Remembering the Struggle with the Late Glenn Fredly, Tompi Reveals That Royalty Issues Have Never Changed

Unfortunately, their struggle at that time did not yield the expected results. He and Glenn had to return empty-handed without any concrete solutions offered. "Yeah, it's the same, we come back with the same old story, no changes, you know," said Tompi.

Tompi then explained again what the initial aspirations of the musicians were, including Glenn Fredly, when fighting for performance rights. According to him, the main goal is the welfare of the artists, where music works can become valuable assets.

"Well, actually, in the end, this is a matter of welfare, you know. How music should be a commodity that can be considered as wealth. Yes, a painter can sell their paintings, it can support them, you know. Musicians, their songs, you know," he explained.

He dreams of an ecosystem where a song can continue to provide economic value for its creator, even after the creator is gone. However, this has not yet materialized because the existing system is inadequate.

"How is it that a song, even though the person is no longer there, the work is still listened to continuously, there should be an economic value that can continue like that. Well, that hasn't, what should I call it? A proper way to measure, quote, and share until now," said Tompi.

When asked if this means there is something deviating from the original ideals of establishing LMK, Tompi firmly agreed. He feels there is a deviation, whether in terms of the professionalism of the institution or its objectives. "Yes. Yes. Whether it's from a professional standpoint of the institution or from its objectives," he said.

Although feeling frustrated with the situation, he still sees new hope with the involvement of the DPR. He fully supports the audit steps instructed by the representatives. "It seems like it's about time. From what I've heard, the DPR has instructed for an audit, right?" he said.

With the presence of a new formulation team involving various parties from the music industry, Tompi hopes that the struggle he once initiated with Glenn Fredly can find a bright spot. He wants a fair and transparent system to be realized soon. "Yes, the hope is that the system will be resolved. A humane system, resolved, with clear calculations," he concluded.