Iwan Fals Releases Red And White Song On Indonesian Independence Day

Iwan Fals (Photo: ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Legendary musician Iwan Fals released a song titled Merah Putih on Tuesday, August 17, to coincide with the 76th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia. This song is the second single from the latest album that is being prepared. Through Merah Putih, Iwan Fals celebrates the condition of Indonesia today which is full of dynamics.

"Indonesia, yes Indonesia. Red and White, Pancasila, the Republic of Indonesia with all its history, both modern and past," said Iwan Fals in a press release received by ANTARA, Tuesday, August 17.

“Indonesia continues to move, continues to process. It's like a combination of melody and poetry in the context of music," he continued.

Telling stories about Indonesia through songs and melodies is nothing new for the 59-year-old musician. Now through “Red and White”, he invites Indonesian listeners to act in the midst of a fast-moving era.

"Come on, come on, we're harmonious, don't disturb each other. Realizing that we are all waiting for death. But, don't give up. We're just happy to wait for it to come while continuing to be productive. Because we have the next generation,” said Iwan.

“Life is like throwing a glass on a tile, the shards never know where it will go. The art is there," he added.

“Red and White” features Iwan Fals' signature sounds that fans have been familiar with for generations, including vocals that dive sharply to high notes, harmonics that have been the key to several legendary hits, and contemplative lines full of meaning.

However, this time there was something interesting, namely the song “Red and White” recorded with the main instrument of the piano for the first time.

“Actually, the piano has been around for a long time, but mostly in concerts, not on recordings. Have played with Iwang Noorsaid, Bagus AA. If you record it right away, it's only now,” said the musician, who is known for the song "Vice of the People".

Merah Putih was recorded live and involved piano player Otta Tarega. The idea for this duet came from the producer duo Rambu Cikal and Lafa Pratomo.

“Because it's just the two of us, so it's wider, more can be done. Many are empty frequency, can be filled with each other. We are more free to communicate, more independent," said Iwan.