Jakarta, en.SERU.co.id – Donny Fattah, the legendary bassist and co-founder of Indonesia’s iconic rock band God Bless, has passed away at the age of 76. He breathed his last on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Fatmawati Hospital in Jakarta, following a prolonged battle with multiple serious illnesses.
The news was officially announced by God Bless via their Instagram account (@godblessrocks). The post read: “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. Telah meninggal dunia DONNY FATTAH, bassist, salah seorang pendiri God Bless, saudara kami tercinta,” (translated: “Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return. Donny Fattah, bassist and one of the founders of God Bless, our beloved brother, has passed away”).
The band requested prayers from fans and the public so that all of his good deeds and acts of worship may be accepted by God. His body is currently being laid to rest at a mourning house in the Fatmawati area of Jakarta, with plans for burial at TPU Kampung Kandang cemetery in the city.
Battling Three Serious Illnesses
In recent years, Donny had been courageously fighting sarcopenia (a progressive loss of muscle mass and strength that weakens physical abilities over time), vascular blockage (an obstruction in blood vessels that impairs blood flow), and an autoimmune disease.
To manage his conditions, especially over the last two years, he reportedly took dozens of medications daily—up to 32 types at times—yet he remained committed to music and the stage as long as possible.
A Key Figure in Indonesian Rock History
Donny Fattah (full name: Jidon Patta Onda Gagola) was a foundational pillar of God Bless, the band formed on May 5, 1973, which became one of Indonesia’s most enduring rock icons.
His musical journey began in his youth: in 1965, he formed the band Harbour Beat, followed by joining Fancy Junior in 1968. His career peaked when he teamed up with Achmad Albar to lay the groundwork for what became God Bless.
As a bassist, Donny was renowned for his powerful, distinctive style and frequent onstage improvisations, which became a signature element of the band’s sound. He contributed to many of their classic tracks, including “Semut Hitam,” “She Passed Away,” “Musisi,” “Anak Adam,” and “Setan Tertawa.”
His passing marks a significant loss for Indonesian rock music. (aan/rhd)
