Malaysian girl group Dolla are stepping up their international ambitions, with the trio set to perform at The A Festival in Paris, France, for two days from October 24.
Rather than dwell on the cancellation of their ‘Good Girls Gone Bad Live In Concert’ and the controversy surrounding their single ‘Question’, Tabby, Angel and Sabronzo are choosing to look ahead.
Their latest single, ‘G.O.A.T.’, featuring Thai rap icon F.Hero, marks a bold new chapter as they seek to expand their reach across Southeast Asia and eventually beyond.
Angelina Chai Ka Ying, better known as Angel, said breaking into overseas markets had been part of Dolla’s plans from the beginning.
“Dolla’s goal has always been to grow internationally as much as possible. For now, we see Southeast Asia as the next region for us to explore,” she said.
The Paris performance is a particularly meaningful opportunity for the group, who have long dreamed of performing abroad.
“Our international fans, or iDollas, often make dance videos using our songs and ask us to perform in their countries.
“So when the opportunity to perform in Paris finally came, we were incredibly excited. We hope to grow our fanbase in Europe too,” Angel said.
The trio also hope to embark on an international tour of their own in the future.
“Definitely,” they said when asked about the possibility.
Meanwhile, ‘G.O.A.T.’ was produced by Norwegian songwriter and producer Audun Agnar Guldbrandsen, who has worked on IVE’s ‘I AM’ and ‘Kitsch’. The track was co-written with Erika Dahlen, Amanda Liedberg, Stian Nyhammer Olsen and F.Hero.
The song explores self-confidence, courage and staying true to oneself while facing challenges.
Meanwhile, Tabitha Ariel Lam Lianne, known as Tabby, said the group’s move towards a more global sound had happened naturally.
“Rather than actively searching for a ‘global sound’, we are more focused on creating music that represents a new era and side of Dolla,” she said.
She added that F.Hero brought his own identity to the song rather than simply appearing as a featured artist.
“He even filmed his part of the music video in Thailand, and the result was amazing.”
Tabby said she would love to collaborate with Brazilian superstar Anitta, whose energy she feels would match Dolla’s.
“I would also love to work with international DJs and explore what Dolla could sound like in that space. There will definitely be more collaborations to come,” she said.
Despite their growing ambitions, the group remain mindful of the scrutiny faced by female performers over their image, appearance and personalities.
While admitting that criticism can sometimes affect their confidence, Dolla said they would not allow outside opinions to define them.
“We listen to our fans and take note of what they enjoy about our music and performances.
“At the same time, we want to remain true to ourselves. We want people to follow Dolla for who we really are, rather than a version shaped by other people’s opinions,” she said.
