Tohpati has brought new life to “Semusim,” a song that Marcell originally popularized in 2003 and one that became an anthem for heartbroken listeners.
Now, 22 years later and nearing the end of 2025, audiences can enjoy a fresh remake of the track.
He rearranged the song and invited Nadhif Basalamah to take on the vocals.
This new version will also serve as the opening track of Tohpati’s upcoming album project.
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Why Tohpati Chose “Semusim”?
Tohpati’s interest in remaking “Semusim” grew from his curiosity about how the classic hit would sound with a modern touch.
He wondered how a song from the early 2000s might feel if a young singer performed it with today’s musical style.
This idea pushed him to create a fresh arrangement.
When discussing vocalists with the label, WeCord Indonesia, Nadhif’s name came up.
Tohpati felt that Nadhif’s tone and musical character matched the emotional weight of “Semusim,” making him the right collaborator.
Although “Semusim” became the lead single of the album rollout, Tohpati explained that the choice happened naturally.
Out of the ten tracks prepared, “Semusim” happened to be the most ready for release.
With Nadhif’s availability and the recording timeline lined up, the team moved forward with this song.
The only significant challenge was aligning schedules between Nadhif and the string players, a process that took two months.
Even so, Tohpati appreciated that the overall production lasted only about a week.
Nadhif’s involvement gives the remake a tone that differs greatly from Marcell’s version.
His vocal quality brings a gloomy and slightly mysterious atmosphere, creating a unique timbre that shifts the song into a new emotional space.
The production also offers major changes.
The updated arrangement uses modern sounds and a more dynamic structure.
He noted that the new version reaches its climax in the final chorus, while the older one felt more linear.
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Future Projects Ahead
Looking ahead, the musician has already prepared several more releases for his album project.
After “Semusim,” the next single will be “Cinta Kita,” performed by Fabio Asher and planned for release in January.
Two additional songs are already ready for recording, making up part of the ten tracks on the album.
Tohpati hopes younger listeners will connect with this remake and enjoy the songs that will follow.
Listeners can stream the new version of “Semusim” on digital music platforms starting November 21, 2025.
