After more than 20 years together, Indonesian rock band Sheila On 7 is learning to adapt to changes in the modern music scene.
During a press conference in Kuala Lumpur to announce an upcoming gig on Feb 10, guitarist Eross Candra and bassist Adam Muhammad Subarkah talked about the band’s plan for new music.
“In 2014, we moved on from our label. Currently, we’re an independent band learning to do everything on our own,” Adam said.
“When it comes to new music, our plan is to release singles. Then we’ll play more live shows. When we have enough material, we’ll put all the singles into an album.”
The move shows that the band is clearly in-tune with the challenging landscape in the music scene, which has become a singles-driven market, with physical sales being phased out as consumers opt to pay for streaming services instead.
Back in the year 2000, Sheila On 7, which also consists of vocalist Duta and drummer Brian, ruled the airwaves with the haunting song Sephia from the best-selling album Kisah Klasik Untuk Masa Depan. Formed in 1996, the band is notable for being the first Indonesian act to sell over one million copies in album sales.
Throughout the years, the band continued to release numerous albums while maintaining its popularity with songs like Dan, Melompat Lebih Tinggi, Seberapa Pantas and Itu Aku. Its last and 10th studio album Musim Yang Baik was released in 2014 which featured the hit single Lapang Dada.
At the Feb 10 concert in StarXpo Centre at KWC Fashion Mall in KL, the band is looking to win the hearts of fans again with a new single.
What happens When Members Of Sheila On 7 Have An Argument?
“What’s special about this KL concert is that we’re going to play our new single Film Favorit for the first time,” Eross said. Fans can also look forward to a two-hour show with a 20-song setlist featuring all the band’s greatest hits.
“After all these years, we never feel tired about playing live shows. I believe the fans can feel that energy from us. We’re just people who love doing what we do,” Adam shared.
He also admits that it is a challenge to come up with a setlist that pleases everyone.
“Some fans want to hear stuff from the B sides. Then there are those who’d be upset we don’t play the more popular stuff. But that is a good challenge as it stops us from feeling bored.”
When it comes to dealing with each other in the band, Eross admits that they argue all the time.
“Of course we argue. Practically every day. We’d argue about our music direction and band management. But you know, I think this is why the band is still together. It’s because we always talk to each other about our differences. We’ll discuss until we come to a solution,” he said.
Sheila On 7 Live In Kuala Lumpur will be held at at StarXpo Centre at KWC Fashion Mall on Feb 10. Tickets are priced at RM85, RM125, RM165, RM215 and RM315. Visit www.myticket.asia for more information.
