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)

SundoImago

Imago – Sundo

SundoImago

The rock band Imago has produced many hit songs, but among them, Sundo stands out as an exceptional smash hit.

Everyone can relate to Aia De Leon’s beautiful ballad vocals.

Although it’s a love song, it’s a track that somehow warms the heart when you listen to it while you’re tired.

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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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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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HaranaParokya Ni Edgar

Harana – Parokya Ni Edgar

HaranaParokya Ni Edgar

It’s a song released in 1997.

Contrary to expectations, the acoustic guitar–driven track became popular among teenagers at the time and turned into a hit.

It also helped bring traditional Filipino chants to a wider audience.

Although it came out more than 20 years ago, young artists still cover it today.

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