It Turns Out That Iwan Fals Was Frustrated At The Beginning Of The Pandemic, Unable To Pay The Crew

JAKARTA - The COVID-19 pandemic, which has lasted for almost two years, has left many people feeling frustrated, hopeless, discouraged and stressed, including legendary musician Iwan Fals. The period of social restrictions made many musical events abandoned, music stages were automatically removed to prevent spread and crowds.

This has an effect on musicians' income which is much reduced compared to before the pandemic, even a few who have been forced to lay off backstage workers because there is no income.

This fact had made Iwan discouraged. He also had to give up part of his music crew because of the small amount of work that came during the pandemic.

"There was a period of time, yes, until my band disbanded, production, crew, I was not strong enough to pay for it all," said Iwan, quoted from ANTARA, Friday, September 17.

Iwan said he couldn't stop his music workers from continuing to come with him, because some had to continue to earn a living for their families. The "Congratulations" singer admits that he only retains a few employees to take care of musical instruments.

"Only a few were maintained to maintain the equipment or my crew directly, the rest disbanded. Yes, it's frustrating, the stage at home can also rust, the sound (sound system) too, but it's heated. It's really frustrating," said the album owner. " that.

However, the man who was born on September 3, 1961 still thinks positively to face the COVID-19 pandemic. He is sure that the frustration and discouragement he feels is not only felt by himself but also by the entire world population.

Iwan also took many lessons from the pandemic, including getting to know his home better and being closer to his family. Because all this time, all family members have their own busy lives.

"If not, right, when he goes everywhere he breaks up. He met him on his cellphone, now he is going home, he is also aware of his health," said Iwan.

However, Iwan Fals got up, coinciding with his birthday on September 3, Iwan Fals released a new album entitled "Pun Aku". This song contains 12 songs and previously released three singles as an opening, namely "16/01", "Red and White" and "Congratulations".

This album feels very special and personal because it was produced by his son Cikal Rambu and the drum part is filled by his youngest son Raya Rambu. Although the production process was carried out during the pandemic, Iwan admitted that there were no obstacles and that it was running smoothly.

The music video for the song "Congratulations" was also made during the pandemic and took place at his residence. This video involves his wife, Rosanna and Iwan's two children showing the intimacy between them.

There are also memorable photos, Iwan's daily activities and footage of Iwan's musical journey before. Iwan admitted that the video clip this time felt different because he had to follow health protocols.

"PCR, especially before filming, must have a protocol, everything that works is as effective as possible, then you have to check your health first, make sure you're healthy, it's denser now," said Iwan Fals.