November 19, 2025 | 11:56 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The 28th Indonesian Music Awards (AMI Awards) celebrated three legends of Indonesian music with Lifetime Achievement awards at a gala held at Ciputra Artpreneur, South Jakarta, on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.
Candra Darusman, Chair of the Indonesian Music Awards Foundation, announced the honorees: guitarist Jopie Item, music producer Jan Djuhana, and songwriter James F. Sundah.
Jopie Item: Legendary Guitarist
Jopie Item received the Lifetime Achievement award at AMI Awards 2025. Photo from YouTube - Indonesian Music Awards (AMI Awards)
Legendary guitarist Jopie Item was the first to be honored. Seated in a wheelchair, he was accompanied onto the stage by his son, Stevi Item, to receive the award.
“I never imagined receiving an award like this. It’s an extraordinary honor. I never dreamed of it—I just thought I’d play music, and here I am, still playing the guitar,” Jopie said.
Reflecting on his career, which began in 1964, he thanked his late parents for passing down their musical talent, a gift he has shared with his children Stevi, Audy, Yai, and Echa Item.
Jopie also recalled the struggles musicians faced in the early days, including selling guitars to make ends meet. “We never received royalties; there were no royalties back then,” he explained. “The important thing was that I could create, play the guitar well, and share my performance with the public.”
Jan Djuhana: Influential Music Producer
Jan Djuhana received the Lifetime Achievement award at AMI Awards 2025. Photo from YouTube - Indonesian Music Awards (AMI Awards)
Jan Djuhana, founder of Sony Music Indonesia, also received the Lifetime Achievement award. “I am deeply moved and honored. This is the highest recognition I have received in my 50 years in the Indonesian music industry. This award is very precious to me,” he said.
Jan expressed gratitude to his family, including his wife, children, in-laws, and grandchildren, as well as his late parents, who supported his involvement in music from a young age. “This is a joyous and unforgettable moment for me,” he added.
James F. Sundah: Celebrated Composer
James F. Sundah received the Lifetime Achievement award at AMI Awards 2025. Photo from YouTube - Indonesian Music Awards (AMI Awards)
Songwriter James F. Sundah, known for the iconic song “Lilin Lilin Kecil”, was the final honoree. Unable to attend in person due to treatment in New York, he shared his acceptance via a recorded video.
“I want to thank God, who gave me the opportunity to channel my inspiration into music. He also gave me new life and even new hair after chemotherapy,” James said.
He expressed gratitude to his family and fellow musicians who have supported him throughout his journey. “Thank you to everyone who has loved, supported, and respected my songs. Without you, I would not be here today,” he added.
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