Welcome to my OPM HITS ! Introduction to Philippine Music: The 1960s-1990s
Philippine music from the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s underwent significant transformations, reflecting not only international musical trends but also the country's social and political changes. These decades saw the emergence and development of various musical genres and the rise of numerous famous artists and songs that played a crucial role in shaping modern Philippine music. The 1960s: Beginnings and the Influence of Rock 'n Roll
The 1960s marked a period when Philippine music began to be heavily influenced by Western rock 'n roll. Bands and artists such as The Ventures, The Shadows, and Elvis Presley influenced many Filipino musicians. Eddie Peregrina was one of the standout artists of this decade, known as the "King of Jukebox." With his sweet voice and unique performance style, Peregrina garnered a large fan base. His famous songs like "What Am I Living For" and "Two Lovely Flowers" became icons of Philippine music of that era. Pilita Corrales, dubbed "Asia's Queen of Songs," was also a major star. With her soulful voice and multilingual performance ability, Pilita helped bring Philippine music to the international stage. She performed many famous songs such as "Kapantay ay Langit" and "A Million Thanks to You." The 1970s: The Era of OPM and the Rock Movement
The 1970s marked the birth of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), a musical movement aimed at promoting and developing indigenous Philippine music. OPM was not just a music genre but also a cultural symbol, encouraging Filipinos to take pride in their musical heritage. Freddie Aguilar was one of the most famous OPM artists. His song "Anak," released in 1978, became a global phenomenon, translated into many languages, and performed worldwide. "Anak" was not just a song but an emotional story about parental love and sacrifice. Hotdog, a pioneering band in the Manila Sound movement, also made significant contributions to the development of OPM. Songs like "Manila" and "Ikaw ang Miss Universe ng Buhay Ko" became major hits, bringing the band fame and the audience's love. The 1980s: The Rise of New Wave and Pop Rock
The 1980s saw a major shift in musical styles with the rise of New Wave and Pop Rock. This period also saw the strong development of OPM with the emergence of many new artists and bands. Gary Valenciano, known as "Mr. Pure Energy," was one of the leading artists of this decade. With songs like "Hataw Na" and "Di Bale Na Lang," Gary became famous not only for his powerful voice but also for his energetic performance style. Apo Hiking Society, a famous pop-rock band, had many hit songs in the 1980s. With songs like "Pumapatak ang Ulan" and "Ewan," Apo Hiking Society made a significant mark in the hearts of fans and became an indispensable part of Philippine music culture. The 1990s: The Era of Alternative Rock and Pop Ballads
The 1990s was a rich and diverse period in terms of musical genres. This was the era of the rise of Alternative Rock and Pop Ballads, with the emergence of many new artists and bands. Eraserheads was one of the most famous bands of this decade, often referred to as "The Beatles of the Philippines." With songs like "Pare Ko," "Ang Huling El Bimbo," and "Ligaya," Eraserheads became symbols of the Filipino youth generation and had a profound influence on contemporary music. Regine Velasquez, known as "Asia's Songbird," established her position with a powerful voice and superb technique. Songs like "Narito Ako," "Pangako," and "Dadalhin" became classic ballads, making Regine one of the most beloved singers in the Philippines. Rivermaya and Parokya ni Edgar were also famous alternative rock bands, contributing many hit songs and receiving enthusiastic support from fans. Songs like "214" by Rivermaya and "Harana" by Parokya ni Edgar became iconic songs of this decade. Conclusion
Philippine music from the 1960s to the 1990s underwent many phases of development and transformation, with each period having its distinctive artists and songs. From the initial influence of rock 'n roll, to the explosion of OPM, to the rise of alternative rock, Philippine music has demonstrated its richness and diversity. Artists such as Eddie Peregrina, Freddie Aguilar, Gary Valenciano, Eraserheads, and Regine Velasquez have played significant roles in shaping and developing the country's music, leaving a deep imprint in the hearts of fans and the culture of Philippine music. 1960s
Eddie Peregrina
Contributions: Known as the "King of Jukebox," Eddie Peregrina's sweet and unique voice captivated many fans. His hits like "What Am I Living For" and "Two Lovely Flowers" became iconic, representing the blending of Western rock 'n roll with Filipino sensibilities.
Pilita Corrales
Contributions: Dubbed "Asia's Queen of Songs," Pilita Corrales brought Filipino music to the international stage with her multilingual performances. Her emotional delivery in songs like "Kapantay ay Langit" and "A Million Thanks to You" helped popularize Filipino music abroad. 1970s
Freddie Aguilar
Contributions: Freddie Aguilar's song "Anak" became a global sensation, highlighting Filipino storytelling and emotional depth in music. This song alone helped elevate OPM (Original Pilipino Music) on the world stage and inspired many Filipino artists to incorporate local themes in their music.
Hotdog
Contributions: As pioneers of the Manila Sound, Hotdog's music, including hits like "Manila" and "Ikaw ang Miss Universe ng Buhay Ko," blended Western pop and rock with Filipino cultural elements. Their success helped shape the identity of OPM during the 1970s. 1980s
Gary Valenciano
Contributions: Known as "Mr. Pure Energy," Gary Valenciano's dynamic performances and powerful voice made him a leading figure in 1980s Philippine pop music. His songs like "Hataw Na" and "Di Bale Na Lang" showcased his versatility and helped modernize Filipino pop music.
Apo Hiking Society
Contributions: This pop-rock band created numerous hit songs that resonated with the Filipino audience. Their witty lyrics and catchy melodies in songs like "Pumapatak ang Ulan" and "Ewan" made them cultural icons, influencing a generation of musicians and fans. 1990s
Eraserheads
Contributions: Often referred to as "The Beatles of the Philippines," Eraserheads revolutionized Filipino rock music with their fresh sound and relatable lyrics. Songs like "Pare Ko," "Ang Huling El Bimbo," and "Ligaya" became anthems for the youth, and the band's success opened doors for other alternative rock bands in the country. Regine Velasquez
Contributions: Known as "Asia's Songbird," Regine Velasquez's powerful voice and emotive performances made her one of the most beloved singers in the Philippines. Her ballads like "Narito Ako," "Pangako," and "Dadalhin" are considered classics, and she set a high standard for vocal performance in the industry.
Rivermaya
Contributions: Rivermaya, with their alternative rock style, brought a new sound to Philippine music. Songs like "214" and "Himala" became hits, and the band's success demonstrated the commercial viability of alternative rock in the Philippines.
Parokya ni Edgar
Contributions: Known for their humorous and often satirical songs, Parokya ni Edgar became a favorite among fans with hits like "Harana" and "Buloy." Their unique style and relatable lyrics helped them stand out in the crowded music scene of the 1990s. Each of these artists made significant contributions to the development and enrichment of Philippine music from the 1960s to the 1990s. They not only produced iconic songs that have stood the test of time but also helped shape the cultural and musical identity of the Philippines. Their influence extends beyond their music, inspiring future generations of Filipino musicians and solidifying their place in the history of Philippine music.
