Exis

Biography

Exists is a prominent Malaysian pop rock band that originated in Johor Bahru in 1991, initially known as Exist. The founding lineup included vocalist Muhammad Ali 'Mamat' Kamarudin, guitarists Azhrul 'Along' Nasir and Shah Nizam Abdul 'Shah' Halim, keyboardist Mohd Faizal 'Ajai' Maas, bassist Musa 'Musrad' Radhi, and drummer Saharudin 'Ujang' Saniman. Their breakthrough came with the heartfelt single 'Untukmu Ibu' in 1991, which quickly established them as a significant force in the Malaysian music scene. Their debut self-titled album was released the same year, marking the beginning of a prolific recording career.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Exists released a series of successful albums, including 'Anugerah' (1993), 'Diammu Gunung Berapi' (1995), and 'Ada' (2001), evolving their sound from rock kapak (a local rock subgenre) to incorporate elements of pop and balladry. The band underwent several lineup changes, most notably with the departure of original vocalist Mamat in 1994 and the arrival of Mohd Rohaizad Mohd 'Ezad' Lazim. After a brief period as Exist, they added an 's' to their name in 1997. Despite periods of hiatus and further changes, Exists has remained influential, reuniting for major concerts and continuing to draw large audiences well into the 2020s.

Musically, Exists is known for their emotive melodies, powerful vocals, and a style that bridges classic Malay pop and contemporary rock. Their legacy is cemented by their enduring popularity, cross-generational appeal, and significant contributions to the development of Malaysian pop and rock music.

Fun Facts

• Exists was originally named 'Exist' and only added the 's' in 1997 after releasing their fourth album.
• Their debut single 'Untukmu Ibu' remains one of the most iconic Malaysian ballads and is still widely covered.
• The band has released Indonesian-language versions of their albums to reach a broader Southeast Asian audience.
• Exists reunited for a major concert in Singapore in 2016 and performed to over 5,000 people at Malaysia's Mega Star Arena in 2025.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Malay pop and rock traditions - Exists drew inspiration from the broader Malay pop and rock scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s, which shaped their early sound. (Early albums such as 'Exist' (1991) and 'Anugerah' (1993)) [1991–present]

Key Collaborators

• Mohd Faizal 'Ajai' Maas - Original keyboardist and songwriter, contributed significantly to the band's early sound and arrangements. (Exist (1991), Anugerah (1993), Diammu Gunung Berapi (1995)) [1991–1998]
• Mohd Rohaizad Mohd 'Ezad' Lazim - Lead vocalist after Mamat's departure, brought a new vocal style and helped the band reach new audiences. (Diammu Gunung Berapi (1995), Jangan Gentar (1997), Mutan (1998), Ada (2001)) [1995–2007, 2015–present]
• Slam (band) - Frequent co-performers and contemporaries in the Malaysian pop rock scene; shared concerts and audiences. (Joint concerts, including Mega Star Arena (2025)) [1990s–2025]

Artists Influenced

• Younger Malaysian pop and rock bands - Exists' blend of rock and pop and their success in the 1990s inspired a new generation of Malaysian musicians. (Covers and tributes by emerging Malaysian artists) [2000s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Alasanmu (Diammu Gunung Berapi)
2. Jesnita (Ada)
3. Seperti Dulu (Seperti Dulu)
4. Mencari Alasan (Mencari Alasan)
5. Rindu Serindu Rindunya
6. Masih Terserlah Ayumu (Diammu Gunung Berapi)
7. Mengintai Dari Tirai Kamar (Jangan Gentar)
8. Rindu Serindu Rindunya (Dirantai Digelangi Rindu)
9. Dirantai Digelangi Rindu (Mutan)
10. Alasanmu (Mencari Alasan)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz

Tags: #trance