Music of a wonderful world

[2026] Overview 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 for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

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!

[2026] 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.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

HauntedEly Buendia

Haunted – Ely Buendia (Theme from Bang Bang Alley)

HauntedEly Buendia

An icon of Philippine rock.

A multitalented figure who produced the rock band Eraserheads, is a film director, and also serves as the frontman of the band The Oktaves.

This song is also the theme for his directorial debut film, Bang Bang Alley.

Many people are likely captivated by his calm, deep voice.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Sa ‘YoSilent Sanctuary

Silent Sanctuary – Sa’Yo (Official Music Video)

Sa 'YoSilent Sanctuary

A song by a popular rock band formed in 2001.

Their relaxed, heartfelt ballads are well-loved.

This track was also featured on the soundtrack of the Korean TV drama “Angel Eyes.” A heart-tugging ballad for K-drama fans.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Hanggang NgayonKyla

Kyla – Hanggang Ngayon (Official Music Video)

Hanggang NgayonKyla

Her second single release.

It is the most well-known song among Kyla’s tracks.

The music video for this song won the Southeast Asia Viewers’ Choice Award at the 2001 MTV VMAs.

Sung tenderly with piano accompaniment, it is a ballad that somehow also leaves you feeling refreshed.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Hawak KamayYeng Constantino

Hawak Kamay – Yeng Constantino (Live Album Launch)

Hawak KamayYeng Constantino

She joined Pinoy Dream Academy at 17 and was also the first champion, the reality show’s original Grand Star Dreamer.

And this song is from before she was called the Princess of Pop.

Her voice, still pure and full of earnest effort, is absolutely electrifying.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem