Hailing from Terengganu, Rashidi Rashid was exposed to traditional arts and music at an early age by his elder brother. While growing up, Shidee picked up a number of traditional Malay instruments such as the Rebana, Gendang Melayu, Beduk and Gong. At the same time, Shidee was introduced to ‘Dikir Barat’, a Malaysian form of story telling using percussive beats and traditional lyrics.

He started taking keen interest, and learnt the art of singing and became a master storyteller, known as ‘Tukang Karut” and soon began composing his own shows and performing, often playing the traditional percussions and being the lead singer. Since arriving in Kuala Lumpur, he has picked up the Arabic Darabuka, Western Conga and has developed a strong following for Bollywood vocals, often performing Hindi songs at functions.

Shidee, another founding member, handles all of the traditional Malay instruments, and plays the Darabuka, Congas, light percussions and gives backing vocals in the band.

Satpal Singh, another one who was influenced by music from Seattle, started playing the guitar in his teens and developed a taste for grunge music, and a particular liking for Nirvana. At the same time, he took lessons from a Tabla Master and began to master this instrument, often combining the two instruments while performing.

Being Punjabi, the lure of Bhangra and the Dhol was too strong, and Satpal started playing the dhol, performing at family functions and weddings. Upon founding the Diplomats, he decided that there was a need for a base instrument and picked up the Brazilian Surdo to complement his click-like timing.

He is also one of the front men for the band, often lighting up Diplomats of Drum performances with his stage presence, brash showmanship and slick dance moves. Satpal plays the Surdo, Dhol, Tabla, Guitar and light percussions with the Diplomats.

Satpal

Ravi