Mouth machine

AS a child, Koujee (beatbox in Chinese) was very inclined to the background music of songs and he would mimic beats, rhythms and other unique sounds that pass through his ears.
Growing up, he showed a lot of interest in performing and would sign up for every opportunity that will place him on stage: storytelling contests and Sunday school dramas to learning magic tricks to impress his friends.
"My first beatboxing performance was back in Form 5. I really wanted to do something before I leave school so I marched up to my headmistress' room, all shy and anxious, to ask if I could perform for a school event.
"I was allowed to do it in the end, and even though I wasn't very good back then, the response was unforgettable. For a day, I was a superstar in school!" the 24-year-old recalled.
Since then, the Sri Petaling native said he has never stopped fervently praying for the next pass to perform. From performing for tuition centres, at shopping malls and corporate dinners, Koujee has since beatboxed in clubs and concerts in and outside of Malaysia.
The talented artiste is currently mentoring a six and 10-year-old too!
How did you know about beatboxing?
The first beatboxing video I saw was of Joseph Poolpo (French beatboxer extraordinaire) doing Michael Jackson's Billie Jean. I thought it was cool that you can create music with your mouth and without any instruments!
I used to spend an hour in the cyber café after school to listen and record beatboxing sounds on my mobile phone so I could practise at home.
What does your family think about your beatboxing career?
My family and relatives are very encouraging because it (beatboxing) is something new. But my late grandfather didn't understand what it is and he wanted me to pursue something "proper" like law or medicine.
He didn't see that I was passionate about beatboxing and doing well at it until he saw a newspaper article about me and that changed him.
One day, he handed me a Chinese classical music CD – I had once mimicked the erhu (two-stringed Chinese violin) to him – so I could understand it more. That gesture was very meaningful.
How do you usually prepare for a show?
I pray. Drink lots of warm water and stay away from spicy food and iced beverages. I like to have a quiet, alone time before the show to observe the stage and crowd and feel what I am going to do.
I take performance time seriously because it is my moment to shine. When I perform, I want to do my best interacting with and hyping my audience.
So which has been the most memorable performance so far?
The gig I did in Laos took me by surprise. Usually when I perform in Malaysia or elsewhere, I would have to do a lot of hyping up among the audience but that night, the Laotians pumped me up instead. They sang along to every song! I was very encouraged.
Who inspires you?
I don't want to name a few people or box up my inspirations because I believe there is something to learn from everyone's own uniqueness and identities. I learn something as long as there is value in it.
What do you hope to achieve as a beatboxer and performer?
I have started composing a few songs. I want to share not just an album but my experiences. My dream is to have my own concert, tour different countries and bring bigger joy to people.
TRIVIA
Beatboxing genres: Electronic, club beats, trap, dubstep and popular music

Favourite desserts: Cakes and chocolates

Best practice time: In the shower

Other hobbies: Drawing, making latte art and DIY crafts