Music in Philippine

Popular Culture

From Traditional to Contemporary Genres

 Learning Objectives:
1. Explain what constitutes traditional
Filipino music, focusing on
indigenous sounds and community
rituals.
2. Understand how Spanish and
American colonial history
influenced the introduction of
Western musical forms to the
Philippines.
3. Discuss the global rise of K-pop and
its impact on the Philippine music
scene.
Overview of Filipino Music Evolution
• Filipino Music's Importance: Music has always
been an integral part of Filipino culture, serving as
a form of expression, communication, and
community bonding.
• Historical Journey: The evolution of Filipino music
spans centuries, beginning with indigenous
sounds, and evolving through periods of colonial
influence, up to the present day where genres like
OPM, hip-hop, and even K-pop have made
significant impacts.
• Cultural Reflection: Music in the Philippines
reflects the country's history, struggles, triumphs,
and aspirations.
 • Traditional Filipino
music is a rich tapestry of
Topic 1: diverse sounds and
practices reflecting the
Traditional, country’s various ethnic
groups and cultural
Filipino Music influences. It
encompasses music that
and has been passed down
through generations and
Instruments plays a crucial role in
community rituals,
ceremonies, and daily
life. Here’s a closer look
at what constitutes
traditional Filipino music,
with a focus on
indigenous sounds and
community rituals:
1. Indigenous Sounds:
a. Instruments:
• Gongs: Gongs are widely used across various Filipino communities.
They come in different sizes and types, such as the kulintang (a set of
horizontally laid gongs) used by the Maranao and Maguindanao, and the
agong (suspended gongs) used in Visayan and Mindanao cultures.
• Bamboo Instruments: Bamboo is a versatile material for traditional
instruments. Examples include the bamboo flute (e.g., tambuli),
bamboo zither (e.g., kubing or bamboo jaw harp), and the bamboo
percussion instruments like the tongatong (a bamboo tube struck
against the ground).
• Drums: Various types of drums are used, including the bunkaka
(bamboo drum), djembe-like drums in the Cordilleras, and kudyapi (a
two-stringed boat-shaped lute) used by the Bagobo people.
b. Vocal Styles:
• Chants and Songs: Traditional vocal styles include chants that are
often used in rituals and storytelling. These can range from epic chants
like the Hudhud of the Ifugao to oral histories and songs that convey
ancestral knowledge and cultural narratives.
2. Community Rituals:
a. Ceremonial Music:
• Rites of Passage: Music plays a crucial role in ceremonies marking life
events such as births, weddings, and funerals. For example, the bua (a ritual
offering) of the Ifugao involves chanting and gong music.
• Religious and Spiritual Rituals: Traditional music is integral to religious
ceremonies, including offerings to deities, spirits, or ancestors. The rituals of
the Kalinga and Manobo people often include music and dance performed
to appease spirits or celebrate significant events.
b. Social and Festivals:
• Festivals: Community festivals like the Panagbenga (Flower Festival) in
Baguio or the Kadayawan Festival in Davao showcase traditional music and
dance, reflecting local culture and pride.
• Dance Accompaniment: Music accompanies traditional dances such as
the Tinikling, where rhythmic clapping and tapping of bamboo poles are
performed. The dances are often tied to agricultural or communal
celebrations and are meant to enhance social cohesion.
c. Storytelling and Oral Traditions:
• Epic Narratives: Music and chants are used to recount epic
narratives and historical events, preserving cultural heritage. For
instance, the Ulaging of the Bontoc people is an epic chant that
recounts the deeds of heroes and ancestors.
• Traditional Play: Music is also involved in traditional play and
performances that teach morals or celebrate community life. The
komedya (a traditional play) involves music, dance, and theatrical
performance reflecting historical and religious themes.

In summary, traditional Filipino music is deeply intertwined with the

cultural and spiritual life of various Filipino communities. It includes
a wide array of indigenous sounds produced by traditional
instruments, accompanied by vocal styles used in rituals,
ceremonies, and storytelling. This music is a vital expression of
cultural identity and heritage, reflecting the diverse and rich
traditions of the Philippines.
Topic 2: Influence
of Western Music
on Filipino Music

