On Centre Stage: Get to know some of the music icons in the Philippines

Salonga embodies a deep understanding of her craft. She views her roles as windows into different lives, whether as Éponine in Les Misérables, Erzulie in Once on This Island or Wu Mei-Li in Flower Drum Song. Her career, defined by iconic roles and international acclaim, challenges stereotypes and expands opportunities for people of colour and mixed races. 

Salonga advocates for inclusion in theatre, pushing for more diverse representation. Her journey, marked by resilience and artistic integrity, inspires new generations of performers—each aspiring to share the stage with an icon who reshaped the landscape of musical theatre. Apart from immortalising herself in Madame Tussauds wax museum in Singapore this year, she will grace the theatre stage again with Request sa Radyo at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City.

At 70, this famed Filipino composer still embodies the soul of a musician ready to take on projects outside his usual works. The journey of Ryan Cayabyab to being hailed as the Maestro of Philippine contemporary music happened with a lot of work. He fell in love with the craft before his teenage years, coming to understand the subjectivity and dynamism of music.

Through the years, the composer honed his skills and worked on his passion by formally studying music. Barely out of the UP College of Music, he wrote the music for Rama Hari, a collaboration with National Artists Alice Reyes, Bienvenido Lumbera, Rolando Tinio and Salvador Bernal. His best hits include Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika for Hajji Alejandro, Paraiso for Smokey Mountain and Tuwing Umuulan at Kapiling Ka for Basil Valdez.

There is no way for everyone to sum up Cayabyab’s entire discography; it’s impossible. Cayabyab has grown to learn that he will always be relevant to those who understand the language he speaks through his songs. Today, he sits on the board of trustees of The Philpop MusicFest Foundation and is also the president of The Music School of Ryan Cayabyab.

Dubbed “Asia’s songbird”, she remains one of the country’s most coveted singers and the benchmark in the industry. Regine Velasquez specialises in powerful ballad songs, given her vocal range and belting skills, and is known to be one of the country’s best vocalists. The Filipino singer and actress is also a regular headliner on the Philippine television variety show Asap Natin ‘To and in concerts held internationally by the show.

Velasquez’s career in the music industry began when she was six years old, but when she won a national singing competition at age 14, she signed off her first record deal. Her undeniable talent earned her prominent awards throughout her career, which traces back to her historic win at the 1989 Asia Pacific Singing Contest.

Velasquez captured the hearts of many, both as an actress and a singer loved by the nation, with hits such as Dadalhin, On the Wings of Love and Pangako, among many others. Her music is used in Philippine television shows and movies—one
of the many reasons her songs are sung in karaoke everywhere in the country.

Known for his ballad core and the voice that can soar several octaves, this music idol is keen on finding ways to stay relevant in the dynamic music industry. With years of experience in the music scene, Jed Madela is determined to experiment with different music genres and trends without compromising his core style. He’s always on the lookout for the latest craze and tries to apply it to his music as he wants listeners of all ages to relate to his songs. His best hits include The Past, Changes in My Life and Always.

For his successful musical career, the singer credits the solid foundation that started with performing his songs in bars and restaurants, hoping the audience would like them and share the musical experience with others. While he’s more than welcoming of the opportunities brought by social media, Madela insists that aspiring musicians should start where their career’s foundation is stable.

What is Madela’s dream for the local music industry? It’s growth. The Filipino singer-songwriter hopes for the country’s composers and musicians to go beyond the norm, explore various genres and collaborate with fellow artists to create music that inspires Filipinos and nurtures Philippine tourism.

The group, which comprises Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken and Justin, is heralded as mavericks and frontrunners in the P-pop scene. Recognised by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as the Philippine youth ambassadors, they became the first Southeast Asian and Filipino act to be nominated in the Billboard Music Awards 2021. They are also the first Filipino act to land on the international Billboard Social 50 and Next Big Sound Charts.

However diverse their beginnings, a shared dream of expressing themselves through music ignited their union. Their hit songs Bazinga, Gento and What? resonate not just for their modern beats but for the stories they tell. Every composition reflects their struggles, making their music relatable and compelling to fans who find a piece of themselves within the melodies. The group’s commitment shines through in their performances, where powerful choreography, vocals and stage presence come together to deliver unforgettable experiences. 

SB19 cultivates new ideas and refines their craft through disciplined training, always seeking to push boundaries and explore uncharted waters. Adhering to the adage that change is the only constant, they adapt swiftly to industry trends and integrate fan feedback into their creative process. Their dream for the local music industry is ambitious yet heartfelt: to elevate Filipino talent onto the global stage.

