Did you get Taufik-ed? - Taufik Batisah, the First Singapore Idol!

The one when finally Raz reveils...

2005-02-03T01:42:00.000+08:00

Hello Taufik-eds!

I have been keeping silent lately, mainly due to exams and also the "new blog" that I am telling you about. Now, here are the few things you all are dying to know!

Winner of Name-the-FanClub Contest!

I am proud to announce that Rizal Isaac is the eventual winner of the "Name The Fan Club" contest! His entry, "Fiknatic" has won him a personally autographed leather bracelet strap specially purchased by Taufik. Congrats, Rizal!

Here are the results' statistic:
Winner: Fiknatic - 133 out of 263 (50.6%)

Others:
Get Taufik-ed - 43 out of 263 (16.3%)
Simply Taufik - 40 out of 263 (15.2%)
Fiked-Out - 24 out of 263 (9.1%)
Totally Fiked-out - 23 out of 263 (8.7%)

The Official Fan Club Revealed

"Fiknatic", the official Taufik Batisah's fan club is endorsed by Artiste Management of Hype Records. Now you can begin to register to become an official member! As a member of "Fiknatic", you are entitled to the following membership benefits:

- Taufik's latest (and first-hand) information
- Taufik's fans specialties
- Exclusive Swatch offers and privileges
- VIP invitations to special events
- Priority to purchase the limited edition special packaging designed by Taufik!

What's more - become a member today and receive a Fiknatic Welcome Pack that includes a $20 product voucher from Swatch, membership card and a Swatch catalogue!

You can view the official press release here, or visit this link to register for Fiknatic!

Now, what does it mean for this site?

TaufikBatisah.net - Official Taufik Batisah's website

TaufikBatisah.net is official endorsed by Artiste Management as the official website of Taufik! In conjunction with that, I have painstakingly move all the content to a totally new site!

http://www.taufikbatisah.net/home

The site is still under construction at various places, but there you have it! The official site!

That will also spell the demise of this particular main blog, and all other blogs hoster under BlogSpot.com. So if you have linked to any of this blogs from your site, please update your links/bookmarks!

That's all folks. It had been a LONG night.

The on when Raz "Is Not Stupid"

2005-01-31T22:51:00.000+08:00

Hi all!

Nothing much to update today. Hype Records have yet to get back to me on the exact prize to be given out for the Name The FanClub contest - I guess Taufik has yet to make up his mind! Fret now - we have a winner! At a whopping 50.7% of total votes! Obviously I can't say anything for now - but once I have heard from Taufik's team, I'll put it up right here!

Alright, thanks to Liznadia for the scans from Lifestyle magazine. Also thanks to Michael for setting up the pretition for World Idol 2.

Alright side track a bit.

I have been taking a break today (after my exams this afternoon) laughing myself to "I Not Stupid". Anyone still remember the movie? The story about how three kids struggled in Singapore's "restrictive" education system, and how their families interact with each other. It can easily be disguised as a comedy, but is it only me or is there anyone else detect the many "political undertone" in the movie?

I laughed and cried with the movie. Call me lame but damn this is one hell of a story! Does anyone feel the same way as me? Let's share in our forum.

Sorry for the detour, hor, but must do some other things, if not very boring one, leh :P

The one when Raz is whirlwind-ed

2005-01-30T16:27:00.000+08:00

The past week has been an absolute tsunami for me (pun intended)! With the surmounting planning tasks for the site, my increasing responsibilities at work and my upcoming exams.... breathe, Raz, breathe. That's what I have been telling myself all week.

And if you noticed the seemingly lack of updates on the site - that's not because I'm not working on the blogs. In fact, my pace has quicken to double the speed, because I have been populating the content for some other Taufik-related blogs (pause for effect). Yeah, you guessed it right. New things are coming up. Real soon too!

As of press time (I love to use this phrase!), the official results for the fanclub name voting is not finalised yet. I have ended the voting, but gotta tell you this - the winner leads the rest of the entries by at least 50%! That percentage made me think of the margin of which Taufik won Singapore Idol! Haha... anyway, I am passing everything to Artiste Management, and the official results will be announced soon.

Just though of letting you know this - I have also created www.AmericanIdol4.net to capture the fever for the original Idol fever! Do drop by for a visit yeah?

That's all for the week, folks!

The one when (finally) all CDs have been sent out

2005-01-27T23:14:00.000+08:00

Dear Taufik-eds!

Finally! All CDs have been sent out to all buyers! You should be receiving your copies by Saturday the latest, and sometime next week for Malaysian buyers. And I got a surprised for you in the package! No, it is more than just Taufik's autograph! =)

Name-the-FanClub Contest!

I listed one of the entry wrongly. So sorry people. It should be "Fiknatic", not "Fiknatik" as listed before. So sorry! But the poll will continue, and you can do so here

Simply Taufik
Fiked-Out
Get Taufik-ed
Fiknatic (Updated!)
Totally Fiked-out

S'pore Poly Open House

Here you go, another Taufik's appearance! Here's the details:
What: Taufik's Special Appearance@ S'pore Poly Open House
Date: Saturday, 5th Feb 05
Time: 12.30 to 1.30pm (during Lunch Time Concert at SP's Open House)
Where: S'pore Poly Convention Centre, next to Dover MRT station (same venue as his 22 Jan Thank-You party)

Taufik is worried that the last minute change in date may result in poor attendance. Prove him wrong!! Keep up to date on Taufik's schedule by going to the forum's calendar.

Taufik-ed Gallery - Updated!

More contribution from Taufik-ed Fans - this time from Kim! View the Taufik-ed Gallery on last Saturday's Thank-You Party.

More News on Taufik

The truth about Ibu
Malay song on Taufik's album was written by Ahmad Jaafar and Sharif Rahman, not P. Ramlee - Read more...

Terharu IBU jadi pilihan Taufik tetapi....
Apabila mendapat tahu Taufik Batisah menyertakan lagu IBU dalam album sulungnya, keluarga penggubah veteran Haji Ahmad Jaafar rasa terharu dan bangga - Read more...

NEW! Get Live MSN Alert

Decided to try out this new service. Now you can get Live Alert on MSN Messenger whenever TaufikBatisah.net is updated. Just look at the top right column to sign up.

Alright. It had been a long day. And thank goodness I am on leave tomorrow! Till then =)

The one when everyone gets to vote!

2005-01-26T11:36:00.000+08:00

Dear Taufik-eds!

What a day this is going to be! First, Taufik was featured "big-big" right at the front page of TODAY! It was part of MediaCorp advertisement for their upcoming programmes, one of which is a drama series starring all 11 Idol finalists.

How cool is that! =)

Secondly, Taufik's autographed albums will be delivered to me soon, and once I got them packed up, I'll be able to send them off by this evening! If that's the case, you'll get your ordered CDs by this Friday!

And finally - Taufik has made his selection of the top 5 names for his official fan club! Hype Records sent this to me today, and here are the names choosen by the man himself!

Simply Taufik
Fiked-Out
Get Taufik-ed
Fiknatik
Totally Fiked-out

If one of these names was suggested by you - congratulations!

Now, here's your chance to have a say in naming your very own fan club for Taufik. Vote for the one that you like the best, and the name with the most votes will be THE name of the official fan club, and the person who suggest it will win a personalised gift from Taufik!

Only one vote per fan please. Click on the banner to vote now!

Voting close this Sunday, 30th January. =)

The one when everyone is getting restless waiting

2005-01-26T01:25:00.000+08:00

You have waited for more than a week

You have listened to his songs over the radio

You have yet to listen to it on your own player

You fidgeted, trembled, agitated, complained...

NOW, WAIT NO MORE

The envelopes are labeled. The CDs are autographed.
Perhaps the label is not well-cut
The envelope is sticky at places
But, at least, they are ready

On Their Way To You Tomorrow, 26th January 2005

Count Your Blessings!

The one when Raz is flooded with emails

2005-01-24T23:58:00.000+08:00

Hi Taufik-eds!

This is a late night entry. Okay, not exactly very late, but late enough by my usual standard in updating the site.

A note to all buyers of "Blessings" through TaufikBatisah.net: My apologies if I am unable to respond to all your emails personally, but there were so many! Taufik is currently in the process of signing the albums, and once he is done, we'll immediately despatch to all buyers. I hope to send all orders out by Thursday. Okay?

Taufik in the News

Over the weekends there are some news on Taufik in the Malay daily Berita Minggu. Thanks to Julianah who took the trouble to send in the these news! Also, there is a piece written by my ex-section leader (I was a trombonist with NTUSB), though i am not sure where it was published. Hehe...

- Count Your Blessings...
- Taufik Kini Layak Dapat Anugerah Platinum
- Wak: Sabarlah Taufik

Great reads, if you understand Malay!

Taufik's CD Available Online

CDRAMA has made Taufik's album available through online sales! Spread the word around, especially to your overseas friends. Click the logo below to go to the site for purchase. The CD is priced at S$16.95 excluding delivery charges.

Thank You Party Gallery Updated

The gallery for last Saturday's party has been updated with more contributions - this time from Eric. Thanks dude!

That's all folks for tonight!

The one when Raz is setting up another site!

2005-01-23T23:03:00.000+08:00

Hi Taufik-eds!

Thank you so much for the overwhelming response to the Name-the-FanClub contest! Submission is officially close. I am sure Taufik will have his hand full trying to pick only 5 out of the 81 entries submitted. Once I have his selection, I'll put it up here for voting!

Now, some updates for today. I have sent out this week's newsletter with the big news - Taufik's debut album has reached the 24,000 mark and counting! This makes him a Platinum award winner. Sony-BMG is confident he'll hit the Double Platinum, making him the first local English artiste to achieve that mark.

Go Taufik!

There's also news on the auction for posters of Taufik and Sylvester for charity. Check out the news!

New photos have been uploaded for both the Thank You Party @ Singapore Poly as well as those gorgeous pics at the Singapore Idol Final Showdown galleries.

Alrighty, I have also created another Idol-related site! Do check out the AmericanIdol4.net, specially built for Singapore's AMI fans!

That's all, folks! And have a great weekend ahead!

The one when Taufik is eyeing a DOUBLE Platinum!

2005-01-22T23:30:00.000+08:00

"What if he doesn't recognise me?"

It was almost 6 p.m., and the Singapore Polytechnic Convention Hall is almost empty, except for the few fans (including yours truly) who was unlucky enough to be the last few to go on stage and meet the soul man himself.

And I was suddenly gripped by an unknown fear. "Oh damn, it will be damn embarassing if he can't recognise me!" I thought to myself as I approached the table.

"Sorry, if you want to take pictures you'll need to stand next to the lady in white," the bouncer pointed to my camera and gestured to the lady in question some steps away from the table.

I gingerly took my spot to take the photographer spot to take a good shot of Eric (hey dude, nice meeting you!) talking to Taufik.

Suddenly Taufik looked up, saw me and instantly his eyes lit up in recognition. "Hey Razlan, it's you!"

I couldn't help it but blurted, "Oh my, he remembered me!"

It was like two friends meeting again after a long time. Indeed, it was a "Blessings"!

Of Blessings

The hall was filled with some 1000 eager fans who were there by a lucky stroke of fate, having passes to the event. Indeed, Taufik's "Thank You & Signing" party is more than just another meet-the-fan session.

It was revealed in the show that his debut album, "Blessings" have hit more than 24,000 copies in sales and counting!"

That made him a Platinum award winner, and if the album hit 30,000 copies, Taufik will make history as the first English album artiste to achieve a DOUBLE platinum in Singapore.

A Day for His Fans

"I'm nothing without you guys," Taufik repeatedly said to his fans. "Thank you for believing in me and making my dreams come true."

Taufik once again paid tribute to dear mummy, who rose to the occasion, took a slight bow towards the 1000-strong audience who roared their approval with thunderous applause.

The fans further took the spotlight with a "fans conference". Many took the chance to ask him whatever you can think of, including his "relationship" with Leandra.

"I enjoy reading about myself in the paper," Taufik said with a dead-panned expression. "The media can really blow things out of porpotion; but please, continue to write more on me"

I must say - his media savviness is worth admiring. He completely avoided the question and took a pot shot at the press in the process! But all in attendance knew one thing for sure - never took the media seriously. Including the rumoured romance between the two Idol finalists.

Taufik Wannabes!

The fans also took the stage with their awesome dance move (oh my, a certain Nizam really shook the hall with his moves - he is as good as Taufik!) and commendable singing (that rendition of "Let's Stay Together" was awesome, gurl!).

But what is more memorable for many Taufik-ed fans today was to discover that their Idol is still the Taufik they have grown to adore right from the start.

From the cliche "There is two kind of Usher/Taufik" to the awwwww-ing "Saya Sayang Mak", Taufik is close to the hearts of many. As he determined signing his autographed over and over again many, many times for his fans, the soul man has kept his promise.

That he will thank his fans who have voted for him. And today, ending with a platinum award in his bag and an aching wrist, Taufik has shown Singapore he is a man of his words.

And that eye sparkle knowing who I am was enough to make the trip down all worth it.

Now, tell us your experience!

(Razlan's note: I know the photos sucks, but my camera ran out of battery again and can't take pictures properly. Can anyone share their pics, please?)

The one when Raz was tickled by the canned MTV

2005-01-20T22:48:00.000+08:00

Hi Taufik-eds!

Thanks for all the words of concern. I am feeling much better now, though have been working from home for office stuff although I am on MC. Oh well... what to do. When duties call...

I found the recent frame by frame commentary in the recent 8-Days to be extremely hilarious! Haha... I don't know if I should be relieved the canned version is, well, canned (it seems tacky, alright), but I am just dying to share this with you people! :)

I like the third frame, the most! Haha.... Ok, other features in the recent 8-Days also include a track-by-track review by Raymond. Do check it out!

I have also updated with the Final Showdown gallery with another 10 photos, mostly on Sly. Have a look yeah! And to all Muslim fans - Selamat Hari Raya Haji!

Signing off!

The one where Raz is unable to update much

2005-01-19T21:45:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

Here are some Taufik-ed news for ya!

Taufik's Showcase @ Singapore Polytechnic!

It's confirmed - Taufik's showcase will be held this Saturday at Singapore Polytechnic at 3 p.m. Winners of the event passes lucky draw have been notified by mail. You must be damn thrilled!

Congratulations to Zhao Renmin and Nor Sabrina Abu Bakar, who have bought their albums through this website and won passes to this Saturday's event! I'll be in touch soon via email for information in collecting the pass. Congrats, gurl!

Many have asked - is Raz going to be there this Saturday? Yes, I will be. So see you people there!

(Click here for map to Singapore Polytechnic, and here for more info)

Name-the-FanClub Contest!

Thank you so much for all the responses to the name-the-fanclub contest! Not to disappoint people who may not be reading this site daily, I have decided to open this contest until this Sunday, 23rd January at 12 noon. After that, I'll compile the list of submission and be submitted to Artiste Management, the management arm of Hype Records of which Taufik is part of.

An amendments to my previous information, and I am sure this a good news to all - the winner of this contest, whose entry will be used to name the fan club, will be presented with a personalised gift from Taufik himself!

That's good news, isn't it? Click here to submit your entry, if you have yet to do so. The top 5 names, selected by Taufik himself, will be put up for voting on Monday!

Taufik in the News

The media seems to be parading again on Taufik's ground. The one in 8-Days (on the canned version of "I Dream" MTV, and track-by-track review) are good. Haven't got the time to put them up here, but go get a copy. Here are some updates available on this site:

- Youth taskforce to draw youths with Idol effect
- Boycott Taufik? Definitely not
- MediaCorp Radio Malay stations refute accusations of banning Taufik songs
- Our Feeling

On a personal note, unfortunately I have been taken ill and now resting at home. Won't be using the computer unless for urgent/important stuff. My apologies if I take longer than usual to respond to your emails, people.

Signing off.

The one when fans should suggest names for the fanclub!

2005-01-18T23:06:00.000+08:00

Hi all!

The responses from Taufik-ed fans on the Name the FanClub Contest organized by Hype Records were overwhelming. Take heart people - as I have sent in your entries to Hype already. For those of you who have not submitted your entry, fret not! I will keep the form open for another 24 hours, so this is your chance to name the official Taufik's fan club!

Kind Words for TaufikBatisah.net

Over the weeks (or had it been months already?), I have received many encouraging emails and notes from fans who frequented my blog. They are the reason for me to be able to continue what I am doing, and I would like to just say this to all - thank you for your support and concern - you got me going!

New Gallery - Final Showdown!

Too late for these? But I'm sure these will keep your blood boiling. And I threw in one of Sly's for good measure. Any Sly's fans lurking around? =) Say hi! More photos like these coming your way! (Click to view album)

Taufik on "Love"

Okay, won't write much, but here are some scans from the latest Seventeen magazine, February Issue. Really interesting feature (though I am a bit too old for all that stuff, haha). Get your copy today!

Good night, all =)

The one when the official fan club is finally forming!

2005-01-18T01:09:00.000+08:00

Dear Taufik-ed fans!

Monday is always a blue day for me. So much work to do in office, and I'm always flooded! The an hour or two before bed time is my Taufik-ed time, so here I am faithfully updating you on all things Taufik.

Name Taufik's Fan Club Contest!

Yup, you have read it right. An official Taufik's fan club is (finally) forming. I am helping Hype Records (that's Taufik's management company) to get suggestions for the fan club. Hype Records would like to know YOUR preference before they make any further action. What's more, the winner of this contest will be "rewarded" with a personlised gift from Taufik!

Now, this is how it'll work:
1) I'll collect suggestions from you using a web form (linked below)
2) Give us your most creative thought! And tell us why you choose that name!
3) All names of participants and their suggestions will be passed on to Hype
4) Hype Records will select the top 5 names and open for public voting
5) The name with the top votes will be the winner and get a gift from Taufik!

Click here to name the Official Taufik Fan Club!

Okay, better hurry. Once I have enough suggestions, I will close the form. Usually this won't take more than a day! I have already suggested mine! :P

Taufik's Blessing Showcase!

The news is out that Taufik's showcase for his album will be held this Saturday, 22nd January at the Singapore Polytechnic! The show will start at about 3 p.m.

Those of you who have purchased the albums, remember to send in your form for a chance to win passes to the event! Admission is only for those with passes, and these are given to those who are selected via lucky draw. So hurry! I had send in mine last week! :P

I'll let you know more once I have more confirmed details

(Razlan's note: To buyers of album through TaufikBatisah.net, this would mean that your album might be deliver earlier than expected - between 22nd to 26th. I will be in touch again with more info close to the date. I know you guys can't wait, but think of the autograph!

A message from Taufik on CDANS Show

Taufik would like to thank all fans who made their way to Bukit Batok last Saturday to support him in the name of a good cause. He would like to apologise to fans who might feel disappointed as he is unable to sign autograph on your albums prior to this showcase. This is a directive from his management. Taufik knows his fans are an understanding lot and he is very grateful for all the care and concern you have given him. Taufik is truly touched.

