{
  "id": 11097525,
  "title": "#SHOWBIZ: 50 years on the Radha, Malaysia's evergreen 'Black Stallion' of entertainment",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/01/showbiz-50-years-on-the-radha-malaysias-evergreen-black-stallion-of",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-01T03:00:29.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/groove/2026/10/1545202/showbiz-50-years-radha-malaysias-evergreen-black-stallion"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A. Radha Krishnan, a veteran singer, radio announcer, and master of ceremonies, remains a beloved figure in Malaysia's entertainment scene for many who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s. Known as the \"Black Stallion\" for his ability to mimic fast-talking turf commentators and galloping steeds, Radha's high-energy stage presence transcends singing, performing comedy, presenting radio shows, and hosting live events. Born in Sentul, Radha was immersed in music from a young age, listening to his father's bhajans (Hindu devotional hymns) and tuning into local groups like The Strollers and The Alleycats. His vocal skills were honed by singing along to Radio Malaya during his school days. After completing his Form 5 in 1970, Radha worked at the Employees Provident Fund while pursuing music at night. His big break came in 1972 when he opened for The Bee Gees at Stadium Negara, and a year later, he won Fanfare magazine's radio announcer competition in Singapore. Radha has had the privilege of performing alongside renowned artists such as Sir Cliff Richard, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones. He also hosted RTM's children's series, Jojo And Friends, and worked as a staff presenter for Radio 4 for 15 years. In 1977, Radha began a DJ stint at The Hobbit, incorporating horse-racing commentary into his sets, which led to his nickname, the \"Black Stallion.\" Radha continues to enjoy his career as a freelance emcee and stand-up comedian, expressing a desire to present the Best Comedian award at the Oscars someday.",
  "summary": "THE name A. Radha Krishnan might not immediately ring a bell for younger generations, yet for those who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s, the 75-year-old veteran singer, radio announcer, and master of ceremonies remains an indelible fixture of Malaysia’s entertainment landscape.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}