This musician scores decades of experience behind him, first as a folk singer, drawing inspiration from local and international singer-songwriters such as John Denver, Simon and Garfunkel, Florante and Freddie Aguilar. Noel Cabangon also became a protest musician, writing and singing songs about social justice.

Music was a constant factor in Cabangon’s life growing up. Relatives played vinyl records from the Sixties and Seventies, and musicians in his hometown exposed him to Western folk music. This background and Cabangon’s God-given talent and love for music started his career.   

What keeps him busy daily are performances at private events and bars. He’s also avid about expanding his knowledge of today’s music and the latest technology. However, even with his openness to current trends, the musician does not see the need to chase after the newer and younger audience. He takes much importance to nurturing his audience now without compromising the music he is known for. Cabangon’s best hits include Kanlungan, Di Na Natuto and Harana.

He sparked his interest in music at a young age and through a karaoke machine. But it was just a matter of time before Jake Zyrus became an international singing sensation, and notably be one of the few Filipino artists with the opportunity and talent to flaunt Asian pride internationally.

YouTube was the leading platform where Zyrus garnered popularity; Oprah Winfrey even dubbed him “the most talented girl in the world” before his gender transition. His achievements include getting cast in the hit television series Glee and joining the Philippine version of The X Factor as one of the judges. In 2018, Zyrus released his first album as a transman, Diamond, which was featured in the Billboard charts in the US. He was also nominated for the Emmy Awards 2020 for his documentary Jake and Charice.

While the music industry is ever-evolving, Zyrus still believes that the constant progress and transformation in music is the essence of art and life. His priority is to compose and perform songs that express who he is and what he represents without the pressure of the media. Some of Zyrus’ best hits are Pyramid, Hiling and I’ll Be There.

He is a revered and respected figure in the Philippine music industry who started his journey with the popular Seventies band Circus. After the band disbanded, the solo career of Basil Valdez as a renowned balladeer soared with iconic hits such as Ngayon at Kailanman, Hanggang Sa Dulo Ng Walang Hanggan and Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan.

Valdez’s music often explores love, longing and heartbreak. His ability to convey deep emotions makes his songs timeless, each resonating deeply with audiences, regardless of age. Most outstanding are his collaborations with renowned composer Ryan Cayabyab, who helped him produce some of his most memorable songs, further solidifying his place in OPM history.

Although he rarely writes songs, he takes immense pride in using his voice as an instrument to inspire. He allows himself to be used by the Lord and some of the country’s greatest composers to bring life to their songs, showcasing his unwavering faith that has only grown stronger over the years. 

Despite enduring health challenges, his passion for music remains unwavering. He continues to perform, albeit less frequently than we’d like, bringing joy to his fans with his timeless songs and distinct voice.

Surrounded by her musician relatives in Cebu, this singer was immersed in a world where music and the arts were omnipresent. Morissette soon embraced her calling to become a singer, eventually recognised for her vocal prowess and expressive interpretations of songs, especially as a participant in The Voice Philippines and ASAP Natin ‘To. Her career took a significant turn when she ventured into songwriting and producing, a decision catalysed during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns.

Beyond her musical endeavours, Morissette delved into acting, notably starring in the film Song of the Fireflies, where her musical talents were showcased alongside Loboc Children’s Choir. She is also gearing up for a significant Ember concert—a play on her “Asia’s Phoenix” moniker. The show promises to blend her memorable covers and original compositions.

Throughout her journey, Morissette has always emphasised the importance of balance in her career and personal life. She remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians in the Philippines and beyond, driven by a desire to share her stories and melodies with the world.

He is a seminal figure in Philippine rock music who has carved a lasting legacy through his musical impact. Emerging in the Seventies as a founding member of the Juan de la Cruz Band, Mike Hanopol played a role in shaping the sound of Filipino rock. The band’s fusion of rock, blues and Pinoy sensibilities resonated deeply with the youth, making them a household name. His bass guitar skills and songwriting abilities were integral to the band’s success, producing hits like Himig Natin that became anthems of a generation seeking cultural identity and social change.

Hanopol embarked on a solo career to earn more money for his first wife’s pregnancy. After multiple obstacles, he composed hits like Laki Sa Layaw (Jeproks) and Mr Kenkoy—which he wrote in one jeepney ride each—reflecting the Filipino experience with wit and authenticity.

This Filipino musician and producer is ecstatic about the direction he is taking in his decades-long career. Raimund Marasigan, the lead vocalist of the famous rock band Sandwich and former drummer of Eraserheads, said that the current musical era in the Philippines is his favourite because of the steady development in musical equipment and people’s music tastes.