Awwww..... =)

Okay, so the messenger boy has done his job. Time now for bed! Good night, Taufik-eds!

Local Stations Boycotting Taufik?

2005-01-17T13:59:00.000+08:00

The news and various online groups are hot with the debate - are local stations boycotting Taufik?

I'm sure many fans here have differing theories and opinions. Many have expressed disgusts over the issue; some are merely puzzled, and others shrug it off as, I quote, "media imbeciles"

As the owner of this site, I am inclined to take a neutral position in delivering information to you, and reserve my personal opinion to myself. That, I will honor. But you, as Taufik-ed fans, have the right to know some hard facts and form your own judgements.

Here are some information you may be interested in:

Background: Taufik was invited to attend the Anugerah Planey Muzik (APM), the equivalent of "Grammy Awards" for the Malay music industry. Citing NS duties and obligations, Hype Records had declined the invitation. In response, Ms. Zakiah Halim, a senior executive in Malay and Indian radio programming for MediaCorp, has apparently issued directives to DJs and programme hosts not to air Taufik's songs or interview him.

Fact #1: Hype Records has earlier on declined a separate invitation for Taufik to sing at Tiger Cup's final, citing similar reasons
Fact #2: Taufik is currently working at least 12 hours a day for his NS duties, more than normal hours to replace the hours off taken during the Idol contest and subsequent media appearances
Fact #3: Ms. Zakiah Halim has direct control over programme content of the radio shows
Fact #4: Ria and Warna had previously been airing Taufik's songs almost everyday

Qns #1: What are the exact procedures for Taufik to take time off his duties? Would it be flexible enough to accomodate erractic and last-minute schedule of media programme?
Qns #2: What is the actual reason for banning Taufik's songs?
Qns #3: Would such a ban be linked to Taufik's inability to attend APM?
Qns #4: How would Taufik's public image be affected by (i) his inability to attend APM?; and (ii) the ban of his songs on air?
Qns #5: What can Hype Records do to resolve this issue?

You have the background, the facts, and the questions to ask. Please speak up, and ensure your opinions are heard.

Full scope of the story in today's New Paper. As usual, don't believe 100% of everything you read.

The one when everyone should take note of PIRACY

2005-01-16T22:37:00.000+08:00

Dear Taufik-eds,

I knew that there was a contraversial piece of news in Berita Harian today, but I did not manage to get hold of the newspaper. Why is Malay newspaper so difficult to find? Anyway, my attention was on another issue altogether, and I thought I should do something about it as well.

It is about PIRACY.

Taufik's album, "Blessings" has achieved the GOLD status even before it was launched, having sold more than 10,000 copies in pre-sales orders.

While we all rejoice such fantastic news, it won't be long before copies of his songs (MP3 etc.) will make its rounds on Kazaa, school network, and even email (with Gmail's 1 GB capacity and Yahoo's 200 MB). Unless we take a firm stand in stopping piracy in its tracks, Taufik's coveted GOLD status will be a thing of past.

How can you make a difference? Say NO to piracy! You can make it happen if all Taufik-ed fans do our bit. Join TaufikBatisah.net's "Support Anti-Piracy!" campaign!

Some other updates: Taufik's performance at CDANS was reported in the news today. Also, if you have certain questions pertaining to this site and Taufik, please visit the FAQ section. No, it is not that I don't like to hear from you and reply your emails, but handling hundreds of emails a day is no joke.

Oh, I have also send out this week newsletter. An email with important information to all album buyers had been sent out as well. Please call/sms/email me if you didn't receive the email. Previous mass mailing experience not very good, eh?

Alright then. Hopefully tomorrow I'll be able to put up more news. I might just have some surprise in store for you =)

So long!

The one when Raz doesn't know where to get started

2005-01-15T23:49:00.000+08:00

(This is absolutely phenomenal. So many things happened for the past 48 hours, and I missed all the actions, and I don't know how to get started! Ok, one thing at a time....)

Dear Taufik-eds!

It was with my utmost pleasure to report to you two of the BUSIEST and MOST HAPPENING days in TaufikBatisah.net's history!

Launch of Blessings: Selling, selling, Sold Out!

Barely 24 hours after hitting the shelf, Taufik's debut album "Blessings" was reportedly sold out at various music stores islandwide! difflam74 from The Taufik-ed Forum gave some on-the-move information: "I have visited three different stores in Tampines Mall and Century Squares today and all of them no longer have any stocks for Blessings!"

Somewhat weird for us to feel happy to be disappointed. But not all is well with fans who have pre-ordered their albums. Said one forum-er: "I went to the outlet at Jurong Point and they say Taufik's album is not here yet and it is afternoon already!" Indeed, there seems to be some glitches in the delivery of order islandwide for Taufik's debut album.

(By the way, a new gallery has been set up! Click the picture to visit scan outs of Blessing, the entire package!)

Downtown Orchard was in an uproar yesterday evening as fans stormed various stores where Taufik will be making special appearances. The Taufik-ed team survived the ordeal and will be back with reports + photos soon. Meanwhile, drop by our Taufik-ed League Forum for bits of juicy (and some not so juicy) reports from Taufik's mini tour yesterday!

Tsunami Fund-Raising: Body Combat Challenge

It was absolute mayhem at CDANS today. The crowd was not very big, but hordes of Taufik-ed fans stormed the ground in a roaring show of support for Taufik!

Atiqah, owner of Taufik-B.net was there today, and from the multiple SMS-es she sent out, the show (or rather, Taufik) was absolutely thrilling!

"Taufik is HOTTT! Sang Me & Mrs. Jones" a very enthusiastic Atiqah reported. Later on: "Show ended with Taufik doing a body combat exercise with everyone, except for the fans who stood by to watch him... and he sang I Dream too! Fans were singing along, screaming his name and trying to get good shots of him..."

Thanks to her, we have some photos from the event to show!

Other News Update

There were a number of coverage on Taufik in the media the past few days, but I don't want to write too long. But I gotta mention this: part of the letter sent out by Nur Farhana on TaufikBatisah.net's behalf was published in Straits Times! Although HMV has since then rectified the "oversight", it is great that we have voiced opinion to the media. Thanks again Ana for such a great piece!

Other news on Taufik in the papers:

- Living The Dream
- First gold for a local English album in a decade!
- Taufik Cover-Up in Berita Harian (thanks to Juliana for sending in this piece!

Alright, that's all folks!

The one when Raz felt so grateful

2005-01-14T23:13:00.000+08:00

Today is my "blessing"...

Okay, so I shouldn't use such a strong word, because I am not implying that Taufik "blessed" me when he mentioned my name in his Thank You List, but.... I can't help it! I was so shocked when Kak Leza told me, I almost choked on my dinner! *gasp* I didn't expect it, and my set of CD (bought from Orchard Sembawang) was still in its wrapping inside my bad. Man.... I am going to soooooo kill Taufik! Imagine.... my name, in 10,000 + copies all over the island, printed permanently in the first local English album to hit Gold...

I think this is the ultimate recognition and reward Taufik can give me. Thank you, dude. You one hell of a cool guy.

Anyway! I digressed! Talked too much. Heh, so here are the updates for today:

Launch of "Blessings"

So the day had come when once again, the entire island is swept up in a swoop of Idol fever. Taufik's debut album finally hit the shelf, much to the delight of fans who had pre-ordered the album almost a month ago

And, boy, are they in for a treat! From crowd favorites like "Let's Stay Together" and "Me & Mrs. Jones" to brand new track "One Less" to the Singapore Idol single, "I Dream", Taufik did not disappoint. In fact, his talent, his dedication to his works and his outpouring love especially to his mom are living legends why he is the Singapore Idol

At music stores in town, crowds of hysterical fans both young and old couldn't control their excitement when they get to see their Idol, again! Who says only Sly camp can scream?

The Taufik-ed League Coverage Team for the day, including Sahara, Buffy, Junaidah, Sophie and their friends from the Taufik-ed League Forum covered the various hot-spots to get some real scoop on the scoop! Watch out for their news (and hopefully some photos) tomorrow on this site!

A glimpse into what happened tonight. Mr. Zulkarnain (zulkar9 in the forum, and owner of TaufikOnline.com) was on the ground at Carrefour, Suntec City.

"It was absolutely crazy," a flusterred Zul quipped. "The fans went crazy screaming. I even saw a girl got trampled on, and another fainted! It was so scary!"

Indeed. But think of it - who else in Singapore's history can make the crowd go that wild?

Taufik's Performance @ CDANS

As you enjoy yourself with Taufik's wonderful album, don't forget there are other people who are less "blessed" then we all are. The Asian Tsunami victims are struggling for survival right at this moment as you read this sentence.

To raise fund for the disaster relief fund, Taufik will be stepping forward to put his talent to good use. He will be performing in a special concert performance at CDANS, organized by the Police Force tomorrow. The details are as follow:

Date : 15th January 2005
Time : 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Venue : CDANS, Bukit Batok (view location map) (CDANS website)
Theme : In aid of the Asian Tsunami Victim

Message from Taufik: "I can't help but to feel for the unfortunate victims of the disaster. I hope my fans will rise to the occassion and do their part in this charity concert. Not only to support me, but coming down for a good cause as well."

It was previously planned in the forum that Taufik-ed fans will get together to do something worthy to aid the tsunami victims and support Taufik at the same time! Fans have been signing up at the guestbook on their attendance for tomorrow.

(Raz's Note: Taufik-eds, please support the event, and tell me your experience and take LOADS of photos ok? I have classes so not able to attend)

Updates on TaufikBatisah.net

TaufikBatisah.net is officially working again! I have made a huge mistake accusing Yahoo! Domains, and I have to apologise to them for my nasty emails. Anyway, for now the FTP is not working yet, but once everything is in order, you will see this whole site on a brand name web space!

To my fellow bloggers of the Taufik-ed Network, I'll start involving you when this is up and happening, ok? Paiseh for the delay :)

In my desperation to make this site work, I bought TaufikBatisah.ws as well. If anyone access that site, he or she will be redirected to here as well.

Ok then. New images will be uploaded once a new image system is installed on TaufikBatisah.net. Till tomorrow - stay Taufik-ed, everyone!

"Blessings" - It's finally here!

2005-01-13T19:43:00.000+08:00

(Razlan's Note: This is my first attempt in something like a journalist's feature. Pardon the quality eh :P Also, I will be putting up Taufik's official biography and press releases from BMG tonight. Thought I should do up this article before I forget anything. Yes, this is not from any newspaper/magazine - I did it up myself. You'll see similar features tomorrow in national dailies =))

Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah's debut album will hit the market tomorrow (Friday, 14th January)
By Razlan, TaufikBatisah.net

Taufik's new album, titled "Blessings", will be on shelves at music stores islandwide tomorrow. His strong will and tireless effort to produce the album despite his National Service commitment and various media appearances had not been in vain - pre-sales figure for Taufik's album has hit more than 10,000 copies, a big feat in local music industry.

News had it that Hype Records and Sony-BMG, his management and record label, are aiming for platinum record. Responding to the good news in awe, Taufik was speechless for a moment before muttering a happy "Wow!"

"Blessings" is reputedly the first local English album to achieve gold record for the past 10 years.

What you are in for

Media at the press conference held at Royal Plaza Hotel today (including this blogger) was in for a real treat as several clips of selected pieces from a repertoire of 11 songs in his album were played (see list at end of article). Taufik's fans will rejoice tomorrow as the album contains original R&B pieces as well as Taufik's selections for Singapore Idol, the 6-month long contest that brought him to fame.

Here's (an amateurish) review for the pieces:

Backup Against the Wall
A club dance track, this has a snappy tempo, very Taufik-ish... you can't help swinging your leg to its tune!

Let's Stay Together
Claimed by Florence Lian, one of the Singapore Idol judges as his best performance, the song has been completely rearranged - less "noisy" (remember Dick Lee?) - Taufik's voice came out nice and clear

All for Love
Written by Ken Lim (Director of Hype, also a Singapore Idol judge), this brand new piece features Taufik's falsetto capability really well!

Me & Mrs. Jones
All Mrs. Taufik wanna-bes, scream! Taufik is back with this sexy rendition in a somewhat very jazzy, relaxed mood.

One Last
I can't describe this song in words. Easily the best in the album, one that will set the chart on fire, soaring through the rank and tug at your heartstrings. That was until I heard...

Ibu
That's Malay for "mother". Specially dedicated to Madam Batisah, Taufik was said to be so emotional during the recordings. It was his tribute to his mum - talk about being a filial son!

Taufik on inspiration, blessings and friendship

When "Ibu" was played (you'll definitely be able to recognise the main tune), Taufik was seen chewing his fingers again - a sign that he was nervous and trying not to shed tears. Honestly, this guy gotta be one of the most sentimental and emotive that you'll ever know.

"My mum is my Idol" said an emotional Taufik. "She has been an inspiration to me, and I want to take care of her for all that she has done for me"

Why "Blessings"?

"I feel very blessed and grateful to be where I am now. It was an opportunity for me to show and share my talent.. (10 years ago) I thought being a singer will forever remain a dream. I never thought one day, I'll be sitting in a room with so many journalists doing my own conference" said Taufik with a laugh.

Asked on his taken on friendship, Taufik said "There are two kinds of friends. One is acquintance - the type that you say hi and bye to. The other are real friends. They are there for you no matter who you are, and support you in whatever you are going through. To my friends, I want to thank you for believing in me"

On life being an Idol

"It has been tough to juggle between NS, performances and time with family and friends" Taufik said. But he stressed his team (at Hype Records) had been very supporting. "They'll arrange my schedule so that I will have off-time for my family.... What I mean is, they did cut me some slack!"

For Taufik, who will be completing his NS in October 2005, his NS life has been very much unchanged. "My superiors still treat me the same. They had been very understanding on my Idol commitments, but frankly, nothing much has changed."

Idol-fame can come at a price.

Asked if he still take public transport, he said: "Yeah, sure I do. I take taxi." Laughingly he added: "Nowadays I don't really take public transport. I mean, I don't mind being recognised. But what if there's someone (is annoyed) with the commotion? Worse, what if someone doesn't like me?"

But for Taufik, being popular has more high moments than low. Recounting on an experience while on NS duty: "It was night time, and I was in front of Paragon in my uniform (complete with the cap). Suddenly someone turned to me and asked me to take photo. I said: sure! Not long after, a crowd start to form right there. It was like.... a press conference!"

Is the rumuor true that he is earning loads of money? "I didn't take any of the (performance and endorsement) fees because of NS," he added. "Hype uses it to finance his promotion and stuff. They take care of me really well"

Something like a piggy bank? "Yeah!"

On the recent tsunami

"You can't help but feel for the victims" Taufik said somberly. He will be performing in aid of the disaster victim this Saturday at Cdans Bukit Batok in a performance organized by the Police Force. "It's the least I can do, and I hope my fans will come and support me and contribute to a worthy cost"

"Blessings" will be available tomorrow. All pre-sales buyers can claim their CDs at the outlet which they brought it from. Taufik will also be making the rounds at several music stores in town to meet fans and give out the CDs personally. Click here to find out how can be a part of the Taufik-ed Coverage Team tomorrow!

Do catch Taufik in action at Cdans Bukit Batok on Saturday at 2 p.m. Join the discussion on how fans can come together to do your part for the tsunami relief and support Taufik. The concert is open to public and admission is free. - TB.net

Click here to view photos from the press conference

Complete song list:
One Last
Me & Mrs. Jones
Backup Against The Wall
Let's Stay Together
September
Supersition
Close 2 U
Missing You Always
All The Love
I Dream
Ibu

Get Ready to be Taufik-ed!

2005-01-13T14:58:00.000+08:00

You've seen the performances
You've heard the voice
You've cast the vote
Now, experience "Blessings", the long-awaited debut album
from your Singapore Idol, Taufik Batisah

Some teasers for you from his album launch press conference. Will update more tonight!

Song List: One Last, Me & Mrs. Jones, Backup Against The Wall, Let's Saty Together, September, Supersition, Close 2 U, Missing You Always, All The Love, I Dream, Ibu

The one where Raz gets very agitated!

2005-01-12T23:58:00.000+08:00

I am just too agitated today to update anything.

Sure, the random monitoring of Taufik-ed emails and forum postings had been inspiring. I was looking forwards to a night of productive study, blogs update and some other online stuff that I am doing.

I thought, "Before I start studying (exams are 3 weeks away!), I better write to Yahoo! Domain again"

You see, I have a problem with Yahoo! system. Our domain name, TaufikBatisah.net has been purchased sometime before, and was redirected here. Later on, I decided to get a proper hosting package, and set the Yahoo! system to "point" the URL to this hosting provider.

Nothing happened. Zilch. It has been almost a month. I wrote to Yahoo! customer support, and... cutting the long story short, I made a major complaint. I think you guys deserve better!

So, I have decided to get another domain to use. Just bought "TaufikBatisah.XXX" (don't access yet, it is not ready. if you try you will get some funny ads!). But no worries, Taufik-eds. You can continue to use TaufikBatisah.net to access this blog!

Those who have emailed, dropped a message in the guestbook, responded to the few threads I started in the forum... my apologies for the delayed response.

Will be back tomorrow - with more updates! Stay tuned!

The one when we got to know Taufik is performing to aid tsunami victims!

2005-01-11T23:37:00.000+08:00

Updated!
Taufik's Performance in Aid of Tsunami Victim

Taufik will be performing this Saturday at Cdans Country Club Bukit Batok this Saturday, 15th January 2005 at 2 p.m., one day after this debut album launch! The concert is to raise fund in aid of the tsunami victims. Taufik will be there throughout the show.

The concert is open to public. Admission is free-of-charge This concert is organized by the Police Force and may not be well publicised.

Click here for the location map. The venue is right next to the Bukit Batok Driving School.

As Taufik-ed fans, I believe we should all come forward and contribute to the tsunami aid fund, and at the same time show our support to Taufik. I mean, you get to kill two birds with one stone! I have some ideas, which I am throwing around for some brainstorming in the forum. Come on people, this is a chance for you to see the man in action again!

If you are coming, do drop a message here, so we know how big a crowd we'll have!

Taufik's Debut Album Launch

As mentioned in previous post, Taufik's debut album will be launched this Friday, 14th Jnaury 2005! Remember to dig out the receipt. Have you send off your lucky draw form yet? Do so, as the forms must reach Sony-BMG office by 14th January! Don't miss out a chance to meet Taufik during his Thank-You/Signing party. =)

By the way, I am still looking for volunteers for Taufik's album launch "mini tour" this Friday in town area. Join the Taufik-ed Coverage Team, and be part of the excitement!

More Contraversy on "I Dream" MTV

On a similar note, did you read the new paper today?

The first MTV setting in a pub was cancelled by MediaCorp due to some "unforeseen circumstances". Today The New Paper has the behind story. No, not the real reason for the plug-pulling, but the comments from various people involved. Check out the full news in our news blog

Yet on the same topic, TODAY also has a small feature on Taufik's debut MTV. Totally light-hearted compared to the TNP piece. You see how the media manipulate the same story?

