Interview with Gigi (Band) Members

Jul 21, 2024

Interview with Gigi (Band) Members

Introduction

  • The transcript involves an interview with members of the band Gigi.
  • Key members present: Arman, Hendy, and others.
  • Discussed their background, formation, and experiences.

Early Days and Formation

  • Initial Struggles and Background:
    • The interviewees share their early experiences hosting concerts during challenging conditions, including preman fights at venues and technical failures.
  • Formation and Initial Meetings:
    • They reminisced about the early days, including lineup changes and key moments that shaped the band Gigi.

Band Members and Line-Up Changes

  • Formation Timeline:
    • Discussed the joining of different members such as Arman and Hendy.
  • Role of Members:
    • Detailed changes in the lineup from Baron, Ronald, Budi, and Opet, and the impact on the band's sound and performance.
  • Reasons for Leaving:
    • Baron left for school in America.
    • Thomas had drug issues (Putau) and decided to leave for the band’s health.
    • Ronald left due to lack of musical tandem.

Memorable Performances and Challenges

  • Notable Incidents:
    • They recall several memorable and challenging performances, including a concert in Tulung Agung where they encountered a fight among preman, causing chaos.
    • Thomas collapsing on stage due to drug influence was notable, requiring Opet to fill in abruptly.
  • Technical Challenges:
    • Issues with sequencers and metronomes which sometimes malfunctioned leading to sudden manual play by the band.
  • Unique Concerts:
    • Discussed performing 360-degree shows which are physically demanding.

Handling Criticism and Band Dynamics

  • Criticism Management:
    • They share light-heartedly about dealing with criticisms and misunderstandings among band members.
  • Band Dynamics:
    • Insight into how they maintain the band’s dynamics and the management shift after Baron’s passing.
    • Hendy currently manages Gigi alongside playing the drums.

Concert Preparations and Practices

  • Rehearsals and Arangements:
    • Detailed rehearsal schedules and practices for complex arrangements.
  • Improvisation:
    • Band has a culture of adapting quickly to on-stage incidents and making use of improvisation during performances.

Upcoming Events and Announcements

  • Upcoming 30th Anniversary Concert:
    • Scheduled for August 24 at Istora Senayan.
    • Title: Gigi Infinity.
    • Promises a comprehensive performance with 30+ songs and several guest artists.
    • Discussions on challenge of maintaining rehearsal schedules and sync for a big concert.

Fun Anecdotes and Band Lore

  • Funny Incidents:
    • Shared stories about Alam’s mishaps during concerts and funny moments they had as a band.
  • Band Name Origin:
    • The name ‘Gigi’ was chosen spontaneously following a humorous incident where Dewa Bujana noticed Ronald’s gapped teeth.

Summary

  • The interview provides deep insights into Gigi's history, band member dynamics, challenges they have overcome, and upcoming plans.