IWAN FALS - ANISSA .. The Forbidden Song of Indonesia's New Order Era

  • last year
"Anissa" is a remarkable creation by Indonesia's iconic singer-songwriter, Iwan Fals. However, this song also carries a controversial history, especially during the New Order regime under President Soeharto. Throughout that era, many songs deemed to contain critical messages towards the government and the political system were banned from circulation. "Anissa" became one of the casualties of this prohibition.

"Iwan Fals composed "Anissa" in 1985. The song boasts a beautiful melody and profound lyrics, characteristic of many of Iwan Fals's other works. Yet, the messages within the lyrics of "Anissa" were considered contentious by the New Order regime, as they depicted dissatisfaction with the social and political situation of the time. The song also sought to portray a yearning for freedom of expression and vocalized the aspirations of an oppressed populace.

The Soeharto government exercised strict control over mass media and cultural expressions during its rule. Songs like "Anissa," which were perceived to disrupt political stability or criticize the government, were often banned. Consequently, "Anissa" faced a similar fate, making it challenging to be played in mass media or officially distributed.

Despite the ban, "Anissa" remained a beloved creation of Iwan Fals, cherished by many listeners. The song indirectly became a symbol of artists' struggle in the face of political constraints. Following the end of the New Order era, "Anissa" regained recognition and started being played across various media outlets.

Iwan Fals's "Anissa" exemplifies how art and music can serve as a means of expression in the face of political pressures. Despite being banned during the New Order era, it remains a significant part of Indonesia's musical history, reminding us of the importance of freedom of expression and human rights in cultural art forms.

***
Lagu "Anissa" merupakan salah satu karya fenomenal dari penyanyi dan penulis lagu legendaris Indonesia, Iwan Fals. Namun, lagu ini juga memiliki sejarah yang cukup kontroversial, terutama ketika masa pemerintahan Orde Baru di bawah kepemimpinan Presiden Soeharto. Selama era tersebut, banyak lagu yang dianggap mengandung pesan-pesan kritis terhadap pemerintah dan sistem politik dilarang beredar. "Anissa" adalah salah satu lagu yang menjadi korban dari larangan tersebut.
Lagu "Anissa" diciptakan oleh Iwan Fals pada tahun 1985. Lagu ini memiliki melodi yang indah dan lirik yang penuh makna, seperti banyak karya Iwan Fals lainnya. Namun, pesan dalam lirik "Anissa" dianggap kontroversial oleh rezim Orde Baru karena menggambarkan ketidakpuasan terhadap situasi sosial dan politik saat itu. Lagu ini juga mencoba menggambarkan kerinduan akan kebebasan berekspresi dan menyuarakan aspirasi rakyat yang tertindas.
.

Recommended