The Spanish and American Influences

Music with Spanish
Influence:
1. Kundiman:
• Description: Kundiman is a traditional
Filipino love song genre, which
originated during the Spanish colonial
period. The music is characterized by its
lyrical romanticism and expressive
melodies, often reflecting themes of
love and patriotism.
• Influence: The structure and style of
the Kundiman were heavily influenced
by Spanish romantic ballads, with its
use of sentimental and poetic lyrics.
• Example: "Bituing Marikit" by Nicanor
Abelardo
Music with Spanish
Influence:
2. Habanera:
• Description: The Habanera is a dance
music genre of Cuban origin that was
brought to the Philippines by the
Spanish. It blends elements of
Spanish folk music with Afro-Cuban
rhythms.
• Influence: This genre influenced
Filipino folk and traditional music,
integrating its distinctive rhythmic
patterns into various Filipino
compositions and dance forms.
• Example: "Habanera de Jovencita" by
Filipino composers
 Music with Spanish
Influence:
3. Harana:
• Description: Harana is a traditional
form of Filipino serenade, typically
performed by a suitor outside the
window of his beloved. The songs are
slow and romantic, often accompanied
by a guitar.
• Influence: Harana has its roots in the
Spanish colonial era, borrowing the
tradition of serenading from Spanish
customs and integrating it into Filipino
courtship practices.
• Example: "O Ilaw" by Ruben Tagalog
Music with American
Influence:

1. Jazz:
• Description: Jazz music became
popular in the Philippines during the
American colonial period. Filipino
musicians began incorporating jazz
elements into their compositions,
leading to a unique blend of Western
jazz and Filipino musical sensibilities.
• Influence: American jazz-influenced
Filipino popular music, especially in
urban areas, leading to Filipino jazz
bands and incorporating jazz styles into
OPM.
• Example: "Saranggola ni Pepe" by
Celeste Legaspi
Music with American
Influence:

2. Rock and Roll:

• Description: Rock and Roll emerged in
the Philippines in the 1960s, directly
influenced by American rock bands.
Filipino rock bands began to emerge,
creating music that resonated with the
youth of that era.
• Influence: American rock and roll had
a profound impact on the Filipino
music scene, leading to the birth of
Pinoy Rock, a genre that blends rock
with Filipino themes and lyrics.
• Example: "Beep Beep" by Juan de la
Cruz Band
Music with American Influence:

3. Broadway and Tin Pan Alley:

• Description: American Broadway musicals and Tin Pan
Alley songs became popular in the Philippines,
influencing Filipino composers to write music that
reflected the same catchy, melodic style.
• Influence: These influences can be seen in Filipino movie
musicals and popular songs of the mid-20th century,
where the structure and style mimic the musical theater
and popular song traditions of America.
• Example: “Anak ni Waray" by Sylvia La Torre
Is Katy de la Cruz is often considered one of
the Philippines' early "Broadway stars“?
Answer:

Yes! Due to her performances in the vaudeville

(locally called "bodabil") scene during the early
20th century. She was a celebrated performer
known for her jazz-inspired singing and theatrical
style, which brought her acclaim both in the
Philippines and abroad. While she did not
perform on Broadway in the traditional American
sense, her impact on Philippine vaudeville and
theater made her a legendary figure, akin to a
Broadway star in the local context.
Difference between Broadway, Tin Pan Alley,
and Vaudeville:
•Broadway: Refers to professional theater productions in New York
City, typically involving musicals and plays. It's known for large-scale,
polished productions with strong narratives and elaborate
performances.

•Tin Pan Alley: Refers to the collection of New York City music
publishers and songwriters in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
who dominated the popular music industry. Tin Pan Alley is more
associated with song production and the creation of popular music
hits rather than full-scale theater productions like Broadway.
Difference between Broadway, Tin Pan Alley,
and Vaudeville:
• Vaudeville (Bodabil in the Philippines): Refers to a theatrical genre popular from
the late 19th century into the early 20th century, characterized by a series of
unrelated acts, such as musicians, dancers, comedians, and actors. Vaudeville
was a more casual form of entertainment compared to the polished, scripted
performances of Broadway. Katy de la Cruz was a major star in this genre.
• While vaudeville is often compared to Broadway because both involve theatrical
performances, vaudeville is more variety-based (with multiple acts), whereas
Broadway focuses on full-length, narrative-driven performances (musicals
and plays).
• So, Katy de la Cruz can be considered the Philippines' "Broadway star" in a
local sense, as she was a prominent figure in the performance arts, especially
through vaudeville.
 • Origins: OPM emerged in
the 1970s as a movement
where Filipino artists began
writing and performing
original songs in Filipino and
English, often addressing
social and political issues.

• Genres and Styles: OPM

covers a broad spectrum,
including pop, rock, ballads,
Topic 3: The Rise of and more, often reflecting the
sentiments and experiences
OPM (Original Pilipino of Filipinos.

