Jakarta, February 28, 2025 – In a profound gesture celebrating ethical practices within the music industry, Dewa 19, the iconic Indonesian rock band, has recently demonstrated their firm commitment to recognizing and supporting music creators. In a heartfelt event held in Central Jakarta’s Senayan area, Dewa 19 presented royalties to the family of the late Erwin Prasetya, a former band member and co-creator of the beloved song "You Are the Only One."
A Legacy of Fairness and Respect
This landmark act was carried out by Dewa 19’s lead member, Ahmad Dhani, and represented a heartfelt dedication to uphold Erwin Prasetya’s legacy. The royalties amounting to Rp. 75 million were delivered to Prasetya’s wife, Miranda, as a symbol of respect and acknowledgment for Erwin’s invaluable contributions. Dhani emphasized the importance of this gesture by stating, "Erwin Prasetya is the author of ‘You Are the Only One,’ a song that we frequently honor. Today, we present these royalties to his widow as part of his rightful legacy."
Proactive Ethical Stance
Highlighting Dewa 19’s proactive and ethical approach, Ahmad Dhani noted that these payments were made voluntarily, without prompt or legal compulsion. This exemplifies the band’s belief that ethical practices should exceed mere contractual obligations, setting a standard in the music industry for honoring contributions.
Consistency in Support
Further shedding light on Dewa 19’s philosophy, Dhani revealed that this is not an isolated gesture. The band has been consistently transferring royalties to Erwin Prasetya’s family since 2022. This ongoing support, typically occurring monthly or bi-monthly, underscores a long-term vision to foster fair compensation practices within the music world.
Setting a Precedent
Dewa 19’s commitment serves as a shining example for musicians and industry stakeholders, paving the way for a culture where respect and fair remuneration are integral. Through their actions, Dewa 19 not only commemorates Erwin Prasetya’s contributions but also inspires a movement toward a more equitable music industry, both in Indonesia and beyond.
By proactively honoring Erwin Prasetya’s creative legacy, Dewa 19 aligns itself with principles of high ethical standards and respect for artistic contributions, encouraging others in the industry to follow suit. This gesture is a testament to the band’s dedication to maintaining a respectful and supportive environment that benefits all involved in the creation of music.