Despite their singer’s politics, Indonesian rock band Ungu denies split

Indonesian rock band Ungu formed in 1996 and has survived numerous line-up changes, with only bassist Makki remaining as its original member. But throughout the band’s career, they have captivated fans with hits like Tercipta Untukku, Kekasih Gelapku, Seperti Yang Dulu and Demi Waktu.

Ungu has lately been dogged by break-up rumours again because vocalist Pasha has started his political career in Central Sulawesi. Is the group actually disbanding after more than two decades in music?

Makki and guitarist Enda addressed the rumours in an interview with Star2 in Selangor recently.

“Pasha is still very much part of the band. In fact, we played a show with him in Bali just last month,” Makki said. “It’s just that his job as a politician comes with a condition that he can only perform after work hours. We can’t organise shows around times that will interfere with his official duties.”

He added they were not looking for his replacement either. “Without Pasha, there is no Ungu. It will always be just the five of us.”

Endo and Makki were in Malaysia to promote Ungu’s upcoming concert with Indonesian singer Afgan at Stadium Malawati in Shah Alam on Oct 6. The show features both artistes together in concert for the first time since 2013.

“Malaysia is always a special place for us as the fans are always so welcoming,” Makki said, promising that Ungu will perform new material including their latest single Setengah Gila.

Enda said that Ungu’s secret to longevity as a band in the music scene was simply to mind their own business.

“When we fight, it’s only about music arrangements,” he explained. “When the five of us get together, we only talk about work. We just let personal problems slide. Unless somebody wants to talk about it.”

Makki also said that Pasha’s busy schedule had an unexpected upside for the band. “Maybe it’s for the best. By opting to play fewer shows, we get to create this feeling of excitement and buzz among fans. So with every show that we do now, we focus on giving it our all.”

Tickets to Konsert Terunggul Afgan & Ungu are priced at RM130, RM150, RM200, RM250 and RM350. Go to ticketpro.com.my for details.

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