And although not everyone believes that musical talent can be passed down genetically, that’s definitely the case with Nadim Mohd Zain and his daughter, Siti Diana Kamila.
The duo has been busking together for a couple of months now, armed with their guitars and a wide repertoire of songs that range from the classic folk tunes of Bob Dylan to more current hits by artists like Zee Avi.
Having enjoyed a career in marketing and finance, Nadim became a full-time busker after retiring five years ago.
“It’s a passion. Even while I was working, I would jam with other musicians during weekends,” said the 63-year-old, who regularly busks around Kuala Lumpur and Selangor at venues like Pasar Seni, Publika and KLIA.
According to Nadim, his dad also loved music, and was known as the “Rumba King” among his friends in Kelantan in reference to his dancing skills.
With music constantly being played at home, it’s not surprising that his oldest child followed in his footsteps. Fondly known as Kamila, the 25-year-old, who has a background in environmental science, started busking two years ago.
“How could I not? It was a natural progression for me; I grew to love the music my dad listens to,” she said, adding that some of her friends tease her for playing “Daddy love songs.”
No doubt, she was over the moon when she started busking with her dad at The Curve shopping mall in Mutiara Damansara.
“I know how good he is; it’s wonderful to be able to play music together with my dad,” she said, adding that she currently busks full-time as she’s in between jobs.
In addition, she also credits her mum for encouraging her to put herself out there and to do the things she loves.
With Nadim’s captivating voice, melodious guitar playing and strong musical influence in folk, blues and country, alongside Kamila’s angelic vocals and unique take on songs, the duo, without a doubt, stop many passers-by in their tracks.
Nadim says that busking has taught him how to be flexible. “You have got to go with the flow; if it rains, you pack up your equipment, and once it stops, you set it up again.”
In addition, he says that performing over the years has made him more aware of his strengths and weaknesses. “It’s a journey in self-discovery and self-realisation.”
And although she also performs at various formal events, Kamila loves the freedom that comes with busking as she can play and sing anything she feels like. “When I’m busking, I get to express whatever I’m feeling at the moment through music.”
Naturally, busking also allows them to meet many people, some of whom even buy them food and drinks. “It has taught us to be humble and to not judge people. As a whole, Malaysians are a generous lot,” Nadim said.
Some passers-by also leave thank-you notes, saying that their music has made their day. “I still keep them; it’s extremely heartwarming,” he shared.
It goes without saying that busking has its fair share of challenges, especially for those who busk full-time.
For one, the income isn’t stable, and when it rains, buskers don’t make a single sen. “There are good and bad times, just like everything else in life,” Nadim said.
“But we’re grateful that it is enough for us. At the end of the day, I try to do this as sincerely as I can, and to make it as meaningful as possible,” added Kamila.
And to everyone who has watched them play, the joy, heart and soul they put into their music is obvious, not to mention infectious.
To aspiring musicians who wish to showcase their talent, Nadim said, “Work hard and keep polishing your work, especially since there are more opportunities in current times, given social media and various other platforms. Never ever close the door on what you like doing.”
On the other hand, Kamila said it’s equally important to self-evaluate and to truly know what you want. “Because no one knows you better than you do.”
Follow Nadim and Kamila’s musical adventures on social media.
Listen to their song “Memori Kita,” on Spotify, which Nadim wrote and dedicated to his friends in the music community who passed on during the pandemic.