Most Successful Malay Guitar Group:The SWALLOWS (first line-up, image) with ANDY YOUNG (standing, 2nd left) and manager A.A.K. Surattee, at the Victoria Theatre in 1964. The Swallows is one of the first and most successful Kugiran Melayu Pop Yeh Yeh in the 60s. It was only after the success of this group that other Malay guitar groups followed.
Respected Gentlemen:
Andy was supposed to have fronted them but only for a while and had performed at the Adelphi Hotel in Singapore. Further appearances, if any, were curtailed because of a manager who took advantage of the group. Personally these boys were clean cut, exceptionally well-mannered and respected gentlemen both on and off the stage.
Songs In English:
They were an exceptional team and received thundering applause when the group was announced before they performed. Andy shared his magic moment during the occasion he appeared with this group. Andy sang two songs in English.
Songs In Bawean:
They have cut many records since and were on the scene for many years. Kassim Selamat has one of the most popular Bawean hit ever, "La Aube" (La-O-Be), a classic today. Another hit is "Nga Lompak A-Go-Go". My favourite? "Mak Itti Mai Illa."
Getting In Touch:
Andy has been trying to get in touch with some band members of the group and has not been successful. If you happen to be in contact with anyone of them, please write in.
(Andy has since contacted 3 members of the Swallows through Erwin Maisch - October, 2010.)
Image: Andy Lim Collection (All Rights Reserved).
Edited original article: Andy Lim.
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