Ahmad Dhani previously teased that an international singer with the initials “B” would perform at the wedding reception of El Rumi and Syifa Hadju. The mystery was finally unveiled when none other than R&B legend Brian McKnight took the stage to serenade the newlyweds.
The magical moment was captured by guests, including Diandra Marsha, who shared snippets of the performance on her Instagram Story. In the clips, McKnight is seen performing his iconic hit One Last Cry while playing the keyboard, with El Rumi and Syifa Hadju standing right beside him. The singer also treated the audience to soul-stirring renditions of other classics, including Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love For You, Back at One, and After the Love Has Gone.
Regarding the logistics of booking such a high-profile performer, Ahmad Dhani confirmed that the initiative was handled entirely by Syifa. “It was a professional approach made by Syifa herself,” Dhani told kumparan on Monday (April 27). He further clarified that Syifa also personally covered the costs of bringing the international star to the celebration.
Dhani revealed that the fee to secure Brian McKnight for the reception was approximately USD 100,000, or roughly IDR 1.7 billion. This figure aligns with industry standards; according to the celebrity booking service Seattle Talent Buying, the cost to book Brian McKnight typically ranges from USD 75,000 to USD 108,750 (approximately IDR 1.2 billion to IDR 1.8 billion). Furthermore, Booking Entertainment notes that his fees for private events often hover around the USD 100,000 mark.
The wedding itself was a momentous occasion, highlighted by El Rumi presenting a dowry of 2,026 British pounds, equivalent to approximately IDR 47.3 million. The ceremony featured esteemed witnesses, with Adhyaksa Dault representing Syifa’s side, and the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries of the Republic of Indonesia, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, serving as a witness for El.
Summary
R&B legend Brian McKnight performed a special set at the wedding reception of El Rumi and Syifa Hadju, singing hits such as “One Last Cry” and “Back at One.” The surprise appearance was initiated and fully funded by Syifa Hadju, who handled the professional arrangements herself.
Ahmad Dhani revealed that the cost to secure the international performer was approximately USD 100,000, or about IDR 1.7 billion. The wedding was a high-profile event featuring significant guests and witnesses, marking a memorable celebration for the newlyweds.