Band of indie mothers makes waves - 17th February 2023

Nasida Ria's proving to be a hit with festival goers, despite having been founded 47 years ago. Initially set up as a Qur'an recital group, the band's music is a fusion of Arabic and dangdut, a type of traditional Indonesian folk music.

Although dangdut and other traditional styles were formerly considered tacky, the women have recently enjoyed a surge in popularity. Combining this genre with outspoken lyrics on weighty topics such as human rights and justice, Nasida Ria employs humour, for example labelling men who mistreat women 'seditious bats'.

Shindu Alpito's in the music business.

Shindu Alpito: "Talking about Islamic songs, Nasida Ria might be the only one that dares to use such witty lyrics. Islamic songs are usually serious with lyrics carefully quoting Islamic teachings. However, Nasida Ria can immerse into a broader society through a language style that is easy to understand and tickling."

The hard-hitting but witty lyrics, together with the blend of music genres appeal to young media-savvy audiences, who refer affectionately to Nasida Ria as the 'Indie Mothers'.

Fathul Amin: "I think Nasida Ria is more than just cool. Why? Because all of the members are women who can play more than three musical instruments. And, now they have become mothers, they still consistently play music. Nothing has changed them. That's why I see them as super cool."

According to Nazla Zain, who at merely 27 is the youngest member, they're switched on as far as modern media channels are concerned, having the know-how to connect with their fan base.

Nazla Zain: "Nasida Ria is keeping up with the trend by using Youtube and other music applications. We uploaded Nasida Ria's songs from all albums there. So, now youths with gadgets can listen to our songs. That might be a reason why the youths like Nasida Ria."

Nasida Ria's amassed a YouTube following of more than half a million people, while 38,000 enjoy the band's melodies via the streaming platform, Spotify. Lead vocalist Rien Djamain, now in her 60s, hopes their music strikes a chord with young people, and has a positive, lasting impact on their hearts.