Cover (Photo: Getty Images)
(Photo: Getty Images)
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The memes are out and the parols are lit—it's now the season for Jose Mari Chan to shine once again!
There's no doubt about it: Pinoys love Christmas! Proudly celebrating the "longest Christmas season" in the world—beginning in September—the Philippines is home to many iconic holiday figures, one of whom is Jose Mari Chan. Famous for his music, the singer and songwriter has weaved himself into local pop culture and is a favourite among nostalgic music enthusiasts and the younger generation who are excited to feel the Christmas magic. For those who are only beginning to discover Chan's oeuvre, here are some top hits you may want to explore:
Read more: Are we Filipinos Because We Love Music, or Do We Love Music Because We are Filipinos?
1. Christmas In Our Hearts
A Jose Mari Chan classic, this song is best known for its opening lyrics that describe the persona of seeing boys and girls selling lanterns on the street. It perfectly reflects the typical Filipino family's Catholic roots during the holiday season and can be heard all over malls and karaoke bars come the "-ber" months. Nostalgic and warm, it evokes many memories for Filipino families, old and young.
2. Pinoy na Krismas
With hints of traditional Philippine folk music and even the sounds of a marching band at a local perya (fair), Jose Mari Chan's Tagalog song, "Pinoy na Krismas", is a happy, heartwarming tune that lists down all we love about the season from Lechon to Simbang Gabi (dawn Mass) and the togetherness we feel at a Noche Buena reunion. It's a feel-good hymn that keeps one looking forward to the good times ahead!
3. Come Let Us Adore Him
A Christian song that celebrates the true essence of Christmas, "Come Let Us Adore Him" depicts one's love and appreciation for Jesus' birth. Slow and majestic, the hymn is the perfect mood-setter for celebrating a simple holiday with family—because after all, sometimes less is truly more.
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4. A Perfect Christmas
A love song that also encapsulates the magic of Yuletide season, "A Perfect Christmas" is one of Jose Mari Chan's most famous songs—with good reason. Calming yet joyous, this carol describes all the things we love about the season: cool breezes in December, watching shoppers rush about, and simply spending time with the one you love the most. It truly is a perfect Christmas, as Jose Mari Chan claims!
5. A Wish on Christmas Night
Imagine a heavenly chorale serenading you with joyful tunes: this is exactly how Jose Mari Chan's "A Wish on Christmas Night" begins. The singer then continues in a deeper baritone as the song progresses to a more soulful hymn. Enjoy the sounds of a classic Christmas carol with this on your playlist.
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6. Pagdating Ng Pasko
For something a bit more relaxing, listen to "Pagdating ng Pasko", a Jose Mari Chan song that shows off the singer's Tagalog singing prowess. With bossa nova influences, it has definitely become a favourite during the season!
7. December 25
Named after the most joyful day of the year for most Filipino families, "December 25" is an optimistic song that encourages everyone to celebrate Jesus. Never one to forget the reason behind the season, Jose Mari Chan dishes out a soulful rendition of his song while on the Myx stage, ready to be enjoyed by anyone at any time.
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