JBL TURNS 80 AND CELEBRATES EIGHT DECADES OF SOUND, MUSIC, AND GOOD TIMES

Images courtesy of JBL

Eight Decades, One Big Celebration

Music has a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s a favourite song playing on the way to work, the soundtrack to a memorable night out, or the energy of a live performance, great sound has always been part of life’s little and big moments. And for generations of music lovers, JBL has been right there, making those moments sound even better.

This year, the iconic audio brand marks its 80th anniversary, celebrating eight decades of innovation, cultural influence, and sounds that have shaped generations.

Founded in 1946 by visionary audio engineer James B. Lansing, JBL has grown from its roots in professional audio into a global leader in personal audio and entertainment. From legendary cultural moments such as Woodstock and Tomorrowland to everyday playlists enjoyed through its portable speakers and headphones, the brand has remained closely connected to the way people experience music.

“For 80 years, JBL has helped shape the way the world experiences sound, setting the standard for innovation and performance across music, entertainment and culture,” says Grace Koh, Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Audio, HARMAN APAC. She also highlights how powerful audio brings people together, amplifies self-expression, and creates unforgettable moments, reaffirming JBL‘s commitment to empowering the next generation of creators, fans, and communities.

To mark this milestone in Indonesia, JBL hosted an exclusive anniversary exhibition at Grand Indonesia, Main Atrium, East Mall, Level 1, Jakarta, from 21–25 October 2026.

Rather than simply showcasing its latest innovations, the exhibition invited visitors to experience JBL‘s signature sound through a series of interactive zones and playful challenges. From instant karaoke sessions with the JBL EasySing Mic and its AI Vocal Removal feature to music-guessing games, dance challenges, and home cinema quizzes, each activation offered a different way to discover the brand’s audio technology. There was also a dedicated PartyBox karaoke area for visitors to sing their hearts out, while gaming enthusiasts could put their skills to the test in a one-on-one challenge featuring the JBL Quantum headset and its immersive spatial sound.

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Adding another layer of fun, visitors could collect JBL Points by signing up as members via JBLStore.co.id and taking part in the activities, then redeem their points for exclusive merchandise. The anniversary celebrations also came with special shopping treats, including vouchers, discounts, exclusive bundles, and up to 3X JBL Points on selected products.

For those who appreciate a little nostalgia, the JBL Playback Gallery offered a journey through eight decades of iconic audio products. One of its highlights was the limited-edition JBL L100 Classic 80, a tribute to the brand’s unmistakable 1970s design, now paired with modern acoustic technology. Bridging the gap between generations, it brought together the charm of vintage audio design and the expectations of today’s music enthusiasts.

The celebration also featured a special collaboration with Diela Maharanie, bringing an artistic touch to the anniversary experience.

But this anniversary is not just about looking back. JBL is also looking ahead, exploring new possibilities in spatial audio, adaptive soundscapes, and immersive listening experiences that seamlessly integrate audio into everyday life. Sustainability is another important focus, guiding the brand’s approach to product design and production as it works towards a more responsible future for audio innovation.

Its commitment to supporting the next generation of talent continues through initiatives such as JBL Music Academy, JBL Campus Program, and its partnership with Girls Make Beats, bringing emerging artists and the wider music industry together to amplify diverse voices.

For Martin Garrix, JBL Global Ambassador, the connection between music and authenticity is what matters most. “Authenticity in music is everything. JBL has always been, and will always be, about ensuring artists’ voices are heard, and audiences experience their vision unfiltered, whether on the move, at home, or at a live event,” he says.

Eight decades later, the soundtrack continues. Here’s to more discoveries, louder celebrations, and countless moments worth turning up the volume for.