BALAN Kash, 41, is fast becoming a household name in hip-hop music.
The Klang-born rapper and singer strongly believes in making music that transcends cultural boundaries.
In fact, he is a firm advocate of cross-cultural unity, who proudly embraces and celebrates his Bangsa Malaysia heritage. He has just come up with his very own, all-Malay album titled 'Cekap'.
In a recent interview to mark the launch of his six-track album, Balan says he believes in the ability of music to deliver meaningful messages to Malaysians.
"I'm so happy that this day has finally arrived. It's a timely, year-end milestone for me and a significant step in my mission to elevate Malaysian music in the global stage.
" 'Cekap' is a vibrant pop and hip-hop fusion album, featuring dynamic tracks that reflect creativity, diversity and innovation."
FAIZAL TAHIR
'Cekap' was launched by music producer and hip-hop icon Altimet or Syed Ahmad Syed Abdul Rahman Al-Haddad in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur on Dec 18.
The album, produced by Navin 'Navigator' Kumar, features collaborations with popular singers Faizal Tahir and Fahimi Rahmat.
When asked what motivated him to create a Malay-language album, Balan says that identity should transcend racial boundaries, as unity is at the heart of being Malaysian.
"We shouldn't be confined by labels based on race. We are Malaysians, and we are equal as a big, happy family."
Balan adds that 'Cekap' is his desire to challenge societal divisions and foster a sense of togetherness through music.
"I want to break barriers, build bridges and inspire the upcoming generation to embrace the spirit of inclusivity and shared identity."
Balan also says he was fortunate to have been mentored by some of the most talented figures in the industry.
"Having accomplished mentors guiding this project was both a privilege and a challenge. I felt the responsibility to ensure that my work met the high standards they uphold in their craft.
"It was a demanding process to create something that matched those expectations, but I'm thrilled that 'Cekap' has been well-received."
SASI THE DON
Since 2010, Balan has collaborated with homegrown and International acts such as Anirudh Ravichander, Mervin & Vivek, Joe Flizzow, Sasi The Don, DJ Fuzz, Reshmonu and Santesh.
Last year, he marked the release of his first Malay song 'Terima Kasih', a duet with popular singer Hazama Azmi.
Along with award-winning composer and producer 'Navigator', Balan runs his own music label Third Eye Music.
Among the notable concerts he has been part of are Kanye West Live In Kuala Lumpur 2007, the Singapore-Malaysia Indian Fusion Festival 2023, Budak Belakang G-Day 2023 and Raising The Bar 2024.
P. RAMLEE
Balan has a streaming record of 20 million and his hit song 'Start The Thiruvizha' garnered more than 2.1 million views.
"I was attracted to hip-hop as a boy because it is very 'rebellious'. Rappers voice out what they want, and I like that very much."
Balan says inspiration actually comes when a singer hits rock bottom.
"That's me too, for I lost my father at a very young age and I went through severe financial challenges when I was a 20-something," he explains.
Balan has always been a fan of Malay music.
"My school and neighbourhood in Klang was very multi-racial, so I had access to a lot of Malay songs.
"My early favourites were KRU's 'Awas' and Exists' 'Untukmu Ibu'.
Tan Sri P. Ramlee is his all-time favourite singer and hero.
"Nobody can replace his voice, aura and genius. He was way ahead of his time, our King Of Entertainment."
While he has always loved music, Balan initially wanted to become a businessman like his father.
"However, my love of music prevailed," he says, adding that Michael Jackson was his international idol while growing up.
Having acted in the 2023 movie 'Budak Flat', Balan said that acting was a refreshing, new experience but he would rather stick to singing for now.
"I love the stage but I'm still too camera shy to be an actor."
JACLYN VICTOR
For 2025, Balan plans to have a concert after Hari Raya with ASDF, a lifestyle brand.
"There will also be some smaller showcases throughout the year," he adds.
When asked about his dream duet partners, Balan listed Jaclyn Victor, Yuna, Joe Flizzow, Malique, Altimet, Illayaraja, Anirudh, Noh Salleh and Emmett of Butterfingers as his favourites.
"As for international stars, give me Snoop Dogg and Damian Marley any day."
Balan's dream concert venue in Malaysia is Stadium Merdeka as it is iconic, legendary and rich in history.
"Internationally, it's New York Times Square," he says.