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Muslim mothers make music - 17th February 2023
This group of women musicians is popular in Indonesia. 'Nasida Ria' was first formed 47 years ago to read the Qur'an. These days, their style is a mix of Arabic and traditional 'dangdut' music from Indonesia.
In the past, dangdut wasn't seen as fashionable. But Nasida Ria's music uses clever words. They talk about serious subjects, like what's right and wrong, and their lines make people laugh.
Music expert Shindu Alpito explains.
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."
Young people enjoy the band's different music styles and words. The group members are called 'Indie Mothers' by their fans.
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."
The group knows how to interest young people. It uses modern media like YouTube. Nazla Zain, 27, is the youngest member of the band.
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."
Half a million people follow Nasida Ria on YouTube. Each month, 38,000 people play their music on Spotify. Rien Djamain, who's the main singer, is in her 60s now. She hopes their songs will change the hearts of young listeners.
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