“This is a selection of songs that soundtrack my Raya. They hold the ache of distance, the comfort of tradition, the thrill of dressing up, and the quiet reflections in between. I hope they feel like home to you, wherever you are.”

Tan Sri P. Ramlee – Jeritan Batinku
I imagine this to be a co-dependent, unmarried lover’s lament when they have to balik kampung on the other end of the country, physically separating themselves from their lover for a bit for Raya.

Sheila Majid – Tiba Hari Raya
I grew up with sad Raya classics, so this particular one from Sheila Majid makes me want to move and feel good in my baju Raya.

Tan Sri P. Ramlee – Dendang Perantau
My family’s Raya mornings have to start with this song, and I usually hear it being played a few times throughout the day, usually between stuffing our faces with amazing Raya food. A classic for a reason.

Ruffedge – Sendaloka Hari Raya
This is a fun one. How often do you hear Lebaran framed in an early 2000s R&B track?


Hamid Al Shaeri
- Ouda
This song reminds me of the nostalgia you feel towards better days. Sang in Arabic, Hamid describes  feeling abandoned in a strange, turbulent time, searching for a lost love and a past sense of belonging. The parallel I feel is how Lebaran can also be a reflective time for people.

Oklou, underscores – harvest sky
It’s going to be my first time celebrating Raya in the city this year – so I’m expecting to see more of my friends – and this song will definitely be playing in the car otw to their open houses!

Madonna – What It Feels Like
I feel dramatic when this song plays in the background as my sisters and I get ready during Raya morning. 

Afiq Not Nice, Lunadira
- DOGS
Great theme song when you’re rolling out with your friends in your Raya garb.

Joey Cash – lose control
Raya can be an intense time for certain people, so if music can be a sense of release in between moments – this would be the song.

Nemahsis
- stick of gum
A love letter to heritage and resilience.

Check out the rest of Lunadira‘s pick over on our Apple Music Curator profile.