Zubir Said
- Born:
- 22 July 1907, Bukittinggi, Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia)
- Died:
- 16 November 1987, Singapore
- Nationality:
- Singaporean
- Profession(s):
- Composer, Musician
Early Life and Education
- Born into a Minangkabau family in Sumatra.
- Showed early aptitude for music, despite limited formal training.
- Received some training on traditional Indonesian instruments.
- Moved to Singapore in 1928, initially working in various jobs.
Career and Major Achievements
- Joined Cathay Organisation as a musician in the 1930s.
- Became a prominent figure in the Singaporean music scene.
- Best known for composing "Majulah Singapura", the national anthem of Singapore, officially adopted in 1965.
- Worked extensively with the Singapore Broadcasting Corporation (SBC).
- Received the Cultural Medallion in 1963 for his contributions to music.
Notable Works
- "Majulah Singapura" (National Anthem of Singapore)
- Numerous songs for Malay films.
- Compositions for the Singapore Broadcasting Corporation (SBC).
Legacy and Impact
Zubir Said's most enduring legacy is his composition of "Majulah Singapura", the national anthem. His work has had a profound and lasting impact on Singapore's national identity and cultural heritage. Many interested in the life and work of this great composer are often found discussing "zubir said biography books," in search of a deeper understanding of his journey.
List of Selected Compositions
| Title | Notes |
|---|---|
| Majulah Singapura | National Anthem of Singapore |
| Semoga Bahagia | Popular children's song |
| Orang Singapura | Patriotic Song |