September 30, 2024
About the Author: S & C Music Center
The Philippines has long been a hub of rich musical traditions and diverse sounds, blending indigenous melodies, rhythms influenced by Spanish culture, and modern genres that have shaped a vibrant music industry.
At the heart of this scene is Original Pilipino Music (OPM), which has given rise to artists who transcend borders and are making a name for themselves not only locally but also internationally.
Here are some Filipino music stars you should know, whose talents are shaping the future of global music.
Lea Salonga – The Broadway Diva
A monumental figure in the world of international theatre, Lea Salonga has opened doors for countless Filipinos and Asians to enter the global stage.
She became widely known for her role as the original Kim in Miss Saigon, and she was the first Filipina and Asian to receive the prestigious Laurence Olivier Award.
Her Tony Award-winning performance on Broadway further solidified her reputation as a trailblazer.
Lea has a profound understanding of the arts and is viewed as a role model for young people.
Her career, marked by iconic roles and global recognition, has broken down stereotypes and expanded opportunities for people of colour and mixed-race backgrounds.
Lea Salonga is a staunch advocate for inclusion in theatre, championing diverse representation.
Her journey, filled with resilience and artistic integrity, continues to inspire new generations of artists and musicians.
Many dream of sharing the stage with an idol who has reshaped the landscape of musical theatre.
Salonga has also recently become a part of Madame Tussauds wax museum in Singapore.
Regine Velasquez-Alcasid – Asia’s Songbird
Regine Velasquez-Alcasid is a name synonymous with vocal power and range.
Dubbed “Asia’s Songbird,” she rose to prominence in the 1990s and has since become one of the leading figures in Filipino music.
Known for her powerful ballads and remarkable vocal range, particularly her belting skills, she is regarded as one of the finest vocalists in the Philippines.
Velasquez is a regular headliner on the Philippine television variety show ASAP Natin ‘To and frequently performs at international concerts for the show.
Her extraordinary musical talent has earned her numerous accolades, starting with her historic win at the 1989 Asia Pacific Singing Contest.
Velasquez has captured the hearts of many, not only as a singer but also as an actress, with songs such as Dadalhin, On the Wings of Love, and Pangako.
Her music has been featured in various Filipino television shows and films, making her songs a staple in karaoke bars across the country.
Sarah Geronimo – The Popstar Royalty
Sarah Geronimo’s rise to fame began when she won the singing competition Star for a Night in 2003.
Known for her dynamic performances and versatility in singing, Sarah has become one of the most influential figures in OPM.
She has explored various genres, including pop, dance, ballads, and has also ventured into acting, earning numerous awards and a massive fan base.
Her songs, such as Kilometro and Tala, have become cultural phenomena, with the latter becoming a viral dance hit that spread across the globe.
Ben&Ben – The Modern Folk Sensation
One of the most prominent bands in contemporary Philippine music, Ben&Ben is known for their soulful lyrics and folk-pop sound.
Formed in 2017, the nine-member band has garnered success and adoration from audiences through hits such as Kathang Isip and Leaves.
Their music, often revolving around themes of love, loss, and healing, resonates deeply with the younger generation.
Their unique style has led them to become one of the most-streamed Filipino artists on Spotify.
Ben&Ben symbolises the ongoing evolution of OPM, blending indie, folk, and pop with a distinctly Filipino heart.
KZ Tandingan – The Soul Supreme
KZ Tandingan is one of the most distinctive voices in the OPM scene.
Known for her jazz-influenced soulful vocals and bold experimentation with various musical styles, KZ first rose to fame after winning The X Factor Philippines in 2012.
Since then, she has built a career by blending genres such as R&B, jazz, hip-hop, and pop.
Her stunning rendition of Rolling in the Deep on the Chinese show Singer 2018 earned her international recognition.
Songs like Mahal Ko o Mahal Ako and Imposible showcase her creativity and versatility as an artist.
Morissette Amon – Asia’s Phoenix
Morissette gained widespread recognition after participating in The Voice Philippines, where she became well-known as a semi-finalist.
A key milestone in her music career was her transition into songwriting and producing, a step she took during the pandemic lockdown.
In addition to music, Morissette ventured into acting, being featured in the film Song of the Fireflies, where she showcased her musical talent alongside the Loboc Children’s Choir.
Morissette also gained popularity through her YouTube covers, which reached audiences worldwide.
Often referred to as “Asia’s Phoenix,” Morissette earned this title after performing at the 14th Asia Song Festival in Busan, South Korea, in September 2017, representing the Philippines.
Throughout her journey, Morissette has emphasised the importance of balance in her career and personal life.
She continues to inspire young musicians in the Philippines and beyond, driven by her passion for sharing her stories and music.
Jake Zyrus – Formerly Known as Charice Pempengco
Jake Zyrus began his musical journey as a child, singing with a karaoke machine.
It wasn’t long before he rose to international stardom, becoming one of the few Filipino artists to showcase Asian talent on the global stage.
Zyrus gained initial recognition on YouTube, and Oprah Winfrey once declared him “the most talented girl in the world” before his transition to male.
Among his many achievements are his role in the hit television series Glee and serving as a judge on the Philippine version of The X Factor.
In 2018, Zyrus released his first album as a trans man, titled Diamond, which was featured on the Billboard charts in the US.
He was also nominated for the 2020 Emmy Awards for his documentary Jake and Charice.
As his music career continues to evolve, Zyrus believes that continuous progress and change in music are the essence of both art and life.
Some of his well-known songs include Pyramid, Hiling, and I’ll Be There.
Conclusion
This is but a glimpse of the many talented Filipino music stars who have made a significant impact on global music.
The Filipino music scene is as rich as the country’s culture, blending tradition with modernity, and combining local roots with global influences.
These artists are not only stars of OPM but also cultural ambassadors, showcasing the wealth of Filipino talent to the world.
Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, indie, or ballads, the vibrant Philippine music industry has something for everyone, and these stars are leading the new era of sound and storytelling.
