IT is not easy for a new song to be accepted by all segments of society, let alone one by newcomers.
However, pure luck and God-given talent have allowed the latest pop duet 'OMK' (Oh My Kadhale) by new singers Ezra Kairo and Zubir Khan to hit more than 1.7 million views in just three weeks.
The catchy and melodious number has also been trending at number one on the YouTube video music chart since its May 17 release on all digital music platforms.
Most importantly, OMK — which combines the Malay and Tamil pop genres — has had more than 400,000 listeners on Spotify to date.
Ezra or Daniel Ezra Mohd Shafiq Nickleson, 23, who is under EMI Music Malaysia (EMI), admitted in a recent interview to being very happy and moved by the response from music lovers, who have hailed his single as a "new musical gem".
"This song was created by composer Mingaling and is written in Tamil and Malay.
"It tells the heartwarming story of a young man who loves his girlfriend very much and tries his best to make her happy despite the many obstacles he faces," he said at a press conference to celebrate the song's success.
"To be honest, I am very proud to have delivered a lovely song that unites Malaysians of various races in the spirit of Bangsa Malaysia."
Ezra's duet partner, Zubir, who is of Indian Muslim descent, is known for writing, composing and singing catchy songs such as 'Anak Helang' and 'Kinrara'.
Zubir, 24, sees the success of 'OMK' as a blessing from God.
"This song is one of those rare tunes fusing Malay and Tamil culture that has successfully topped the local music charts.
"It is special and unique to me because it has received a warm welcome from Indians, Chinese, Malays and the Bumiputera of Sarawak and Sabah — in other words, all Malaysians.
"Hopefully, this song can inspire more young Malaysians of various races and backgrounds to aim high in life," he said, adding that he is not under any record label.
The talented singer and composer lost his right hand in an accident at the age of 4.
In 2017, he started gaining attention through his Tamil cover songs.
In addition to 'OMK', Zubir has six other Tamil compositions, namely 'Thevadhai', 'Nenji Yenguthu', 'Marainthe Uyire', 'Soga Kathai', 'Per Yenne Solle' and 'Yennode Macha'.
His music videos have garnered millions of views on YouTube.
Meanwhile, EMI head Adib Hamdi said since its relaunch a year ago, EMI has achieved success that contributes to a larger strategic vision.
"This early achievement is expected to pave the way for greater success in future.
"After 'OMK', EMI will be in a better position and we are confident that this will drive more success and make our company a leader in the country's music market," he added.