There are some small updates here and there - you guys gotta find out yourself, heh. Good night!

The one where everyone is excited on the debut album

2005-01-10T13:25:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

Yesterday, the first newsletter for The Taufik-ed League Mailing List has been sent out! If you have subscribed, but did not receive it, please log on to your Google account. You can still subscribe to the mailing list by completing a few simple steps.

Now, a few announcements for today:

Autographed Taufik's Album

Buyers for the autographed debut album who had made payment (cash, ATM transfer, Internet Banking or PayPal) have been contacted through email. Please check your inbox for more information. If you have placed order, made payment but did not receive the email, please email me as soon as possible.

For those of you intending to buy the autographed albums - I am sorry but the sales has been closed. The details have been passed on, and I am no longer taking new orders. But, fret not, because...

Extended Pre-Sales at Major Music Stores!

The pre-sales order deadline has been extended to 13th January (Thursday), one day before the actual album release! So if you have not place any advanced order, drop by at your nearest music store today!

On the actual launch date (14th January), Taufik will be making the rounds in town areas. Note down the date and the following schedule - you're gonna need it if you want to do some Idol-chasing!

5.00 p.m.: CD Rama (Orchard MRT)
5.30 p.m.: Gramophone (Paragon)
6.00 p.m.: HMV (Hereen)
6.30 p.m.: Sembawang Music Centre (Orchard Cineleisure)
7.00 p.m.: Music Junction (Plaza Singapura)
7.30 p.m.: Carrefour (Suntec City)

Now, remember to cheer and support your Idol, but must be civilised, hor!

Flashback: Is this how you promote your idol?

Some of us may still remember the incident where HMV pasted their price sticker over Taufik's face on the pre-sales package. The Taufik-ed League has decided to take action. With the help of Nur Farhana, the following "complaint" will be sent to Straits Times, The New Paper and TODAY.

"I am dismayed at the disconcerting way HMV record store is handling Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah’s pre-sale package. I noticed the store has placed its price tag sticker on the top right hand corner of the package, completely blocked the artiste’s entire face.

First appearances counts, and in this issue the depiction of Taufik’s face matters most. If I were a customer browsing through a CD shop, I would naturally be inclined to look at a CD with an attractive packaging and the artiste’s face clearly shown. However, with Taufik’s face completely obliterated, it would hardly do justice to his promotion and sales of album.

Granted, most of the buyers will be fans convinced by his talent. But we are talking about marketability here. HMV is patronized by tourists and foreigners and we need to ‘sell’ and showcase our very own Singapore Idol to them. With such careless packaging, our outreach to non-fans and foreigners will be compromised with such disgraceful packaging.

While I concede that price stickers are pasted on the same spot for other CDs in the store, I still believe some basic discretion and initiative should be exercised. HMV should make the extra effort in packaging their good appropriately and not by default. Surely the Singapore Idol CD can be made an exception?

It is not only demeaning to Taufik, who represents a Singapore ambassador, but it also reflects on the cavalier attitude of the concerned promotion party. I would like to offer a simple analogy. How would the nation react if our Prime Minister appeared on the cover of a magazine and the magazine’s price tag on the plastic cover ‘coincidentally’ covered his entire face?

I hope HMV’s management will look into this matter and rectify the problem immediately.

Yours Sincerely,
Nur Farhana Abd Kader
On behalf of http://www.TaufikBatisah.net"

Thanks to Ana for penning such a wonderful letter!

What's Next?

In view of the upcoming launch of album, I would very much want to cover the event. However I will not be able to due to working commitments. Therefore, I would need YOU to help out by joining the Taufik-ed League Coverage Team! You can visit this forum thread to begin discussion!

Some other parts of this blog network has been updated as well. Just surf around, ok? Have fun people, and stay Taufik-ed! =)

The one when Raz has lots of updates

2005-01-08T23:42:00.000+08:00

Dear Taufik-eds,

Finally I am done with both my Advertising and PR projects! As I mentioned in my previous blog posting, my PR project was on Taufik. I will be sharing out the content of the project and ask for your feedback, as I think some of the ideas I have can actually be carried. Right here on this site!

Taufik's debut album out this coming Friday, 14th Jan 2005!

Yes, it is finally out! I can't find my lucky draw ticket form, damn... but I am sure there is a deadline for those of you advanced order-ed from music stores. If you have not send in your form, do it now!

For those of you who place your order with me, I will be emailing you by end of this weekend with more information on when you will get your CDs. Taufik is aware that TaufikBatisah.net has collected about 100 orders for his debut albums! You gotta be proud of yourself, Taufik-eds!

On Tsunami Relief Effort

In Straits Times today, it was reported that Taufik and Sly will sing a duet in aid of tsunami victims. What's more - the song will be composed by Sly himself! Do you remember how Taufik shared his limelight with Sly after he was crowned on 1st December? I thought that duet version of "I Dream" is awesome! R&B + Rock! I am looking forward to this new song :)

By the way, I have been thinking - the tsunami victims need lots of help and aid in rebuilding their homes. While many of us have the right intention, we may not have the right skills to offer them, or we offered at the wrong time. I am wondering, is there anything for us, avid online bloggers, can do to help? I mean, besides the Tsunami Blog that we are having, what else can we do? If you have any idea, please tell me here in the forum, ok?

New Gallery! StarHub Hi-Tea (18th December)

I was surfing back to the official StarHub site when I saw all these pics - immediately upload them and here they are! :)

You can view the album here

New Videos!

Okay, here are some new videos. And for the last time: no, I don't have these clips so you can't download from me, and no, I can't tell you the code. You gotta learn a bit of HTML and you'll know how to get it, ok? And if you really want to download videos, go to our "partner" blog, who always have lots of videos!

Some of the new videos I have updated in our Video Blog include Stronger, the finalist medleys, That's What Friends Are For, The Reason and All For Love. Hmmm... can someone type or send me the lyrics of these songs, as sung in these videos? It will be much appreciated!

And finally, Taufik-eds, if I have delayed in replying to your emails, don't worry. Usually I read your email immediately and reply on the spot if I can; but if I can't, I will "bookmark" it to reply later. Urgent emails will be responded to immediately. And I'm sorry too that I can't follow the comments threads on blogs and forum threads closely. So if I seems "dao"... don't think of me that way ok? Chances are I am just too tied up.

Alright, time to sleep. And read Shopaholic Ties the Knot for the 2nd time. I love the series! :P

Oh, and to those of you who actually doubted Taufik, read what Taufik got to say about the tabloid's news! Like I said, don't believe everything you read!

The one where Taufik-eds got mad!

2005-01-08T01:44:00.000+08:00

Dear Taufik-ed Fans,

Whenever I blog a new post in the main here, I am at loss on what title to put. It doesn't matter if I name my posting before or after I finish blogging its content. That's because within the same post, I usually touch on quite a lot of things!

So decided to copy how FRIENDS name their episodes. Let's see if this suddent creative spark will last *LOL*

My previous posting (just scroll below) has resulted in the most comments so far (maybe I should blog less, then you'll comment more, hehe). Enraged as I was on the way HMV handled Taufik's pre sales items, we must be civil and look into possible reasons this unsightly tragedy happened. If there is something we can do about it, we should. No, I mean, we must. Buffyana posted this most interesting analogy in the forum thread on this issue:

"...How would the nation like it if our Prime Minister appeared on the front cover of some magazine and the magazine's price tag on the plastic wraper 'coincidentally' covered his entire face?"

Have your say here in Taufik-ed League Forum.

The tabloid has done it again. The New Paper reported the alleged break up between Taufik and Leandra on the 1st of December, the day he was crowned as the Singapore Idol. Juicy gossips, I must say. Especially when the writer pulled in Sly and Maia too. Surely the story will make Taufik-ed fans and DeLegion members hot under the collar.

A personal note to my dear blog readers, especially the younger ones - never believe everything the media has to say. If you read between the lines, you'll notice how the writer worked in disclaimers all over the article. "Taufik apparently broke up..." Again, "Apparently, Sly and Maia..."

Even if what the writer wrote is half true (no one can confirm here - seeing them together in public doesn't mean they are attached, for goodness sake!), Taufik should be given his personal space and love the woman he wants. Can you imagine the kind of media pressure he is in? If you hate Leandra because of that news *gasp*, you obviously have one serious problem. As fans, I urge all of us to support Taufik in whatever he do, including his decision to be attached or otherwise, and his choice of girlfriend/friends. For all you know, maybe the mad journalist apparently draw silly conclusion based on two enirely separate remarks made by Taufik and Leandra!

But anyway... what's your take? Do you believe in the news? Most important of all, if what is reported is true (that he is attached), would you still support our soulman? Use a nick if you like, but spill your beans! Quick! :P

On the lighter side of things, it was reported in TODAY (a more reliable source of news that I trust) that Taufik's first Thank You and Signing party will be held on 22nd January. Which means, the album will be out by then! Read more here.

While doing some net research for my assignment, I found this amusing website, with this particular feature:

Now we know who this Hetty is. Keke. Pretty amusing!

The past week has been crazy for me! I have to rush two projects - one in advertising and one in PR - and I have to solve the problem with our domain! Argh, Yahoo! Inc. is really killing me. I have bought the hosting for over a week and still the problem is not yet resolved. Been tire out by all these and work in office... so updates have not been frequent. My apologies.

I'll make up to everyone over the weekend!

By the way, the top banners for our blog network were designed by Atiqah, the site owner of Taufik-B.net. Fantastic isn't it? :D If you like what you see, pay her site a visit and drop a comment! :)

Is this how you promote your idol?

2005-01-07T17:23:00.000+08:00

*OUTRAGED*

Can someone tell them to use their brains a bit?

Our common sense...

2005-01-04T23:34:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

Thank you for the outpouring support you guys had for me. I just checked my email - it was flooded! I didn't have time to reply to everyone, but yes. Your encouragement is very appreciated.

A last note to those who have nothing nice to say - you are invited NOT to come to this site anymore. Since this blog has done nothing but to angers you, why are you torturing yourself? Use your common sense, please.

Taufik Autographed Album Sales: On the autographed album sales issue, tomorrow (5th Jan) will be the last day of order. Those of you who wrote in to ask if you can still buy - yup, you can. Info on the right hand side. I will stop collecting order sometime tomorrow night. Also, I will answer your individual questions tomorrow, ok?

Had a tough day today. Took one day leave from work to rush up my assignment. Managed to finished it just on time, rush down to class, and handed it in. Gotta blame myself for totally forgotten about it - guess I am too engrossed blogging ^_^

But, damn, another one due this Saturday. But at least now I have more time to prepare. Just had a nice time out tonight - all relaxed and tranquil now *meditate* Haha... ok, this is getting silly. I'll be back tomorrow, fellow Taufik-eds. You all have a good night.

Meanwhile it is back to my late dinner and F.R.I.E.N.D.S DVD. Ahh~~

On Money Matters

2005-01-04T14:05:00.000+08:00

I was looking at my web polls just now and realized some visitors have posted comments on the way I am collecting money and such for taufik's CD (and previously, on iPod). In the spirit of free speech, I have decided to highlight these rather unflaterring comment to all readers, and I hope you'll be able to make a decision for yourself, once and for all.

Message from Lily
"...ppl, who's to say how much Raz will collect?? who knws if he pocket sum $$! Raz has no authorization to collect $$$$ for any gift for Taufik!..."
(Raz's Note: This same "Lily" has posted some rather nasty remarks in ShoutBox. I have banned her IP since then)

Message from Jeremy
"...I agree totally. We all don't know Raz personally. Notice how he always wants to get involved in money matters? If he is interested in being a great fan, then stick to the site and not get involved in money matters.

Raz, I hear that you have collected well over 9 thousand dollars from the fans whom have contributed to your site. What are u going to do with it?? If you are really genuine, you should be setting up a log of sorts stating donor's names and the $ they have donated. This way, if anyone is cheated, they will bring up the matter. Right now, we only have yr word for it and quite frankly, we don't trust you!! Why would a grown man like yourself bother so much abt Taufik? If you are in love with him, that's yr preogative. I've noting against that. Just don't cheat ppl of their money!!..."

My Response

Dear Lily & Jeremy (and other similarly concerned visitors),

While I appreciate your concern on finance matters of this website, I wish you will make an effort to understand the nature of this site, and why I am doing what I am doing. If you are unsure, please, go ahead and dig through my archive.

I do not have to explain what I am doing to anyone unless, of course, you have so-called "handed-over" your money to me. And if you did, and if you feel I have cheated your money, then you are more than welcomed to ask the authority to put a stop to this.

I am confident in saying this because all who dealt with me are generally satisfied, and they know who I am. As I am very certain you are not within this group of fans, you do not have any right to call on me to reveal their information to the public. This project is not illegal. This is just being a very informal, personal effort to group the fans together to do for something we believe in.

If you do not believe in me, then you don't have to part with your money, and don't visit this site. Simple as that. And I hate to repeat myself.

All being said, I want all visitors and fans alike to know this - I enjoy what I am doing, and I enjoy getting to know so many of you. And, like Taufik, I am immensely grateful to everyone for believing in me.

Thank you so much, and stay Taufik-ed.

Razlan

Domain Redirect and Downtime

2005-01-03T20:29:00.000+08:00

Hi all!

I don't how else I can send out this message.

Good news: I have finally gotten a new hosting package for http://www.TaufikBatisah.net! How cool is that? Currently, all I have is just the domain name, and I set it to redirect to my blog (razlanmanjaji @ blogspot). That's why if you see in the address bar, it is not TaufikBatisah.net

Bad news: As I need to make certain server changes for the domain (I am not very good at this kind of thing!), when you try to go to TaufikBatisah.net, you might encounter an error message. This is normal, as the change of domain hosting take sometime to actually take effect all over the net.

What can you do? No worries, this site is not down! Just come direct to http://razlanmanjaji.blogspot.com instead :)

More good news: This crossed my mind just now. I suddenly realize I can offer you people email account! How cool is that! Like, for me, I can get an email like razlan@taufikbatisah.net. I can even give someone taufik@taufikbatisah.net *LOL* Cool eh? But...

More bad news: I totally overlooked the fact that my assignment is up tomorrow! Damn! I gotta burn the midnight oil and try to rush up the assignment. This is very silly indeed. Sigh.. so for at least tonight and tomorrow, there will not be any update to this site. I am so sorry. But I hope the above good news (plus the redirection changes) are some good thing for you all.

Stay Taufik-ed! :)

The Taufik-ed League Blog Network - Under Construction

2005-01-03T01:30:00.000+08:00

It is high time for me to re-construct the layout of the blog. With numerous content that we have, plus all the additional features, things can get REALLY messy. Hence from now on, you may notice things are being deleted, or moved around. Don't panic. Click around and you'll bound to find them.

Some of the things you'll noticed immediately:

1) A mailing list has been created. Refer to previous post, or the sidebar
2) "Taufik's Journey To Fame" has been moved to Video and Audio Blogs
3) "Download Central" has been linked to the top links (as "Download")

Some additional features will be coming your way. I don't want to reveal much, in case it didn't materialize, but you can bet on a structured FAQ section and question submission (so you no longer need to flood my inbox), a Taufik-related websites list, bloggers news submission list.... and the much awaited "Taufik-ed Fans Blog". I am much excited with this new blog addition to our existing network. It is going to be very interesting! In fact, it has got...

... I'm not going to tell you now, do I? I gotta keep some tricks up my sleeve.

Oh, by the way, I totally forgotten to put up this 8-Days feature on Taufik. There are some stuff I have written in that particular post, so do check it out.

I have yet to write more on "The Night I Got Taufik-ed". No, I didn't forget. I just didn't have the time. But here is something I am dying to share with you all :P

By the way, the album sales will end on 5th Jan, so if you haven't make your order, please do so soon.

Time to visit the slumberland. Night night, everyone! :P

"The Taufik-ed League" Mailing List

2005-01-02T14:03:00.000+08:00

Finally! I have decided to launch a mailing list for all readers of TaufikBatisah.net blog network. I'll just simply name it is "The Taufik-ed League" mailing list.

This is what you get for joining the list:

#1) You'll get most updated info on Taufik, changes to this blog network, and announcements from me and the Bloggers Network (yet to be set-up) directly in your inbox! I'll try to get it started at one email per week. :)

#2) As a registered member of the league, you'll also be the first one to know of Taufik's appearances/performances in the public! Of course, this is subjected to the availability of such information, and I'll only post info from credible sources.

#3) This mailing list is of newsletter-style. I do not want to make a "email-conversation" kind of mailing list and flood your inbox with hundreds of unnecessary emails and having you scrolling through chatters, one-liners and desperate pleas. There will be control in place on email content, and members will not be able to send emails to the entire group. (If you would like to join an email-conversation type of group, please join The Streets Team instead)

Joining the mailing list is easy! I'll be using the Google Groups new technology, so just use this form to subscribe:

Subscribe to "The Taufik-ed League" Mailing List!Please enter your email:

Once submitted, you'll receive an email to confirm your email address (this is needed to knock out spams). And help spread the word! Use the following code and text link and put it up on your blog/website!

Join "The Taufik-ed League" Mailing List!

If you can't copy the code, visit this link to obtain the code instead.

It has been a rainy day. Will update more tonight!

First Day of 2005

2005-01-01T22:14:00.000+08:00

This is the year 2005. And today is the first day of the brand new year!

At the Sentosa Countdown last night, Taufik was seen on TV greeting us on the New Year. During the show, he sang "Senorita" and "I Dream", much to the delight of concert-goers. Happy New Year to you too, Taufik!

At the same time, as planned, Taufik's new MTV has premier-ed last night amidst much anxiety among us! Thanks to http://ilovetaufikbatisah.blogspot.com for the great video and video snapshots. You can view the video here, and the online album can be viewed here.

Were you happy or disgruntled with the MTV? Tell us in the forum. Many Taufik-ed fans had voiced mixed opinion with the final video.

Our initial fear that the MTV will not be aired as the Sentosa Countdown's live telecast was cancelled was proven unnecessary. However, let's not forget about the reason behind all these moderation celebrations of the new year. In case you have missed some previous postings, I have created a special blog on the Tsunami Disaster for all fans to keep informed on the latest development of the crisis. You can also voice your opinion or share tsunami-related experience in our special thread in the Taufik-ed League, where a small discussion is already ongoing.

There are some videos available online filmed by near-victim of the tidal wave. I have uploaded two to share with you - click here to download a Phuket's clip, and here for another one recorded in Sri Lanka.

Even Taufik has chipped in for the relief fund. He was seen helping out at Mercy Relief! Good for him - our Idol really does a heart of gold.

Have you make new resolutions for the new year? Responding to media interview, Taufik said: "(My resoltuion is) to work really hard and be recognised regionally, and then take over the world! And it would be pretty cool if I get to meet Usher at some awards show, especially since we share the same record label!" Read more on resolutions of other Idol finalists.

I have yet to make mine! :P

Happy New Year 2005!

