Syafiq DA 8 Has Been Singing Dangdut Since the Age of 4, Idolizes Fildan

Kapanlagi.com - Muhammad Syafiq's journey to the D'Academy 8 stage actually started when he was still a toddler. The contestant from Nunukan, North Kalimantan, admitted that he had known dangdut music since he was just four years old.

The song "Begadang" by Rhoma Irama was the first song he learned. From there, his love for dangdut continued to grow, eventually leading him to become one of the participants in D'Academy 8.

"Since I was 4 years old. The song Begadang, I remember it well from Haji Rhoma Irama," said Syafiq when met at Studio 5 Emtek City, West Jakarta, on Friday (3/7/2026).

1. After a Break, D'Academy 7 Becomes a Source of Motivation

Syafiq Dangdut Academy 8 wearing black pants © KapanLagi.com/Budy Santoso

Although he has loved dangdut since childhood, Syafiq admitted that he had left the music world while in junior high and high school. He only regained his enthusiasm after witnessing the excitement of D'Academy season seven.

"Honestly, I had stopped playing music and singing dangdut in junior high and high school. But because of the recent euphoria from DA 7, I have the intention to rise again and learn dangdut," he said.

The decision to return to practice eventually led him to pass into D'Academy 8 and have the opportunity to perform on the national stage.

2. Admiring Fildan and Valen

In music, Syafiq admits to having two role models, namely Fildan and Valen. Both are alumni of D'Academy who, according to him, possess vocal quality and musicality that inspire.

"My idols are definitely Kak Fildan and Kak Valen. Because Kak Fildan has a great voice and is also talented in music. Likewise, Kak Valen, his dynamics are really good and his music is solid," he said.

Now, Syafiq carries great hopes from his family and the people of Pulau Sebatik. He hopes to deliver his best performance while also bringing pride to his region in the D'Academy 8 event.

"Of course, I am surprised, emotional, and also carrying a very big hope and trust for me to bring honor to my region," he concluded.

(kpl/far/phi)