Over the course of 50 years, hip-hop has come a long way, transforming the industry into a billion-dollar behemoth. Even in Cebu, progress is evident; one can observe a consistently vibrant hip-hop scene that has flourished with numerous artists.
Saad Rhy is on the brink of taking the spotlight alongside Nik Makino, Al James and Flow G at the upcoming club music festival “The Drop 01” in Cebu this October. He is enthusiastically embracing Cebu’s hip-hop vibe and seamlessly adding it into his own artistic journey.
The beginning
“I’ve had a love for songwriting and making music since my elementary days, and when I landed here in Cebu, the idea of diving into the local music scene was always on my mind,” said Saad Rhy.
Those solitary beginnings shifted when he crossed paths with Bobby Olvido, a meeting that would evolve into a creative partnership that shaped his trajectory.
“He introduced me to the band scene, where I met fellow musicians who soon became friends. Before I knew it, I found myself becoming a part of the bang ‘Drop Out Club,’” Saad Rhy said.
“Being in that scene opened up some amazing opportunities—from recording sessions to rocking live performances—and eventually led to the release of my own songs. It’s been a journey that’s shaped my musical path, and I’m stoked for what lies ahead.”
Cebu’s hip-hop scene
While the artist did not grow up in Cebu, Saad Rhy deliberately incorporates the Cebuano language into his lyrics. For him, this linguistic choice brings a vibrancy and beauty that transcends linguistic boundaries. It’s a conscious effort to connect with his surroundings and infuse his music with the soul of Cebu, even though his upbringing lies elsewhere.
“Cebuano hip-hop is undeniably ‘LIT,’ as some would say. The local hip-hop community here stands out distinctly from my experiences in other parts of the country and even beyond the Philippines. It’s a fusion of styles. Some artists keep it raw, authentic, and deeply rooted, while others venture into experimental and ambitious territory, pushing the boundaries of what’s conventional,” said Saad Rhy.
Cebu’s hip-hop artists embrace innovation without losing touch with their roots. According to the artist, the fashion, music and attitude reflect an advanced level of artistry that sets Cebu apart.
Creative process
“It begins with music and words that linger in my mind. Lyrics and melodies spontaneously emerge, prompting me to jot down the lyrics on my phone or create a beat on my laptop. I reserve my profound, intricately crafted, poetic-esque, complex lyrics for myself, patiently awaiting the opportune moment to transform them into songs. In the meantime, I will continue recording and releasing the more easily digestible ones,” said Saad Rhy.
His musical wellspring draws from luminaries like 50 Cent and Kanye West. These icons have left a mark on his artistic path, influencing his creative direction and driving him to explore new horizons.
Deep within Saad Rhy’s musical vault lie unreleased tracks that hold a special place in his heart. These compositions are carefully curated for an upcoming album that promises to offer a glimpse into his evolution, encapsulating the past and present in resonance.
In his own words, Saad Rhy urges his supporters to “be creative, smart and free!” It’s a call to embrace one’s individuality, to explore the uncharted and to champion the spirit of artistic freedom.
In the sprawling fabric of Cebu’s musical landscape, he has carved a unique niche for himself. His journey, infused with personal anecdotes and artistic endeavors, reflects the very heartbeat of Cebu’s hip-hop community. As he continues to create, collaborate and conquer, Saad Rhy is set to make a name for himself.