2005-01-01T01:17:00.000+08:00

(Updated) Good news for everyone. Click here to view Taufik's MTV!. Thanks to ILoveTaufikBatisah Blog.

Happy New Year, everyone!

Didn't update much - coz was busy welcoming the new year with friends. But hey! Hope you enjoyed Taufik's nice MTV :)

Stay Taufik-ed! =)

"I Dream" MTV Premiere Update (Edited)

2004-12-31T16:44:00.000+08:00

Latest Update

Alright people, rejoice and count your blessing.

Taufik's "I Dream" MTV will be premiered at 12 a.m., 1st Jan 2005

Talk about it here! =)

Previous Update

First of all, as most of us know, the live telecast for the Sentosa Countdown has been cancelled by MediaCorp. Read more at our news blog.

The decision to air, or not to air, of any program on TV station is entirely up to MediaCorp. Therefore, it is as good as anyone's guess if MediaCorp is going to air Taufik's MTV or not.

Perhaps, a decision has yet to be made. After all, the move to cancel the telecast was a last minute as well.

In any case, let us all not to be too agitated with this turn of event. Turn on the TV at the stroke of midnight and see if MediaCorp did as planned. If not, we can always look forward to the next day.

I am just trying to be put things in perspective - I think we should be more reflective on what happened (read: tsunami) instead of getting worked up over a MTV airing issue. I'm sure Taufik would want his fans to be more compassionate and sensible.

Afterall, MediaCorp is but an entertainment entity, and only that. =)

I'll update again if I heard of any news, ok?

Sorry been very tied up at work.

I don't want you all to keep guessing. As of now, even I myself am unsure if the MTV launch is still on as planned tonight.

Once I got to know, I'll post it up. I promise.

Asian Tsunami Relief

2004-12-30T15:02:00.000+08:00

Dear all Taufik-ed Fans,

The recent tidal wave disaster that hits several of our neighboring countries has inflicted untold amount of damages and the loss of thousands of innocent lives. The needs of the victims are dire - and Taufik would like to encourage all his fans to contribute and help in one way or another towards the relief aid campaign held worldwide. More information is available on the right column.

All well-wishers who intended to chip in to the "Taufik iPod Fund" are encouraged to channel their contributions to the various relief fund organizations. For those of you who have already made contributions, I will be contacting you by email separately. In addition, Taufik would like you to know he appreciates your support and love for him.

All in the spirit of blogs, and to leverage on the power of blogging, TaufikBatisah.net has initiated a special "Asian Tsunami Blog" to keep all fans updated on this incident. All help in keeping this blog as updated as possible is very much welcomed - please contact me via email for details.

On a personal note: I would very much love to share with you all about my time spent with Taufik last night, but I feel that the disaster is more important than anything else at the moment. So, please, contribute generously. As I said, I am not making any profits in the autograhed album sales, but if in the event I do have some remaining cash from the project, I will pledge it to the disaster fund.

The Night I Got Taufik-ed

2004-12-29T23:59:00.000+08:00

Me and my slightly suprised look. I just pulled a tooth, so can't smile too widely!

Finally, a nice Kodak moment. Can't believe how fair I am in this pic!

I know if I had write something first before displaying the pic, most likely you won't be reading what I wrote. So I put the pic first before the "story". Anyway, this is just going to be a short post. I am still a bit too Taufik-ed to write properly, but here goes...

Tonight I had a meet up session for fans to buy the album, pass him birthday present etc. Supposed to meet up with Aleza, but she was tied up at home. Thanks to all who turned up, and a big Taufik-ed thank you to those who kept me company during the long hours from 6.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.

I was actually on my way home when I got a message from Aleza: "Meet us at Swensen Paragon".

Little did I know I am to meet the man himself that very night!

As you would have known it, Taufik is a very down to earth guy in real person. Really easy to talk to, and he made me feel so welcomed to the group the moment I was there (it was a birthday celebration of some sort). At times I almost forgotten that I am sharing the same table, the same bowl of Earthquake ice-cream, the same laptop (we were looking at some pics and video clips) with The Singapore Idol!

Adorned in his usual cap, t-shirt and bling-bling, we chatted normally, and I get to know his friends, and Kak Aleza and her two cute daughters! (Okay, one was actually fast asleep). Some of you will take heart to know that your gifts have been passed to him. Taufik want me to tell you people that he is very thankful for all the love and support you fans had showered him.

Looking at man himself, you will immediately realize he is one tired man. But you also can't help to feel a certain affinity to him although the time I spent him was slightly over an hour. Taufik drew his strength from his friends and YOU, my fellow Taufik-ed fans, to push on and perform his best.

Showing his Creative player, he shared with me some recordings from his upcoming album. (For the record, no, he doesn't have an iPod, but more on that later). I can't tell you what songs is in the list, save for the fact "I Dream" and "That's What Friends Are For" will be in the book. But, man, you have to get his album. In his recordings that he shared with me, Taufik surpassed himself. The songs was superbly sung, with so much in them. I know, some of you may say I am bias and not objective, because I am faced with the man himself.

But I tell you - if you were in my shoes, you will just think you are hanging out with an old friend. Only when I listen to his songs did I realized the Taufik in front of me is the one who won 68% of the 1.1 million votes on 1st December. And his singing, if this possible, actually improved further. Much further. For whatever price you are getting the album, it is worth it.

Ok, I shall not rumble on, as I intend to do a proper story telling on this tomorrow. But I have a few facts that I want to put straight.

For those of you who doubted me from the moment I am helping out in the autographed album sales, coordinating the work for the iPod fund, and thinking that I am disillusioned and nothing more than just another crazy fans, I have this to say...

You got your proof, and I don't owe you any explaination to prove myself.

Enough said. Good night people! =)

Meet Up Session Today!

2004-12-29T11:36:00.000+08:00

Get Taufik-ed! Today we will be organizing a meet up session - details in the previous post.

Now, I have received several enquiries on the meet up session. My apologies for the confusion, but Taufik will NOT be there. If my previous announcements gave the impression of that, I'm truly sorry. Like I mentioned before, the session is for people to:

1) Make cash payment and new orders for autographed Taufik Album
2) Pass me their belated Christmas/Birthday gifts to Taufik
3) Make cash contribution to Taufik iPod fund

I will be in a grey shirt and black pants today. Will be putting the LIME flash card (the A3 giant poster of Taufik in boxing attire) on my table, but I will be discreet and won't be displaying it to everyone passing my table. For those who doesn't know how I look like, here's a flattering picture of a slimmer looking me *hehe*

Ok, ok. So I know this is a flattering picture. Here's a more recent one =)

I won't be expecting a crowd tonight, so if you have the time, do drop by and say hi. And I got a camera :P

Now, it's time for some updates:

Taufik's first MTV for "I Dream" will premiere this coming Friday midnight, or more accurately, at Saturday 1st January 2005, 1200 on Channel 5. The trailer was splashed all over national television. I don't know what you people think but I think this MTV is gorgeous. Though, I feel sorry for those fans who spent much effort in shooting the initial MTV of Taufik as a cleaner. For those of us who have yet to see this, here's the lyrics for I Dream.

Together with the rest of the 10 Idol finalists, Taufik will be at Sentosa to party with the Nation in welcoming 2005. Tickets are available at SISTIC. Now, talking about New Year, I'm sure there are a lot of things, good and bad, to reflect on 2004. Good things like Singapore Idol and the rebounding economy, bad things like the recent devastating tsunami and Huang Na's case. What is your best/worst memory of 2004? Share it in the forum's Kopitiam with the rest of us Taufik-ed fans.

And, have you considered joining my Blogger Network yet?

Get Taufik-ed! Meet Up Session Tomorrow! (29 Dec)

2004-12-28T15:41:00.000+08:00

Venue
Coffee Bean @ Wheelock's Place
click here for map

Date & Time
29th December 2004 (Wed), from 6.30 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.
Updated! Sorry for the mistake!

Who To Look For
Razlan (owner of TaufikBatisah.net)

If you still don't know who I am, you gotta knock your head! *LOL* Just look out for me - most likely I will be in a black shirt and grey jeans. Also look out for someone with some Taufik-ish with him. I might be bringing the giant LIME Taufik flash card, so that you can look out for me. Don't expect to meet a Malay-looking guy. I am not exactly a Malay, and I am very, very Chinese looking. And yes, I understand Chinese (Mandarin to be exact), speak little of it and very fluent in Cantonese. But just hit me with English, alright?

Now, who should go for this meet up?
1) Those who want to purchase an autographed Taufik album and want to pay in cash
2) Those who want my autograph. Okay I am just joking =)
3) Those who want to make cash/cheque contribution to the Taufik iPod fund
4) Those who want to pass belated birthday/X'mas gifts to Taufik
5) Those who want to see who Raz is, and if he is genuine and trustworthy
6) Those who want to beat the hell out of me. Ok, I am just joking here, too.

They will be some forms to fill up to facilitate the whole thing, so be prepared with pens/pencils, alright? I don't have that many spares to go around. Also, if you are coming for reasons (1), (2), and (3), drop me an email with your name (no alias please!) and mobile number so that I know you are coming. Easy for me to catch up with you if you didn't turn up on time.

Alright, updates for international buyers (i.e. non-Singapore residents) who wish to purchase the Taufik Album (autographed) - GOOD NEWS! You can now purchase via eBay.com, therefore you are more protected by eBay policies somewhat. I am going through this process to give our buyers more assurances they are not dealing with some kind of frauds here =)

Well, as most of us here know Taufik and Sly gave superb performances during the Affairs of the Hearts 2004 show on Boxing Day. You can now download the video clip of Taufik singing "An Jing" and Sly singing "Belaian Jiwa" from Download Central. I tell you - these are some of the best songs by the Idols, and Sly rocks with his rendition of Belaian Jiwa. He was good, and yes I still remember I am writing on a Taufik site *LOL*

You can discuss about the show on the Taufik-ed Forum, or just read about the news.

Image and video clip courtesy of

Finally, do you guys and gals have it takes to:

Join The Taufik-ed Bloggers Network!

More on Taufik iPod Fund!

2004-12-27T14:44:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

There had been numerous concerns about Taufik iPod fund. To be more specific, many of us are under the impression that Taufik has already got an iPod. Present from fan for his birthday.

You will be amused by this - judging from the number of emails I got on this matter, you will think Taufik has at least 10 iPods!

Okay, please do not ask me how I did this, but these latest confirmed info come from no other than man himself. According to Taufik and Aleze (his god-sis):

1) A number of fans contributed a sum of money for the iPod. These include a group of RGS girls and other well-wishers/fans
2) The accumulated sum is not enough to get an iPod mini as planned
3) Apple Singapore has ran out of stock for iPod mini
4) Taufik does NOT have any iPod to date
5) Taufik prefer iPod over Creative Zen

The plan, now, is to purchase him a 40GB iPod Photo priced at $888. Your contributions (see right) will be added on to existing fund to purchase the new gift.

In addition, Aleza's family will get getting him an iBook/iMac.

I know all of us mean well, but as the "blogmaster" here, I am getting very tired of telling everyone the right situation is. Please do take this post as the most up-to-date information. Also, I will no longer be replying to any emails/comments telling me that Taufik already has an iPod/Creative Zen is better etc. No offences - I know you meant well but I will continue with this fund.

So to would-be-contributors, thank you for your interest in the fund. Take note of this post as the final confirmation. If you trust me, my blog, Aleze and Taufik himself, do contribute as you deemed worth. If you still think some fans have given him an iPod, it is alright to give this fun a miss.

In any case, if in the end I am proven wrong, I can either purchase another gift for Taufik (with agreement from all contributors, of course), or I can refund everyone on the contributed sum.

Thank you everyone! And here to more updates in The Taufik-ed Blog Network!

1) A temporary forum has been set up while problems are sorted out with the original "Taufik-ed League Forum".
2) Taufik did a superb rendition of An Jing, and Sly did very well on Belaian Jiwa as well. Check out the news here, or head down to the forum thread to discuss more!
3) Our feature on LIME, January 2005 issue is up! Complete with superb scans and "analysis" on the feature.
4) Remember to check out the translated version of the Manja's feature of Taufik.

That's all folks! And more news on the "Taufik-ed Blogger Network" will be made available later.

Taufik to sing in Chinese!

2004-12-26T16:49:00.000+08:00

A bit late for this, I know, but better than never - Taufik will be singing "An Jing", the Jay Chou song sung by Sly during the Asian Pop round! Catch him in action tonight on Channel 8, 7 p.m. And what's more, Sly will sing "Belaian Jiwa" too! Can you imagine that R&B song being sung in a rock way? I think only Sly can pull off something like that. I can't wait! Read more about it.

Post what you think of their performance here!

Just to jog your memory a bit (and set your expectations right):

Taufik Batisah, singing "Belaian Jiwa"

Sylvester Sim, singing "An Jing"

Most of us also knew that Taufik was featured in Manja, January 2005 issue, reputedly the best shots done on Taufik ever. The magazine, however, is in Malay, and considering that many readers here are less "conversant" in the language, I took the liberty to translate the entire article into English! And here are some of its snap shots.

Click here to read the translated article

Have yet to receive any positive response on the iPod fund. Don't worry people - it is genuine! The person I am talking with is Aleza herself, who is close to Taufik. A bit of trivia - that poor guy finally finishes the album recording this morning, at 1 a.m.! So, if you have not made any pre-sales order, and want to get an autographed CD by Taufik, make your order now.

Thank you all for the support! More updates coming soon.

Belated Gifts for Taufik

2004-12-26T13:37:00.000+08:00

(This post has been edited!)

His birthday has passed. Christmas was just over. Is it too late to give him a present?

The answer is - NO!

A few of us who had been around The Taufik-ed League had been thinking to get him a birthday present for the longest time. If you read LIME (Jan Issue), it was said a fan-turned-friend Aleza is buying him an iMac laptop.

While Taufik will be getting a brand new laptop (good for him!), we also planned to get him an iPod instead! Taufik loves the white one, be it mini or otherwise (and he doesn't really fancy the iPod U2 - the black one). We have some money in hand, and now you can contribute to the iPod fund! Actually an iPod Mini will be good, but currently it is out of stock, so we will be getting an iPod Photo for him instead!

This is how it works:

1) You can either pay online (through PayPal) or by meet up (details below)
2) We will collect your name, contact info, photo and message to Taufik
3) Once we have collected enough fund, we will purchase the iPod and get a huge card with all the contributors details inside
4) We will encourage Taufik to personally pen a Thank You message to each contributor

We worked out the sum and guessed each contributor will need to contribute a sum of S$30.00. Online contributor will contribute US$20.00, which will include PayPal commission fees, bank withdrawal fees and protection against USD rate fluctuation. We need about 30 contributors to make it work! And best part of all - this is open to Taufik-ed fans from all over!

Click on the button below to make payment via PayPal (the most preferred way):

OR, for meet up, please let us know by filling up this form

The price of the iPod is approximately S$888.00, and whatever extra fund we have will be used to but accessories, card - you know, all the works.

But, what if you already have a gift for Taufik but no chance to give to him?

Fret not - we are organizing a meet up! For those of you who wants to pass your gifts to Taufik, you can do so through us. You can meet up with us during the session where we collect payment from those intending to contribute to iPod fund by meet up. Here are the details, so note it down in your calendar! Drop me an email if you are coming, so that we know who to expect :)

Venue: Coffee Bean @ Wheelock's Place (Orchard)
Date: 29th December 2004 (Wednesday)
Time: Between 6.30 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.
Who to look for: Will be announced later

Alright, hope this will be fun, and do show your support! I'm going to take lunch now, and - oh yeah - please spread the word!

In Construction

2004-12-25T23:22:00.000+08:00

Hey all...

In response to the "heavy taufik", I mean, "heavy traffic" (honest, that wasn't deliberate!) to this site, I am restructuring some parts of this blog. So if you happen to click around found some odd stuff here and there, don't panic! It is just ME at work :)

One of such additions is the top navigation links. These links will lead you to the entire blog network dedicated to Taufik - besides this main blog, there are blogs for news, media, audio and video. Links to forum and gallery will lead to non-blogging external sites. There is also another admin blog, but this one is, err, not suitable for public viewing at the moment.

Which leads me to the question - anyone interested to join the "Taufik-ed Bloggers Network"? Members of this network will be in-charge of each separate, dedicated network of blogs. The nature of blog, essentially, is to pass the power of journalism and speech to the mass public (i.e. you). And since I have a collection of blogs on all things Taufik, I thought, why not pass the power back to you, too?

Of course, not all will be eligible, yeah? To maintain certain level of quality of this site, I will need to set certain, err, expectations :)

So, if you are interested, drop me a line. I'll do up a proper "blogger-wanted" ad to define what exactly is in store for selected bloggers and how you can contribute soon. Keep your eyes peeled here! :)

The Taufik-ed League forum is current down *sigh* The bandwidth of my host has been exceeded, and this is due to the many downloads of Taufik videos that I have provided in Download Central. So, folks, for the time being the video links will not be working. I am negotiating with my host for more bandwidth, so keep tuned, alright?

I have many materials on my hand, and I want to get them posted as soon as possible! :)

I am back online!

2004-12-25T19:44:00.000+08:00

Yup, I am at my PC again. Been receiving loads of emails - from people who hated my guts, who wonder if I will cheat their money, who encouraged me with suggestions and info, and who actually thought I am Taufik (!!!) - yes, I got it all. Sorry if I am in anyway delayed in replying, but hey, it's Christmas! :)

I noted all the "glitches" on this blog so far, and will try to sort them out tonight. And hope you all had a great Christmas so far!

Taufik Album Teaser

2004-12-24T23:39:00.000+08:00

Hey people,

I have something to show you that will surely tease your heart. Here's the sample of what to expect from his debut album! These are the 6 postcards for the calendar. Pretty cool I think. One shot for every two months. I think the first card is the nicest!

These are the front and back cover designs for the pack of calendar. I am not sure but I think this might just be the actual designs for the album. If you see the back design, there is a "mass-printed" autograph from Taufik. Note: Those of you buying the CD from be can be guaranteed that the autograph will be different from this one! Written by Taufik himself and not printed!

When you pre-order the album at record stores, you will get these additional two items (1) a coupon, which allows you to collect the actual CD during the launch date at where you ordered the CD from, and (2) a form for you to fill in and send to enter a lucky draw to win passes (for Taufik "Thank You/Signing" party). However, if you get it through this blog, you won't get these two - one, we will collect the album on your behalf and post it to you, and two, we will automatically enter your name into the lucky draw. How cool is that!

Here's how you can help out in promoting his album sales! Just use this code and put a link on your website/blog. =)

More to update tomorrow. But since tonight is X'mas Eve, I will be spending it eating fruit cake, watching FRIENDS DVD and chit chatting with friends. Ahhh... the simple pleasure of life! To those of you who have yet to get a response from me for your orders - don't worry. I will get around to do it tomorrow.

And, people, I am deeply moved by the show of support and the many kind words of encouragements. You guys and gals rock, too!

