[2026] Overview of Popular Filipino Artists and Singer-Songwriters
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!
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[2026] Compilation of Popular Filipino Artists and Singer-Songwriters (21–30)
LigayaEraserheads
When people who were college students in the ’90s listen to this song, it will stir up memories of bittersweet youth.
It’s a track they released in 1993, back when they were students at the University of the Philippines.
Even as young students, they sang about love in a way that resonated with the youth of the time.
Ang Huling El BimboEraserheads
A song released in 1995.
This ballad is a sad song about a love that didn’t work out because of youth.
The most popular Eraserheads track on Spotify is Ang Huling El Bimbo.
The song’s message is that recalling a youthful romance brings an indescribable sense of defeat, yet at the same time it remains a bittersweet, somehow fond memory.
PortaMayonnaise
Mayonnaise is a four-piece rock band formed in the Philippines in 1996.
Influenced by artists like Led Zeppelin and Nirvana, their unique style also incorporates elements of ska and punk rock.
Their 2006 album Jeepney was a major success in the Philippines and was nominated the following year for Best Rock Album at the Asia Music Awards.
Their music also reflects traditional influences, such as the use of the Filipino traditional instrument kulintang.
In March 2014, they performed at the renowned South by Southwest Music Festival in Austin, Texas.
With a genre-defying sound, they have captivated fans not only in the Philippines but around the world.
MisteryosoAutotelic
Autotelic is an indie alternative rock band from Manila, Philippines.
Formed in 2012, they are known for hit songs such as “Misteryoso.” Centered on indie, pop rock, and alternative rock, their unique sound blends elements of Japanese music and dance music.
In 2017, they won “Best Performance by a New Group Recording Artist” at the 30th Awit Awards.
Incorporating elements of electropop and electronica, their broad musical range captivates fans both in the Philippines and abroad.
Highly recommended for those who want to enjoy music that fuses the rich sensibilities nurtured by the Philippines’ natural environment with a contemporary sound.
Till My Heartaches EndElla May Saison
A song released in 1992.
It carries the message that lost love is more painful—and more beautiful—than love that comes true.
Unfortunately, the artist ended up being a one-hit wonder, but that single became a phenomenal hit and remains in people’s hearts.
Bakit Ngayon Ka LangFreestyle feat. Pops Fernandez
A classic song for karaoke in the Philippines.
Originally released in the early 1990s by Ogie Alcasid and Aaron Paul Del Rosario, it was covered by Freestyle and Pops Fernandez in 2001, performed live, and became a hit.
The two sing in gentle harmonies about an unexpected romance and the uncertainty of where that love will lead.
Would You Never?Halik Ni Gringo
The live shows for the debut album “The Call Of Booty” are famous for their phenomenal response.
They exude an ’80s retro vibe.
The songs have a rich flavor—rock from a bygone era that also feels current.
They’re tracks you’ll definitely want to experience live.