Iwan Fals dreams of Rp 1m tickets

JAKARTA: Noted musician Iwan Fals, known for his critical songs on social conditions in the country, expressed his dream of becoming the most expensive performer in the country.

"I had a dream once that someday each fan would have to pay Rp 1 million (US$94) to watch a concert of mine. Even if there were only 15 people in the audience, I would still get Rp 15 million.

Unfortunately, I haven't managed to fulfill my ambition yet," he told reporters before his two-hour-long concert on Wednesday at Fashion Cafe, Central Jakarta.

For the concert, the tickets were priced at Rp 100,000 and Rp 500,000 - a lot cheaper than tickets for foreign artists, although still expensive for a local artist.

Iwan, whose real name is Virgiawan Listanto, also wished he could visit the grave of his parents before the fasting month begins on Friday.

"I hope to be able to visit their grave before Ramadhan, as it's our tradition," he said. -- JP