Merry Christmas! =)

Morning Madness Musing

2004-12-24T05:19:00.000+08:00

It is 5.13 a.m., and I am wide awake. Managed to sleep a bit just now... but then I woken up for no apparent reason. My brain is on a hyperdrive. I kept thinking "Will the CD sell?" "Will people trust me enough to buy for me?" "Why am I doing all this?" "What if I 'kena' fraud?" "What if I lose money in this?" "What if people think I am nothing but just another Idol fanatics?" "Why am I losing sleep over things like this?"

Many times I am tempted to give up on blogging this way. The relentless web scouring and newspaper flipping can be very monotonous at times. The hours spent in front of my PC gave me stiff neck, heavy eye bags and scoffing online pals who thought I have deserted them for good. The money spent on domain names, softwares, magazines, tickets ought (and better to) be spent on something else. Like getting a better coach ticket home during the coming CNY holiday.

I guess, for someone who have spent so much effort on this phenomenon, the question will ultimately be - can you honestly answer to yourself that you truly love what you havebuilt, so painstakingly put together and have no regrets at all when, one fine day, all these hype will blow over? If you can give yourself a selfless, resounding yes, then this is for you.

I am never a person who dwell on deep thinking like this. But this loss of sleep serve like a wake up call. While I am unable to say "aye" enthusiastically to my own probing above, I must say this had been one fun journey. So, while the fun lasted, expect nothing less than perfection from TaufikBatisah.net.

Because yours truly has truly been Taufik-ed.

Merry Christmas Eve!

Latest Update on Taufik's Album

2004-12-23T18:35:00.000+08:00

Today has been one hell of a whirlwind of orders for Taufik's album. Conflicting information, tonnes of emails, system errors etc. - this is the worst bunch of errors I have ever encountered since the launch of this site. However, all is well now. Managed to sort out quite a number of details :)

For those of you interested to get Taufik Album (yes, that's the title of the album - I have checked), loads of updated info available. Click on the link on the right for more information.

For those too lazy to read (or read it before but undecided), here's a summary version.

1) On my website, they are three options available for purchase. ONE: Purchase by PayPal. All processes is automated and secure. You will need a credit/debit card for this. TWO: Use bank transfer. There is a form for you to fill up in order to obtain my banking information. THREE: For international buyers (i.e. non-Singapore residents), you can also purchase the album, but the pricing will be different. The rate is unavailable at the moment, but you can leave me your details in a special web form so that I can get in touch with you the moment it is available

2) Actually, the main difference between buying on this site, and buying from record store is this - CD purchased through this site is guaranteed to be personally autographed by Taufik. Personalisation may not be possible (as in, you ask him to write your name on your CD), but rest assured it is not mass produced. The album and calendar that you receive in the end are the same

3) Will you get the CD before everyone else? The answer is - I'm not sure. There is a chance that you might receive it later than everyone else, but the delay is to enable Taufik to have ample time to autograph all you CDs! Good things are worth the wait =)

4) Pre-sales in store does not give you the CD. Don't believe any rumours you have heard. Taufik is still in the process of recording the album - how on earth anyone can get hold of the CD? Just something about our Idol - the poor dude is having a hard time juggling between contractual oblogation (media appearances, CD recording etc.) and NS duties. Nowadays, he is recording his album in the morning and afternoon, then head off for his NS duties at night. Now you understand why he wore his shades? It is, of course, not because he has become cocky!

5) Currently Taufik is indeed very, very busy, and also, he does not have a computer yet, so he may be completely unaware of any ongoings online (like this website, for example). And, for the benefits of those who asked me this - no, I do not know Taufik. We never talk to each other before, not even SMS or email. He doesn't even know my name or anything that I am doing. The best, err, relationship you can say exist between me and him will be a fan-idol thing. I watched him on TV and concerts *LOL*

So, how can I get hold of all these information? Simply put - we all got to thank some very kind souls who are close to Taufik to let us know what is happening.

If you happen to feel any negativity on the media or any other ongoings with Taufik, please don't. Things might not be as smooth as it should be for Taufik either. Instead of seething over disatsfaction on all things Taufik, we should instead be compassionate and continue to support him in whatever capacities that we have.

Having said that, I have this message for those of you who are so obsessed with him to extent of wanting to find out where he lives, his email, his friendster account, his phone number etc. - please stop. Give Taufik some privacy. There are better ways to show your support and love for him (and any other Idol as well), but behaving like a paparazi (wrong spelling?) is not the way to go.

Actually I have some more news to update, but I guess this is enough for tonight. On a personal note, I am sad to let you know that all live video streaming on this site may not be available anymore. As mentioned in my FAQ, I am unable to share the video code with anyone as I am streaming the video directly from its source. Apparently, the server may have blocked access from this site. For now, only live MP3 streaming (which is onmy own server at raz79.com) will be available. I am so sorry about this, but it is beyond me to provide live streaming of videos. Will try to work out something though.

Okay now, good night people. And Merry Christmas Eve! =)

Lots of Taufik-ness Tonight!

2004-12-22T20:59:00.000+08:00

Lots of things to update tonight! I have been sitting in front of my PC for the past two hours. Man....

"I Dream" Premiere on TV - NOT

Alright, some "official" source has conveyed this news to me earlier today - Taufik's debut MTV for "I Dream" will NOT be premiered on Channel 5 tonight.

The reason cited was because of the theme of the MTV. In an earlier feature, 8-Days covered that, in the MTV, Taufik is a cleaner aspiring to be a singer. After much editing and polishing of the resulting video, questions of disatisfaction were raised on the choosen theme, and therefore the launch will be postponed to a later date.

Taufik's Debut Album

There has been lots of talk about Taufik first album - some says you can advanced order at record shops, others claimed the shops know nothing about the arrangement. Some also managed to get some of the first 700 or so albums from HMV! Lucky you! And I still in the blur, considering I am supposed to update here everyday. Argh~

Anyway, here's the real deal. The official launch date for the album is in mid-January 2005. I have been talking to "some people" and will be helping out to collect orders for Taufik's album. Yup, you can buy them through me :) Just check out the link on the right. The package will be the CD + calendar + autograph.

New Videos from the Final Showdown

If you scroll further down, you'll notice I have included new videos (nice, clear ones) from the Final Showdown. You won't miss them - just look out out for the green "New!" sign

Tell Taufik What You Want

So, you as fans of Taufik - what do you want to tell Taufik? What you want him (and his team at HypRecords) to do? If you have any suggestions, please tell us here. Your suggestions (valid ones of course) will be passed on to Taufik himself. Yes, I promise you that. As the man himself said once - he will be nothing without his fans. This is your chance to pass messages to him. Be heard!

Did you buy Cleo for Jan 2005? That's lots of Taufik in it! I'll update it the next time. And thanks for all the word of encouragement, people. I really appreciate that! :)

Your Questions - Answered

2004-12-22T13:21:00.000+08:00

Hey people,

Here are some of your questions posted to me via email. I will try to answer them to the best I can. However, please note these guidelines, ok?

1) If you are posing a question to general blog readers and not really expecting an answer, use the ShoutBox. The ShoutBox can contain only 10 messages at any one time, so question posted might be flushed out before anyone who knows can answer them.
2) If you are posing a question to general blog readers and expecting an answer, please use The Taufik-ed League Forum instead. The forum requires registration - I'm sure all of us don't wish to have any anonymous poster making havoc in our forum!
3) If you are posing a question directly at me, please use the "Contact Me" form. However, before you do so, do check out my FAQ and at least 5 recent postings to see if you can find what you are looking for before emailing me. (I have 500MB worth of emails in my gmail account. No joke!)

Having said that, Raz is always here to help out :) So here are my responses to some selected questions:

"i've manage to download taufik's songs, tanx for replying.. and hey, if ******* really selling the album.. can u count me in?? im buying it for sure..."

The thing is, I am not too sure about this album-ordering anymore. I lost the contact person that I dealt with, and I have trouble trying to get in touch with her again. Anyway, somehow I got to know Taufik's manager and I'll drop her an email and see how things go. You should try your luck in record store. If they don't know, move on! Those of you who managed to place orders - pray share with us, please? :)

"My family and I are a big fan of Taufik and we really appreciate yr effort in keeping us posted on his activities. Question : How can we get hold of his album in JB?"

Will you look at that! Even people across the causeway heard of Taufik! Well, to our Malaysian friends, I am not sure how the distribution will go in Malaysia - I will ask the recording company. However, if I can collect orders from you and ship it over, I'll do so. Let me get hold of the information first, yeah?

"Can u post the vid on him singin "Me and Mrs Jones?"

My, my... all you Mrs. Jones/Batisah wannabes (and those guys who want to take a lesson or two from Taufik to swoon girls), check out my newly update "Download Central". You are in for a treat!

Taufik as HUNK of the Year

2004-12-22T01:10:00.000+08:00

Hello people! Here are some updates :)

It is true - Taufik was nominated as one of the "Hunk of The Year" by The New Paper (huh!), along with Sly (huh! x2), Qi Yuwu (more like it), Julian Hee (got some taste there) and Ken Lim (huh! x10). Okay, I am sure TNP editor have a good reason for the nominations. Also note that the contest (which requires you to vote - at 20 cents each) is named "TNP FLAME Awards" not "TNP FAME Awards". It was meant to be entertaining I guess. Trust TNP will do as a tabloid does.

Do scroll down to view updated photos for the Nokia Idol X'mas Party @ Attica (or click here if you are lazy!). Should be updated soon - I have asked my housemate to send to me as I am typing this :)

Added! Click here to view the online album (include both Taufik and Sly!!)

Some changes to the blog - I am so sorry that I didn't realize you can right click and copy the codes to link to me. I have now remodify that - just click on the link, and a pop up window will appear to allow you to copy the code. Also, I have included a disclaimer with regards to the shoutbox. I will try to moderate it as much as possible - but I strongly suggest fans of Taufik to join the Taufik-ed League Forum to continue long term discussions on all things Taufik. The shoutbox is only a temporary thing :)

This month's issue of LIME has Taufik inside - I just bought my copy, but too tired to look inside. *Yawnz*

Time to sleep! :P

Adhoc Update

2004-12-21T13:01:00.000+08:00

Was thinking to update my blog only at a later date, but there has been a flood of questions to my inbox and shoutbox. Hey, that shows you guys actually reading what I shared. :)

Anyway, just to clarify two things:

1) Taufik's Album
I have yet to receive any further information on the launch. Will catch up with the person I am contacting. Meanwhile, you can also order the CD at record stores. I mean, advanced order

2) Taufik's "I Dream" MTV Premiere
The first broadcast is scheduled on Channel 5, 9.25 p.m. on Wednesday. However, one anonymous poster commented that this might not happen. So I am not sure as well. Perhaps we just tune in and hope for the best?

And did you know The New Paper nominated Taufik as one of the hunk of the year? Haha.. more of this later, but meanwhile you can head down to the forum and chat about this... stunt. *snigger*

The Taufik-ed Leagued Fans Forum

X'mas Party @ Attica - Post Party Post!

2004-12-19T23:31:00.000+08:00

I am back from the party! What a blast! Both Taufik-ed fans and Sly Camp came to support their favorite idols

Okay, my friend and I were pretty on time after having a superb dinner at Brewerkz across the river. We headed to Attica. And boy we had a shock - the place is practically empty! How can it be? Are we late? Is Singapore out of the Idol-fever already?

Turned out that the correct venue is Attica TOO. What a relief! So we headed round the corner, and there! The banner proudly claim "Nokia Private Party - Invitation Only". I get all smugged up and joined the queue.

A funny thing happened - the bouncer actually asked for my IC to check for my age. Like, hello!, which part of me doesn't look like I am above 18? Haha... ok, I shall take it in my stride and treat it as a compliment.

The place is pretty crowded, but not too packed. In fact, it was just nice. Looking around I saw groups of fans and some executives from Nokia. And the party were dotted with other Idols too! These idols were spotted during the party:

1) Leandra. She is all gorgeous with streaks of blonds in her fuzzy hair. Cool!
2) Daphne. Petite as ever. Cute and cuddly. Is it true I heard that she quitted school?
3) Maia. Came later during the party. And she is... well, petite. I can hardly look over the throngs of heads towering over her. Cili padi on stage. Yes, she's hot!
4) Jessea. Yes Jessea was there too! And she was GORGEOUS. And I took a photo with her *swooning*

Jessea and I *swoon*

Wonderful, eh? Don't get all jealous. :P

Of course, here come Taufik and Sly!

Sly opened the show with "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother", the song he sang during Spectacular 1 - Parent's Choice. I must admit - he really has the X-factor. He can really connect with the crowd. And, yes, when he is in shape, he can sing. I have little to wonder why the fans (which, by the way, don't look anything to be above legal age to be in Attica) are so smitten by him.

After that, he croned another piece - no surprise here - Jay Chou's famous piece "An Jing". For our Malay speaking friends - nope, he is not singing about any dogs. "An Jing" means "silence" or "quietness" in Chinese. He did pretty well too - and he let his fans opened the song singing at their top of their lungs.

Next come the first round of lucky draw - at which Sly drew 5 rounds of ticket stubs and NONE was present. I mean, how unluncky can he get? More of this later.

Next - Come our first Singapore Idol, TAUFIK!

To my delight, he started with a great number - Supersitious. And man, this is the first time I am seeing Taufik at this close, and he is really good. I mean, yes there were a few odd notes here and there. But overall he is the guy with the voice, the moves, the charm. As he belted his song, the more "matured" fans of Taufik (including yours truly) cheered him on and clapped along.

Next he did "Me and Mrs Jones" - no surprises here, and why is it not "Mrs Jones and I?". And he really won me over. It is little wonder why people say he won in the finals because of this. To all Mrs. Jones/Batisah wannabe, take this from a guy - I UNDERSTAND. :D

Then it is his turn to pick a number for the lucky draw - and he hit one winner straight away. Hah.

Next Sly came out to complete his draw - and it was right then we all know the draw is "kelong-ed" (Singapore slang for "the result is fixed"). First he said "Please, give me a winner please" (to which I laughed heartily *sniggers* you should know why!) and then he proceeded to announce the winning number...

... without drawing a ticket. The flustered host of the night hurried stopped Sly to remind him to draw the lot first, but the damage is done. "Kelong, kelong!" And yes, the winner is someone in the "VIP Corner" - where Leandra and Daphne are sitting.

The party ended with Taufik doing a duet with Sly on - no surprises again - "I Dream". And to the three lady contestants who got to meet Sly and Taufik up close during the X'mas Carole Singing Competition - lucky you! They took their chance to shake hand and hug their idols.

And for those who were there - remember when Taufik judged one of the lady's singing? "There are two type of Santa Claus" And Sly saying, "Ok, I'm going to be Ken Lim". Haha... that was funny!

Click here to view the online album (include both Taufik and Sly!!)

So, the whole thing ended at 9+ or so. I left Attica feeling all good, and I definitely looking forward to taufik's album.

Oh yeah, a message from Taufik - "Remember to buy my album!"

Fique, you need not worry!

Discuss about the X'mas Party @ Attica in "The Taufik-ed League" Forum!

X'mas Party at Attica

2004-12-18T22:37:00.000+08:00

Few days ago, I got an SMS-invite to this party of the Idols this Sunday at Attica. Of course, I responded, and they asked me to collect the tickets. Later on found out online that the event is somewhat open to public, and since the collection deadline was during my office hour, I decided to by-pass the event.

Until the phone call this afternoon
Girl: Good morning. Is this 9171XXXX?
Me: Yes this is. Good morning
Girl: I'm calling regarding your Idol party ticket... (snipped)
Me: I thought the tickets would be gone?
Girl: Nope, we reserved to those who responded
Me: I am coming down right now

So imagine how happy I am after collecting the tickets to the party tomorrow. Supposedly, not many people will be there at the event (which is a bit weird considering how fanatical is Sly camp). But here it is! I'm going!

As of the album, yes, it will be officially launched only in mid-January. This is reported in Life! in the newspaper. For those who don't read newspapers (actually, you really should!), here's a summary:

1) Pre-sales order begins next Wednesday at record stors
2) Price is about $20, though it may varies
3) The CD will come with a calendar 0f 2005 (see below)
4) Buyers may stand a chance to attend an autograph session
5) Included: I Dream (No. 1 on Power 98) and That's What Friends Are For
6) MTV for I Dream will premiere on Channel 5 at 9.25 p.m. on Ch5

Now, who can record the MTV and send it to me?! :)

I am liaising with one of the official BMG distributors to get hold of the album. Think I will order in bulk if any of you are interested. Let me get hold of more info and I will post it up.

Got more news, but that's for another post!

Is Taufik First Album Out?

2004-12-17T23:37:00.000+08:00

Is Taufik's CD out?

A quick check around some of the fans' blogs revealed that - yes, his CD is on sale, somehow. The launch date was reportedly delayed because the producer "was not confident his albums will sell well" (which I thought is ardent rubbish), so they opted for a pre-launch instead during Dick Lee's concert.

One of my most trusted source poster this:

"...Hi there, I trying to help my cousin Farhana to sell Taufik Batisah CD. They were given 1000 CDs to sell. What I've been told by her, the company responsible to launch Taufik Batisah CDs doesn't have confident that Taufik CDs is sellable. So that's why the date for the launching has been changed and no fixed date has been given yet. So they have to get 1000 people to buy his CDs before his album will be officially launched. The Album cost = $20 [which include Taufik Autograph, A Lucky Draw to a Thank You Party, and a form to sign.]..."

Of course, I am devastated knowing that his album is on sales BUT I didn't even have the slightest idea. How sad! Does anyone have any news? :(

Anyway... back to more updates of Taufik *sniff*

As mentioned, yup, it's true that Taufik (and Sly) will be guest performing (or appearing, I am not sure) at Dick Lee's concert tonight and tomorrow night. You can find out more about the concert here, and there was a brief mention on taufik.

Remember only a day or two ago I posted that Cleo highlighted Taufik on their December issue? There was this brief snippets that I totally forgotten about! Hehe, silly me, but here it goes. I rephrase it as best I can:

"... There was this couple sitting near the front of the bus watching TV Mobile, and Taufik himself was sitting alone at the end of the bus.

Girl: Hey that's Taufik!
Guy: Oh? Doesn't matter. He sucks anyway.

Before getting off at his stop, Taufik paused at exit where couple is: "Thanks for what you said, I'll work on it..."

How touching. Nostalgic are the days for Taufik to travel unnoticed on public transport (without his 4 or more bodyguards).

And here's some good news - some of the videos from the finals are out! I will put up the links at the side bar soon, but here I put for your enjoyment :)

Idol Finalists Medley 1

Idol Finalists Medley 2

I Dream - Taufik Batisah, the Singapore Idol!

And here are more pics from the showdown. Click on the images to view the online album :)

I was trying to clear up some clutter in my raz79.com web server (it was a mess!), and I found, to my surprise, scans from 8-Days on the day of Final Showdown (Dec 1st). Thought I might as well share it here. I can't remember where I get it from (or even if some kind soul uploaded it), but here's a shout out to whoever the samaritan is - "Thanks!"

