Music’s biggest celebration also served as the stage for some of OPM’s most promising
Fête De La Musique, the biggest annual music celebration worldwide, also served as the stage for some of OPM’s most promising. After a musical feast spanning days and weeks all over the Philippines, here are some of the artists that caught our attention.
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SHANNi
This young singer-songwriter opened the Fête De La Musique main stage and impressed with her performance of her original songs “sa panaginip” and “19,” and several other covers. She has only released the two tracks so far, but there’s much to be excited about, thanks to her unique jazz-inspired pop sound. The new talent is also the sister of Blaster Silonga.
Jose Miguel
Jazz is cool again thanks to Laufey. And if you’re one of those still awaiting her next visit to the Philippines—in the meanwhile, our very own Jose Miguel is a jazz musician worth considering for your playlist. With a sound that brings to mind Michael Bublé and Frank Sinatra, this young talent entrances with his soulful vocals and instrumentals featuring traditional jazz elements. Interested? He just released his debut album “5 Star Overthinker.”
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dwta
Music transcends languages and barriers, and Jhasmine Villanueva, better known as dwta is a testament to that. Hailing from Bicol, this folk-pop singer pens her hopefully romantic songs in her mother tongue. And with the degree of success she has met thus far—her song “Padaba Taka” has crossed 16 million streams on Spotify, and with an array of listeners from various parts of the Philippines—she serves as an inspiration for other artists to embrace their cultures the same way she has.
Be sure to also check out her latest release, “Pauwi Na ‘Ko (Dito Ka Na Lang).”
Dilaw
Comprised of Dilaw Obero (lead vocalist), Vie de la Rosa (rhythm guitarist), Wayne de la Rosa (bassist), Leon Altomonte (guitarist), En Altomonte (keyboardist), and Tobi Samson (drums), Dilaw was formed in 2021 and has since grown their discography one great song at a time. Originally based in Baguio, this six-member band took the charts by storm with the release of “Uhaw,” which has accumulated over 40 million streams on Spotify as of writing. Its “Tayong Lahat” version on the other hand has amassed past 160 million streams on the platform.
READ: After chart-topping success, there’s no turning back for rock band Dilaw
ALYSSA
Under O/C Records, this busker/singer-songwriter is one to look out for. Alyssa Janine Cruz (better known as ALYSSA) serenades with a rich and soulful vocal, and lyrics that tug at the heartstrings. With songs that sound like a relaxed, slow afternoon, listening to her music is akin to an embrace for the weary. For starters, we recommend checking out “Huli” and “Habulan.”
She is also part of an all-female alternative pop/R&B quartet called MADAM.
KAIA
There’s more to P-pop girl groups than Bini, and Kaia is here to prove it. A quintet with members Angela, Charice, Alexa, Sophia, and Charlotte, this Fête De La Musique pocket stage standout dazzled with their impressive vocals and choreography. For Kaia newcomers, we recommend “Dalawa” and “Kaya.”
BILIB
A newcomer to a growing P-pop scene, BILIB is a septet consisting of Clyde, Rc, Carlo, Rafael, Jmac, Zio, and Yukito. Though their discography is quite small (having only just debuted last year)l, we recommend listening to “Kabanata” and “Tawag.” The group will also be releasing a new song called “Say Whatcha Wanna Say” on July 5.
Press Hit Play
This quartet, with members Chrls, Sev, Jp, and Yuuki, impresses with their powerful vocals and solid stage presence. A standout from Fête De La Musique’s P-pop stage, Press Hit Play boasts a catchy discography with tracks such as “Hey Love” and “Isa Dalawa Tatlo.”