As a legendary composer, singer, and songwriter, Ismail Marzuki was recognized for his instinctive musical genius from the very beginning of his career.
In addition to being fluent in piano, saxophone, guitar, and accordion, most of which he taught himself, Marzuki was also gifted with a deep baritone voice, earning him the nickname “the Bing Crosby of Kwitang” from friends and family.
Born in the heart of the capital, then known as Batavia, 110 years ago in 1914, Ismail Marzuki left behind a rich legacy of works infused with national pride and love for the homeland.
Early Talent and Prolific Output
From a young age, Ismail Marzuki, also known by the nickname Bang Ma’ing, had already shown musical talent, and by the age of 17 he had begun composing actively.
Between 1931 and 1958, he is estimated to have written around 202 to 240 songs, including several that became widely popular for their patriotic themes, such as “Rayuan Pulau Kelapa” (1944), “Gugur Bunga” (1945), and “Halo, Halo Bandung” (1946).
Beyond the Stage: Theater and Film
Marzuki’s musicality also extended into theater and film, where he composed music for various stage plays and movies produced during that era.
His works gained recognition not only in Indonesia, but also received appreciation abroad.
Romantic Resonance and Final Composition
Yet Marzuki was equally known for his romantic sensibilities, reflected in songs like “Kalau Anggrek Berbunga” (1942–1945), “Jauh di Mata Di Hati Jangan” (1947), and “Siasat Asmara” (1948).
In 1957, he wrote “Inikah Bahagia”, which became his final composition before passing away on May 25, 1958, at his home in Tanah Abang, Jakarta.
Legacy and National Recognition
To honor his contributions and legacy, the Jakarta Arts Center Taman Ismail Marzuki—now commonly known as TIM—was established and inaugurated by then-Governor Ali Sadikin on Heroes Day, November 10, 1968.
Ismail Marzuki was officially declared a National Hero in November 2004 by then-President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.
