Photo Courtesy of Ruang Dimensi Records
After more than a decade away from the spotlight, Indonesian singer-songwriter Maseja returns with a renewed voice and a sound rooted in emotion, nostalgia, and modern city pop. Blending retro-inspired melodies with contemporary storytelling, Maseja’s music reflects life, love, and longing shaped by time and experience.
Marking a new chapter in his artistic journey, his recent releases—later compiled into the mini-album DIANTARA—showcase a more personal and mature approach to songwriting. Through smooth arrangements and heartfelt lyrics, Maseja invites listeners into intimate moments that feel both familiar and timeless.
In this written interview, Maseja opens up about his long hiatus, creative rebirth, and the stories behind his latest music, offering a deeper look into the artist behind the sound.
After more than a decade away from music, what inspired you to return to the industry?
I want to have a legacy for my family and children that i can have a work art
How different does the music landscape feel compared to when you first started?
The difference is perhaps being more serious about pursuing music and learning to be more professional in music.
Was there a defining moment that made you say, “It’s time to come back”?
Suddenly i miss playing music again and doing full allegiance to playing music
Your songs often carry a nostalgic, city-pop romantic vibe. How did you develop this sound?
Because i like listening to old songs using them as inspiration and reference in writing and creating songs.
What influences or artists shaped the direction of your recent releases?
Japanese city pop
Do you see city-pop as a long-term direction, or do you plan to explore other genres?
I will stay in the city pop genre, because this music my naturally identity
“Berbeda Waktu” has such an emotional and melancholic theme. What was the inspiration behind it?
Basically inspired by my friends story, seeing that, i tried to write thats story as lyrics to become a song, it turns out that love can come at the wrong time especially if you already have a partner.
How was the experience working with Latisha Diva on “Serasa Asmara”?
It was an exciting experience to be able singing with Latisha Diva, the song is suitable for singing together with Latisha Diva’s unique characteristics.
Many of your songs talk about love and longing. Is this inspired by personal experiences?
No, maybe i try to understand the story from outside and make a personal perspective for writing and making songs.
Which of your recent songs felt the most challenging to write or record, and why?
The song called “Benar Benar Cinta” is most challenging in my opinion, because the song is my personal experience that i felt for my wife, and i tried a different arrangement from my previous songs.
When listeners press play on your music, what kind of emotions or atmosphere do you hope they feel?
I hope, my songs listeners can get into my songs, feel the story, feel the musicality that i convey in my songs, and can be an inspiration for many people, especially musicians who want to write and create songs.
How do you balance modern production with the retro touches in your sound?
There are many references that i use as benchmarks in making songs, so that sound results can be adapted to the current generation, so they can enjoy the nostalgic music.
What message do you hope people take away from your comeback journey?
I hope many more people will listen to my work art and can give more benefits to many people, both those who listen and become musicians involved.
After releasing several singles this year, what has been your most memorable moment so far?
There are many precious moments for me, the things change my occurred life with return back to music.
How do you stay inspired creatively?
Don’t doubt what we do, and stay humble.
Is there an Indonesian or international artist you dream of collaborating with?
From indonesia maybe soulvibe and international maybe earth wind and fire.
What goals do you want to achieve in this new chapter of your career?
On the further, i will develop my music more better and the music label i ruined and create with my fellow musicians
Rediscover city pop with a modern soul.
Indonesian singer-songwriter Maseja brings nostalgia and emotion together through his latest releases under Ruang Dimensi Records.
Follow & support:
@maseja_r
@ruangdimensi_records
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