Apart from writing songs and playing multiple instruments, such as the drums and guitar, Marasigan also mentored aspiring musicians at ABS-CBN’s Pinoy Dream Academy. He does not only focus on his music but also on the future generation of Filipino musicians, equipping them with skills that he honed through the years. 

The multi-instrumentalist is not one to follow trends in making music; he, along with his band, prefers to compose songs that they genuinely like, not limited to what social media says. Some of Sandwich’s best hits are Betamax, Sugod and their latest track, Morena.

This songbird is already going to celebrate her 45th year in the music industry next year. Over these past years, Kuh Ledesma has continued to rise and pursue excellence by performing songs that her audience and fans can relate to. Some of her best hits include One More Try, Till I Met You and Bulaklak.

When she was young, singing for her relatives at family gatherings sparked Ledesma’s passion for music. Years later, when an opportunity to audition for a band came to her, she took it and continued.

The pop icon has represented the Philippines internationally many times. One memorable event was the Miss Universe beauty pageant in the US in 1991, where she was invited to be on the panel of judges With her exceptional experience and discography, Ledesma dreams of the country becoming the West End of Asia through music composed and performed by local artists.

Ben&Ben found their musical inspiration in the joy of performing together. What started with Paolo and Miguel Benjamin pulling the group together for early gigs evolved into a deep-seated belief in their bond as “something special”. Now, their songs transcend language and borders, with foreign artists covering them and international award-winning bodies like the Asia Artist Awards recognising them.

Four years into their career, the band faced a monumental challenge alongside the global music industry: the Covid-19 pandemic. With no real timeline for assurance and no clear way forward, they struggled to make sense of things—how to continue working while staying alive and safe, how to best use their music and platforms to help those around them, and how to realistically sustain everything until the eventual end of the pandemic. But amid personal and existential crises, each member found resilience in music.

Ben&Ben stays relevant by embracing its authenticity. It believes that relevance comes from staying true to itself and crafting music that reflects personal growth and experiences, as apparent in hits like Kathang Isip, Leaves and Araw-Araw. Recently, its discography was used in the Philippine Educational Theater Association’s musical rendition of One More Chance, a testament to the band’s musicality and versatility. 

Beyond their success, the band dreams of a vibrant local music industry where diversity is celebrated and collaboration thrives. They envision a community where artists support each other, pushing boundaries and elevating the industry to new heights.

With now over two billion streams to her name, singer-songwriter Moira Dela Torre continues to show us why millions of people continue to find refuge in her songs. Growing up, things happened naturally for her. It may not have been in her plans to make a career out of music but having found songwriting therapeutic, her music became therapy to many souls. Her hit songs include Malaya, Before It Sinks In and Tagpuan.

Dela Torre works hard—like most musicians in the Philippines. But the singer’s biggest challenge, which she admits to continue to battle with today, is learning to balance the volumes of the many voices that come with the industry she’s in. “It’s the balancing act of wearing your heart on your sleeve and not bleeding too much”.

However, despite the difficulties that have come, the songwriter’s love for music has always prevailed and have only caused her to grow upward and inward in her craft. When asked what she would like to see in the Philippine music scene, she cites one area where she hopes she can help change. Dela Torre dreams of prompt  and proper compensation for local artists, especially songwriters, an unfair practice in the system that she has seen going on for years.

Meeting Elvis Presley and Otis Redding through his father when he was young sparked his passion for music, setting the stage for his future in the arts.

At age 12, Billy Crawford moved to the US. After initially stepping away from music, he rediscovered his love for performing through a talent show, leading to a development deal in New York. Crawford credits his training in the US as the strong foundation that eventually gave him an edge in the industry. His career expanded internationally, with notable success in France, where he lived for several years. His most successful single, Trackin, was a massive chart success across Europe.

Crawford’s other achievements include winning Dancing with the Stars in France and selling millions of records. Despite facing personal challenges, he has maintained a successful and diverse career, blending music, hosting and performing. He continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry today.

Known for his distinct music style combining modern and ethnic instruments, this singer has become a prominent figure in the local contemporary music scene. Joey Ayala devoted much time to exploring and experimenting with different sounds and rhythms from indigenous groups and Filipino folk traditions, which turned him into the exceptional and sensible musician he is today.

His lyricism is also one of the reasons he remains relevant in the dynamic music industry. Ayala is fearless in composing and performing songs that discuss social, environmental and political matters. He believes music plays an integral role in conveying a message or signalling a wake-up call to society and the future generation. Some of his best hits include Karaniwang Tao, Papel and Walang Hanggang Paalam.

