This traditional genre is a combination between indigenous Indonesian elements and Portuguese influences. It is believed to have originated from the city of Jakarta, once under heavy European influence. Today kroncong is associated with Indonesian musical traditions and is also popular in Malaysian, Singaporean and Sri Lankan music.
One of the main characteristics of kroncong is the use of the ukulele, a small guitar-like instrument with four strings that was introduced to Indonesia by the Portuguese. The sound of the ukulele is accompanied by various types of percussion, violins and flutes, to name a few. Lyrically, traditional kroncong songs are mostly romantic and emotional, speaking about love, longing and hope.
