Cover Best albums of 2025 (Photo: edited by Christofer Palentino
Best albums of 2025 (Photo: edited by Christofer Palentino
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These 2025 albums didn’t just soundtrack the year, they mirrored our moods, met us in our feelings and stayed with us long after the last track faded
When most people think of drag queens, they picture dazzling costumes, out-of-this-world concepts and powerful lip-sync performances. Yet over the past few years, many of the Philippines’s most beloved drag artists have proven that their talents extend far beyond the stage. From infectious dance-pop anthems to empowering tracks celebrating identity and self-expression, these queens have transformed from being lip-sync assassins into recording artists in their own right.
This Pride month, turn the volume all the way up and add these tracks to your playlist, as these songs are perfect not only for celebrating queer excellence but also for boldly reflecting the many stories, struggles and triumphs that continue to shape the LGBTQIA+ community.
More from Tatler: Where the queens reign supreme: a night of drag excellence at O Bar
‘Laban’ by Maxie Andreison
Much like her earlier release ‘Tado’, Maxie Andreison’s ‘Laban ’is rooted in resilience, courage and the continuing fight for equality. The reigning Drag Race Philippines winner delivers an empowering anthem that calls for respect, dignity and visibility for the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly at a time when discrimination and prejudice remain a reality for many. With its uplifting message and rallying spirit, the track serves as both a reminder and a call to action that despite the progress made, there is still work to be done, and the community must continue to stand strong together.
‘EABAB’ by Marina Summers
Fresh off publicly embracing her identity as a transgender woman, Marina Summers ushered in a bold new era with ‘EABAB’, a vibrant pop anthem that feels both celebratory and deeply personal. Released shortly after her coming out, the track radiates confidence, freedom and body positivity, serving as a joyful soundtrack to her transition and self-discovery.
See also: Pride Month reads: 9 LGBTQ-themed books by Asian authors to add to your reading list
‘Brightest Star’ by Brigiding
Before it became an official release, ‘Brightest Star’ first captivated audiences as Brigiding’s winning talent performance on Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale. Transforming a standout competition moment into an inspiring anthem, the track chronicles her journey both as an individual and as a drag artist. From overcoming personal challenges to carving out her place in the local drag scene, this song reflects the resilience, ambition and self-belief that have defined Brigiding as a queen and as a person.
‘Bongga’ by Viñas Deluxe
If there is one queen who knows how to command a room, it is Viñas Deluxe, and ‘Bongga’ perfectly encapsulates her larger-than-life energy. Bursting with camp, charisma and confidence, the track is a celebration of being unapologetically yourself—loud, proud and unwilling to shrink for anyone. Beneath the song’s uplifting beat lies a powerful message about embracing your individuality, owning your story and recognising your worth, with or without a crown.
‘Isaw’ by Arizona Brandy
Following the phenomenal success of ‘Arizona B’, which took the country by storm last year, Arizona Brandy returns with another viral-worthy masterpiece in ‘Isaw’. Still distinctly Filipino in spirit, the track leans deeper into rave territory, drawing heavily from the infectious pulse of ‘Budots’ while keeping its energy firmly rooted in the club scene. Packed with cheeky humour and undeniable dancefloor appeal, it feels tailor-made for dance challenges, party playlists, and Pride celebrations alike.
‘Atenean Tech Bro’ by Naia Black
Another hyper-rhythmic club anthem, ‘Atenean Tech Bro’ feels tailor-made for the dance floor with its beat-driven electronic sound. Designed for packed dance floors and euphoric late-night moments, the song perfectly captures the excitement of stepping into a rave for the first time, from the anticipation and self-expression to the feeling of finding community among strangers. Clever, chaotic and irresistibly danceable, it's the kind of track that makes you want to lose yourself in the music and fully embrace the party experience.
‘Tara Na Bes’ by Precious Paula Nicole and Popstar Bench
The rainy season may already be in full swing, but ‘Tara Na Bes’ continues to capture the carefree spirit of a perfect getaway. Originally released as a summer anthem, the track remains an easy favourite thanks to its light-hearted energy, feel-good sound and celebration of friendship. Encouraging listeners to leave their worries behind and embrace the present moment, it evokes images of spontaneous road trips, beachside sunsets and late-night laughter with chosen family.
Christofer Palentino tells stories the way a digital marketer reads a campaign report: seeking patterns, turning points and the human truths hidden behind the numbers. A digital marketing professional with a keen eye for analytics, he fuses data-driven insight with creative vision to capture moments that define the cultural pulse.
His niche spans the spectrum of pop culture—music, film and fashion—anything that shapes and reflects the zeitgeist. For him, every trend has a story, and every story has a strategy.
Connect with him on Instagram @_chrspl or at christofer@tatlerphilippines.com
