Melly, born Melliana Cessy Goeslaw, 50, maintained that she is not bothered about criticism of her victory, but instead wants to focus on her career to inspire her fans.
"I can only control what comes out of me, whether from my life or career. I cannot control what people do, comment or want from me. For me, as long as I do it right and inspire many people, God willing, it will be something good," she said at the press conference for the upcoming 'Ada Apa Dengan Melly and Friends' concert.
Meanwhile, the queen of film soundtracks, who will be holding her second concert in Malaysia, expressed her excitement to meet fans on June 1, especially considering her improved health since undergoing bariatric surgery two years ago.
For her, the graduation night-themed concert is a golden opportunity in her artistic career to perform on stage alongside Malaysian artistes. However, her duet partner will be determined through a voting process which will be open to listeners of the ERA radio station.
"At the upcoming concert, we will feature other artistes but the names are not finalised yet. I have requested artistes from Malaysia to join in. My dream is to sing with everyone. It seems like I have not sung a duet with anyone else except Yusri (KRU). There have not been other Malaysian singers, so I really want to collaborate (with a Malaysian singer)," she said, adding that she will also hold a third concert here next year.
Discussing the music arrangement for the upcoming performance at the Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil, songwriter Anto Hoed, 60, said it would be grander than last year due to the larger venue.
"This year, the music arrangement will be bigger because the venue is spacious...we need more musicians to fill up the whole place at the venue. Perhaps we will increase the orchestra from 12 to 20 musicians," he also said.
Regarding the 'Ada Apa Dengan Melly and Friends' concert, it is a new concept and Melly will not be alone as she will feature friends she has duetted and collaborated with over the past two decades.
There are five ticket options, named after school subjects, priced at RM228 for History, RM288 (Physical Education), RM328 (Science), RM428 for (Literature) and RM588 (Mathematics).
Tickets can be purchased, beginning at 11 am on March 1 through www.ticket2u.com. Maybank credit cardholders will receive a 12 per cent discount while Maybank debit cardholders will receive a 10 per cent discount.
-- BERNAMA
