Rajitha and Misty celebrate two decades of success in Australia and in Melbourne
“It’s been a wonderful journey in a fabulous country”, says Misty’s leader.BY TREVINE RODRIGO IN MELBOURNE
Sri Lanka’s top dance band for a comprehensive entertainment package over the decades, are in Melbourne wowing their fans and proving their popularity has not waned despite the passing of time.
Only the Gypsies and to a lesser degree Mirage have drawn rave reviews and sell-out capability over the years in Australia for their popularity, but Misty have in their own inimitable style drawn love and acclaim from a cross section of Australians, not just Sri Lankan expatriates, for their extraordinary talent.
Rajitha Rupesinghe heads a close knit band that have established themselves as an entertainment unit that can entertain at any level in the music world.
They are talented, they can provide entertainment at a level few can. But maintaining that acclaim and sustaining it for decades is the ultimate challenge they have achieved for two decades and continue to achieve that which makes it remarkable.
The music industry, much like any other entertainment, is challenging to those in it, longevity therefore, is proof of continued passion and innovation to last the course and keep the fans interested.
Let’s not single out Rajitha and his clan as the only elite, in an Island gifted with wonderful musicians, but my practical assessment from a musical wannabe who, as a young aspiring musician at a tender age, suggests that longevity undoubtedly proves a resounding history of success as Misty has. Staying ahead of the pack in an ever evolving art and generational change proves that Rajitha and Misty are a proven talent with a great following of die-hards.
That’s Rajitha and his merry men at Misty who have ruled and established themselves as one of the most loved and much looked forward to bands in many parts of the world.
They have toured Australia and drawn sell-out crowds every time they tour, and that does not look like changing anytime soon.
Rajitha refused to be drawn unto comparisons to other venues in the world they have performed at for obvious reasons but he was emphatic that touring and entertaining in Australia draws few parallels.
My assessment of Misty’s success is to be fair, on a band that delivers musical versatility, and not a comparison with the only folk and Baila bands that tour Australia which has a selective and separate following. Misty’s fabulous line-up has been a tight knit group of gifted musicians who have established and grown respect from the best in the business for their dedication and attention to delivery.
Led by Rajitha, leader and lead vocals, Udaya Welikala keyboardsand vocals, magical Dennis Perera on drums, Sanjeewa on bass and Sudath on lead and vocals form a formidable combination. Radika Rajavelu provides the female input into the vocal delivery that takes it to the next level and giving the band that extra impetus and allround compatibility.
Rajitha Rupesinghe was unquestionably emotional as he reflected on the band’s success on a global basis saying grabbing opportunity and making the most of is key to the band’s success.
He said that several sponsors that gave him and his band opportunity down under will remain in their memory beginning from Indran Niles, Malik Zaveer, Bertie Ekanaike and many others from Sri Lanka schools who kept their ongoing success something they will cherish.
Tributes flowed from Sri Lanka and around the globe from musicians who love and appreciate this popular set-up.
From Melbourne, it came from touring leader of the Gypsies Piyal Perera, former Misty bassist Chris Mant who leads Melbourne band Cloud 9, female icons Noeline Honter and Alston Koch and Esric Jackson who have all had a part in their tours here.
Misty has every reason to celebrate their success and achievement over the last two decades and more. And doing it in Australia to celebrate a country that has given them due creedence and appreciation with their sponsors and selected fans will be an unforgettable celebration.
Unfortunately Anne and I are pre-commited to another event. But I’m sure it will surely be a night that will be memorable. Thanks for the music Rajitha and Misty. Looking forward to your continued success.
