Top 10 Musicians In The Philippines

The Philippines boasts a rich musical heritage that spans centuries and incorporates a wide range of influences, from indigenous sounds to Spanish, American, and contemporary pop culture. Over the past few decades, Filipino musicians have made significant contributions to various genres like OPM (Original Pilipino Music), rock, pop, jazz, and classical music, making an indelible mark on the global music scene. Here are ten of the most influential and celebrated musicians from the Philippines.

1. Lea Salonga

Internationally renowned for her role as Kim in Miss Saigon, Lea Salonga is one of the Philippines' most iconic and accomplished singers. She is also famous for being the singing voice of two Disney princesses—Jasmine in Aladdin and Mulan in Mulan. Lea’s stunning vocals, perfect pitch, and acting prowess have earned her prestigious awards, including a Tony Award.

Lea continues to perform on Broadway, in concert tours, and as a judge on television shows such as The Voice Philippines. Her career has been a source of pride for Filipinos worldwide, representing the Philippines on a global stage.

2. Regine Velasquez

Known as "Asia's Songbird," Regine Velasquez is one of the Philippines' most successful and best-selling musicians. With her impressive vocal range and powerful voice, Regine has dominated the Filipino music industry since the late 1980s. She has produced numerous chart-topping hits, including "Dadalhin," "Pangako," and "You Are My Song."

Regine has also ventured into acting and television hosting, further cementing her status as an all-around performer. Her influence extends beyond the Philippines, making her a beloved figure in Asia's music scene.

3. Freddie Aguilar

Freddie Aguilar is a folk musician whose song "Anak" is one of the best-known Filipino songs worldwide. The song’s lyrics about family, love, and regret have resonated with audiences globally, and it has been translated into several languages. Freddie's folk style, blending traditional Filipino sounds with socially relevant themes, has made him a beloved figure in Philippine music.

"Anak" became a major hit in the 1970s and remains a timeless anthem that continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

4. Jose Mari Chan

Jose Mari Chan is often called the "Father of Philippine Christmas Music" due to his enduring Christmas hits like "Christmas in Our Hearts" and "A Perfect Christmas." His soft voice, smooth delivery, and catchy melodies have made him one of the most iconic Filipino singer-songwriters, especially during the holiday season.

In addition to his Christmas songs, Jose Mari Chan has also had a successful career in pop music with hits like "Beautiful Girl" and "Please Be Careful with My Heart." His contributions to OPM (Original Pilipino Music) have earned him a lasting place in Philippine music history.

5. Ely Buendia

Ely Buendia is best known as the frontman and songwriter of the legendary Filipino rock band Eraserheads, often referred to as the Philippines’ version of The Beatles. Eraserheads dominated the 1990s with hits like "Pare Ko," "Ang Huling El Bimbo," and "With a Smile." Ely’s songwriting and distinct voice helped shape the alternative rock scene in the country.

After leaving Eraserheads, Ely continued to make music as a solo artist and with other bands like Pupil. His influence on Filipino rock and his role in revolutionizing the OPM rock scene cannot be overstated.

6. Sarah Geronimo

Sarah Geronimo is one of the most popular pop singers in the Philippines today. She first rose to fame after winning a singing competition, and since then, she has released numerous hit albums and singles like "Tala," "Kilometro," and "Ikot-Ikot." Known for her powerful voice, incredible stage presence, and dance skills, Sarah has become a force in the local entertainment industry.

She has also ventured into acting and television hosting, winning awards and acclaim in multiple fields. Sarah is a multi-talented performer and a role model for aspiring young artists in the Philippines.

7. Ryan Cayabyab

Ryan Cayabyab, also known as "Mr. C," is a National Artist for Music in the Philippines and one of the most respected composers and musicians in the country. His work spans various genres, including pop, classical, and religious music. Ryan’s contributions to Philippine music are vast, with compositions that include "Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika" and the score for the musical Katy! The Musical.

Cayabyab's work as a mentor to younger artists and his contributions to the Filipino music scene have made him an enduring figure in Philippine culture.

8. Apo Hiking Society

The Apo Hiking Society, composed of Danny Javier, Jim Paredes, and Boboy Garovillo, is one of the most influential and enduring bands in the Philippines. Known for their catchy and socially relevant songs, the trio helped shape OPM in the 1970s and 1980s. Their songs, such as "Panalangin," "Ewan," and "Batang-Bata Ka Pa," remain staples in Filipino music.

Their blend of folk, pop, and humor in their performances made them not only musical icons but also cultural figures who used their music to comment on societal issues with wit and humor.

9. KZ Tandingan

KZ Tandingan is a powerhouse singer who burst onto the scene after winning The X Factor Philippines. Her distinctive voice, unique style, and ability to mix genres such as jazz, R&B, and pop have made her one of the most exciting young talents in the country. Her rendition of the song "Rolling in the Deep" gained international recognition, especially after her appearance in China's Singer 2018 competition.

KZ’s versatility and ability to reinvent herself as an artist have made her a standout in the contemporary Philippine music scene. Her hit songs include "Mahal Ko o Mahal Ako" and "Impossible."

10. Ben&Ben

Ben&Ben is a contemporary indie-folk band that has taken the Philippines by storm in recent years. Known for their heartfelt lyrics and melodious arrangements, they have quickly become one of the country's most popular bands. Their songs, such as "Kathang Isip," "Pagtingin," and "Leaves," resonate with young audiences due to their emotional depth and musical craftsmanship.

With a sound that blends folk, pop, and rock, Ben&Ben has become a beacon of the modern OPM scene, appealing to a wide audience with their soulful and introspective music.

Conclusion

The music scene in the Philippines is incredibly diverse, blending traditional sounds with modern influences across genres like pop, rock, folk, and jazz. The top 10 musicians listed here have left an indelible mark on the music industry both locally and internationally. From legendary figures like Lea Salonga and Freddie Aguilar to rising stars like KZ Tandingan and Ben&Ben, these artists reflect the rich and evolving musical culture of the Philippines. They continue to inspire, entertain, and influence generations of musicians and fans alike, representing the heart and soul of Filipino music.