Cover How did Mike Hanopol impact Filipino music? (Photo: Patrick Diokno)
How did Mike Hanopol impact Filipino music? (Photo: Patrick Diokno)
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With hits like ‘Laki Sa Layaw’ and ‘Himig Natin’, Mike Hanopol’s musical journey captures the essence of a generation in search of its own voice
Mike Hanopol’s life is an odyssey intertwined with the evolution of Filipino rock and its connection to his life and the world at large.
He started early, strumming a ukulele at the tender age of six—a familiar companion in his childhood. By fourth grade, the ukulele gave way to the guitar, eventually becoming the backbone of his musical identity. However, this budding passion faced a detour when Hanopol entered the seminary after completing sixth grade, temporarily setting aside his musical ambitions. Yet, as history shows, this was merely a pause on his path toward a fortuitous music career.
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Hanopol meandered through seven years of college, culminating in a degree in Psychology from Iloilo. Despite his studies, music remained a constant undercurrent in his life. He played in various bands, notably Zero History, which he formed during a stint overseas—this period abroad left a mark on his musical style, infusing it with a broader, more eclectic sensibility.
Returning to the Philippines, Hanopol rejoined his bandmates to form the iconic Juan Dela Cruz Band. This group would become a cornerstone of Filipino rock, melding rock and blues with distinctly Filipino elements. Their music struck a chord with a generation searching for identity and change, with Hanopol’s prowess on the bass guitar and his evocative songwriting driving the band’s success. Songs like Himig Natin captured the zeitgeist, resonating with listeners nationwide.
Above The Juan de la Cruz Band (Photo: Facebook / @jdlcband)
The Juan de la Cruz Band (Photo: Facebook / @jdlcband)
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However, the demands of life soon steered Hanopol toward a solo career. The impending birth of his child prompted him to seek financial stability, leading him to pursue songwriting on his own. “When I separated from the group, I started really writing songs,” he recalls. It was during this time that he penned iconic tracks like Laki Sa Layaw (Jeproks) and Mr Kenkoy, both conceived during jeepney rides through the bustling streets of Manila—on routes like Project 2, Quezon City to Quiapo, Manila, to be exact. Rich in everyday language and humour, these songs offered a candid snapshot of the Filipino experience, forging a deep connection with his audience.
Above How did Mike Hanopol impact Filipino music? (Photo: Patrick Diokno)
How did Mike Hanopol impact Filipino music? (Photo: Patrick Diokno)
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Mike Hanopol’s journey was not without its setbacks. His song Buhay Musikero was initially rejected by Tito Sotto, then head of A&R (Artist & Repertoire) at Vicor Music Corporation, leaving Hanopol discouraged and strapped for cash. A chance visit to Jem Records in Cubao changed his fortunes. There, Danny Javier of APO Hiking Society recognised the song’s potential and purchased it for PhP5,000—a significant sum at the time. “Danny liked it,” Hanopol recalls. “He eventually became a dear friend.”
Throughout his career, his songwriting has remained deeply rooted in his command of language and narrative. Hanopol approaches each song as a distinct entity and without favouring one over another. His time in the seminary also left an imprint on his music, inspiring him to weave biblical references into his lyrics. This spiritual influence is evident in tracks like Balong Malalim, inspired by the Book of John, and the songs from his album Lagablab, which draw on the Psalms and the Ten Commandments.
Mike Hanopol’s legacy in Filipino music is underscored by his prolific output, including 20 albums—six of which garnered significant acclaim, earning three Gold awards and three Aliw Awards. His influence has also reached international shores, where he frequently opened for global rock legends like Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin during their Asian tours.
Related: Nothing will stop Filipina singer-songwriter Morissette from singing—not even her past setbacks
Looking ahead, the rock artist is less concerned with personal ambitions and more focused on the future of his fellow musicians. His family and friends dream of seeing him and other artists fully own their music, ensuring their creative works remain theirs.
With new music on the horizon, Mike Hanopol continues to be a force in the industry. His journey is proof of his enduring bond with both his craft and his cultural roots.
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Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is a digital editor at Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.
