Music and Its Memories
Music is an art which uses sound as a medium of expression, incorporating elements like melody, harmony, rhythm, and lyrics that can evoke emotions, culture, and spirituality. However, from a religious perspective, music often becomes a subject of controversy due to its influence on behavior, morality, and beliefs. Different religions have varied views on music. In Islam, for example, opinions range from viewing music as permissible if it does not contain forbidden elements, to considering certain types of music as haram because they may lead to immoral behavior or distract from worship. Christianity generally embraces music as a means of praise and worship, although some denominations reject secular or worldly music that might encourage negative behaviors. In Hinduism and Buddhism, music often plays a role in rituals and meditation, helping followers connect with the divine or achieve inner peace.
The controversies of music in religion often focus on moral and ethical concerns. Songs with inappropriate lyrics, violent themes, or negative messages are believed to harm listeners' morals and lead them away from righteous behavior. There is also concern that certain kinds of music, especially loud or hedonistic genres, might encourage drug use, alcohol consumption, or rebellious acts. Moreover, while some religious traditions allow or even encourage music during worship, others forbid it, fearing it may distract from spiritual focus. The use of musical instruments is also debated, with some faiths prohibiting certain instruments that are thought to stimulate improper desires or detract from the sacredness of worship.
In the 20s, the music world was very different from what it is today. At that time, songwriting competitions were not just about covering popular songs, but truly tested our creativity and ability as young musicians. we clearly remember participating in various songwriting contests at school and local communities, where we were required to create original works—not just imitate the hit songs playing on the radio.
The process of writing songs back then was very challenging. We had to write the lyrics, compose the melody, and arrange the song with limited instruments—sometimes only a dusty old guitar and keyboard. There was no advanced technology like today that made recording or mixing easier. Everything had to be done manually and within a tight schedule.
However, that experience became a valuable lesson. From it, we learned the meaning of perseverance, honesty in creation, and the importance of believing in our own abilities. We also realized that music is not just about popularity or following trends, but about conveying sincere messages and emotions through one’s work.
Now, seeing how music today is often dominated by cover songs and digital production, we appreciate even more how hard and precious the process of creating original songs was in the past. The bitter experiences of our youth in music have become a strong foundation for us to continue respecting and loving music the right way.
#1 “bawa, aku hidup bersamamu, kita jealang hari yang bahagia, aku kan slalu ada, percayakan lah dirimu bersamuku, oooh kasih”
#2 “selamat tinggal cinta, semoga kau damai dialam sana, kau terindah kan ku kenang sampaiakhir hidupku, smapai aku mati…….”
#3 “inikah cinta yang tak pernah berikan kebahagiaan bagi hati yang mendambanya,………”telahku coba melupakanmu dari sisi hariku,,,, namaun tak bisa bayangmu selalu menghantuiiiku,,,,,”
#4 Takcukupkah pegorbanan cintaku untukmu, hinggaku relakan hidup dan matiku……. berakhir pengorbanan citaku, ku tetetskan air mata untukmu, kau pergi tingaalkan ku dalam sepi….
#5 baru kukini ku sadari semua, bahwa dirimu sangat berakti, maafkan diriku yang tak bisa membahagiakanmu….. dengarkanlah rintihan hti ini yang masih mengharapkanmu Kembali padaku’’’”
#6 Bulan terangi malamku, saatku merinduknanya, takmampu aku tampanya sunyi sepinya hatiku, sampaikan rinduku padanya,…..
#7 “mungkinkah kita pertahankan walau sedikit menyakitkan ataukan kan berpisah, bagaikan mimpi… ku bercinta denganmu, kini toinggallah kenangan yang tak mungkin kulupakan,
#8 mungkin kau memang yang paling indah, yang pernah bertahta dibenakku dianganku dan dihatiku……”