From 'bedroom heroes' to music stars in China

Malaysian connections

Babychair, a three-piece band based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, made its China debut at a music festival in Shanghai three years ago.

The band, which creates retro, dreamlike pieces with experimental music elements, saw its popularity take off in China after joining hands with the talent agency 1500 Sound Academy. The musical trio, who each go by one name, has already toured the country three times.

"The music market in China is very competitive, and everyone strives to be the best," said Aaron, the drummer.

"Our tour in China really opened our eyes and gave us new inspirations. We are always meeting new people and exploring new things, opportunities and possibilities."

Of Malaysian-Chinese heritage, all three were exposed to Chinese culture early in life through music and TV dramas. They can speak Chinese and share many cultural roots with their Chinese fans.

What resonates in China is sometimes different from what is popular with fans in other parts of the region.

For instance, in Southeast Asian nations, babychair's most popular song is Oh It's You. In China, however, Dear is the song that is more representative of the trio to their fans.

During their recently concluded China tour, audiences sang along with the band when they performed Dear.

"I think the market needed us," said lead vocalist Sean. "The idea of our music is simply asking everyone to chill. What we would like to deliver to our fans in music is not only the song, but also the emotions that make us connected. So we hope everyone can listen to the songs, get relaxed, feel differently and chill."

Over the past three years, they have come to value the Chinese musicians and artists they have met along the way.

"We share the same struggles and same happiness. They are very friendly, open, easy to communicate with and down to earth. We feel at ease having a chat or sharing life stories with each other. Such connections are very valuable," said Aaron.