Rangga Bantaeng: Initially Pop, Then Fond of Dangdut in D'Academy 8

The journey of Rangga Bantaeng on the D'Academy 8 stage continues until the Top 42 round. This 15-year-old teenager from Bantaeng Regency, South Sulawesi, is now focused on competing, even though he initially did not grow up in the realm of dangdut. Before stepping onto the competition stage, the genre he practiced was actually pop, while his interest in dangdut came later.

"Actually, Rangga's genre is pop, but suddenly I like dangdut because I saw Kak Afan earlier," said Rangga when met at the Emtek Indosiar Studio on Tuesday (21/7/2026).

Rangga mentioned Afan, a graduate of Dangdut Academy 5, as the figure who encouraged him to confidently try his luck in D'Academy. He began to enjoy dangdut after watching Afan's performance, although he had been singing dangdut himself since he was in the 2nd grade of elementary school.

1. From Pop to Dangdut: Afan Becomes the Catalyst

Rangga began his interest in music from the pop genre. However, after watching Afan's performance, an alumnus of Dangdut Academy 5, his interest shifted. He considered that moment to be the catalyst for getting closer to the dangdut stage and trying the competition route.

Although his initial focus was pop, Rangga mentioned that he had been singing dangdut since the 2nd grade of elementary school. This early singing practice became a foundation when he started to seriously pursue the dangdut path in his teenage years. This shift in interest coincided with his increasing confidence to perform on big stages.

Afan's influence is also related to his decision to register for D'Academy 8. That encouragement made him determined to audition, and he eventually passed and stayed in the Top 42, an achievement he acknowledges is not separate from the long process since he first learned to sing.

2. Goals on Stage and Hopes for Family

Not just competing, Rangga carries a personal mission in D'Academy 8. He wants to elevate his family's status through this event. This desire shapes his big target: to strive to become the champion on that dangdut competition stage.

Rangga also expresses his gratitude for breaking into the Top 42. He appreciates the support from the team and coach, whom he feels have guided him well during the quarantine process and preparation for performances. That support has been part of his journey so far.

"Rangga feels grateful, Alhamdulillah, to have reached this point, and definitely, his parents are proud to see Rangga stepping on the D’Academy 8 Indosiar stage," he stated.

3. Habits During Quarantine: Maintain Vocal and Eating Patterns

During the quarantine period, Rangga rearranges his daily habits to keep his performance optimal. He applies discipline to maintain the quality of his voice, including regulating his intake and establishing a more orderly routine compared to when he was at home.

One of the habits he now practices is regularly drinking warm water. Additionally, he reduces spicy and oily foods. This step is taken as part of his efforts to maintain his body and vocal condition ahead of performing on the D'Academy 8 stage.

"The routine is diligently drinking warm water and reducing spicy and oily foods. Yes, at home, I used to enjoy them. So, Rangga changes everything at the dormitory," he explained.

This change in daily patterns is part of his adaptation while staying in the quarantine dormitory. With this adjustment, Rangga hopes to deliver consistent performances at every opportunity he gets.