Jessie Chung (simplified Chinese: 锺洁希; traditional Chinese: 鍾潔希) is a trailblazer in the Malaysian music scene. Her new EP, ‘Dekati’, which was released on March 10, blends dance pop with the vibrant energy of K-Pop, as well as the edginess of rock, and the nostalgic rhythms of Synthwave, resulting in a sound all her very own.
‘Dekati’ is available to stream and download here.
The four track EP is a deeply personal one for the Jessie, and tracks her evolution both musically and personally. Additionally, it sees her transform from a shy and insecure child into an artist who is bold, and unapologetic. Nowadays based in Australia, Jessie was born in Kuching, Malaysia, to a Hakka family who was originally from Dapu, Guangzhou, China, Jessie’s childhood was steeped in music, and she was a musical prodigy as a child, achieving grade 8 in organ. Putting aside her dreams for music she trained for a career in healthcare, but she has since returned to her original passion.
Jessie Chung is multifaceted: she’s a transgender icon in Malaysia, and apart from being a musician, singer, and songwriter, she is also a doctor, naturopath, nutritional consultant, author, and actress. Her debut album,. ‘Home’, was released in 1998, and she has since released 9 albums, and achieved fame across China and the rest of South East Asia, as well as Australia. Now, with ‘Dekati’, she sets her sights on world domination, an EP whose songs reflect both her personal triumphs, and universal truths.
‘Dekati’ opens with the upbeat and very catchy title track, which will be a challenge for anyone to remain in their seats – it’s a compelling dance song that will get your heart racing. This is followed by the no-less energetic, ‘Expose’, with its contemporary pop sound, and message about revealing the real self. The music will appeal to a wide audience, no matter whether or not you can understand the lyrics.
Track 3, ‘Cinta Tanpa Batas’, sees Jessie slow down the pace somewhat, with an anthemic piano and guitar instrumental that complements her vocal style perfectly. This is followed by ‘Demi Impian’, which is likewise a slower, and no less heartfelt track.
With ‘Dekati’, Jessie hopes to lift up the spirits of anyone who has, like her, faced bullying and societal judgment, and, through the expertly crafted tracks, inspire them to embrace their true selves, and rise above external criticism.
‘Dekati’ was recorded by three producers, including one from the USA, in a state of the art studio.
Title track ‘Dekati’ comes with a heartfelt music video, set in a school, that captures the innocence of young love, as two students find their way through their burgeoning feelings. You can watch the video below.
‘Dekati’ is available to stream and download here.
Find out more about Jessie Chung and her music online on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Spotify, and Apple Music.