Speaking from over 30 years of experience, the veteran musician says he hopes the country’s artists today will not overlook the importance of staying focused on one’s craft, passion and dedication to making music that transcends barriers.

He is passionate about making classical music reach everyone, not just the affluent or the highly educated. As the music director of the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth, composed of young and talented musicians who can’t afford musical lessons, Gerard Salonga yearns for everyone to have access to and knowledge of operatic music. He also serves as resident conductor of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) in Kuala Lumpur.

The orchestra conductor declares that keeping classical music relevant is currently the most significant challenge in his career. He stresses the importance of classical music as an art form that can only be fully experienced and appreciated when seen and heard live. To turn this challenge into an opportunity, Salonga and the MPO are working to present new avenues for audiences to get into classical music. 

One step they took toward their goal was the sold-out concert, The Classics In Pops, held at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, which featured classics from great composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Hisaishi, Dvorak and Stravinsky.

Read more: Behind the Scenes: Learn more about the much-anticipated ‘Do You Hear the People Sing?’ concert

He started his career at age three after his appearance on Eat Bulaga, the longest-running noon-time show on Philippine television. From there, his career in the entertainment industry blossomed, making “Aiza Seguerra” a household name among Filipinos in films and songs—particularly love songs used in television shows.

Now called “Ice Seguerra”, his famous hits include Ikaw Lamang, Anghel Sa Lupa and Pagdating ng Panahon. Amidst his rise to fame, Seguerra made known to the public his gender identity. It was in 2007 that he came out as a lesbian on public television. In 2015, he started identifying as a transgender man after realising the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. The singer then wed the love of his life, Liza Diño, in 2014 in San Francisco, California.

Seguerra and his wife recently wrapped up their stage play Choosing, which they created and presented in July in celebration of Pride Month. The actor, singer and songwriter proves that his talents go beyond composing and performing. The play, written by his wife, Liza Diño and directed by Dr Anton Juan, tackles sexual awakening, gender sensitivity, and a transman’s life—a topic close to Seguerra’s heart.

See also: ‘Choosing’: Ice Seguerra and Liza Diño’s stage play shows authenticity and truth’s liberating power

Her career soared to unprecedented heights after she won the prestigious Leventritt Gold Medal in 1981. Cecile Licad, a virtuoso on the piano, captivates audiences with her technical skills and tops this off with her ability to reflect her emotions in each piece she plays. Her interpretations of the works of Chopin, Rachmaninoff and Liszt among many others, showcase her mastery in her field.

Licad graced the Metropolitan Theater this year with a performance honouring the legacy of the late Zenaida “Nedy” Tantoco, a stalwart supporter of Philippine arts. Surrounded by dignitaries and music enthusiasts, her performance highlighted classical music’s enduring relevance in the country—underscoring her moniker “the pianists’ pianist”. 

Licad continues to inspire younger generations of Filipino musicians. She encourages them to persevere and never give up. For her, pianists should not merely sit and play half-heartedly, leaving it to their fingers. One should put in 200 per cent effort or nothing at all.

In case you missed it: Fete de la Musique 2024: Music icons, acts and locations to watch out for

His long relationship with composition stemmed from personal experiences that inspired him to make music. But as he went further into his career, Filipino composer Louie Ocampo also found advertising something to venture into. He was the songwriter behind Closer You and I, a popular jingle for Closeup toothpaste.

The music prodigy has worked with several of the country’s renowned musicians and composed songs such as Babalik Ka Rin for Gary Valenciano, Say That You Love Me for Basil Valdez, Before You Say Goodbye for Martin Nievera and Two Words for Lea Salonga.

One of the most notable moments in his career was his sold-out 45th-anniversary concert, Composer Ka Lang, held in 2023 at the Theatre at Solaire, where several artists performed hits he composed. He wants to make each of his new songs his best yet, so he is keen on staying relevant. Ocampo believes that it’s essential for both musicians and composers to learn from the current music trends so they can relate with audiences of all tastes and ages.

Their songs blend Filipino folklore and modern rhythms to create a unique musical experience. This is what makes Alamat a dynamic force in P-pop. The band’s unique style is most apparent in the track Maharani, the best R&B record in the 36th Awit Awards. The track ILY ILY featuring Lyca Gairanod is also an example of a Hiligaynon folk lullaby transformed into a contemporary anthem.

Composed of members from different Philippine regions—Tomas from Albay, Taneo from Kalinga, Alas from Davao, Jao from Pampanga, Mo from Zambales and R-Ji from Eastern Samar—Alamat stands out as the second P-pop group to chart on Billboard and the fastest-rising Filipino act on Billboard’s Next Big Sound chart.

