Filipino music has a rich and diverse history, blending traditional indigenous sounds with elements from Spanish, American, and other Asian cultures. Over the years, many talented Filipino singers have emerged, gaining worldwide recognition for their unique styles and powerful voices. From the soulful ballads of Gary Valenciano to the electrifying performances of Sarah Geronimo, Filipino singers have captured the hearts of music lovers all around the world.
The music industry in the Philippines has produced countless icons who have influenced and inspired generations of musicians. Many of these singers have become household names, not just in the Philippines, but across the globe. Their music has been celebrated for its emotional depth, catchy melodies, and relatable lyrics that speak to the human experience.
From classic love songs to contemporary pop hits, Filipino singers have left an indelible mark on the music world, showcasing the unique beauty and creativity of the Filipino culture. In this era of globalization, the influence of Filipino music is continuing to spread and gain recognition, making it an exciting time for Filipino singers and music enthusiasts alike.
1. Lea Salonga
Lea Salonga is a Filipino singer and actress who has gained international recognition for her powerful vocals and versatile performances. Born on February 22, 1971, in Manila, Philippines, Salonga first rose to fame in the 1980s as a child star in the Philippines. She later gained global recognition for her portrayal of Kim in the musical “Miss Saigon,” which earned her critical acclaim and a Tony Award.
Salonga’s music career spans over three decades, during which she has released several successful albums, including the chart-topping “Lea Salonga” and “By Heart.” She is known for her ability to sing in multiple languages, including English, Tagalog, and Japanese, and has performed for audiences around the world.
In addition to her music career, Salonga is also a successful actress, having appeared in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions. She is known for her work as the singing voice of Princess Jasmine in Disney’s “Aladdin” and the title character in “Mulan.”
Salonga has won numerous awards throughout her career, including a Tony Award, an Olivier Award, and a Grammy Award. She is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and children’s rights. Salonga’s talent and impact on the entertainment industry continue to be felt, and she remains a beloved and influential artist around the world.
2. Regine Velasquez
Regine Velasquez is a Filipino singer and actress who is widely considered as one of the greatest singers in the Philippines. Born on April 22, 1970, in Tondo, Manila, Velasquez began her music career in the 1980s as a lounge singer. She later rose to prominence as a recording artist in the early 1990s, with the release of her hit albums “Listen Without Prejudice” and “My Love Emotion.”
Velasquez’s music career spans over three decades, during which she has released several successful albums and singles, including the chart-topping “R2K” and “Covers Vol. 2.” She is known for her vocal range, which spans four octaves, and her ability to sing in various genres, including pop, R&B, and rock.
In addition to her music career, Velasquez is also a successful actress, having appeared in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions. She is known for her roles in movies such as “Wanted: Perfect Mother” and “Dahil May Isang Ikaw.”
Velasquez has won numerous awards throughout her career, including several Awit Awards, the Philippines’ most prestigious music award. She is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and disaster relief. Velasquez’s impact on the Filipino music industry is immeasurable, and she remains a beloved and influential artist in the Philippines and beyond.
3. Gary Valenciano
Gary Valenciano, also known as “Gary V,” is a Filipino singer, songwriter, and dancer who has made a significant impact on the Philippine music industry. Born on August 6, 1964, in Manila, Valenciano began his music career in the 1980s and quickly gained popularity for his unique blend of pop, R&B, and dance music.
Valenciano’s music career spans over three decades, during which he has released several successful albums, including the hit albums “Gary V Live!” and “Revive.” He is known for his energetic performances and powerful vocals, which have earned him numerous awards and accolades.
In addition to his music career, Valenciano is also a successful actor, television host, and motivational speaker. He is known for his work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of health and education.
Valenciano has won numerous awards throughout his career, including several Awit Awards and the Philippines’ Presidential Medal of Merit. He is also known for his advocacy for people with diabetes, having been diagnosed with the disease himself in 1985. Valenciano’s talent and impact on the Filipino music industry continue to be felt, and he remains a beloved and influential artist in the Philippines and beyond.
