OUR country has no shortage of amazing voices—that’s a fact well known here and across the globe. However, not every artist gets the attention or exposure he or she deserves. Some become “hidden gems,” gaining a modest following and a loyal audience among a community of music lovers.
These artists may not be as visible as bigger names in the industry, but that does not discount the sheer talent they have. Here are five Filipino singer-songwriters (and some playlist recommendations, if we may) to listen to right now:
Reese Lansangan
If you haven’t heard of the masterpiece that is “Grammar Nazi,” you’re missing out. Three years in the making (and titled quite aptly, we might add), Lansangan’s sophomore album “Time Well Spent” is well worth the wait. Her latest body of work, which includes “What Is This Feeling?” and “Orbiting,” is beautifully written, as expected from the indie pop-folk singer-songwriter.
Kakie
In her formative years, she was known as Frankie Pangilinan, daughter of Sharon Cuneta and Francis Pangilinan. Now, she’s carving her own path in the music scene as “kakie,” singing and writing about life, love and heartache. She recently released her debut EP titled “abOUT hER SPACE.” Her 2019 single “tyl” is a good one, too.
Arthur Nery
The Cagayan de Oro-based artist is most known for his velvety smooth vocals that emulate a mix of R&B and a little bit of jazz. “Higa” is a swoon-worthy track to listen on repeat but don’t stop with one song though, he’s got an album called “Letters Never Sent” and a new single titled “Take All The Love” out now.
Adie
Following the melancholic tune of his lead single “Luha” in 2020, the young artist shifts gears with his latest release “Paraluman,” a sweet and romantic love letter to a beloved muse. The official music video for the song recently dropped, featuring internet sensation Ivana Alawi as Paraluman herself.
Zack Tabudlo
Tabudlo has come a long way since his audition for “The Voice Kids” in 2014. Currently signed with Island Records Philippines, the 19-year-old’s name blew up when his song “Binibini” went viral. The song and lyric video currently has over 27 million streams each on Spotify and YouTube, respectively. His other hits include “Nangangamba,” “Sigurado” and “Hindi Ko Kaya.”