestants vie for the top spots and win cash prizes.
"With Panggung Tok Ram, I hope to groom young singers who will continue to shine for a long time after they have been 'released' into the music scene," says Ramli, who served as principal for talent reality show Akademi Fantasia back in 2004 and 2008.
For him, the initiative is to ensure talents have the right foundation for long-term music industry success. A 10-week reality show just does not cut it."
Panggung Tok Ram will run for a minimum of two years. It should be viewed as somewhat of an arts laboratory," says Ramli, expressing the hope that it will add value to the local music scene.
"When I first came up with the idea, my projection was an industry 15 years in the future. That's the direction of this programme."
As such, he adds, participants should ideally be between the ages of 14 and 18.
"I will guide them on singing techniques and what the music industry is really all about. Everything from A to Z.
"During the selection process, their potential will be analysed thoroughly. Suitable talents with the necessary criteria to make it big in the industry will be picked as participants.
"They will be trained and groomed well to ensure that they emerge as the future generation of singers," he adds.
Ramli says he is more than willing to pass on his wealth of knowledge and experience gained in his 47 years in the music scene.
"The participants should consider themselves lucky. However, be forewarned that it will not be easy for them too as I expect dedication and hard work in return."
Ramli emphasises that they must not only be talented but also possess a strong mentality.
As the programme will take up to 24 months, he will be roping in other "experts" in the music industry to assist him.
Selected participants and trainers will have to sign a long-term contract, he adds, seeing that it is a time-consuming programme that will require "100 per cent commitment" from everyone.
Ramli reveals that he will also ensure participants have "killer songs" in their repertoire once they break out as recording artistes.
"Singers are like professional race car drivers. An excellent driver without a good car is pointless.
"So it will be my responsibility to ensure they have good tunes to sing. I want them to be like Datuk Jamal Abdillah, an excellent singer who remains relevant up to this day.
"Whenever he performs, people always want him to sing his hit songs, no matter how old the songs are.
"That is one of the secrets to longevity in the music industry. A memorable song that remains popular through the years guarantees one's place in the industry for years to come," he shares.
In line with the digital era, Panggung Tok Ram will have its own online channel.
"We are in the midst of setting it up. Viewers can watch it online or on various media and at their own convenient time."
Fully sponsored by Farm Fresh, Panggung Tok Ram is expected to begin its selection process in the next few months.
"Those keen to take part can take a video of themselves singing and send it via WhatsApp to 013-626 8839," says Ramli.
On how many will make it, he quips: "We will be lucky to find five as we are searching for gems."