All right people, gotta go. Do link back to me yeah! :)

SI Final Showdown Online Gallery

2004-12-16T10:06:00.000+08:00

Managed to find some real nice photos from the Idol showdown. Here are some snapshots - just click on any of the thumbnails to visit my online album :)

By the way, this blog listed in the Best Blogs in Asia Directory - Singapore Blog. If you like this blog and have the time, will you vote for me, please? Thanks yeah! :)

Taufik on 8-Days

2004-12-15T23:22:00.000+08:00

Some of you might have noticed I hardly update my blog for the past 2-days. Recent being - I am busy testing out some new softwares to build a Taufik-ed Fan site! Yup, something is coming your way, partly because:

1) Stuff is getting messier by the day and more and more difficult to manage
2) Yahoo! has a sale for domain names!
3) I want to reclaim this blog for personal blogging rather than a Taufik site :)

Yup, we have an alternative site coming up, so you better mark it down now!

http://www.TaufikBatisah.net

Yup, I deliberately choose a similar name as the official site so that it will be easier to remember. For now, the URL will be redirected to this blog. Once the new site is completed, I will direct the URL there. I am very excited - though it means, more sleep-less night for me. *urgh*

For those of you who have linked to me before, you might want to update the links now. No worries, updating the old link (razlanmanjaji.blogspot.com) to the new one (taufikbatisah.net) will simply come back to this site for now. It will not be a broken link.

Thanks a talented blog reader - I have a new link image to use! Do grab the new code (plus the two old ones) right here!

Now it's time for some update! :)

Who's that guy looking all cool, croning to what it seems like a nightclub? It was a snapshot of Taufik during the one day shooting for his debut single, "I Dream". Read all about what happened during the shoot here.

Also in the same issue of 8-Days, it was stated that Taufik will be the official ambassador for Swatch next year. Way to go, dude! Remember about how he lamented about his love for all things Converse? Now he might have just strike the "celebrity endorsement" gold mine there!

Oh! I almost forgot about this. I managed to download the MP3 for Taufik's performance during the Ikhlas show last week. You can get the files at "Download Central" - I also include the player version right here, so click and play and decide if you want to download. The quality not that fantastic but hey, it's Taufik afterall, yeah?

Ikhlas - Belaian Jiwa

Ikhlas - I Dream

That's all for now folks! More updates soon!
(after I catch some sleep *LOL*)

News from the Web (14th Dec)

2004-12-14T13:36:00.000+08:00

Decided to update as I go... :)

Singapore Viewers Tune in to Idol Finale

Some 1.8 million viewers tuned in to the finale of Singapore Idol on Wednesday night on MediaCorp’s Channel 5, making the show the most-watched English-language program since 2001 in this island nation of some 4.5 million people.

Read more here

Taufik: 'These things make me feel blessed'

At their first solo performances over the weekend, Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah and runner-up Sylvester Sim both showed that they are stars in their own right. Even as he was singing onstage, a mak cik (Malay auntie) strode up to him and planted a kiss on his cheek.

Read more here

World Idol for Taufik?

There was controversy at the press conference just after the final show. Sly was signed to BMG then rather than a few days later and the network indicated that they believe that there will be no World Idol 2 contest which is why some voted for Taufik...

Read more here

Inspiration

2004-12-14T01:52:00.000+08:00

It is almost 2 o'clock on a Tuesday morning...

And I watched the Finals video clip again. This time round I laid back and simply let it all soak all over me. And surprisingly I caught the lyrics properly this time. I am refering to I Dream.

I thought of the time when taufik started this LONG journey 6 months ago. Stamped as arrogant and a piss-me-off, he sure get off at a shaky start. However, he has a dream. A dream to be a star, a dream for a better life for his mum. I remember vividly how he was so choked with emotion when he spoke of his mum - the most important woman in his life.

And he blossomed into a truly exceptional star on stage, a humble and loving friends to his fellow fans and finalists, and an inspiration for awed Idol-fans like me. He had a dream, he worked hard, he believed in himself, and he saw it through.... and came out a winner in more than on way.

As my tears flowed freely and vowed to myself that this is indeed an inspiration for me to strive and work hard for my dream, I saw this final screen on this clip that I have never notice before:

"This episode is dedicated to Jiamin, Isaac, Daniel, Rachel and Serene.

It has been a long journey throughout the series and it was great having all your support.

Have a wonderful holiday and may the coming Christmas be a really special one for everyone."

wee

It was then I realized the power and magic of "I Dream" - shot Taufik to stardom, awed me to tears, and moved thousands and millions of people to achieve their dreams.

World Idol for Taufik?

2004-12-14T01:51:00.000+08:00

Some after thoughts update - I found this while Googling the net, and thought it worth updating right now!

December 3rd, 2004:

Taufik completes the list for this year. Our congratulations to Taufik Batisah who became the first Singapore Idol on December 1st. During the series there were three million votes cast with more than one million earlier in the week for the final. Almost two million viewers tuned in to watch Taufik and Sly wait for the announcement on Wednesday with around eight thousand people in the Singapore Indoor Stadium watching on.

There was controversy at the press conference just after the final show. Sly was signed to BMG then rather than a few days later and the network indicated that they believe that there will be no World Idol 2 contest which is why some voted for Taufik. Fremantle Media Asia was asked by the network about a World Idol 2 contest but have not confirmed one, leaving some fans disappointed. It should be noted that this does not mean that there will not be one next year. So Taufik may still have a chance to compete on the world stage with other Idols. Rumour has it that the network is also talking about an Australasian contest that would invite Taufik, Ben, Casey, Jac and others in January or February.

Read more

Older News of Taufik

2004-12-13T23:58:00.000+08:00

I have many things to thank to people over at Google, or specifically the good folks at Gmail. First, the huge 1 GB space allows me to share and transfer MP3. That's how Jamelia, the webmaster - or webmistress - of TaufikBatisah.com managed to send me the MP3s for me to host.

Then, I used this email to be the contact address for this blog and also various egroups for various Idol finalists. Man, I am flooded by emails because of that, and pissed at times. Why? That's for another post.

Next, I used my same Gmail account to receive Google alerts on - you guessed it - all about Singapore Idols. I have so many subscriptions - but it keep me abreast on many, many news. Most news are pretty accurate anyway, except for my subscription for "Christopher Michael Lee" and "Christopher Lee". Most of the results are for the LOTR actor for Saruman (you know, the evil white wizard). Maybe I should used Chrissy-poo instead. Wahaha...

Anyway. This is my long winded, beating-around-the-bush excuses for explaining this issue - I'm late in updating news about Taufik. I mean, I really, really can't update all the alerts that I have, if I am to upload and share all those video and MP3s as well. Simply no time.

But here they are nonetheless. Better late than never, yeah? Heh.

Taufik's birthday party, initially meant for only family and friends, soon ballooned to 200+ eager fans! But Taufik is grateful.
Okay, this is a piece of older news - made during the final 4 (with Sly, Olinda and Daphne) on what they could be if the Idol dream crashed. Someone suggested Taufik will fit right in in a gym. I mean, Taufik is fit (losing weight more like it), but I simply can't imagine him sweating it out lifting dumb-bells. OoooOoo... I can see some females start to fantasize. Haha...
Another piece of old news from last week. Taufik and Sly attended the Asean-India Car Rally drivers at Padang. Stealing the limelight from the drivers? You bet! It was even reported in Indian media. Now, I don't know if I should be proud, or otherwise.
All finalists will get to act in a drama series due to be aired next May! I can't wait to see Taufik (of course!), Olinda (steady pom pee pee) and Chris (that smile!) on TV. Wait, anyone knows what the drama is about?
There was a hot debate over why Sly got the same reward as Taufik. This should pacify some anger over MediaCorp's action (old news, I know, beat me!)

So there you have it. Heh. And here's a shout out to these people - xiu, Nur Basirah, filziee and fazzy wuzzy - you have been BLOGROLLED! =)

By the way, I have uploaded a new version of "Me & Mrs. Jones" video. This is a better version (since there is this irritating watermark on the orginal clips - I used trial software) but is a RMVB file. Playable using Real Player. This is for those who missed the link.

Anyone good at editing this kind of video? I got the entire clip for the final show. But I can't burn it into a CD (cause its 704 MB, and CD max capacity is 700 MB - damn!), or into a DVD (I don't have a burner - not so high tech la!), and obviously I can't share it here either. So, any good samaritan can help out and edit the video, making it "share-able"?

Found a site with ALL the MP3s for ALL Idol finalists and misc MP3s from Singapore Idol. Man. And here I thought I was Idol-crazy!

On Hip Hop, Video, Cleo and Taufik

2004-12-13T01:01:00.000+08:00

This weekend has been a busy one for me. It has been raining all day on Saturday, and I wondered - how did the Hip Hop Festival went? I really regretted not going but I guess I have to put my classes as priority. Really sorry to Imran for not being able to pull more people there.

Anyway, managed to find out more of the event. It was reported on CNA (read news here). The report made it sounded like 2000 people braved the rain to Hong Lim Park to watch Hip Hop. I mean, it's cool to have such an event, but I think the main draw was definitely Taufik. Right? Anyway, another cool blogger who were there that night snapped some photos and shared with us. The festival, by the way, was organized by Beats Society and was mentioned in a recent posting (read here).

I also bought this month's issue of Cleo. Ok, my aplogies for the female readers out there, but I have absolutely no idea what Cleo is. It was until I was with my friends and thumbing through the magazine that I realized it is a female magazine. Compounding to the horror, my friend exclaimed, "Raz! What are you doing with a FEMALE magazine?"

Honestly. I bought it because Taufik was featured in it, nothing else! But the revealation stayed - that was butt of the many jokes for that night. Argh!

Anyway, here's are some captures from the magazine.

I have been looking around on download forums for any clips I can find on Idols. Managed to find a full length clip on the Finals! I tried to snip it into different "clips" for Taufik songs using a trial software. Too bad, there is an irritating watermark on the clips, and my After Effect can't edit AVI file!

Sigh... so, until better clips are available, please satisfy your urge with this first. And, please, don't stream this, ok? Just click here to access the download links.

(By the way, for the record, I do not have the video clips that I have included in my postings. I streamed it from the source. And, no, you can't download and save a copy from the URL. And, no, I can't tell you the URL.)

New addition to blogroll - chiCa and Lintz! I am in the midst of planning a better way to organize blogrolls, so keep your eyes peeled on this site!

Some of you also asked if I have mp3 for other contestants. Like Daphne and Christopher. Yup, I have ALL 9 finalists' mp3, minus Beverly (never really liked her) and Jerry (nice guy but no talent at all. seriously). But I can't share it here. I mean, I can't possibly upload it on my web server and share it, right? I don't have that much space.

Unless... if I use my newly purchase domain *grinz*. I'll see how lah... been spending too much time on blogging.

I think I sounded a bit too negative in this post. Sorry. Before you misunderstand, I want to assure you this. It had been a GREAT experience in building up the content of this blog (this blog is the main blog of a network of SIX other blogs supporting all Taufik's content), plus maintaining at least 6 different online image albums and 3 different email inboxes. Why, it is like a full time job. And I like it!

Oh yeah, please link back to me if you like my blog. Thanks :)

Time to sleep. I simply cannot take 1/2 day leave on Mondays again!

Updates on a Saturday Night

2004-12-12T14:22:00.000+08:00

Edited

How could I have missed this out? I have added audio, video, ratings, lyrics... and totally forgotten about pics! Heh, alright, so I added it in. You will see a new icon in between "video" and "lyrics". Click on it will bring you to a mini "album" of the pics available for that particular episode.

Please tell me if you like the new icons!

Hey people,

Been away for awhile. Sorry for the lack of postings (though additions to the blog is ongoing). Okay, I realized that my side bar has been a tad messy, so I spent sometime organizing the layout. You'll notice that I have added new things into "Taufik's Journey to Fame". Here it is:

The first two icons are self explanatory. "Lyrics" is what I found on the net and edit as close as possible to what Taufik actually sang during that episode. "Judges' Comments" are transcripts of what Dick, Florence, Douglas and Ken had rated Taufik's performance. These are prone to errors (it's really, really tough trying to catch exactly what was sung/said!), so if you noticed any erros, please let me know!

Lyrics of "This Is The Moment" is not available yet, so if anyone has them, please share it with us.

Before I go on and do the same icon layout for the other episodes.... what you think? Is this something that you think do justice to our FIRST Singapore Idol? Does it make your "Idol Withdrawal Syndrome" a tad easier to deal with? Haha... do let me know, ok? Don't want to spend all these effort on something that is, err, unused! So, vote now!

Hey, thanks for all the encouraging comments. I hope one day Taufik will visit this site and knows that many of us here are inspired by his dreams!

Happy Birthday, Taufik!

2004-12-10T01:28:00.000+08:00

Happy Birthday, Taufik!
(though I doubt he will ever read this)

Decided not to blog like usual tonight. Reason? I need to sleep early, for once! :)

Just to confirm - yes, Taufik is performing on Saturday for the hip hop festival. And yes, he will be on Suria tomorrow at 8.30 p.m.

Have you tried out the e-Card function? How do you like it? Please leave a comment, ok?

Hip Hop Festival WITH Taufik

2004-12-09T09:25:00.000+08:00

News Flash

I have just confirmed with Imran, the event organizer that Taufik will be performing at the event. Taufik's management has granted permission for him to perform. This latest news will be reflected in newspaper tomorrow.

YAY~!

(Posted earlier this morning)

Contrarily to my last night's blog, it is confirmed today that Taufik will not be performing at the Hip Hop Festival this Saturday due to contractual obligations. Will post more on that later tonight.

Check out http://www.beats-society.com for more info.

Send a Taufik e-Card - TODAY!

2004-12-08T01:21:00.000+08:00

Taufik's FIRST Live Performance!

A reminder for you people - Taufik will be performing live this Friday on Suria (click here for details). Show him your support for his first public performance! You can do so by sending these special e-cards (created by Arasia) to your friends to rally for their support. The show is a charity show and Taufik will be singing "Belaian Jiwa" to raise fund!

There's another cause for you to campaign for Taufik - it is his 23rd Birthday! Just click on the "ecard" icon on your right and send it off! For webmasters and bloggers wishing to include this ecard system on your sites, drop me an email. I will be glad to send the script to you too!

Singapore Hip Hop Festival 2004

The online media is buzzing with this news - Taufik is confirmed to perform during this weekend's Singapore Hip Hop festival. He will be performing solo for the very first time in a non-Idol related performance. From www.beats-society.com: "...Held at Hong Lim Park on the 11th December 2004...

Tickets are now on sale at $15 and can be bought at Da Cave #02-37 Queensway Shopping Centre and Da Source #05-127B Far East Plaza..." So, for those of you who are fans of hip hop AND Taufik, this is an event not to miss! Check out the site for some pics of Taufik pre-Idol time. Funky looking, I'll say. He definitely has lost weight since Idol. I can't post the photos here as I haven't sought permission from the webmaster.

And if you need more reasons to go for the event, check this out - MTV Asia will be covering that event! I am not sure if this publicity blizt is due to Taufik's presence, but man... it's going to be big. And I am two-minded to go, too, though I ain't a hip-hop fan. Read out more on these event here and here.

New MP3 Galore

Good news people! I have just uploaded the final three songs Taufik sang the final showdown. They are:

Supersitious (or is it Supersition? I'm always confused!)
I Dream (this will make a debut in his first album!)
Me and Mrs Jones (hot favorite!)

You can find them in "Download Central", accessible by the link on your right (see below).

On Audio and Video Download/Streaming

For the not-so-Internet-savvy reader (hard to believe actually, since you are here at my blog, hmmm....), this is how you can download songs from my blog.

Disable any pop-up blocker that you may have installed on your browser. Computers updated with Window Service Pack 2 will have this feature installed. You can actually set your browser to allow pop-up from my site. More question? Click here
Click on "Download Central". This will bring you a pop-up window (hence the rationale of point 1) which contain a list of links. Yes, it's Taufik's songs galore!
Now you can move your cursor to the link that you want, then right click on your mouse (not the right hand side of the window/link/word!)
A list of options will then appear. Choose and click on "Save As". This will allow you to save the file onto your computer. You can also rename the files as you wish

Okay, I hope this will help you to have a stress-free, hassle-free, only-loving-Taufik download experience. If you still encounter problem (and you are very sure it has nothing to do with you - something is wrong with my blog), just drop me an email. How? Well, there is this nice little link on your right with a little telephone icon next to it. Clicking on it will lead you to an email form to send me messages.

Some of you also asked about how to "include" audio and video onto your blog. I have actually included a brief write up on these topics under "FAQ". And, yes, it can be accessed on your right. If you intend to embed any of Taufik's songs in your blog, please do not stream direct from my website. Doing so will increase my bandwidth cost, which in turns will deplete my financial reserve. I do not wish to cut cost by reducing the web space that I have now, and remove song downloads! I am sure you want them to stay where they are, right? I only give specific permission to TaufikBatisah.com to do so. I mean, official fan site leh, must support mah.

In The News

Seems like Singapore continue to be engulfed by all things Idol. In Today, a commentary by Dharmendra Yadav used Taufik's win in Singapore Idol as an example that Singaporeans are, for the lack of a more accurate word, not racist:

"...Singapore Idol contest, where 3 million votes were cast, could also be viewed as a mandate for equality. And the winner, Taufik Batisah, is a shining example of the fact that meritocracy, not ethnic considerations, mattered in the end..."

The debate is still on going on whether Taufik deserved to win Singapore Idol. Readers (no doubt, supporters of Sly) wrote in to the forum and highlighted even more theories of conspiracy. One commented that the true winner of Idol will depends on how many albums Taufik and Sly can sell. Another said it is the pride of Singapore Polytechnic that drives the campaign of Taufik and made him a winner.

Typing this, I have paused briefly on my opinions on these allegations. Had I wanted to write in to the forum as well, I would have done so. But like what Taufik said, "The competition is over, let's move on", we all, as fans (or netural) of Taufik (or Sly) should move on to. Endless banter on "what it should have been" will never end. Because thinking beings (read: humans) will never 100% agree with each other.

Taufik's Fav Movie!

Another trivia for you die-hard fans - Taufik loves Fight Club, A Beautiful Mind and Kill Bill. Now, I love Kill Bill (more for 1, less for 2), too. Else than that, think Taufik and I couldn't be movie buddy *laugh*. Read more here.

Okay now, I NEED SLEEP
ZzzzzZZZzzZZZ~~

Taufik Wins Caused Uproar?

2004-12-08T01:00:00.000+08:00

I have been scouring online news feed and newspaper on all Idol-related news lately. The media (or MediaCorp to be exact) has had their hands full dealing with increasing pressure from the public wanting to know the exact winning margin for the Final Showdown.

And it was revealed that Taufik collectec 62% of the 1.1 million votes on 1st Dec alone, leading Sylvester by at least 24%.

How did the public reacted?

Shame behind Taufik's win?

