#SHOWBIZ: Dolla targets Japan after Paris conquest

HAVING taken Malaysian dance pop on a triumphant tour of Paris, best friends Sabrina Rusli, Angel Chai and Tabby Lam — better known as Dolla — have set their sights on conquering Japan.

While Paris was high on their bucket list, Tabby revealed that Tokyo remains their ultimate dream city.

"I'm a big anime fan, so is Angel. In fact, Japan has a thriving pop culture that extends not only into music but also cartoons, fashion and food. We can never get enough of Japan," she said.

Angel agreed: "Yes, Japan has so much to offer, and most of us had lots of exposure to Japanese creations, especially during childhood with cartoons such as 'Ultraman', 'Transformers' and 'G-Force'."

Sabrina, better known as Sabronzo, noted: "Each destination we go to has its specialty. For me it's either Japan or Thailand, because we've been exposed to the best of both our regional neighbours."

MAKING OF THE TRIO

The group was originally formed seven years ago alongside Syasya Rizal, who went solo two years ago.

Despite their close bond today, the girls admit they only met when Dolla was assembled in 2019.

"No, none of us were schoolmates or childhood friends. We all auditioned for a new all-girl pop group, and that's how we met and bonded," Tabby shared.

"It wasn't instant, it did take some time to get to know each other, but once we did, it was magically smooth sailing all the way," Sabrina recalled.

Angel added: "We did take some time to warm up, but it appears to have been written in the stars that we're all on the same music page or wavelength."

EARLY TALENT AND STAGE FEARS

All three were active in singing contests during their school days.

"Angel began performing at 10, while Tabby and I started earlier at 6. Having such early exposure helped us overcome shyness and develop confidence," Sabrina explained.

Beyond singing and dancing, Sabrina and Tabby also dabbled in acting.

"Acting is fun, but ultimately, singing and dancing are our forte!" said Tabby.

When asked about pre-show jitters, Angel said: "No, never. The stage always drives us."

Sabrina shared: "One of our biggest fears, mine especially, is getting pitchy and not doing my best."

"Me too. I'd call it missing the target I've set out to do, and that hurts me," Tabby added.

Angel also admitted to a fear of falling on stage: "It has happened to some of the best dance pop acts. Nevertheless, practice makes perfect. I do get embarrassed though."

INTERNATIONAL STAGES AND TRAVEL DREAMS

The trio were delighted to represent Malaysia at their first major overseas musical competition in Paris.

"Not only did we gain new fans, but we made lots of new friends too. Who knows, we may be working on international collaborations with some of them later," Angel noted.

Tabby added: "One of the participating groups we know best is the Thai pop group 4EVE. In fact, they've sometimes been called the Dolla girls of Thailand, as our music is infectious and our dance moves are swift and colourful."

During their time in France, they visited iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.

"The weather was really good when we were there. And while the city appears chaotic, there's something incredibly systematic about it. Best of all, it's richly historical, and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves there," Sabrina said.

Looking ahead, Rio De Janeiro tops their list of dream performance spots.

"Yes, Rio De Janeiro is one of our other dream cities," said Sabrina, whose family hails from Kelantan. She noted that Brazil appeals to them because "the people there love good music and having a great time."

STYLE AND INFLUENCES

The trio admitted they have always had an eye for fashion.

"To be honest, we were," said Sabrina when asked if they were always trendy. "We are the types of girls who like to keep up with the latest fashion."

Angel recalled: "During our teenage years, we wore the latest fashion trends, got hold of the latest popular artistes' songs, and even got acquainted with the latest movies, TV series and games."

Tabby added that keeping up with trends helped build their confidence: "It's not about keeping up but generally getting attuned to what people of our age group enjoy."

However, Sabrina noted that context is everything — especially when visiting her grandparents' East Coast home during Hari Raya, where being "a little less hot" was essential.

"As we always say, while in Rome, do as the Romans do. Nevertheless, my family members are absolutely OK with my style."

Musically, their inspirations span local and international icons. Angel counts One Direction and Girls' Generation among her top influences.

"I learnt to speak Korean because of Girls Generation. I still love them very much," she said. She is also a keen listener of Yuna.

Sabrina drew inspiration from the Pussycat Dolls: "They were the definition of hot and charismatic women entertainers with loads of confidence."

She also cites Zee Avi as a major influence.

Tabby, a dedicated BTS fan, said: "I'm always proud to be in the Army."

She is also a fan of Ariana Grande and Aisha Retno.

Sabrina enthusiastically supported Tabby's praise for Aisha: "We're really proud of Aisha Retno. She's my 'rakan kampung' too, and oozes charisma and showmanship. She really deserves all the accolades."

While personal tastes vary — Tabby loves R&B, while Angel enjoys jazz — dance pop remains their common ground.

"Each of us has her own musical tastes, but dance pop is our one unifying factor," Sabrina said.

HIDDEN TALENTS AND LOOKING AHEAD

Beyond pop stardom, the members harbour surprising background talents.

Angel used to play the guzheng, Sabrina was a national tennis player, and Tabby was a dog handler in national-level dog shows.

Had they not pursued music, Tabby would have become a psychologist, while Angel dreamed of opening a restaurant featuring fish foot therapy.

"Entertaining has always been my dream, even though at one time I wanted to be a successful athlete," Sabrina reflected.

What comes next for Dolla?

"There'll definitely be a new album, and we're busy curating it at the moment," Sabrina confirmed.

"We all hope young Malaysians love it. And we'll be performing in more showcases too," Tabby said.

Angel added: "If all goes well, a nationwide tour is likely in the pipeline."

As for non-negotiable items they pack for every concert?

"Perfume is a must for me," said Sabrina.

"My lipstick must never leave me," said Angel.

"And my ear pods, as these little friends help me relax and stay focused," Tabby smiled.