Basofi better known as singer

Basofi better known as singer

SURABAYA: The flamboyant Basofi Soedirman found out yesterday
that most local people knew him as a dangdut folk singer rather
than as their governor.

While visiting a polling station near the city, he was treated
like a pop star. Children, youths and mothers fought to get close
to him.

Some wanted to shake hands and others asked him for
autographs. And he did not mind at all, Antara reported.

When asked who Basofi was, a middle-aged woman promptly
replied, "That's Basofi the dangdut (singer). I have a cassette
of his latest album."

Smiling, Basofi turned to the woman and asked, "Which song do
you like best?"

"Fatamorgana, mister," she said with a thick Madurese accent.

Basofi seemed impressed by the conversation. But on his way
home by bus, he complained: "Why do people know me as a dangdut
singer rather than as a governor?"

Dangdut is highly popular among the poor, but is often sneered
at as hick. (pan)