The Indonesian Post
RAN, a music group based in Jakarta, has recently released an album specifically for children called 'RAN For Your Kids' in conjunction with National Children's Day 2024. The album is a result of RAN's dedication to the well-being of Indonesian children. Rayi, Asta, and Nino, the members of the group, have observed that Indonesian children are currently exposed to a significant amount of adult songs and foreign-language children's songs. As a generation that was raised on children's songs, RAN believes it has a moral obligation to provide Indonesian children today with the same joyful experience through songs that promote positive values, inspire, and are sung in their native language, Indonesian. "We grew up listening to children's songs extensively, and many memories are associated with them. Perhaps they even enriched our musical abilities. The days were brighter, like when we happily listened to children's songs on our way to school. Or during vacations, listening to children's song cassettes. The main goal is to make our childhood more enjoyable," shared Asta, a member of RAN. The connection RAN members have with children's songs runs deep and is filled with sentiment. Rayi used to be a backup dancer in the music video for the children's song Aku Cinta Rupiah by Cindy Cenora in 1998. On the other hand, Nino fondly recalls the joy of singing Indonesian children's songs with his friends during their birthdays when he was young. This experience is not commonly encountered by many Indonesian children today due to the prevalence and addiction to gadgets. "We believe that there are actually numerous children's songs available now, but they often fail to resonate with parents. In reality, the gateway to children should be through their parents. Therefore, we have introduced a character that can serve as a connection to today's parents who are of our generation. One of our initiatives is collaborating with Kak Seto and reintroducing the character of Si Komo," Nino RAN explained. The RAN For Your Kids album features 8 tracks, including 3 RAN songs - Selamat Pagi, Sepeda, and Dekat di Hati, 1 iconic children's song from the 90s with a modern twist titled Macet Lagi (Si Komo takes the MRT), and 4 voice-over narratives from Kak Seto about the RAN For Your Kids universe. Alvin Witarsa was included as a co-producer in the album RAN For Your Kids. "The song 'Selamat Pagi' introduces the issue of environmental protection, addressing the air pollution in big cities during mornings. Additionally, 'Sepeda' offers a solution to avoid traffic congestion. 'Dekat di Hati' conveys a universal message of love, which can be interpreted in the context of family or friendship," stated Rayi RAN. Notably, RAN directly involves children's talents such as Velyn Elsa, Khayla Khay, and Achmad Barakha. This collaboration reflects RAN's commitment to nurturing the musical talents of Indonesian children by providing them with opportunities to showcase their skills. These three young talents were selected through a rigorous process that attracted participants from all corners of Indonesia. Furthermore, RAN will not only release the album on digital streaming platforms but will also debut four music videos at regular intervals. These music videos will showcase RAN members as animated characters, with engaging storylines designed to inspire children's creativity.