Iwan Fals

Iwan Fals (born Virgiawan Listanto) is an Indonesian folk singer, songwriter, and guitarist of Javanese descent who launched his recording career in 1979. Based in Jakarta and signed to Musica Studios, he became one of the most influential voices in Indonesian music, known for socially conscious lyrics that championed the working class and critiqued power structures during the authoritarian New Order era. His iconic songs like "Bento" and "Bongkar" served as protest anthems for a generation. Over four decades, Iwan Fals has released dozens of albums, establishing himself as a defining figure in the post-1970s Indonesian folk tradition. In 2002, Time magazine named him a Great Asian Hero, recognizing his cultural and social impact beyond music. He remains active and is widely regarded as a living legend of Indonesian folk music.