4. Jed Madela
Jed Madela is a Filipino singer and songwriter who has become one of the most popular performers in the Philippines. Born on July 14, 1980, in Iloilo City, Madela rose to prominence in the early 2000s as the grand champion of the ABS-CBN singing competition “Star in a Million.”
Madela’s music career has been marked by numerous successful albums and hit singles, including “The Voice” and “Songs Rediscovered.” He is known for his powerful vocals and his ability to perform in various genres, including pop, R&B, and ballads.
In addition to his music career, Madela is also a successful television host and actor, having appeared in numerous films and television shows. He is known for his work as a mentor on the reality singing competition “The Voice of the Philippines.”
Madela has won numerous awards throughout his career, including several Awit Awards and the Philippines’ Presidential Medal of Merit. He is also known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and disaster relief.
Madela’s talent and impact on the Filipino music industry continue to be felt, and he remains a beloved and influential artist in the Philippines and beyond.
5. Apl.de.ap
Apl.de.ap is a Filipino-American rapper, singer, and songwriter, who is best known as a member of the Grammy Award-winning hip-hop group, The Black Eyed Peas. Born on November 28, 1974, in Angeles City, Pampanga, Apl.de.ap (whose real name is Allan Pineda Lindo) moved to the United States at a young age, where he eventually met and formed The Black Eyed Peas with fellow members will.i.am, Taboo, and Fergie.
Apl.de.ap’s music career with The Black Eyed Peas has been marked by numerous successful albums and hit singles, including “Where Is the Love?” and “I Gotta Feeling.” He is known for his unique style, which blends hip-hop with Filipino culture, and for his contributions to The Black Eyed Peas as a rapper, songwriter, and producer.
In addition to his music career, Apl.de.ap is also known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and poverty alleviation. He has established several charitable organizations, including the Apl.de.ap Foundation, which aims to improve the lives of underprivileged children in the Philippines through education and technology.
Apl.de.ap’s talent and impact on the music industry continue to be felt, and he remains a beloved and influential artist in both the United States and the Philippines.
6. Sarah Geronimo
Sarah Geronimo is a multi-award-winning Filipino singer, actress, and television personality who is widely regarded as the “Popstar Royalty” in the Philippines. Born on July 25, 1988, in Santa Cruz, Manila, Geronimo started her music career at a young age, winning various singing competitions throughout the Philippines.
Geronimo’s music career spans over a decade, during which she has released several successful albums and hit singles, including “Tala” and “Forever’s Not Enough.” She is known for her powerful vocals, dance moves, and ability to perform in various genres, including pop, ballads, and R&B.
In addition to her music career, Geronimo is also a successful actress, having starred in numerous films and television shows. She has also been a coach and mentor on the reality singing competition “The Voice of the Philippines.”
Geronimo has won numerous awards throughout her career, including several Awit Awards, Myx Music Awards, and the Philippines’ Presidential Medal of Merit. She is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and poverty alleviation.
Geronimo’s talent and impact on the Filipino music industry continue to be felt, and she remains a beloved and influential artist in the Philippines and beyond.
7. Arnel Pineda (Journey)
Arnel Pineda is a Filipino singer best known as the lead vocalist of the American rock band Journey. Born on September 5, 1967, in Sampaloc, Manila, Pineda began his music career in the Philippines in the 1980s as a member of several local bands. He gained wider recognition in the early 2000s as the frontman of the Filipino rock band The Zoo.
In 2007, Pineda’s life changed when his performances of Journey songs on YouTube caught the attention of the band’s guitarist, Neal Schon. Schon was impressed with Pineda’s vocal range and offered him the role of lead vocalist of Journey. Pineda joined the band in 2008 and has since performed on several successful albums and tours.
Pineda’s vocals have been compared to those of former Journey frontman Steve Perry, and his performances with the band have earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. He is known for his energetic stage presence and powerful vocals, particularly on classic Journey hits like “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart).”
Pineda’s success with Journey has made him a music icon in the Philippines, and he continues to tour and perform with the band around the world.
