Albert Kurniawan shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Albert, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
Absolutely YES!
Why? Because I know my own strengths better than anyone. Because I trust my ability to learn, adapt and figure things out. Because I have seen myself overcome challenges before and I know I am capable. Because I bring value whether it’s work ethics, creativity, reliability or something else. I understand what I stand for and what I bring to a team.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Albert Kurniawan — a drummer, music educator, and someone who believes deeply in the power of rhythm to shape emotions and bring people together.
I’ve built my career around performing and teaching, and I’m grateful to make a living doing what I love every day.
What sets my work apart is the energy I bring into every musical setting. Whether I’m on stage or in a classroom, I focus on creating a positive atmosphere — one where people feel inspired, supported, and connected. I’ve been told that I bring great vibes to those around me, and that’s something I take to heart. To me music isn’t just sound I think it’s about the feeling we share.
As an educator, I enjoy helping students grow not only in technique, but in confidence and musicality. As a performer, I try to give audiences a great experience by showcasing my own personality and character in my playing.
Currently, I’m continuing to expand my work as both a drummer and teacher, taking on new projects, collaborations, and opportunities to create meaningful musical moments wherever I can.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think bonds break when people stop showing up for each other or when communication fades, assumptions replace honesty, and the little things go unaddressed. Even strong relationships can drift when we stop paying attention.
What restores those bonds is simple but not always easy: being present, being honest, and making the effort to understand each other again. Trust grows back through small, genuine actions. In the end, relationships heal when we choose to care intentionally, the way we did at the start.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self, “You’re doing your best, and that’s enough. You don’t need to carry everything alone.”
I’d want him to know that the confusion, the pressure, and the self-doubt won’t last forever — and he’ll grow into someone stronger, calmer, and more sure of himself. I’d remind him that he is worthy of love, support, and patience, even on the days he feels lost.
More than anything, I’d tell him that life will give him moments of joy he never saw coming, and he deserves every single one of them.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in the music industry is that success is instant — that if you’re not blowing up right now, you’re doing something wrong. The truth is, real artistry takes time. Most musicians grow slowly, quietly, and through years of work that no one sees.
Another lie is that talent alone is enough. In reality, character, consistency, attitude, and how you treat people matter just as much as skill. Some of the best opportunities happen because someone remembers your energy, not just your playing.
And maybe the biggest lie is that you have to fit into a certain mold to “make it.” I’ve learned that the artists who last are the ones who stay true to who they are, not the ones who chase trends.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I would stop giving my energy to anything that doesn’t align with who I’m becoming. I would let go of self-doubt, needless stress, and the habit of postponing what matters. With limited time, clarity becomes more simple and every action would need to be honest, intentional, and true to who I am.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://longatheband.com/
- Instagram: @albertjamesmusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@albertjamesmusic
Image Credits
Richard Mendez Photography
and Jamieson Mundson (photo #8 from top)