One of the main conspiracy theory, as reported by Today, reasoned that Taufik won because the general public cannot withstand the shame. Exactly what I mean? Since general opinion is that Sylvester, with his Ah Beng image and bad diction, will ill-represent Singapore on Idol stage, the other better choice will be Taufik. Therefore the majority votes went to him. Read full news here.

I am outraged by that mere suggestion, of course! But, as the journalist gamely put it, "It'd be a shame to attribute his win to shame and insecurity". Nicely put. If you ask me, Taufik won it fair and square. If you don't believe me, watch the encore telecast of the Idol finals this Saturday, 8.30 p.m. on Channel 5.

On Sly and Taufik got the same reward...

Other related news include how Douglas O "trashed" Sylvester on his "poor" performance. I am sure we all remembered how each of the judges tried to outdo each other showering Taufik and Sly with praises. Taufik's fans also raised the question - if Taufik won by such a big margin, how come Sly gets the same reward (which is a 1-year recording contract and 3-year artiste management contract)? Read full news here.

Ken Lim, our beloved sexy Idol judge, put everything in perspective as well (at least to my opinion)

"...Taufik is clearly the winner and he is recognised as the Singapore Idol. But the competition has given exposure to not only Taufik but others like Sly, and the recording industry has its own measurement of the artiste's merits"

BIG Idol Money!

In case you don't know, the Americans only need to pay the normal SMS charges to vote for their Idols. Since each SMS for Singapore Idol is charged at 50 cents, and with more than 3 million votes casted, that would mean the show brought in more than $1.3 million for the producers. According to this news, most of the profit will go to the telco. There is also a "hilarious" remark from one of the NKF director. I don't know, but for me I found it funny :)

New Song Uploaded!

Okay, I know you guys have been waiting for this. Thanks to Jamelia Edwards (the owner of TaufikBatisah.com, here are two of Taufik's songs from the Finals! Oh, by the way, the fan site is up again. It was well done, so do go and have a look!

I Dream

Me & Mrs. Jones

I will update the Download Central, Blogroll and many other things on this site as fast as I can. And, yes, thanks to those people expressing interest to help me out. If you are good in writing, quite savvy in using HTML and used to Blogger system, please do drop me an email.

Sorry if I have not been timely in responding to emails and message in the shoutbox. Really lack of time, now with my part time class in full swing, a full time job and some other commitments. Oh, tomorrow will be my first day back to NTU for band rehearsals. All the way back to Boon Lay!

Christmas Shopping? Move It Online!

2004-12-07T11:05:00.000+08:00

In my recent newsletter, I did a feature on doing online shopping for this Christmas season (by the way, I am working, partly, as my company's web editor).

The reason is simple - Christmas shopping in Orchard Road (the premier shopping belt in Singapore) can really be a daunting affair. Instead of getting yourself trampled by desperate last minute shoppers, screaming teenagers and wealthy tai-tai (that's Singaporean slang for rich housewives) with enough shopping bags to fill a truckload, perhaps it's wise to move your shopping online. They say everything is available at the click of your mouse.

A feature was ran in Straits Times on Sunday - and I though it will be a good idea to give you a brief run down. Click here to read the feature (this will lead you to my company's blog).

Did you get Taufik-ed?

2004-12-07T01:39:00.000+08:00

Did you notice that? Yeah? Yup, I got a new headline for my blog! "Did you get Taufik-ed?" is an idea from my friend in Malaysia who has absolutely no idea who Taufik is. So this tagline is here to stay!

Following the advice of some forum-ers, I managed to download the whole video clips for the Idol final show! Man, had I stayed home and watched the show, I will be so embarassed. Many times I was moved to tears, especially during Taufik's and Sylvester's renditions of "I Dream". Bloody marverlous song! Sorry that I can share the clips with you guys - it was a gigantic 704 MB, over 2 hours long! Maybe I can include download instruction (using Bit Torrent) in my next post.

Many of you have emailed me or shouted at me (I mean, using the shoutbox, hehe) a number of similar questions. So I decided to set up an "FAQ" section (whoa, macam la very pro eh? hehe). So, do check it out before sending me questions, ok?

My Blogroll is updated! New additions are heLena, mais, su, basitah and ida. Keep those submission coming!

In the News

Taufik won Singapore Idol by a 24% margin!

It was widely reported yesterday on how the Singapore Idol voters demanded that MediaCorp reveal the statistic of votes for the Final Show (read news here). And guess what? MediaCorp relented!. The result : Taufik received 62% of the 1.1 million votes, while Sylvester Sim received 38%. Now, that's a big margin - it is like for every vote for Sly, there are TWO for Taufik! It's confirmed now - Taufik is the Nation's choice!

Taufik as the nation's role model

In one of PM Lee's speech to encourage more young Singaporeans to join PAP and contribute ideas, Taufik was mentioned:

"For instance, Singapore Idol finalists Taufik Batisah and Sylvester Sim — "both from ordinary backgrounds" — earned their place in "a land of opportunity" through "talent and grit," Mr Lee said."

Read the full news here

Catch Taufik on Suria!
Taufik will be apprearing on Channel Suria, for Ikhlas - a charity show for needy Muslims. He will be singing "Belaian Jiwa" live at 8.30 p.m. to raise donations from the public. So mark your calendar!

I realized that all these updating is taking loads of my (sleeping) time. So, if any of you guys want to contribute as a writer, please let me know! Hee hee...

A Week of Idol and Taufik Keeps You Occupied!

2004-12-05T22:27:00.000+08:00

New Updates! | Fans of Taufik | In The News

New Updates

Alright, glad that so many people commented they have been enjoying this blog. Here are some updates!

- New song highlighted! Now you are listening to "That's What Friends Are For", sung by all the Idol finalists during the Final Showdown. This song will also be included in taufik's debut album!

- If you enjoyed reading this blog, help me spread the word! Use the following images to link to my blog from your blog/website. Just copy and paste the available code. I have two graphics to choose from. Thanks to Arasia!

- many of you asked me what happened to the official fansite (http://www.taufikbatisah.com). No worries, I guess they are down for a while to upgrade to a new look. Meanwhile you can still visit the main page at http://get.to/taufikbatisah (lots of ad pop-ups, mind you) and their forum (click on the banner below!)

- I have also created a "mini forum" so that you can actually comment on different items on this blog. Look out for the icon - clicking on them will direct you the correct page. But please, don't start off new topics, ok? It is mean for blog comments, not community forums. We have one for that already! (see point above)

- I am also trying to make it easier for you to navigate through long postings with a menu right at the top and little to guide you around!

Back to top

Fans of Taufik

Do a search on Google for Taufik Batisah and you will get 400+ results. Most of it will be, guess what, blogs of his fans! Of course, like what the Idols said, the show is nothing without the fans.

Here are some of the best stuff I found on the web - fans' arts on Taufik!

Here are some avatars for forums

How about some forum signature images?

This is by Afif from TaufikBatisah.com's forum

This is by Arasia from TaufikBatisah.com's forum

Fantastic Arts, don't you think?

This is from TaufikOnline.tk

This is by Arasia from TaufikBatisah.com's forum

Here are some wallpapers for your desktops! Just click on them for the bigger version

Have a fantastic fan arts on Taufik? Share with the rest!

Back to top

In The News

Nowadays I slept so late that by the time I managed to read the newspaper, they are already old news. Sometimes I feel "more updated" by surfing around for news online than buying the printed version. Which I did. I mean, both surfing online and buying the newspaper.

On TaufikOnline.tk, there is this interesting Malay news, apparently from Berita Harian, one of the major Malaysian newspaper. The reporter spoke to Taufik and his Bonafide band mate Mark (view the orginal news here - in Malay!). Was a bit shaken by the news. The gist is this - had Singapore Idol came any later, Taufik might have ventured to Malaysia to find his career in singing. Now, imagine Singapore Idol with Taufik. Then imagine how who will be the one crowned. *shudder*

I decided to test out my Malay language skills and hey, I managed to translated the whole piece! Guessed Singapore did not take away all my Malaysian-ness from me. Read the translated piece of news here.

Would Singapore Idol be the same had Taufik gone to Malaysia?

In The New Paper today, Idol fans were crying foul over the veil of secrecy on the voting margin that crowned Taufik (and ousted Sylvester). Many of these fans, who voted multiple times, view their SMS-es as "investments" and thus, they have rights to know exactly by how much did Sylvester lose out to Taufik.

What's you take on this? For me, I think it will be great if we know if Taufik won it by a landslide win, or just a narrow Margin. Granted, the vote stats were readily available in American Idol series (remember Clay vs Ruben, Diana vs Fantasia?), but that doesn't mean MediaCorp has to oblige. The question to ask would be - what good would it do if the public knows the numbers? If it doesn't change a thing but the curiousity of fans, then frankly I think we are making a lot of noise out of nothing.

In Straits Times, the limelight is on Taufik's aunt Maria Bachok, who was once a famous singer in the 1970s. Once can almost say, genetically, Taufik will win the thing. His aunt was one of the quarter finalists in a similar contest in 1969. Taufik (and Sylvester) can take heart that the excessive media attention on them is nothing new and something to be expected - Maria Bachok went through similar scruntinity back in her famous years. Check out the article.

Back to top

Alright, that's all folks!

New Blog Additions

2004-12-04T11:57:00.000+08:00

Hey people, the weekend is here! I have been working on my PC diligently, and here are some new stuff for ya!

1) Obviously you should be listening to it now - the recording of Taufik singing the piece "I Dream" after he was crowned the Singapore Idol, with part of the piece sung by Sylvester.

2) For security reasons, I have disabled right clicks on this site, and I didn't realize you people can't download the songs because of that! Fret not - look to the right and click on "Download Central"

3) The charting of "Taufik's Road to Fame" is almost complete - I am just waiting for the songs from the finals and video clips.

4) "Sites of Taufik" are a network of ads to feature Taufik sites. Got a site and want to put it on? Give me a image you want to go with it. Send me a message under "Contact"

5) Web Poll - hey, since you have been here, why not rate me too? :)

I have some more stuff in the pipeline - stay tuned! By the way, tonight is the encore broadcast of the final show - anyone can record it down? I'll be more than happy to convert it into a video clip and, space permitting, will put up here. yes, right here!

One of the most beautiful thing for me, since I joined the blogging bandwagon and committed myself at least 3 hours daily on blog-related stuff, would be the amount of feedback that I have gotten from my blog visitors. I relished the good words and their thoughts on what I have put up. Thank you, people, you have made my day :)

Who Am I?

2004-12-03T14:28:00.000+08:00

After many emails, posting comments and shoutbox messages, I think it's time I set the record straight on who I am. :)

Well, "technically" speaking, I am an avid follower of the Idol series, beginning with American Idol 3, and now our Singapore Idol 1. My idol is Christopher Michael Lee, and you can say I am officially his fan until he was booted out in Spectacular 5 - Big Band.

Since then, I have more or less been a neutral voter, and it was around the same time Taufik improve and impress so much. I voted for him continuously, and somehow got involved in his fan site. And I duplicated the download links here, and since then, there is no looking back. The rest is history.

Alright, some new updates:

1) To contact me, and if you would like to be included in my blogroll, send me an email using the link under "Contact"

2) I will be charting Taufik's journey to fame right here on this blog. This will take a long time (and my ideas are very ambitious), so do stay tuned. Got an idea? Share with me.

Thank you for all the encouraging comments. I really appreciate it! :)

Euphoria of Singapore Idol Final Showdown

2004-12-02T02:08:00.000+08:00

Taufik Batisah - The First Singapore Idol!

It all started with multiple biddings/haggling/negotiating for tickets to the Idol Finals. Prices varied, seating varied. It really depends on your luck in getting the right ticket and the right seller. It was after being stood up by insensitive buyers when I finally got hold of a pair of tickets – Balcony, Row 33, Seat 15 and 16. Not the best seats if you ask me. For the $120 I am paying, I thought I can at least secure the a seat!

I bought two copies of 8-Days at lunch time. One for reading, another for safe keeping. My colleagues said for a 25 years old guy, I am really fanatic. I can only think – if you really adore something, you must adore it all the way. Why refrain and restrain the child in your heart?

Back to the magazine – wow, 10 pages of Idol news (11 if you plus the one on Olinda)! I thought it will come with this “fan for fan” (if you get my drift). Apparently, only copies sold at the concert venue will have this item! Damn!

All the while in the office, I was busy checking out the Idol forum at The Official Singapore Idol Site and updates at Taufik’s Official Fan Site. The hottest story was that all Taufik’s fans will wear white, and all Sylvester’s fans will wear pink. Today’s journalist noted, “If all goes well, it will be a sea of white and pink at the stadium tonight”

Wow, she was spot on!

I, of course, was dressed in a smart looking white T-shirt (except that I dripped coffee on the front this morning, damn it). My company for the night, Fadli, was in a white tee as well. So it was very obvious who we were rooting for, and there were many in pure white, everywhere! I saw the “5 Brides for Taufik” as well (which later increased to 6 during the show) – cool idea, ‘cause it was great publicity.

It was long queue going into the stadium, after watching for a while the arrival of the Idols at the Red Carpet area. It was already so chaotic, so Fadli and I decided to get going before Taufik or Sylvester arrive. There were many young girls and older ladies wearing pink – no doubt out to support Sylvester!

Okay the concert gets started, opened with a group number by the “eliminated” 9 finalists. I was very heartened to see Chris and Jessea back in action – they are looking better and better! From where I was at, I can’t really see them, and the sound was very different compared to watching at home.

I have a strange suspicion that Taufik’s fans (and supporters) outnumbered Sylvester’s that night, judging from all the screams, including yours truly plus my faithful whistle courtesy of Fadli.

Here are some of my own comments on Taufik’s performances tonight. Just for the record – I know I will be voting ONLY for Taufik, so I started straight away when the lines were open.

Taufik Song #1
Supersitious ( Right click to download his previous recording)
Simply fabulous, a great opening for the concert. I am not sure if it is better than his previous rendition during the R&B Round, but it got people around me clapping and snapping to the song. As usual, he is very good with this kind of song, and he has all the right move and vocal to match even Stevie Wonder’s performance.

Taufik Song #2
I Dream
This is the “official song” to be sung by both Taufik and Sylvester. Written by the same song composer who did this for Guy Sebastian’s (Australian Idol) debut album. I have never heard that song before, and I have to admit both Sly and Taufik did very well.

Taufik Song #3
Mr. and Mrs. Jones ( Right click to download the original version by Billy Bond)
Easily his winning song. The same song was performed by George Huff, one of the finalists in American Idol 3 in their debut album. Back then I didn’t like the song, and was worried when I got to know the judges choose this one for him. But Taufik surpassed all expectations and did it so well, it got the judges showering perfect compliments or him. It was again a soulful performance, plus that song needs powerful vocal with wide range. Taufik did just that with so much sexiness that got Dick said, “Wow, so hot!” Yes, it was not from Florence but Dick!

Okay, after that it was time for a break before all 11 finalists took the stage again to perform a long medley of songs. From the end of Taufik’s first sing right up to the end of the break, I voted 100+ times for him. I was really worried if the fanatical Sly’s fans will upset the results, so I decided to pledge and do my part.

And boy, was I delighted he was crowned the first Singapore Idol! And he was such a gentleman – shared his limelight with Sylvester. I was so moved and so are his fans! To my disgust, though, Sly’s fan started walking out after the results were announced.

The end of the concert is nothing short of euphoria. The area around the stadium was filled with exhilarated Taufik’s fans. I feel proud wearing white tonight!

In summary, some final stats for my SI experience tonight:
- $120 for a pair of tickets
- 100+ votes for Taufik
- 3 copies of 8-Days, 2 copies of Lime
- I fantastic companion
- Insurmountable amount of joy for rooting for the right talent!

If you believe in yourself, work hard to realize your dream. That’s the message from our very first Singapore Idol. And here’s a list for you to downloads related to Taufik (except for the Final’s, of course)

Piano Show - My Girl
Spectacular 1 - Everything I Do (I Do It For You)
Spectacular 2 - Great Balls of Fire
Spectacular 3 - September
Spectacular 4 - Yeah!
Spectacular 5 - Moondance
Spectacular 6 - Let's Stay Together
Spectacular 6 - Supersitious
Spectacular 6 Results - Where Is The Love
Spectacular 7 - Belaian Jiwa
Spectacular 7 - It's You That Matter
Spectacular 8 - Ain't No Sunshine
Spectacular 8 - This Is The Moment
Spectacular 8 - True To Your Heart

More to come, as I am hosting these files for his fan site!

All the stress...

2004-11-30T14:06:00.000+08:00

The seller of my tickets stood me up. And now I am all worked up!
Why people don't have any integrity? A deal is a deal.

Why Taufik is THE ONE?

2004-11-30T01:11:00.000+08:00

Ain't No Sunshine

Dick's Verdict: That was a performance ah, that I think is worthy of World Idol... I hope the Singapore public will agree with me and vote for you.

This is the Moment

Ken's Verdict: I think it was very well executed...

True To Your Heart

Florence's Verdict: Let's talk a little bit of soccer... You know what a Hat Trick is right? Three in a row? That's what you scored tonight

SI Roller Coaster!

2004-11-30T01:09:00.000+08:00

First, I almost bought a pair of Terrace seat tickets for $200 from a guy. Supposed to meet up today, but suddenly he played me out and said he got an offer for $300! What the hell!

I thought all hope is lost. I was checking my email and hurriedly uploaded the new songs for Taufik's fansite when I found another pair, Terrace seats, for only $100!

Good karma I guess. You don't say!

So! Those of you who are going, supporting taufik, and would like to meet up, drop me a line

And here are the songs for you to download! Just right click to save.

Ain't No Sunshine

This Is The Moment

True To Your Heart

I also did this survey sometime ago. The results are not surprising, and I really hope those responded will vote!

Personal Stats for SI

2004-11-29T01:09:00.000+08:00

Sleepless nights for SI Survey - 3
No. fo friends to Finals - 1
Money spent on Final tickets - S$200
No. of votes for Taufik this time round - 1000

*piakz on his own head*
so silly. I feel like a teenager again!

Singapore Idol Final Song List

2004-11-28T02:31:00.000+08:00

So the song list is out. Both Taufik and Sylvester will sing three songs each, one which will be a special song composed by some big shots who did the same for Australian Idol. The other two songs are chosen by the judges and the contestants themselves.

Taufik
- Self Choice: Supersitious by Stevie Wonder
- Judges Choice: Mr. and Mrs. Jones by George Huff, American Idol finalist in AMI album

Sylvester
- Self Choice: An Jing by Jay Chou (why am I not surprised?)
- Judges Choice: It's My Life by Bon Jovi

My First Christmas Gift

2004-11-28T02:20:00.000+08:00

Thanks Liping and Zhiren! Love you guys! And to think it comes all the way from Dubai!

Taufik Campaign

2004-11-26T01:02:00.000+08:00

Was surfing the net to Taufik's official fan site when I saw this campaign.