Adding another milestone to their career, Alamat recently held their first solo concert, Dagundong, at the New Frontier Theater on December 1, 2023. This show revealed a different side of them, showcasing their versatility and stage presence.

Celebrating Filipino heritage, the group tells stories of courage, love and pride in their music. They continually push boundaries by blending traditional roots with modern beats, captivating audiences with their innovative and culturally resonant sound.

Related: Any Name’s Okay on how it is like to be music icons in the industry today

Despite years of musical experience, this actor and singer finds that in his career, every day is still a challenge, especially now that new songs are quickly released on giant platforms such as TikTok and Spotify. So to stay relevant, Ogie Alcasid says that going back to the basics and staying in love with singing and songwriting are two things that he will always live by.

Not every song is meant to be a hit, Alcasid believes. Coming from the icon himself, the statement represents a given and should not discourage singers and songwriters. His most famous songs include Nandito Ako, Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang and Sa Kanya. The singer-songwriter explained that going with the tide, letting it run its course and being patient is essential to survive in the local music industry. No matter the pace, he remains observant of the music genre and platform changes.

As the president of the Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-Aawit (OPM) since 2010, Alcasid dreams of artists in the local music industry continuing to make original music and hopefully representing the Philippines even more internationally.

During the inaugural season of The Voice Kids Philippines, this young singer captivated audiences with Adam Sandler’s Grow Old With You, landing in third place under team Bamboo. Today, Juan Karlos has established himself in the industry, with his single ERE making history as the first Filipino song to debut on Spotify’s global chart. His songs Buwan and Demonyo were also certified hits.

Juan Karlos remains humble despite the “unexpected success”, attributing his achievements to a collective effort. He maintains a grounded perspective and acknowledges that success ebbs and flows. He exhibits the same mindset creatively, eschewing routine and preferring spontaneity. When composing, he draws inspiration from personal experiences, relationships and the everyday minutiae of life. 

Amidst setbacks, Juan Karlos encourages aspiring musicians to remain true to their passion. For him, music isn’t just about commercial success; it’s a means of self-expression and fulfilment.

In case you missed it: Why Juan Karlos will never leave music behind

Described by the late Francis Magalona as a “blacksmith of words and letters”, this Filipino rap icon is not just an artist; he’s a renowned storyteller in the hip-hop genre. Born Aristotle Pollisco, Gloc-9 has an outstanding journey in the music industry—with two FAMAS awards, among many others, under his belt.

With an uncanny ability to blend street-smart poetry with socio-political commentary, Gloc-9’s music is not just for entertainment. It mirrors society, urging listeners to confront realities often overlooked or silenced. Like the gritty streets of Manila described in Hari ng Tondo, his verses resonate with social issues, speaking directly to the heart of the Filipino psyche. Upuan and Sirena have become anthems of empowerment and introspection as well. 

As Gloc-9 continues to evolve and innovate, his legacy as a master storyteller in the rap scene remains etched in OPM history. With every beat and rhyme, he invites us to listen, learn and celebrate shared human experiences.

One of his earliest and most significant achievements as a performer was discovering his sound with the release of his first hit song, Nangangamba. Zack Tabudlo was overwhelmed by the support and love he received following this release. It allowed him to experience his dreams coming to life and gave him the courage to continue pursuing music.

Now that he has found his sound, it is a struggle for him to stay true to it whilst being able to adapt and evolve with the current music market. With his fans’ continued support as his driving force, Tabudlo always goes back to remembering to enjoy music and what drove him into this industry in the first place. 

For him, it is easy to get caught up in making music to perfection. However, one colleague reminded him to leave some “dirt” in his works, as it shows creativity and marks what makes him unique as an artist. He continues to give this advice to his juniors, pushing them to explore new sounds and work hard to make their dreams a reality.

Read more: Singer-songwriter Zack Tabudlo on his music, creative process, and dreams

She was only 12 years old when she released Mr DJ, and the impact of this single was so profound that it catapulted her to stardom or, in her case, Megastardom. Sharon Cuneta released several songs rapidly, which instantly became anthems for a whole generation, like Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko, High School and Bituing Walang Ningning, cementing her status as an icon.

Throughout her career, Cuneta has consistently demonstrated an ability to evolve and adapt to changing trends while maintaining her unique style. Her collaborations with prominent Filipino artists, such as Gary Valenciano, Regine Velasquez and Martin Nievera, have produced memorable duets highlighting her versatility and ability to harmonise beautifully with others. 

Cuneta’s music remains a cherished part of Filipino pop culture. Her influence extends beyond music; she has also made significant contributions to Philippine cinema and television.

Special thanks to Twinky Lagdameo

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