Ruth Sahanaya Releases Mini Album 'Merindu', A Special Gift for Her 60th Birthday

Kapanlagi.com - Pop diva Ruth Sahanaya officially launched her latest mini album titled "Merindu". This solo music project marks the diva's return after about eight years without releasing a full album. The launch of this mini album feels very special as it coincides with Ruth Sahanaya's 60th birthday celebration in September 2026. The singer, affectionately known as Uthe, considers this work a gift to herself and a remedy for her longing to create again.

"This album means a lot to me, as it is also a birthday gift for my 60th birthday this September. Moreover, I haven't released an album in 8 years, so I have really missed being able to produce new work," said Ruth Sahanaya when met in the SCBD area, Jakarta, Tuesday (01/09/2026).

1. Bringing the Vibe of City Pop Music from the 1980s

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Although bringing a more modern musical color and following current trends, Uthe does not want to lose her identity as a pop singer. The vocal identity that has been ingrained for four decades of her career remains the main foundation in every song on this album. The management ensures that the musical exploration in this mini album still stands on the original character of Ruth Sahanaya. This is done so that long-time listeners can still feel the distinctive touch of the pop diva.

"Because there has to be an identity of me from before, that has to remain in the EP Merindu," said Uthe. This mini album also presents a city pop vibe reminiscent of the 1980s, which is currently being favored again by young music listeners. Ruth Sahanaya takes this moment as an opportunity to step out of her comfort zone and try a musical style she has never explored before.

2. Becoming a Space to Explore New Music Colors

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Uthe wants her latest work to become a space for honest exploration in accordance with the feelings she is experiencing now. She hopes her courage to try something new can bring freshness to the music industry in the country. "I want this EP to be a space for me to explore, to try new colors of music that I have never ventured into before, but still with the stories and honest feelings from me," she said.

For her, the ability to remain liked by all age groups is a significant achievement in her career journey. She continues to strive to provide musical colors that can be widely accepted regardless of the age of her listeners. "Actually, this album is more of a challenge for me, how I, at my current age and after 40 years of creating, can still provide musical colors that can be enjoyed by all generations, everyone, and all ages," she explained.

3. Mini Album 'Merindu' Can Be Enjoyed from Various Platforms

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Of the six songs available, the song titled "Aku Tak Sanggup" stands out as it showcases high vocal techniques. In the production process, Ruth Sahanaya collaborated with several talented young musicians such as Kelvin Joshua, Farel Hilal, and guitarist Koko.

The mini album "Merindu" has been available on all digital music streaming platforms since September 4, 2026. In addition to the digital format, Ruth Sahanaya is also preparing a physical release in the form of limited edition vinyl records and Live Session content on YouTube.

(kpl/far/fbi)