"Singing must come from the heart." These were the words of Nurainun, a legendary Malay singer from Medan, Indonesia.
Even in her golden years, she continued to sing passionately until her final breath on July 6, 2023. Her love and dedication to Malay music made her a true icon whose legacy lives on.
But who was Nurainun, really? And how did her beautiful voice reach international stages? Let’s take a closer look at her golden journey!
Nurainun’s Path: Bringing Malay Music to the World Stage
Nurainun’s first steps into the world of Malay music began with the ensemble Orkes Sukma Murni. In 1951, she made a breakthrough with her rendition of the classic Sri Mersing, winning first place in the Bintang Radio competition held by RRI Medan.
Not just once, she took home first place seven times in a row! Her success wasn’t just a personal triumph; it helped elevate the presence of Malay music on both national and international stages.
Did you know, Seasians? Nurainun once performed for President Soekarno of Indonesia and Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Tengku Abdul Rahman!
With Orkes Sukma Murni, her fame skyrocketed. They had the rare honor of performing in front of high-profile leaders, and their influence reached major cities like Jakarta, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and even across to Australia.
One of her most iconic moments? Collaborating with legendary Malaysian artists P. Ramlee and Saloma, an epic partnership that further solidified her status as an international Malay music maestro.
Songs and Works That Echo Around the World
Throughout her career, Nurainun was known for her deeply emotional and soul-stirring Malay songs. Some of her timeless classics still grace playlists today, including:
- Sri Mersing
- Keluhan Jiwa
- Sri Deli
- Dayang Senandung
- Bunga dalam Taman
She also penned several unforgettable originals like Makan Sirih, Selendang Mayang, Damak, Sri Banang, and Lembaian Kamboja.
With over 20 albums under her belt, including vinyl records with Kuala Lumpur’s Swee Wah Enterprise, her discography also includes legendary duets with Tiar Ramon and Yan Juned.
Read also: Spotify Wrapped 2024: Most Popular Spotify Songs in Southeast Asia
A Lasting Legacy
Nurainun’s passing left a deep void in the music world, especially among fans of traditional Malay songs. But her legacy lives on.
Through her music, her humility, and her lifelong dedication, she remains a beacon of inspiration across generations.
Today, institutions like PWI Sumut have honored her contributions through the Nurainun Award, proof that sincere and consistent artistry always finds a place in people’s hearts.
Nurainun wasn’t just a singer. She was a guardian of Malay heritage. Her footsteps in the world of music are a testament that Indonesian culture belongs on the global stage.
Rest in peace, Ibu Nurainun. Your voice will always be heard, heart to heart.
References:
Analisa Daily. (2018). Nurainun, Si Penyanyi Buluh Perindu. https://analisadaily.com/berita/arsip/2018/2/4/498596/nurainun-si-penyanyi-buluh-perindu/
Antaranews. (2019). Legenda Musik Melayu Nurainun Terus Bernyanyi. https://www.antaranews.com/berita/912584/legenda-musik-melayu-nurainun-terus-bernyanyi
Archon. (n.d.). Finding Aid for Nurainun Collection. https://archon.library.illinois.edu/archives/index.php?p=collections/findingaid&id=5711&q=&rootcontentid=106738
FJP Indonesia. (n.d.). Nurainun, Kisah Seorang Maestro Lagu Melayu. https://fjpindonesia.com/nurainun-kisah-seorang-mestro-lagu-melayu/
Inspirasinews. (2022). PWI Sumut Akan Gelar Nur Ainun Award. https://inspirasinews.id/2022/01/pwi-sumut-akan-gelar-nur-ainun-award/
Jurnas. (n.d.). Legenda Musik Melayu Nurainun Terus Bernyanyi. https://www.jurnas.com/artikel/54222/Legenda-Musik-Melayu-Nurainun-Terus-Bernyanyi/
Waspada. (n.d.). Tokoh Perempuan Melayu Akui Kehebatan Penyanyi Legendaris Nurainun. https://www.waspada.id/medan/tokoh-perempuan-melayu-akui-kehebatan-penyanyi-legendaris-nurainun/