8. Aiza Seguerra
Aiza Seguerra is a multi-talented Filipino singer, songwriter, and actress who first rose to fame as a child star in the 1980s. Born on September 17, 1983, in Calauag, Quezon, Seguerra began her entertainment career as a contestant on the TV talent show “Eat Bulaga!” at the age of three. She went on to star in several movies and TV shows throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
As she grew older, Seguerra transitioned to a music career, releasing several successful albums and singles. She is known for her soulful voice and unique interpretations of classic Filipino songs. Seguerra has also composed and written songs for other Filipino artists, including Gary Valenciano and Sarah Geronimo.
In addition to her music career, Seguerra is also an LGBTQ+ rights activist, having come out as a lesbian in 2007. She has been vocal about her advocacy for equality and acceptance, and has used her platform to raise awareness about the issues facing the LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines.
Seguerra’s talent and impact on the Filipino entertainment industry continue to be felt, and she remains a beloved and influential artist and activist in the Philippines and beyond.
9. KZ Tandingan
KZ Tandingan is a Filipino singer, rapper, and songwriter who rose to fame after winning the first season of “The X Factor Philippines” in 2012. Born Kristine Zhenie Lobrigas Tandingan on March 11, 1992, in Digos, Davao del Sur, Tandingan started singing at a young age and performed in local competitions before making it big on national television.
Tandingan’s unique voice and style quickly made her a fan favorite, and she went on to release several successful albums and singles. She is known for her soulful voice, distinct tone, and genre-bending approach to music, blending elements of R&B, jazz, pop, and hip-hop.
Tandingan has also made a name for herself as a songwriter, composing and writing lyrics for several of her own songs as well as for other Filipino artists. She has been recognized for her talent and impact on the Filipino music industry, winning numerous awards and accolades over the years.
In addition to her music career, Tandingan has also become an advocate for mental health awareness and self-care, using her platform to raise awareness about these important issues. She remains one of the most popular and influential artists in the Philippines, and her music continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
10. Moira dela Torre
Moira dela Torre is a Filipina singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Born on November 4, 1993, in Olongapo City, Zambales, dela Torre first gained recognition through her covers on YouTube before releasing her own original music.
Dela Torre’s music often tackles themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, resonating with audiences both in the Philippines and abroad. She is known for her emotive performances, and her songs have become popular soundtracks for films and TV shows.
Dela Torre’s debut album “Malaya” was released in 2018 and quickly became a commercial success, earning her numerous awards and nominations. She has also collaborated with other Filipino artists, including December Avenue, Ben&Ben, and Daniel Padilla.
In addition to her music career, dela Torre has also used her platform to advocate for mental health awareness and self-love, sharing her own struggles and experiences with anxiety and depression. She has become a role model for many young Filipinos, inspiring them to embrace their emotions and prioritize their mental health.
Dela Torre’s talent and impact on the Filipino music industry continue to grow, and she remains a beloved and influential artist in the Philippines and beyond.
11. Melanie “Kyla” Alvarez
Melanie “Kyla” Alvarez is a Filipino R&B singer known for her soulful voice and emotional ballads. Born on January 5, 1981, in Manila, Kyla began her singing career at a young age and has become one of the most successful and well-respected artists in the Philippines.
Kyla’s music often deals with themes of love, heartbreak, and perseverance, and she has become known for her powerful vocal range and ability to convey raw emotion through her performances. She has released several successful albums and singles, including “Hanggang Ngayon,” “Say That You Love Me,” and “Beautiful Days.”
In addition to her solo work, Kyla has collaborated with numerous other Filipino artists, including Jay R, Gary Valenciano, and Kris Lawrence. She has also been recognized for her talent and impact on the Filipino music industry, winning numerous awards and accolades over the years.
Kyla remains a beloved and influential artist in the Philippines, and her music continues to resonate with audiences around the world. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with her fans through her music have made her a role model for many young Filipinos, inspiring them to pursue their own dreams and passions.
12. Kuh Ledesma
Kuh Ledesma is a Filipino pop and jazz singer who has been a prominent figure in the Filipino music scene since the 1970s. Born on March 16, 1955, in Bacolod City, Ledesma began her music career in the early 1970s as a member of the Music and Magic singing group. She later embarked on a successful solo career and has released numerous albums over the years.
