We’ve all seen how the internet loves to mash up old traditions with modern memes, and the latest viral hit? A gamelan performance from Sabah that does just that.
A group of students decided to take their classical music session and give it an unexpected, meme-worthy twist—and TikTok is loving it.
The 16-second clip, which has reached 11.3 million views at the time of writing, starts off pretty normally with the students playing a peaceful, zen-like beat on their gamelan instruments.
But just when you think you’re in for a full traditional performance, one student drops the viral phrase, “Yo phone linging, yo phone linging,” right after the gong sounds.
If you’re familiar with the meme, you know it’s a ringtone where someone with an exaggerated accent shouts “Yo phone linging!”—a sound that’s often used in funny or chaotic videos across TikTok and YouTube.
This sound meme has become popular for its humorous and exaggerated tone, with creators using it in everything from missed phone calls to chaotic situations.
It’s been a staple on TikTok, often showing up in comedic skits where a phone is ringing off the hook. And now? It’s made its way into a traditional gamelan performance, to the delight of viewers.
The comments section was full of fans loving the unexpected mashup:
“Stop, I need this as a ringtone!”
“This makes me want to play gamelan again.”
“That ending was so perfect.”
Speaking to WeirdKaya, the video’s creator Haiqal (@hai._q) explained how the viral moment came about:
“We were experimenting with a new music score for the gamelan ensemble, Little Emperor. But when we played it on the gamelan, one part of the song sounded really familiar.At first, I didn’t notice, but then one of my friends recognised that particular part, and that’s when we came up with the idea to record it. I posted it for fun and was shocked when it went viral!”
Turns out, this isn’t just a one-off performance—Haiqal and his team are part of the best gamelan group in their region (Sabah, Sarawak, Labuan) and have already snagged a 1st Silver Award at the HKSBP Gamelan competition.
They’ve got their eyes on the Gold next year, so clearly, they’re not just about memes!
We wish nothing but the best to Haiqal and the team!
Watch the clip here:
