LAS CRUCES COUNTRY MUSICIAN Dzaki Sukarno might not be a household name—yet—but his half million TikTok followers know he’s poised to be the next big thing. Born to Indonesian parents and raised in the Mesilla Valley, the 2022 New Mexico State University graduate’s steady rise has taken him from performances at the Las Cruces Farmer’s & Crafts Market to a stint on American Idol in 2021. His warm baritone, classic twang, and vulnerable lyricism nod to 1990s country greats, setting him apart on the radio landscape. With frequent appearances throughout New Mexico and a recent slot at Nashville’s CMA Fest, he’s captivating new fans and shining a spotlight on southern New Mexico’s well of musical talent.
I was born in Okinawa, Japan—my dad was stationed there—but we moved to Las Cruces when I was 10. My dad taught me to play guitar when I was around four years old. We were always surrounded by instruments.
I grew up with that kind of traditional country music that really tickled my ears, pedal steel and all. They just don’t make music like that anymore.
It’s not just about girls and trucks. They talked about hard work and feelings, even mental health.
Being on American Idol taught me a lot about the music industry. But social media is what’s really helped me connect with fans. I put up a couple videos and went from 50 followers to 10,000 in the span of a month.
I take songwriting inspiration from New Mexico—my experiences with farming and rodeo, going to the honky tonk. My song “Oceanside Attitude” [is about] how we don’t got beaches but spend the summer floating the Río Grande, having bonfires in the desert.
My biggest long-term goal is to put country music on the map in New Mexico. A lot of artists don’t even know about our state. I’d love to be that face that brings them here.
Follow Dzaki Sukarno on Instagram @dzakisukarno and TikTok @ikazd.
¡Más música!
If you’re into Dzaki Sukarno, check out Ponderosa singer Austin Van.