In the 1960s, the musical stylings of “The Quests” reigned supreme in Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong, surpassing even international superstars like The Beatles. The front man of the band, Chong Chow Pin, known to most as “Jap”, enjoyed a loyal fan base that stayed with him through the years.
Despite their later success, the band had an innocuous beginning. Members Raymond Leong, Lim Wee Guan, Henry Chua commented that the formation of “The Quests” was largely the brainchild of Jap himself. With his passion for music and his charisma, Jap successfully persuaded his friends to join the band. The quirky name of the band can be traced back into the school days of Jap and fellow band member Raymond. Both students at the former Queenstown Secondary Technical School, they derived the...
In the 1960s, the musical stylings of “The Quests” reigned supreme in Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong, surpassing even international superstars like The Beatles. The front man of the band, Chong Chow Pin, known to most as “Jap”, enjoyed a loyal fan base that stayed with him through the years.
Despite their later success, the band had an innocuous beginning. Members Raymond Leong, Lim Wee Guan, Henry Chua commented that the formation of “The Quests” was largely the brainchild of Jap himself. With his passion for music and his charisma, Jap successfully persuaded his friends to join the band. The quirky name of the band can be traced back into the school days of Jap and fellow band member Raymond. Both students at the former Queenstown Secondary Technical School, they derived the band’s name from the schools monthly newsletter.
What is perhaps most impressive is the fact that none of the members, Jap included, were naturally talented musicians. In fact band member Henry Chua only learnt how to play the bass guitar at the behest of Jap. Their success was a product of hard work, commitment and an enduring perseverance. It is widely known that the band practiced tirelessly, perfecting their art over many sleepless nights. Working their way from simple gigs to talent competitions, they honed their skills for years before landing a contract with EMI. Their first single “Shanty” plucked them from relative obscurity and made them a household name. Further hits such as “Jesamine” and “Gallopin” ensured they became mainstays in the music scene of the 1960s, even inspiring a TV show in Hong Kong.
Jap’s devotion to their music was palpable even in recent years when the band reunited for Queenstown Secondary School’s 60th anniversary in 2013. In spite of his ailing health, he insisted that the band practice diligently to ensure that their comeback gig was nothing short of stellar, and “The Quests” certainly did not disappoint.
Jap passed away on 2nd March 2014 after battling various heart and kidney ailments. He was 71. He was the oldest of five siblings and was twice divorced. His daughter Renee and his grandson survive him. Many mourn the loss of such a charismatic and ebullient individual, nevertheless his spirit will continue to live on through his music.
Sources:
AsiaOne
http://news.asiaone.com/news/showbiz/jap-chong-was-showman-quests
Straits Times
http://stcommunities.straitstimes.com/music/2014/03/02/pioneer-musician-jap-chong-quests-dies-heart-attack
Today Online
http://www.todayonline.com/entertainment/music/rip-jap-chong?page=1
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