Music) and Key • Significance: OPM became

a powerful means of
Figures expressing Filipino identity,
pride, and resilience.
Key Figures and Their Iconic Songs
1. Lucio San Pedro and Levi Celerio
• Song: "Ugoy ng Duyan" (1961)
• Contribution: "Ugoy ng Duyan" (Lullaby of the
Cradle) is a beloved Filipino lullaby composed by
Lucio San Pedro with lyrics by Levi Celerio. It evokes
deep feelings of nostalgia and tenderness, capturing
the essence of Filipino folk music.
• Impact: The song remains a staple in Filipino music
education and cultural events. Its enduring
popularity and emotional resonance make it a
significant piece in Filipino popular culture.
Key Figures and Their Iconic Songs
1.Freddie Aguilar
• Song: "Anak" (1978)
• Contribution: Freddie Aguilar is one of the most
influential figures in OPM. His song "Anak" became a
monumental hit, touching on themes of family,
repentance, and the generational gap. It resonated
across different cultures and became a global
phenomenon, translating Filipino music into a
worldwide language.
• Impact: "Anak" continues to be a defining song in
Filipino music, often cited in discussions of OPM's
golden age and still widely recognized and loved
today.
Key Figures and Their Iconic Songs
3. Ryan Cayabyab
• Song: "Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika" (1978)
• Contribution: Ryan Cayabyab, known as Mr. C, is a
National Artist for Music and a pivotal figure in the
evolution of OPM. His work spans classical, pop, and
modern genres, showcasing the versatility of Filipino
music. "Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika" won the first
Metro Manila Popular Music Festival, highlighting the
beauty and richness of Filipino music.
• Impact: His compositions remain influential, and he
continues to mentor and inspire new generations of
Filipino musicians.
Key Figures and Their Iconic Songs
4. Sharon Cuneta
• Song: "Bituing Walang Ningning" (1985)
• Contribution: Known as the "Megastar," Sharon
Cuneta is a legendary figure in Filipino
entertainment. Her contributions to OPM through her
music and movies have made her a beloved icon.
"Bituing Walang Ningning" is one of her most famous
songs, capturing the emotions and aspirations of
Filipinos during the 1980s.
• Impact: The song and its associated movie have
become cultural touchstones, and "Bituing Walang
Ningning" remains popular in Filipino pop culture,
especially in karaoke sessions and TV show revivals.
Key Figures and Their Iconic Songs
5. Eraserheads
• Song: "Ang Huling El Bimbo" (1995)
• Contribution: Eraserheads, often dubbed the
"Beatles of the Philippines," revolutionized the
Filipino music scene in the 1990s with their
innovative sound and relatable lyrics. They brought
alternative rock to the forefront of OPM, shaping the
musical tastes of an entire generation.
• Impact: "Ang Huling El Bimbo" remains an iconic
song, deeply ingrained in Filipino pop culture. The
song's narrative and its reflection of 1990s youth
culture continue to resonate with listeners today.
 Topic 4: Influence of K-pop
on Filipino Music
Introduction: The global rise of K-pop has significantly influenced
various music industries, including the Philippines. This influence is
evident in the musical style, fashion, choreography, and overall
production of some contemporary Filipino songs.
1. Global Impact:
• K-pop, originating from South Korea, has transcended
borders to become a global cultural phenomenon,
influencing music, fashion, beauty, and entertainment
industries. Its reach in the Philippines is profound, as it
has shaped trends in Filipino popular culture.
• Examples:
• BTS's Influence: The rise of BTS, one of the most
globally recognized K-pop groups, has significantly
impacted Filipino fans, with their music being played
on local radio stations, television shows, and even
covered by Filipino artists. Their fanbase, the ARMY,
is highly active in the Philippines, reflecting the
global connection between K-pop and Filipino youth.
1. Global Impact:
• Fashion Trends: K-pop idols like Blackpink and EXO have also influenced fashion choices in the
Philippines, with their unique styles being emulated by fans and integrated into local fashion trends, from
streetwear to makeup.
2. Fan Engagement:

• K-pop fandoms in the Philippines are known for their

passionate involvement, making them a critical part
of the K-pop success story in the country. Filipino
fans are highly organized and dedicated, supporting
their idols through events, fan clubs, and social
media.
• Examples of Fan Activities:
• Fan Events and Gatherings: Filipino K-pop fans
organize regular fan meets, birthday events, and
cup sleeve events (small fan gatherings at cafes
to celebrate an idol’s birthday), which
contribute to building a strong fan community.
These events often feature giveaways, fan art,
and merchandise.
2. Fan Engagement:

• Social Media Power: Filipino K-

pop fans are active on
platforms like Twitter and
Instagram, where they engage
in trending topics, participate
in voting for music shows or
awards, and organize mass
streaming of their idols' music
videos. For example, Filipino
fans of TWICE or BLACKPINK
often lead streaming parties to
boost YouTube views.
3. Musical Influence:

