A perfect 10
> Indonesian heartthrob Afgan talks about celebrating a career milestone in Kuala Lumpur
TEN years in the entertainment industry is a milestone for any artiste. For Indonesian artiste Afgan (born Afgansyah Reza), what better way to celebrate his 10th anniversary in the music industry than with a special concert – Konsert Dekade Live in Kuala Lumpur 2018 – on Nov 3 at the Plenary Hall, KL Convention Centre. Organised by Nizra Production, this concert is a gift from Afgan ( left, right) to his fans for their decade-long support. The audience can look forward to songs from his debut album Confession No.1 (2008) right up to his latest album Dekade. Also expect something totally different from previous Afgan concerts here in Malaysia. Accompanied by his band The Gandarianz, Afgan will also share the stage with popular Malaysian hip-hop and R&B group Ruffedge as his musical guest. Afgan has won numerous accolades for his music, and has also collaborated with prolific musicians such as Sheila Majid, Rossa, Raisa, SonaOne, and most recently, Isyana Sarasvati and Rendy Pandugo. He is also an actor, having starred in films such as Cinta 2 Hati and Refrain. He was also a judge on X Factor Indonesia.
Afgan said: “I don’t feel like it has been 10 years because I enjoy what I do so much. Sometimes, I have to pinch myself [to be sure] that I lasted this long because it doesn’t feel real.”
When asked if he is working on any new music right now, he said: “I think right now, at this point in my career, I enjoy exploring much more than when I first started.
“I think it keeps me interested and excited about what I do. I listen to music every day and try to get inspired by new stuff.”
He attributes his attitude towards his craft as the secret to his success.
“I think that speaks volumes. To keep the right attitude, to keep the right perspective. I never feel satisfied with myself, I will always be my biggest critic. I push myself, but don’t push too hard.
“You are allowed to have fun, enjoy and experience life. Always remember, don’t lose your passion in music.”
As for singers he looks up to, he said: “From Indonesia, I looked up to Krisya. Too bad he is not with us any more. He lived his whole life as a singer.
“Even though he is long gone, people are still singing his songs. That is how big an impact he had on people, and that is what I want to achieve.
“Internationally, I love Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, Michael Jackson. They are not just singers but also performers. That is what I would love to be. Not just to be a musician but a performer as well.”
For his fans in Malaysia who will be catching his concert, Afgan hinted that there will be a surprise in store.
“I wish to share a more personal side of me that I have not shared before. I want to share my thoughts, feelings and emotions after all these years being in the spotlight.
“It has not always been happy. There were dark moments. I think that is what I want to [show] with this concert.
“I want them to know me as a human being, and not just as a pop star.”