I found out that James Lee of ex-Royal Pirates was heading to Berjaya Times Square in Kuala Lumpur for a showcase on 1 May 2019. I was debating if I should go initially coz I just came from a holiday a couple of weeks ago. Thankfully, I managed to get the dates to work out so I made it to Kuala Lumpur for the showcase.
I took the risk of taking the coach up to Kuala Lumpur only on 1 May 2019 itself. I was worried about the traffic jam at the immigration check points on both the Singapore and Malaysian side; it was a public holiday after all.
Fortunately, I arrived in Kuala Lumpur at about 3.00 pm, 7 hours after I boarded the bus in Singapore. I had just below 3 hours to get myself to the hotel, dump the bags and get to Berjaya Times Square.
Admittedly, I did worry that I would be late and I wouldn’t have a good spot to catch the showcase. When I arrived at Berjaya Times Square, my fears were unfounded as I remembered that this is not Singapore. Malaysia is a way bigger country and people have to take more time to travel; unlike in Singapore where it doesn’t take that much time to get anywhere. As such, I decided to go eat first as I haven’t eaten a proper meal for the whole day. Fainting at any show/performance is not cool, especially when you are supposed to be enjoying it. Always eat people.
At about 6.00 pm or so, Malaysian star Alvin Chong took to the stage to perform “Tajam”.
I must say that I am not familiar with Alvin Chong but I can definitely confirm that he is cute. Hehe. And after a quick YouTube search, I now know that Alvin Chong sings in English, Chinese and Malay! Cute and talented. Double wham!
Check out his latest single “Tajam” here:
After Alvin Chong performed “Tajam”, James came on stage to perform his entire EP “The Light”. I definitely prefer the live version than the studio/album one.
It’s been 2.5 years since I last saw James on stage at what was probably the last ever Royal Pirates performance. It was quite emotional to see James on stage again in KL. I do not think I can ever fully comprehend the pain and suffering that James has endured. I can imagine that the journey has been super tough for him. His resilience and bravery is amazing and inspiring.
During the showcase, James said that his wrist was practically severed and he had undergone 5 surgeries to date. I have read about his accident and is more or less following his post accident journey on his SNS but hearing James actually say those words in person was something else, it really hits you. Regardless, I am really glad that James is facing it head-on and be like, “Bring it.”
Seeing James smile again like the photo above made everything worth it; coz I knew he wasn’t smiling for a very long time. This photo actually reminds me of his pre-debut days with Royal Pirates.
There was a meet & greet with this showcase but unfortunately, it was only for Malaysians so I was watching it all from the side. However, the hosts of the showcase announced that there is an autograph session and anyone with a copy of “The Light EP” could get it signed by James. Sold!
Since I was first aware of the existence of Royal Pirates back in 2012, this is the first time I have actually met and spoken to James in person. The last time I spoke to him, it was actually via Google Hangouts organised by Universal Music Singapore back in 2014.
Seeing James up close and in person, he looks way more boyish than I expected. He is incredibly sweet and lovely. That look on his face when he told me to “be safe” while in Malaysia made me want to squish him a little bit. Hahaha. Coz he was such a cute sweetheart.
Unfortunately, I don’t think James is doing any public promotional events when he comes to Singapore this week. Someday, hopefully, we will get to see James properly in Singapore. And here’s hoping.