Yovie Widianto Creates Instant Music at JFF 2026 Musical Talks: Don't Be Afraid of AI
Yogyakarta Financial Festival (JFF) 2026 also hosted a musical talks session with Indonesia’s renowned musician Yovie Widianto. In his presentation, Yovie urged the younger generation not to rely on or fear Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Special Staff to the President of the Republic of Indonesia for Creative Economy then demonstrated spontaneous music, using notes selected by participants in the session. Yovie said technological advancement is inevitable and requires adaptation. He added that AI can be a partner in creative work, but warned against making it the main foundation of creativity.
“AI is a partner in our creative work, but do not lean on it or make it the primary factor in our creativity,” he said while speaking at the JFF 2026 musical talks at Jogja Expo Center (JEC), Banguntapan, Bantul, on Friday 22 May 2026.
Yovie then called two students, named Aji and Adrian. The composer, aged 58, asked whether they could sing, and they replied yes. Known for hits such as Cerita Cinta, Cantik, and Kemenangan Hati, he asked the two students to press the notes on the piano. He then attempted to compose a song from the notes selected by the students. Consequently, Yovie produced a melody that was pleasant to listen to from the chosen notes. After finishing the piece, Yovie remarked that the speed of human music creation is not slower than AI.
“So AI is fast, but with practice we can be just as fast. AI is precise too, but do not fear; AI can be precise but AI has no heart,” he said.
In addition, Yovie performed one of his songs, Cantik. Brian Prasetyoadi performed as the singer alongside the two students. The atmosphere at the musical talks session warmed up as the audience joined in on singing.
As is known, the Jogja Financial Festival 2026 is being held over two days and will feature a range of activities, including business talks, educational classes, and a career corner. Attendees can also enjoy entertainment such as a comedy live show with Lapor Pak. For the educational class sessions in the afternoon, participants can learn how to manage money and invest from the experts. Topics include New Wealth Era: Market, Algorithm, and Money; Financial Survival for the Young Generation; and How to Manage Finances Behind the Creative Industry. Finally, at the end of the event, music performances by Happy Asmara and Ari Lasso will be presented.