Yousuf Rowther Rajid Ahamed and Rajid Ahamed Yousuf Arafat (aka Yung Raja)
Yousuf Rowther Rajid Ahamed:
My son was born when I was at the age of 47. Since we moved to Singapore in 1992, I have been a private tutor. As someone that has worked with kids and young adults a lot as a tutor, I came to take note of some extraordinary talent and desire in my son. At the age of 6, he wanted to act in a TV drama. He always looked for the opportunity. He had a few chances as well. In Secondary School, he hosted a big event which drew a lot of support from the staff and the principal. He was always interested in hosting events, public speech, dance and rap music. He systematically planned his career and worked on it. He never allowed diversions from the target he aimed for.
He googled up the artists in that field, learnt their life stories and started learning about what it takes to become the man he had always wished to be - an artiste. I always supported him. I never pressured him to be top in class or school. I just advised him to do what is useful for the future. Though he was eligible to go for JC, he opted for Mass Communication at Ngee Ann Poly. I did not stand in his way.
In National Service, he got into a Music and Drama Company. He was asked to host mega events with Cabinet Ministers, and sometimes with the President and Prime Minister. I realised his potential, and started to support him on all his endeavours. He had a few chances to act in small roles, TV dramas, and films as well. He somehow developed a few interests in hip-hop music and got the support of rappers and record label executives to guide him. He got it as well and we live a legacy.
He always wished to put his academics in the back seat just to have more time to develop his skills in music. The first rap song he posted on Youtube drew unexpected views. He developed a strategy to care for his own love in the industry with a unique style. At home, we speak only Tamil without mixing English. We live a legacy.
He is also good in Tamil. He wanted to be a bilingual rapper, so that he can represent Singapore as well as the family culture and tradition. I am always proud of my son. He is very affectionate to his siblings, and always takes care of me. He has participated in National Day parade thrice and also many events conducted overseas by Singapore Tourism Board. My son and I understand each other very well and we live to always fulfil each other’s needs and wishes. We live a legacy.
Rajid Ahamed Yousuf Arafat (Yung Raja):
Since I was a kid, My dad has always given me the utmost freedom to be in tune with my passions. I remember as early as 7 years old, he’d actively take me to classes/workshops/competitions that align with my spirit.
With this unwavering support & encouragement from home, I never once was pressured to conform to his ideals, which I’m truly grateful for because I was allowed to be myself. Given the age gap of almost 50 years, I understand it can be challenging for him to know my world. He always did his best.
When I was 17, right after ‘O’ Levels, everyone in my family asked me to go for AJC. But my dad has always given me autonomy to decide, and always told me to do what I love. That led me to Ngee Ann Poly, Mass Communication, a course I’ve always wanted to join.
When I started pursuing music, I received nothing but unconditional love & support. Never once did he dampen my spirit. For a Tamilan, Asian, traditional father, he constantly fanned my flames. Even though my dad didn’t understand Hip Hop music, he only focused on the fact that it spoke to my soul.
I wonder where, or what I’d be if I didn't have such a remarkably inspiring & motivating father. These are aspects of my childhood & upbringing that I cherish deeply and be forever grateful for… As I know that I'm blessed. 3 cheers to my dad, a true king!
