Wali Band and Its Success in Reaching International Level, Once Called Kitsch

Kapanlagi.com - Wali Band is one of the Indonesian music groups whose career journey is colorful. Formed in 1999 in Ciputat, South Tangerang, this band was initially often underestimated. The Malay pop music they carried was once labeled 'village-like', and many even mocked their style as being too traditional.

However, instead of giving in to criticism, Wali turned those jibes into fuel to continue creating and proving their existence in the domestic music industry.

Read more news about Wali Band at Liputan6.com.

1. Consistent

Slowly but surely, Wali's songs began to be accepted by the wider community. With simple yet impactful lyrics, and easy-to-follow musical arrangements, Wali has succeeded in creating works that are close to everyday life. Songs like Dik, Cari Jodoh, and Baik-Baik Sayang are examples of how they manage to touch the emotions of their listeners.

Their consistency in maintaining their musical character is the key to this success. Not tempted to change their identity for fleeting trends, Wali remains faithful to the musical style that has become their hallmark.

2. Carving Various Achievements

Wali Band © KapanLagi.com/Budy Santoso

Throughout their career journey, Wali has carved various achievements that prove they are not an ordinary band. In 2009, they received an award from the Anugerah Musik Indonesia (AMI) for the special category of RBT. A year later, they set a MURI Record because the songs Baik-Baik Sayang and Cari Jodoh were downloaded millions of times as personal ringtones.

Not stopping there, Wali's album 20.20, released in 2020, also won a Multi Platinum award after selling more than 600,000 copies in a short time. They have also brought home SCTV Music Awards in various categories.

3. Breaking into the International Market

Wali Band © instagram.com/bandwaliofficial

Now, Wali is not only a top band in Indonesia but is also starting to break into the international market. In commemoration of their 25 years of work, Wali is holding a tour titled Cari Jodoh in Asia. This tour takes them to several countries such as Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia (Jeddah).

In Tokyo, Japan, they even held two performances in one day due to the high enthusiasm of the audience. This tour is not only a celebration for Wali but also proof that Indonesian music can resonate on the international stage.

4. Memorable Songs

Wali Band © instagram.com/bandwaliofficial

The success of Wali did not come instantly. There are many factors that have allowed them to endure and continue to grow. One of them is their simplicity in making music. Their song lyrics are easy to remember, using language that is familiar to the public.

The themes they raise are also very relevant: love, family, the search for a partner, and values of life. This makes their songs go viral quickly and stick in people's memories.

5. Smart in Reading Market Situations

Wali Band © instagram.com/bandwaliofficial

In addition, Wali is also smart in reading market situations. In the era of RBT's glory, they optimized that digital potential to distribute music.

When physical trends began to decline, they adapted by selling CDs through fast food outlets and digital platforms. Such innovations helped them remain relevant amid the highly dynamic changes in the music industry.

6. Always Close to Parawali

Wali Band © instagram.com/bandwaliofficial

Equally important, Wali is very close to their fans. They do not hesitate to perform in small towns and continue to cultivate good relationships with their fanbase known as "Parawali".

This emotional connection is what keeps their fans' loyalty to this day. Even during their international tours, many Indonesian diasporas come specifically to witness their performances live.

7. Consistency is the Key to Success

Wali Band © instagram.com/bandwaliofficial

The journey of Wali proves that success is not just for those who appear glamorous and trendy. With perseverance, consistency, and loyalty to one's identity, anyone can break through barriers.

Wali is a representation of folk music that has successfully elevated its status without losing its roots. They are not only commercially successful but also become an inspiration for many young musicians to dare to be themselves.

(kpl/phi)