Ledesma’s music is characterized by her powerful vocals and range, as well as her ability to seamlessly blend pop and jazz elements. She has become known for her ballads and covers of popular songs, as well as her collaborations with other Filipino artists, including Sharon Cuneta, Regine Velasquez, and Basil Valdez.
In addition to her music career, Ledesma is also an accomplished actress and television host, having appeared in numerous Filipino films and television shows over the years. She has been recognized for her contributions to the Filipino entertainment industry, receiving numerous awards and accolades throughout her career.
Ledesma continues to be a respected and influential figure in the Filipino music scene, and her legacy as one of the country’s most talented singers and performers remains strong today.
13. Jonalyn Viray
Jonalyn Viray is a Filipina singer, songwriter, and actress. Born on November 15, 1989, in Mandaluyong, Philippines, Viray began her music career in 2005 when she won the third season of the GMA Network singing competition “Pinoy Pop Superstar”. She then went on to release several successful albums and singles, including “Help Me Get Over”, “You”, and “Love On Top”.
Viray’s music is known for her powerful vocals and her ability to convey raw emotion through her performances. She has become known for her ballads and love songs, and her music often deals with themes of heartbreak, love, and perseverance. In addition to her music career, Viray has also appeared in numerous Filipino television shows and movies.
Viray has received numerous awards and accolades for her music, including several from the prestigious Awit Awards and the PMPC Star Awards. She remains a beloved and influential figure in the Filipino music industry, and her talent and dedication to her craft have inspired countless young artists in the Philippines and beyond.
14. Bella Poarch
Bella Poarch is a Filipino-American social media personality and singer. She was born on February 8, 2001, in the Philippines, but grew up in the United States. Poarch first rose to fame on the social media app TikTok, where she gained a large following for her lip-syncing and dancing videos. She later gained further popularity on other social media platforms, including Instagram and YouTube.
In addition to her social media career, Poarch is also a talented singer. She released her debut single “Build a B*tch” in May 2021, which received critical acclaim and became a viral hit. The song’s empowering message and catchy chorus have made it a favorite among fans and critics alike.
Poarch’s music style is characterized by her blend of pop and hip-hop elements, and her music often deals with themes of self-love, empowerment, and personal growth. Her talent and hard work have earned her a loyal fan base, and she continues to be a prominent figure in the world of social media and music.
Despite her relatively short time in the public eye, Poarch has already become a role model for many young people around the world, and her positive influence is sure to continue for years to come.
15. Freddie Aguilar
Freddie Aguilar is a Filipino musician, singer, songwriter, and activist, known for his contributions to the Philippine music industry. He was born on February 5, 1953, in Manila, Philippines. Aguilar is best known for his song “Anak”, which became a global hit in the 1970s, and has been covered by numerous artists in various languages.
Aguilar’s music style is a blend of traditional Philippine folk music and modern pop rock. He has released more than 30 albums throughout his career, and his music often deals with social issues and political activism, such as poverty, corruption, and the plight of marginalized communities.
Aside from his music career, Aguilar is also known for his humanitarian work, particularly in providing aid to disaster-stricken areas in the Philippines. He has also been involved in various social and political movements, advocating for the rights of the poor and the oppressed.
With his contributions to the Philippine music industry and his advocacy for social change, Freddie Aguilar remains a prominent figure in Filipino culture, and his music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world.
16. Rachelle Anne Go
Rachelle Anne Go is a Filipino singer, actress, and television host, known for her powerful vocals and versatility as a performer. She was born on August 31, 1986, in Pasig, Metro Manila, Philippines.
Go rose to fame in the Philippines after winning the television singing competition “Search for a Star” in 2004. She has since established herself as one of the country’s most sought-after performers, with hit singles such as “Don’t Cry Out Loud” and “From the Start”.
In addition to her music career, Go has also made a name for herself in the theater industry, both in the Philippines and internationally. She has played lead roles in acclaimed productions such as “Miss Saigon”, “Les Miserables”, and “Hamilton”, earning critical praise for her performances.
Go’s talent and success have also garnered recognition outside of the Philippines, with appearances on international stages such as London’s West End and New York’s Broadway.
With her dynamic vocals and impressive range as a performer, Rachelle Anne Go has become a beloved figure in Philippine music and theater, as well as a respected talent on the global stage.