~ Please click and support the e-card campaign! ~

Click play to listen to: Let's Stay Together, sung by Taufik Batisah - the true remaining talent on Singapore Idol.

Review by Today newspaper: 9/10
"He's got plenty of soul and R&B is in his blood. Tonight is Taufik's night. He already has all the attributes to be a singer. We're not only looking at a potential Idol, we're staring at a superstar in the making."

Yet another contribution from me for Taufik. Good night people!

5 Tips For Your First Date

2004-11-25T00:41:00.000+08:00

Alright, so you got your best shirt and pants on. You sprayed on your sexiest perfume generously. You styled your hair for so long in front of the mirror that your arms ached. You are all out to make the best first impression. After all, it is your first date.

But what counts, honey, is how you handled your first date. Here are some tips to get you going:

1) NEVER bring your first date to an expensive place for dinner - you may terrify more than impress. Go for something simple, but your dinner should still be an experience. Think sushi bar or Marche

2) Keep the conversation light-hearted. Talks on your family dreams and what names you want to give to your offsprings are sweet, but they are also great DANGER sign for your date. Cool it there, it's only the first date

3) If you run out of things to talk about, think of something, anything to ask your date, and keep the conversation focused on your date. It helps if you mentally make a list of things you talked about before the first date

4) Should you have the misfortune that your date is less suave than you thought, keep your disappointment to yourself and act cool. Not all dates are perfect, and neither are you

5) It's time to call it a night, and you are prepared to send your date home. DON'T. it might be sweet, and your date might even like it. But the doubts if you should be invited into the house, or if you should be given a good bye kiss, or... (you get the ideas) can hurt a first date out

Dating is fun, but doesn't mean you really come as you are. Be mentally prepared and enjoy the night out!

P.S: Hey there, thanks for a great night out. I mean it.

Sleeping Late - Again!

2004-11-23T01:14:00.000+08:00

Nowadays I am always sleeping very late. Usually 2 a.m., and I always have a hard time waking up the next day. Was resolute to sleep by 1 a.m. tonight the latest (so that I can get at least 6 hours worth of sleep) but looking at the time now, sigh...

Caught The Incredibles on Sunday night with James. Needless, it was bloody fabolous. Loved the soundtrack. And I blew $12 on the popcorn set minus the popcorn so that I can get the tumblers. Also got this set of 4 postcards. Cool~

Also got involved in "Support Taufik Batisah for Singapore Idol" campaign *LOL*. I helped the owner of the so-called Official Site to host all Taufik's songs. Since I already took the trouble to upload all the songs, I might as well share damn here. Just right click and select "Save As".

Piano Show - My Girl
Spectacular 1 - Everything I Do (I Do It For You)
Spectacular 2 - Great Balls of Fire
Spectacular 3 - September
Spectacular 4 - Yeah!
Spectacular 5 - Moondance
Spectacular 6 - Let's Stay Together
Spectacular 6 - Supersitious
Spectacular 6 Results - Where Is The Love
Spectacular 7 - Belaian Jiwa
Spectacular 7 - It's You That Matter

And here are some amusing images done by Taufik fans.

Okay time to sleep!

Singapore Idol Survey

2004-11-20T02:30:00.000+08:00

Some questions for my fellow bloggers on Singapore Idol. Would love to know what you are thinking of the ultimate local reality show!

Please help by spreading the word too! Post this up on your LJ and help to get more respondents. Just copy and paste the following codes:

Thank you people! =)

Singapore Idol - The Final 2

2004-11-19T21:25:00.000+08:00

So Singapore has spoken. They do think Olinda is worse than Sylvester. Though I was very disappointed with the outcome, it was expected. As usual, Ken is spot on with his predictions.

It is really silly to know that Sylvester got where he is today because of cute smile, cheeky grin, and thousands of teenage gals voting, because "he is cute". Whatever they were thinking of Christopher, David or even Jerry?

My heart really went out to Oli. Florence touched my heart deeply when she said - "I can't do this". Neither can I.

Here's a tribute to the wonderful Olinda.

Right Click to Download

When A Man Loves a Woman

Taufik gotta show to the rest of Singapore (minus fans of Sly) what real talent is! Now, does anyone know how to get tickets to the Finals?

Sylvester, it has to end tonight...

2004-11-19T00:33:00.000+08:00

*amused*

Spectacular 8 - Stage and Screen (18th November 2004)

2004-11-18T01:29:00.000+08:00

Ain't No Sunshine

| Video | Audio | Download |

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- AUDIO -

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Spectacular 8 - Ain't No Sunshine

This is the Moment

| Video | Audio | Download |

- VIDEO -

- AUDIO -

- DOWNLOAD -

Spectacular 8 - This Is The Moment

True To Your Heart

| Video | Audio | Download |

- VIDEO -

- AUDIO -

- DOWNLOAD -

Spectacular 8 - True To Your Heart

To Do List

2004-11-17T23:10:00.000+08:00

My new furniture delivery was late. And don't know why almost all people - from pizza boy to the delivery men - will assume I am Malay and start talking Malay to me over the phone.

While waiting for them, I was spending my time cleaning up my desks. My room is a truly accomplishment of a real single bachelor. Here's a sneak peak of of one of the MANY piles of mess in my room.

Now you get the idea. I need a room-makeover!

As I piled through all my rubbish accumulated over the years, I decided to draw up a To Do List which each, err, "outstanding" items that I carelessly put on my desk and promptly forgotten all about it. One hour and half-a-desk-cleaned-up later, I came up with this L-O-N-G list!

1) Email HollywoodClicks.com on torque dvd - Out of an impulse, I bought a brand new "Torque" DVD for Thet, knowing he loves fast cars. Only later I found out he already has one! Bummer. So going to write to my DVD rental provider and ask if they can make use of my DVD. It is still wrapped in its original plastic. Any taker?

2) Starhub payment - Piles of Starhub bills, and I have absolutely no ideas which of them are paid, and which is not. Doesn't really matter if my old line is still working, but I hate to have unpaid bills unless I really don't have the means to clear them up. And it doesn't help calling up Starhub and check my balance - my line is registered under my friend's name, and I have lost his contact and hence unable to do anything about changing name whatsoever. Gonna find out, somehow.

3) IT Works Bill - Another bill from my website host. I think it was paid, but better check to double confirm.

4) Alumni Day Reply - Another invitation to NTU Alumni Day. I guess I will go this time and do some networking. Doing it online has been quite effective so far - and I ought to try out in real life too. Plus I get to meet some of my old friends again!

5) Change XXXX Credit Card password - Ok, so I shouldn't have posted it. But just a reminder to myself. Gotta change the password!

6) Prudential online password - I think I have changed it, but I can't remember! Damn. Gotta make another call to my friend!

7) Email Sunday makeover - This reminder comes in the form of a newspaper cutting. You know every Sunday, Straits Times will do a free makeover for one person? Like hair cut, new clothes etc. They invite people to apply to be the lucky ones selected. I saw the ad few weeks ago and I still haven't apply. That's how bad a lazy bugger I am...

8) HSBC Gift - Oooo... I totally forgotten I got a gift to redeem from HSBC! Just found a letter to redeem a headphone from Senheiser. Not that I really use it, but no harm collecting it first.

9) Extra convo photos - Found an envelope full of photos from my convocations. Actually I developed them to send to my mum, which I did, but they were extra and I don't know what to do with them. Hmmm... maybe I'll make it into a collage and put it on the wall. (Or maybe I should just be sensible and put everything into an album and chuck it aside)

10) Makeover grad photos - This stack of photos got me laughing! I remember - just before my final exams, Louise (my good study buddy) and I spent $50 bucks each on some formal makeover photo. I look so unreal! Haha... okay, click on these at your own peril. You been warned! This is me when I was 19, just before I came to Singapore. Then, this is the MAKEOVER photo, one of the many I took just before I graduate. And this is me today. I guess I have changed over the years! Haha... now, what should I do with these unsightly photos?!?

11) Movie ticket stubs - Discovered that I am still keeping lots of ticket stubs of all the movies that I watched. Man... it is tough trying to recall which movie I watched with whom. But it surely will be a nostalgic experience. Maybe I'll do up another collage, like the one someone did for Linus' birthday not too long ago. "Sweet memories are made of these..." (or, I should be more sensible and just dump the whole thing!

12) LOTR photo cards - Got this beautiful set of photo cards of all LOTR characters when I bought the complete set of LOTR soundtrack. Yeah, the collection edition set of those beautiful tunes by Howard Shore. And yeah, I was that fanatical of a fan for LOTR. What else you think this journal is nicked "legolas79". Question is, what should I do with them?? Another collage? Another album? Sell it off?

13) Family details spreadsheet - I written so many details of my family members all over the place. Bank account numbers, addresses, emails, phone numbers, birthdays.... well, you will in my situation if all your family members are all NOT in once place. Mine is a truly globalised family. I gotta compile all these details, put it in a file and store it somewhere secure. Not my HDD, of course (still remember vividly how dishearted Kairin was when his crashed!)

14) Singpass - still got this account notification letter. Never used it before. Do I need to keep it?

15) Articles based on manazine - oooo.... I would love to write something based on what I read in the magazine! In fact, I want to write about a lot of things - HR, marketing, lifestyles etc etc etc.... I gotta make a choice!

16) Organize my bangkok stuff + docs + photos - Found not one, not two, but three envelopes worth of Vangkok stuff. From web printouts when I did my research prior to my trips, actual trip photos, the free publications I collected, the postcards I sent to myself... that's loads. And those are memories. Gotta think of a way to preserve and enjoy them instead of letting them rot in envelopes. What was I thinking!

17) Career web portfolio - Found all the job ads cuttings that I have applied to. When I graduated, I was desperate for jobs. My frantic job hunt at that time was really, really desperate. Now looking back, well, I can see how unprofessional I was. I want to share my job hunting experience with my junior, hence the idea for a "Job Hunt Chronicle - When SARS Hit My Wallet". Corny eh? Also, I found out that I still have the first ever transcript of my education life - that's UPSR, Malaysia's equivalent of PSLE - up to the PRWRA certificate I got earlier this year! That one whole stack of certs. I really ought to organise this properly and put them onto the web. I mean, come on, I am supposed to be a web communications expert. Haha~

18) Update contact database - Again, found many stray name cards all over the place. If I don't organize the contact details of all my friends soon, I never will, and soon I will forget all about them (and them, me). Ah.... I am going to be so stuck with MS Excel soon!

Imagine. I only cleaned half of my desk and I already have 18 things I want to do. I still got the other half - I can see stacks of books, aromatherapy oil, lotions, LOTR toys, unknown stuff in a BIG red plastic bag, spoilt printer.... and I look around my room. Boxes of movie memorabilias, messy wardrobe, dusty stacks of magazines...

And I shudder to think when my new furniture can move into my room. Oh man...

Birthday for Wai Yee!

2004-11-16T14:20:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was a horrible day, but meeting up with my old pals kinda compensated for it :-)

It was a surprise (and a tad early) birthday celebration. It was her XXth birthday, and Louise, her two colleagues (I can't remember their names, damn) and I met up at Tiong Bahru Plaza for some Ramen and, of course, birthday cake!

The birthday girl!

The birthday cake!

After dinner, we went for a movie. I am no fans for horror movie. We caught "Shutter", about this good looking Thai photographer who was haunted by the spirit of an ex-girlfriend.

I was kinda spared from the horrible images, because half the time I was hiding my face behind my fingers. Yeah, I am pussy when it comes to horror movie.

No horror movie. Yay to cartoons and comedy!

Daphne's Selections - Singapore Idol

2004-11-14T15:26:00.000+08:00

Due to popular demands, here are her songs for download. Please don't stream direct from my site - just right click on the links and select "Save As" to download to your PC.

Have fun!

Piano Audition
I Will Survive

Spectacular 1 - Parents' Choice
Joy to the World

Spectacular 2 - Disco
A Crazy Little Thing Called Love

Spectacular 3 - Rock & Roll
Blame It On The Boogie

Spectacular 4 - Idol
I Turn To You

Spectacular 5 - Big Band
Orange Colour Sky (not available)

Spectacular 6 - R&B and Soul
You Gotta Be (not available)
I'm Your Angel (not available)

Spectacular 7 - Asian Pop
I Believe (not available)
Ni Yao De Ai (not available)

Stay tuned for future download!

They call it slavery. What say you?

2004-11-14T05:27:00.000+08:00

This is a late night post.

I have been reading a lot of blogs lately, using news aggregator by FeedDemon and subscribing to RSS feeds. That is awesome, but a posting on that has to come another time.

Reason for this late night post is because of this shocking piece of news I read from (yet) another blog. You would think working until 10 p.m. every night for your boss is tough. Yes it is, and these guys had it worst than you.

Check out this sharing from the spouse of a games programmer of EA. Yes, the company who produces games after games for computers.

I was squirming uncomfortably after I read those. You form your own opinion.

Singapore Idol - out went the cili padi

2004-11-12T21:00:00.000+08:00

It was a heart moving episode. Lil' feisty Daphne was expecting the axe. It is not that she is not without talent. If she doesn't, the judges won't be enjoying her performances week after week. And it is not that she has less fans. Just listen to the screams during the live show and the young males who voted for her anyway "because she is SO cute!"

Her closing song was "I Will Survive", her song choice for piano round. As a tribute to one of the more memorable idol hopefuls, I have embeded her song in this post.

Edited: I have deactivated the streaming, but you can still download the song here. Jusr right click and select "Save As"

On another note: I am so glad that Taufik and Olinda were the top two. Finally, I have faith that Singapore are not merely blinded by good look, nor deaf to real talent!

Angel

2004-11-11T23:17:00.000+08:00

Love this song!

You can also download the piece here.

New trick for job search

2004-11-11T17:36:00.000+08:00

I am in fear that this research cum surfing session will last yet another 9 hours (sometimes you don't feel it when your wide ass plonked comfortably on a big pillow). So I'll be brief.

First, you need to read this.

Then, be astounded by this.

Now, make your own conclusion before reading this.

Did I find a niche when I did this few days ago??

Yay-ness!

Singapore Idol

2004-11-11T11:12:00.000+08:00

I am officially an Idol fanatic. My infatuation started in March when I first bought my TV, and American Idol was the first show I watched. I was hooked since.

More recently and nearer to the home front, I am very into our local version of the Idol contest as well. I was just having my usual dose of clips on the website and came to a starling conclusion.

His performance was flawless. I have never heard of Supersitious or Let's Stay Together, but I felt the goosebumps on me. And what the judges said were even more remarkable!

After Supersitious
Dick Lee: R&B is your genre - you are Mr. R&B. I was expecting very good performance from you and so far I was satisfied
Florence Lian: Tonight you are not trying to be Taufil being Stevie Wonder, but Taufil being Taufik. That was very good
Douglas O: I can actually see fire in your eyes. I know you wanted this so much. You know what? I think you might just get it
Ken Lim: A good performer copies a good performance. A star performer devises a star performance. I'm glad you have begin to be a star.

After Let's Stay Together
Dick Lee: You did something very remarkable. Despite the noisy and complex arrangement, you stayed cool. If I have a hat, I'll take it off to you
Florence Lian: You went right to soul of the song, you controlled it so well - to me, that's your best performance so far
Douglas O: Two weeks ago I remember saying R&B is not your genre. Tonight you have proven me wrong
Ken Lim: In line with the ability of your fellow contestants, I say you stand a very good chance to be the remaining two in this competition.

I don't know why, but I felt a joy that was so intense in my heart after watching the two clips. Coupled with Taufik's down-to-earth personality (look at his blog on the Idol website), it made me cried. In joy.

Spectacular 7 - Asian Pop (11th November 2004)

2004-11-11T01:17:00.000+08:00

Belaian Jiwa

| Video | Audio | Download |

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Spectacular 7 - Belaian Jiwa

It's You That Matter

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Spectacular 7 - It's You That Matter

Geylang Galore

2004-11-11T00:16:00.000+08:00

What a day in office.

From the moment I stepped into office (that's 15 minutes late, by the way) till the time I knocked off at 6 p.m., it was a marathon of work. It should have been a breeze for me, if only I know what I am doing.

You see, I am trying to promote this economics course for my company. It is definitely not a cheap course - for 4-days worth of high end business talking, it will cost the delegates a cool S$4590 per pax, without hotel accommodation. The bulk of the course actually when to bringing in the two lecturers from France.

Such high investments, such exclusive targetted audience (I need to talk to CEOs and Presidents of oil companies), such expectations - I am so stressed out. So I need a right marketing mix.

It must be chicken feet for some people, but not for me. That's one of the reason why I am taking up the new degree from MDIS (which will start next week).

So most of the day was spent cleaning up my mailing list, tracking records of emails sent, segmenting it, sending out follow email, classifying my cold/warm/hot list... in short, nothing value adding done. And it was indeed stressful.

So when 6 p.m. came (an hour after our appointed timing), it was with much relief when I headed down to Kim Seng Star Bowl with my colleagues for a few rounds of, of course, bowling.

Have you ever heard of that place? It was so secluded, I doubt many people know of its existence. Most of the players are pros and Filipinos (they have their own club of bowlers). Most of the time I don't have much luck in bowling, but I didn't know my colleagues' skills left much to be desired.

After that, we went down to Geylang Lorong 9 for dinner in 3 cabs. The food was good! Beef horfun, seafood horfun, fried chicken, oyster omelette, sambal kangkung... it was fabolous. After filling our stomaches, we decided to expand it further and headed down to the fruit stall. Durians, mangosteens, longans, langsats... and as if these are not enough, we went to our third stop - soya bean curd plus the absolutely delicious "you tiao".

Ahh... there goes one week worth of my diet, but damn, it felt good. It had been a long time since I last ate that much that now as I am sitting here I feel bloated. Oh well...

Yeah, Claude took some pics. Will post them up when I got them from her.

Here I go again...

2004-11-10T14:00:00.000+08:00

Since I am doing it for my company here and here, I thought, why not do it for myself too?

Spectacular 6 - R & B (4th November 2004)

2004-11-04T13:57:00.000+08:00

Supersitious

| Video | Audio | Download |

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Spectacular 6 - Supersitious

Let's Stay Together

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Spectacular 6 - Let's Stay Together

Spectacular 5 - Big Band (28th October 2004)

2004-10-28T13:53:00.000+08:00

Moondance

| Video | Audio | Download |

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Spectacular 5 - Moondance

Spectacular 4 - My Idol (21st October 2004)

2004-10-21T13:47:00.000+08:00

Yeah!

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Spectacular 4 - Yeah!

Spectacular 3 - Disco (14th October 2004)

2004-10-14T13:35:00.000+08:00

September

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Spectacular 3 - September

Spectacular 2 - Rock & Roll (7th October 2004)

2004-10-07T13:00:00.000+08:00

Great Balls of Fire

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Spectacular 2 - Great Balls of Fire

Spectacular 1 - Parent's Choice (30th September 2004)

2004-09-30T11:21:00.000+08:00

Everything I do (I Do It For You)

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Spectacular 1 - Everything I Do (I Do It For You)