East Indonesian Musicians Shine on the Global Stage! š®š©
Asik & Bikin Joget, Bos! Nagih~
Lately, there has been a surge in songs from the eastern part of Indonesia, starting from TikTok (the main driver, of course) and also national events. As a Papuan, I would like to share a bit about Papuaās musicians. The beginning of the rise of local pop music in this region can be traced back to the PON XX Papua event or PON Papua 2021.
The staging of PON Papua has been one of the biggest national openings, providing a platform for many local musicians to showcase their work. One of the most prominent figures in this scene is M.A.C (Music Anak Content). With extensive media exposure, various works by local Papuan musicians have gained traction and gone viral.
This is further on the rise with the opening of many new opportunities for musicians from the eastern regions to perform at larger events, such as the 78th Independence Day celebrations at Istana Merdeka, Jakarta in 2023.
Public Response?
The increasing virality of songs by musicians from Indonesiaās eastern regions has garnered a plethora of positive responses from the general public beyond Papua. Back in my school days in Papua, from elementary to high school, I had a close connection with local music. However, I often felt hesitant about admitting my fondness for reggae genres when it came to social gatherings.
Even when I first left Papua and began my college journey, I still didnāt have the confidence to listen to eastern Indonesian songs, largely due to the fact that many of my friends were immersed in international pop music. The songs by local musicians, especially those from the eastern parts of Indonesia, just didnāt seem to fit in.
But as time passed, I started paying more attention to their creative processes, dedicating time to listen to their works, and I discovered that they were truly remarkable ā in their own unique way. This distinctive identity turned out to be captivating and refreshing for many people in Indonesia, particularly within the entertainment industry.
On several occasions, as a running enthusiast, I decided to play Papuaās songs while running with my community. It turned out to be an incredibly enriching experience, as it allowed me to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region to a wider audience. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many finding the music both enjoyable and enlightening.
In a world saturated with global pop culture, the emergence of music from Indonesiaās eastern regions is not just about a shift in trends but also a celebration of diversity and a testament to the power of local artistry. It reminds us that every musical genre and every region has its unique charm, waiting to be appreciated and shared with the world.
Why Should We Be Proud?
Music scenes often originate in specific areas and then expand their reach. By supporting local bands and their burgeoning music scenes, you not only raise awareness about the genre but also provide these bands with the opportunity to thrive until the world is ready to embrace their music fully.
Furthermore, under the leadership of President Jokowi, the government has generously opened doors for the younger generation of Papua. PYCH (Papua Youth Creative Hub) has become a gathering place for thousands of inspirational young Papuans, not just hundreds. It is hoped that in the future, PYCH will become a driving force and a hub for nurturing exceptional talents in Papua, fostering the creativity of young Papuans, and strengthening the existing innovation system.
It is not out of the realm of possibility that in the future, there will be more government support for other cities to cultivate extraordinary talents that can make an impact on the international stage! š®š©
In essence, being proud of our local music and supporting budding artists not only showcases the rich diversity of Indonesia but also contributes to the growth of the nationās cultural and creative landscape. This support can propel our talented musicians onto the global stage, making their music resonate with audiences worldwide.
Need More Proof?
During the ASEAN Summit in 2023 held in Indonesia, many local musicians delivered astounding performances that had top government officials dancing with joy. One personal favorite of mine was the collaboration between Ryan Silet Open Up and Saykoji, where they performed the song āKaka Main Salah.ā
This remarkable display of talent not only showcased the vibrancy of Indonesiaās music scene but also highlighted the power of music to unite people from various backgrounds and bring joy even to the highest echelons of society. Such moments serve as compelling evidence of the influence and potential of local musicians, underlining the importance of supporting and celebrating their contributions to our cultural tapestry.
Listen and feel the vibes of eastern reggae pop music on the international stage! Itās incredibly enjoyable, and it has the power to make everyone want to dance.
Letās create a challenge. If you find yourself nodding along and itching to groove to the music, give this article a āclapsā, and share this video with your closest friends to let them experience the regional music performed at the ASEAN Summit in 2023! šŗš¼šš»
How Can We Support Them?
Local artists are some of the most passionate individuals youāll ever encounter. They are driven by a desire to make their community proud through their creative work. They strive to ensure that their creations carry meaning and significance. Fortunately, supporting your local artists doesnāt have to be complicated or financially burdensome.
In todayās digital age, local musicians heavily rely on social media platforms for exposure and recognition. To effectively support your local artists:
- Share and Tag: When you come across music or artwork that resonates with you in your area, donāt hesitate to share it on your social media accounts. Make sure to tag the artist and mention the location. This simple act of sharing can introduce their work to a broader and potentially global audience.
- Follow and Amplify: Follow your local artists on their social media pages. This not only keeps you updated on their latest creations but also shows your support. When they share something captivating, take a moment to amplify their reach by sharing their posts with your friends. Your support can significantly enhance their online presence and contribute to their success.
Social media is a potent tool when used effectively. By supporting your local community, you play a vital role in nurturing the vibrancy of your town and helping these talented artists thrive. Every share counts, and collectively, they can make a substantial impact on the careers and recognition of these gifted individuals.
Thank you!
Your message would be my biggest encouragement! Iād be very happy to hear your stories and learn from you! Letās connect on LinkedIn.
Until then, take care of yourself, and stay safe! :)
