Dangdut << DAHNG DOOT >> is a style of Indonesian popular music that emerged in the 1970’s. It is popular throughout the country and in the surrounding Asian Pacific region. It is often heard in motion pictures, on television, and on the radio in these areas. Dangdut music is also performed by local ensembles at neighborhood events, at weddings, and on holidays.
Dangdut is strongly influenced by Bollywood music and Anglo-American (English-American) rock music. Bollywood is the name for the motion-picture industry in India. Dangdut also contains elements of salsa, reggae, disco , and other international styles. Malay folk music is also an important influence. Malays are a group of Southeast Asian peoples.
Typical dangdut ensembles (groups) include two electric guitars, an electric bass guitar, two electronic keyboards, a suling (Indonesian bamboo flute ), an electrified mandolin , a tambourine, a drum set, and a pair of bongo -like drums called a gendang. Sometimes other instruments are added, such as a sitar, a saxophone , a violin , and maracas. A sitar is an Indian string instrument with a long neck.
The dangdut style was developed in the early 1970’s by the Indonesian musician Rhoma Irama, who electrified and modernized a popular urban style called orkes Melayu (Malay orchestra). He is known as “the king of dangdut” and remains an influential musical artist. Irama wrote songs for and collaborated with Elvy Sukaesih, known as “the queen of dangdut.” Other dangdut stars include Evie Tamala, Meggy Z, Iis Dahlia, Mansyur S, Carmelia Malik, Ine Sinthya, Lilis Karlina, and Titiek Nur.
In 2003, the dangdut singer Inul Daratista caused a controversy in Indonesia for what some considered sexually suggestive dancing in her televised performances. Some conservative Muslim organizations called for a ban on Daratista’s concerts. Irama also criticized Daratista’s dancing, saying it was not part of an Islamic way of life. However, Daratista’s millions of fans insisted that artists should have freedom of expression in a newly democratic Indonesia, and her celebrity grew. Daratista’s fame made dangdut more popular with Indonesia’s middle class. Some Indonesians began to regard dangdut as their national music.