17. Sharon Cuneta
Sharon Cuneta is a Filipino singer, actress, and television host, often referred to as the “Megastar” of Philippine entertainment. Born on January 6, 1966, in Pasay City, Philippines, Cuneta began her career in the entertainment industry as a child actress, before transitioning to music in the 1980s.
Cuneta’s music career quickly took off, with numerous hit singles and albums that cemented her status as a pop icon in the Philippines. Her signature ballads, such as “Kahit Maputi na ang Buhok Ko” and “Mr. DJ”, continue to be popular among Filipinos of all generations.
In addition to her successful music career, Cuneta is also known for her numerous film and television roles. She has starred in over 50 films and several television series, winning numerous awards for her performances.
Cuneta has also been active in social and humanitarian causes, using her platform to raise awareness and funds for various charitable organizations. Her enduring popularity and philanthropic efforts have made her a beloved figure in the Philippines, and a true icon of Philippine entertainment.
18. Francis Magalona
Francis Magalona, also known as FrancisM or Master Rapper, was a Filipino rapper, songwriter, producer, and actor. Born on October 4, 1964, in Manila, Philippines, Magalona is considered one of the most influential and innovative figures in the Philippine music industry.
Magalona’s music career began in the mid-1980s, with the release of his debut album “Yo!” His unique blend of rap and hip-hop, combined with his socially conscious lyrics and upbeat sound, quickly made him a popular and beloved figure among Filipino youth.
Throughout his career, Magalona released several critically acclaimed albums and popular singles, including “Mga Kababayan” and “Kaleidoscope World”. He was known for his advocacy for Filipino identity, patriotism, and social justice, and his music often reflected these themes.
Aside from his music career, Magalona also ventured into acting, hosting, and producing. He appeared in several movies, television shows, and commercials, and produced his own radio and television programs.
Magalona’s legacy continues to live on, even after his untimely death in 2009 due to leukemia. He remains an inspiration and influence to many Filipino artists, and his music continues to be celebrated and appreciated by generations of Filipinos.
19. Bamboo Mañalac
Bamboo Mañalac, also known as Bamboo, is a Filipino-American singer-songwriter and musician. Born on March 21, 1976, in Quezon City, Philippines, Bamboo is known for his powerful vocals, energetic stage presence, and unique blend of rock, alternative, and folk music.
Bamboo began his music career in the 1990s as the lead vocalist of the popular Filipino rock band Rivermaya. With hits such as “Elesi” and “Hinahanap-hanap Kita”, the band became one of the most successful and influential acts in the Philippine music scene.
In 2002, Bamboo left Rivermaya to pursue a solo career. He released his first solo album, “As The Music Plays,” in 2004, which spawned hits such as “Noypi” and “Hallelujah”. He then formed his own band, Bamboo, in 2003, which further solidified his status as a major force in Philippine music.
Throughout his career, Bamboo has received numerous awards and accolades, including Best Male Rock Artist at the 2008 and 2009 Philippine Myx Music Awards, and the 2011 Best Southeast Asia Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards.
Today, Bamboo continues to be a highly respected and influential figure in the Philippine music industry, inspiring and mentoring the next generation of Filipino musicians.
20. Angeline Quinto
Angeline Quinto is a Filipino singer and actress known for her powerful vocals and emotional performances. Born on November 26, 1989, in Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines, she was adopted by a loving family who encouraged her to pursue a career in music.
Quinto rose to fame after winning the reality singing competition “Star Power: Sharon’s Search for the Next Female Superstar” in 2011. Her victory paved the way for her to release her debut album “Fall in Love Again” in the same year, which included the hit single “Patuloy Ang Pangarap.”
Since then, Quinto has become a mainstay in the Philippine music scene, with several successful albums and singles to her name. She has collaborated with many of the country’s top musicians, including Erik Santos, Jed Madela, and Regine Velasquez.
Aside from her music career, Quinto is also an accomplished actress, having appeared in several television dramas and films. She has won several awards for her acting, including the 2016 Gawad Urian Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film “The Unmarried Wife.”
With her powerful voice and captivating performances, Angeline Quinto has become one of the most beloved and respected artists in the Philippines.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
