Music of a wonderful world

[2025] Roundup of Popular Filipino Artists and Singer-Songwriters

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Suddenly, but have you all been checking out music from Asia outside of Japan?

Many of you might say, “Well, maybe just K-pop…,” but in fact, whether it’s indie rock, hip-hop, or pop, Asia is home to countless amazing artists!

This time, we’re focusing on the music scene in the Philippines, a country with deep ties to Japan.

We’ll be introducing not only legendary singers but also plenty of young Gen Z artists born from the late ’90s to the 2000s.

Whether you usually keep up mainly with English-language music or you only listen to Japanese music, we hope this article gives you a feel for what’s happening in Filipino music right now!

[2025] Roundup of Popular Filipino Artists and Singer-Songwriters (31–40)

GayumaAbra

Abra ft. Thyro & Jeriko Aguilar – Gayuma (Official Music Video)

GayumaAbra

One of the most successful rappers in the Philippines, he shot to popularity with this track.

In the music video, he’s portrayed as falling in love with a transgender woman.

While many of his songs tackle social injustice, this one also carries a hidden message.

His sweet rap style isn’t heavy and slips smoothly into the ear.

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Kahit KailanSouth Border

Kahit kailan – South border

Kahit KailanSouth Border

Released in 1996 by the Davao-born band South Border, this song was their first to draw widespread attention.

“Kahit Kailan” conveys the pain of losing someone and the sorrow of tragic events through a voice that aches with longing.

Accompanied by piano, the high-register ballad lets you feel the anguish expressed in its lyrics just as it is.

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Sana Maulit MuliLea Salonga

Sana Maulit Muli Music Video Trailer | Lea Salonga | ‘Sana Maulit Muli’

Sana Maulit MuliLea Salonga

A song covered by Lea Salonga, originally Gary Valenciano’s 1987 release “Sana Maulit Muli.” A film of the same title starring Lea was released in 1995, and the song gained prominence as part of its soundtrack.

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NardaKamikazee

Kamikazee – Narda (Official Music Video)

NardaKamikazee

Wouldn’t Japanese people be startled by the artist’s name? Contrary to that name, the mellow vocal tone and the gentle sound of the band have made them famous as pop culture icons.

The song also resembles Japanese pop songs, so it might be easy for Japanese listeners to get into.

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Lundagin Mo, Beybi!Flying Ipis

Flying Ipis – Lundagin Mo, Beybi!

Lundagin Mo, Beybi!Flying Ipis

Filipinos would probably be shocked by this band name.

Translated literally, it means “flying cockroach.” Contrary to the name, the members are four women.

This song has an upbeat, guitar-driven rock vibe that’s so cool it makes your body move naturally.

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[2025] Roundup of Popular Filipino Artists and Singer-Songwriters (41–50)

Labyu LanggaJerika Teodorico

Jerika Teodorico – Labyu Langga (Vispop 2.0 Official Lyric Video)

Labyu LanggaJerika Teodorico

A song written by a 17-year-old college student that won the lyrics category at the second Vispop competition.

This lyrical love song was inspired by a mother’s love, yet it has a light, pop feel.

With a touch of jazz mixed in, it exudes a uniquely cool and indescribable vibe.

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ForevermoreSide A

Forevermore – Side-A’s Original

ForevermoreSide A

Side A is a pop band formed in 1985 in the Philippine music scene.

They released their debut album, “Side A,” in 1989, which included hit songs, and rose to popularity from the late 1980s to the early 2000s.

In 1993, the group’s third album achieved triple platinum status.

They also earned two Awit Awards in the mid-1990s, among other notable accomplishments.

With a broad musical palette spanning pop, OPM, Pinoy rock, and R&B, they have captivated many fans.

They also have the episode of being affiliated with a Christian-oriented artist management company.

Their music, brimming with sensitivity nurtured by the Philippines’ rich natural environment, is perfect for those who want to enjoy that distinctive sound.

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