Multi-talented artist, Afgan is one of Indonesia’s most celebrated artists. His trophy case backs this up, amassing critical recognition not just in Indonesia, but in the region. But he seems ready to burst out of the bubble he’s created for himself. Collaborations alongside global stars like Jackson Wang and Robin Thicke seem like just the start in the 35-year-old’s bid to break into a wider audience. But Afgan’s focus remains steadfastly on the artistry of things; the things he can control, the sounds he’s chasing—his true love, R&B.

Now, with the release of his new EP “Sonder”, Afgan delves deeper than ever before, exploring themes of insecurity, trauma, and the universal struggle for connection. In this exclusive interview, he opens up about reclaiming his artistic freedom, navigating the delicate dance between serving his loyal Indonesian fanbase while reaching for global audiences, and crafting music that feels like a heartfelt conversation with a friend.

ESQUIRE SINGAPORE: How would you describe your current sound?

AFGAN: When I was a kid, I was influenced by a lot of Black singers. So, I guess R&B is in my blood—that's how I sing. But it’s basically pop-infused with soul and R&B.

ESQ: You exploded onto the music scene with ballads. What caused the shift towards where you are now?

AFG: It’s because, well, when I first started, I was pretty much controlled by the label I was at. They felt like my voice suited vocal ballads, so we kept releasing ballads. Those songs became timeless; everybody loves them even now. But deep down, I always wanted to do R&B. So, around 2020 or 2021, I started releasing R&B records, and I’ve continued that up until now.

ESQ: Was that something the label was okay with? Or was there pushback?

AFG: The first label I was with—well, we only did two albums, and then I moved to my current label. They’re very supportive of what I want to do. Now, I have complete freedom to release what I want. That said, the ballads are still a big part of my DNA, and I’ll always have to do both. R&B and ballads—they’re just who I am. My current team work with me not just as a job. They genuinely care about my well-being and want me to feel fulfilled in what I do.

ESQ: Say you’re curating a festival lineup of artists who inspire you. What would be your dream lineup?

AFG: Ooo okay…I pretty much listen to the legends—90s pop and R&B. I love Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Brian McKnight. I was so honoured to sing with Brian McKnight this year when he came with David Foster to Jakarta. It was surreal because I grew up emulating his singing, and suddenly, I’m on stage with him. It’s crazy—anything can happen.

ESQ: You’ve received an impressive array of awards. Is there one moment of recognition that holds special meaning for you, and why?

AFG: I’d say the MAMA Awards in Korea. In high school, I listened to a lot of K-pop—Big Bang, G-Dragon, that generation. I used to watch them perform at the MAMA Awards and imagined myself up there someday. A few years back, I won the Best Asian Artist Indonesia at MAMA. It felt like a full-circle moment.

ESQ: Your recent works reflect personal themes and vulnerabilities. Is it emotionally challenging to dig up old pasts and confront them?

AFG: Actually, it’s quite healing. Writing songs is like journaling. When you have so much going on in your mind, writing helps you structure it. It gives purpose to the emotions.

ESQ: Do you think artists should give themselves space to heal before creating art from their experiences?

AFG: For me, it can happen simultaneously. Sometimes, when you really feel the pain and write it out, it helps you see things from a different perspective. That process gives your pain a purpose—it helps others feel less alone.

ESQ: Do you have a story you've been wanting to tell through your music but haven't found the right way to express yet?

AFG: Certain things I’m still processing. If I don’t know how to articulate something, I can’t convert it into lyrics. But once I’ve learned and understood it, I’ll be able to write about it.

There’s so much emotion, and it’s hard to pinpoint one thing. Sometimes you need time to heal, but other times, writing helps you process it.

ESQ: What personal experiences does your new EP, “Sonder” touch on?

AFG: I talk about insecurities and the fear of getting deeper into relationships because of past trauma. It’s about protecting yourself while navigating love and vulnerability.

ESQ:  How do you balance staying authentic to your roots while appealing to a global audience?

AFG: That’s something I’m still figuring out. It’s challenging [to find] a middle ground that appeals to both my Indonesian fans and new listeners globally. My last EP was in English, but I plan to continue writing in Bahasa because it’s a part of me. I’ll do a mix moving forward.

ESQ: What do you hope listeners will feel after listening to your new EP?

AFG: I hope they feel less alone, like they have a friend. Sonder is about the idea of everyone having their own stories, their own struggles. Even if my life seems fun on the surface—touring, travelling—behind the scenes, we all go through real struggles. I want my music to connect people and remind them that we’re all the same.