Malaysian drummer dies after collapsing onstage during rock festival in Pahang
Raja Azreen Raja Talib, 56, had batttled heart issues and diabetes before his sudden death.
Veteran Malaysian drummer Raja Azreen Raja Talib, 56, passed away unexpectedly while performing at the Teruntum Rock Festival in Kuantan, Pahang on July 18. The musician had been battling heart issues and diabetes before his sudden demise during the band's Meditasi performance. Azreen collapsed onstage after only two songs, causing panic among the audience and crew.
Frontman Burn Daud immediately recognized the severity of the situation and carried the drummer backstage, where emergency services awaited. Meditasi had only rehearsed for three days before the festival, but drummer Azreen appeared well and even requested the band to wear all-black and continue the show regardless of circumstances.
Despite his recent diagnosis of diabetes, Azreen had been diligently managing his condition through diet. His older brother, Raja Azman, revealed that Azreen had been hospitalized twice in the months leading up to his death. The family and band were taken aback by the sudden nature of his passing, as he seemed healthy just prior to the festival.
Meditasi plans to honor Azreen's memory by continuing to perform together, as the drummer had emphasized, "the show must go on."
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