‘I’ll never abandon my DNA’: Aina Abdul embraces a new sound without losing herself

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 — Singer-songwriter Aina Abdul is entering a new chapter in her musical journey with the release of two singles, Berjauh-an and Sadis, which she describes as being more accessible to younger listeners while staying true to her distinctive vocal identity.

Aina, 32, whose full name is Nurul Aina Abdul Ghani, said she wants to introduce her music to new audiences through lighter and more approachable melodies, without compromising the emotional depth and vocal style that have become her trademark.

“We also need to embrace the musical preferences of new listeners, but these (new) songs still carry my DNA. I will never abandon my DNA. I am a singer and I have spent years learning how to master high notes, so that is something I will always keep,” she said at the official launch of the two singles at a hotel here yesterday.

Aina said Berjauh-an and Sadis mark the start of her second album, which is expected to be released this year. The album is currently about 80 per cent complete, with the remaining tracks expected to be finalised over the next two months.

“The plan is to release the album on my birthday, October 25, God willing,” she said.

Speaking about Sadis, Aina said the song is an emotional continuation of Berjauh-an, which was released on April 24. While Berjauh-an explores the strain that distance and time can place on a relationship, Sadis delves into the aftermath of separation, loss and regret.

She said the song takes listeners through the stage that follows heartbreak, when a person begins to realise the true value of someone who was once part of their life.

“Sadis is a very personal song and one of the most ‘healing’ songs I have ever created because it brings back memories of things that have passed and can never be relived,” she said.

She said the song also evokes memories of her younger years, her first experience of love and her longing for her loved ones, including her late father.

Written and composed by Aina herself, Sadis also marks another collaboration with Indonesian musician Vega Antares Setianegara, who was involved in the production of Berjauh-an.

Aina said she enjoyed working with Vega because the musician understood the emotions and atmosphere she aimed to convey through her music.

Sadis was first introduced via a teaser on TikTok and Instagram on June 12 before being officially released across all digital streaming platforms yesterday.

Berjauh-an has been available on digital streaming platforms since April 24, while its official music video premiered on Aina Abdul’s YouTube channel on April 26. — Bernama