Iwan Fals Remembers the Beginning of His Music Career, From Street Performing & Songs Played on the Radio to Becoming a Big Name

Kapanlagi.com - Singer Iwan Fals, whose real name is Virgiawan Listanto, began his music career at the age of 18 with the band Amburadul. Although his first album, 'Perjalanan' (1979), did not achieve success, his passion for creating never faded. Iwan Fals recalls the early days of his career as a musician that started from a campus radio station at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB).

Before becoming widely known as he is today, his songs were often played on 8EH Radio, a community radio for ITB students. He continued to create songs that reflected social and political life, especially in the 1970s and 1980s.

1. Unexpectedly, His Music Was Accepted

Iwan Fals' music is also a blend of various genres, ranging from pop, rock, country, to folk pop. His lyrics tell stories that are close to the everyday lives of the people, making him a respected social critic. With each song, Iwan Fals not only sings but also conveys deep messages to his listeners.

Iwan Fals recounted that ITB students often played his songs during their night broadcasts. At that time, he was still busking, and he never expected his music to find a place among the students of that campus.

2. Revealing the Story of Songs Played on the Radio

Instagram/iwanfals

"So, the ITB students would play the radio at night. I was busking back then, and the kids liked my songs. They took them and played them there," said Iwan Fals in the Fatmawati area, South Jakarta, on Wednesday (26/2/2025).

Not only was it played on the radio, but he was also often invited to sing live on campus. Some of his songs were recorded there and became increasingly known among the students.

"Later, I would be called to sing there to accompany the kids studying until my songs were recorded," he said.

3. Soaring Popularity

His popularity did not stop in Bandung. Thanks to 8EH Radio ITB, his talent began to be heard all the way to Jakarta. This prompted Bambang Bule to come directly to Bandung to offer him a recording opportunity. The legendary singer, born on September 3, 1961, did not miss this chance.

"That radio 8EH ITB, I don't know if it still exists or not. That's where it all started, from the radio," he revealed.

Since then, the name Iwan Fals has grown larger, becoming one of Indonesia's legendary musicians. Now, with various works that are still enjoyed across generations, he is known as an irreplaceable music icon.

4. Remarkable Achievements and Recognition

Instagram/iwanfals

Iwan Fals' achievements are outstanding. He was once named one of 'The Immortals: 25 Greatest Indonesian Artists of All Time' by Rolling Stone Indonesia magazine. In 2002, Time magazine even named him a Great Asian Hero, an award that reflects his influence in the Asian music scene.

5. Collaboration with Young Musicians

In recent years, Iwan Fals has shown that the spirit of creativity knows no age. He often collaborates with young musicians, creating fresh and relevant songs for the current generation. Some of his songs have become exclusive collections for fans, not sold freely, adding to the appeal and exclusivity of his work.

6. A Loyal Fanbase

Iwan Fals' fans, known as OI (Orang Indonesia), form a very large and loyal community. The Orang Indonesia Foundation that he established serves as a platform for fans to gather and share their love for his music. Now, the foundation is managed by his wife under the auspices of PT. Tiga Rambu, preserving the spirit and legacy that Iwan Fals has built over the years.

7. An Unforgettable Journey

Every step in Iwan Fals's career is an unforgettable story. From busking on the streets to performing in large stadium concerts, every moment is part of his life journey. He always remembers where he came from and strives to remain humble despite having reached the peak of success.

(kpl/far/fbi)