Sheikh Haikel is a busy man. Despite having started School of Music (SOM) with wife Annabelle Francis, the accomplished performing artist is also part of the permanent jury on Malaysia’s hit show Maharaja Lawak Mega, and just wrapped up his fourth studio album When in Doubt. This comes after the release of his single “Better than Yesterday” with Filipino pop star Yeng Constantino. Proceeds from “Better than Yesterday” — which while sung to the tune of romantic angst symbolises a beacon for the despairing — will be donated to victims of Typhoon Haiyan via the Singapore Red Cross.
What are some of the emotions you felt writing “Better than Yesterday”?
The team, which I must mention is made up of talented young individuals (Shorya Sharma, Samuel Requim and Rohaizad), and I shared one emotion: happiness. We also knew we wanted to make it better than ever before — that’s normal and everyone wants that.
What inspired you to write a song about this stage in a relationship?
It’s a stage we all go through. Mistakes are made, then forgiven. We want to be alone then we realise that two’s a company. The swings, the shifts. What we think is the end ends up leading to a new beginning. Then, we do it better!
What’s your relationship with Belle like?
Time is a thief when it comes to being with Belle. I want more and I want things to go slower. We’re having a good time together. She’s dangerous and that draws me like a moth is drawn to a flame. It’s all good!
What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done for love?
I would do anything and everything necessary. But let it be necessary. The necessary can be harder to do, but it’s what keeps it tight.
What are you like in an argument?
I always go into an argument knowing that I have to lose a few battles to win the war. And I’m the sort that rather wins the war. So I say sorry easy.
What was it like working with Yeng?
Yeng is fantastic; super talented and humble. ‘Nuff said. She’s got the bark and the bite.
If you could work with anyone else in the world, who would it be?
I’m happy to go with Erykah Badu, she’s the first person that came to mind. If I had to go more mainstream, I’d pick Miley. She’s so wrong, but oh so right!
How’s the songwriting process like for you?
Writing is fun, and it should be. If everything in life is OK, write. If not, don’t force it. I’ve got good people around me and I’m happy, so writing is a peaceful, pleasant process for me.
How do you make sure that in life, everyday is “Better than Yesterday”?
Do what you like and love what you do. I like love a lot. I like to feel love. I like to mend love. I love to make love. It’s nice. Having the School of Music is one huge way I make my life better than yesterday, because I’m also making others’ lives better than yesterday, everyday.
Any regrets?
My answer’s always the same: no. No regrets ever. If God were to ask me if I’d like to try someone else’s life, I’d say no. I’d do my life all over again exactly the same. Fo’ real.
When can we expect the music video for “Better than Yesterday”?
It’s out! Check it out, love to all.
You heard the man. Watch the music video for “Better than Yesterday” by Sheikh Haikel and Yeng Constantino below, and buy that (plus Haikel’s latest album!) on iTunes.