• K-pop’s slick production, catchy hooks, and intricate

choreography have inspired many Filipino artists,
particularly in pop and hip-hop. The influence is visible in
the way Filipino artists integrate elements of K-pop, from
visual aesthetics to music production styles.
• Examples of Musical Influence:
• SB19 - "Gento": As one of the Philippines' most
successful pop groups, SB19 has been heavily
influenced by K-pop. While they are a P-pop (Pinoy
Pop) group, their training and stylistic elements
resemble K-pop, especially in their highly polished
performances, synchronized choreography, and
modern production. Their song "Gento" showcases
catchy tunes and production quality comparable to
K-pop, reflecting K-pop’s deep influence on P-pop.
3. Musical Influence:

• BINI and BGYO: The K-pop model has also influenced these two rising P-pop
groups. From their rigorous training process to the high-energy performances
and polished visuals, both groups take inspiration from the K-pop industry
while incorporating Filipino cultural elements into their music.
 4.
Collaborations
Between
Filipino and K-
pop Artists: • The growing influence of K-pop has
also led to collaborations between
Filipino and South Korean artists,
bridging cultures and creating
unique musical experiences.
• Examples of Collaborations:
• "Park Jaebum x Moira Dela
Torre (2020): South Korean
rapper Jay Park collaborated
with Filipino singer-songwriter
Moira Dela Torre on the song
"Tagpuan," which blends K-
pop’s sleek production with
Filipino lyrical sensibilities.
 4.
Collaborations
Between
Filipino and K-
pop Artists: • Sandara Park (Dara) in the
Philippines: Former 2NE1
member Sandara Park remains a
beloved figure in both South
Korea and the Philippines. Her
early fame in the Philippines and
later success as a K-pop idol have
helped bridge the two countries’
music industries. She has
frequently returned to the
Philippines to work on projects
and support local talent.
Summary of the Evolution of Filipino Music

Key Points Recap:

1. Traditional Filipino Music: Rooted in indigenous
sounds and regional diversity, Filipino music
started with native instruments like the kulintang,
gangsa, and kudyapi. Each region, such as the
Cordillera, Lumad, and Muslim communities,
contributed distinct instruments and musical
traditions.
2. Spanish and American Influence: The Spanish
colonial period introduced religious hymns,
kundiman, and harana, while the American
occupation brought jazz, swing, and vaudeville to
the Philippine music scene. The merging of
Western and local styles led to the rise of early
Filipino popular music.
Summary of the Evolution of Filipino Music

Continuation of Key Points Recap:

3. The Rise of OPM: Original Pilipino Music (OPM)
emerged in the 1970s as Filipino artists like Ryan
Cayabyab, Freddie Aguilar, and Apo Hiking Society
sought to create music reflecting national identity,
blending Western pop, rock, and folk influences
with Filipino sensibilities.
4. Influence of K-pop and Global Music: Today,
global music trends such as K-pop, hip-hop, and
electronic dance music have significantly
impacted Filipino pop culture. Artists like SB19
and P-pop groups embody these global influences
while maintaining local identity.
Reflection on Blending
Traditional and
Contemporary Influences

• The blending of traditional and

contemporary influences in Filipino
music is a testament to the country's
adaptability and rich cultural heritage.
This fusion not only keeps traditional
music alive but also makes it relevant
for new generations, allowing Filipino
music to evolve while retaining its
roots. This blend reflects how Filipino
culture constantly navigates between
preserving tradition and embracing
modernity.
Discussion Prompt:
• "How do you think the
integration of global music
trends impacts Filipino cultural
identity?"
• Concise Answer: The
integration of global music
trends enriches Filipino
cultural identity by
encouraging creativity and
innovation, but it also presents
a challenge to maintaining a
distinct Filipino sound. While
global influences broaden the
musical landscape, it's
important to continue
incorporating Filipino elements
to preserve the country’s
unique cultural identity amidst
globalization.
Performance Task:
K-pop Dance
Presentation
Objective:
• To create and present a 3-4 minute dance
performance that highlights the influence
and rise of K-pop in the Philippines. Your
performance should demonstrate an
understanding of K-pop's impact on Filipino
pop culture and incorporate elements from
popular K-pop choreography and music.
1. Group Formation:
• Form groups of 5-10 members.
• Each group will design and perform a dance
routine inspired by K-pop music and its
influence on Filipino culture.
2. Choreography:
• Choose a K-pop song or a medley of K-pop hits
that represents the genre's influence in the
Philippines.
• Incorporate elements of K-pop choreography,
such as synchronized movements, intricate
formations, and dynamic transitions.
• You may also include Filipino cultural elements
or personal touches to reflect the local
adaptation of K-pop trends.

3. Performance Duration:
• Your performance should last between 3 to 4
minutes.
• Ensure that your routine fits within this time
frame to maintain audience engagement and
showcase the most impactful aspects of K-pop.
4. Evaluation Criteria:
1. Choreography (30%): Creativity,
synchronization, and incorporation of K-pop
dance elements.
2. Performance (30%): Energy, stage presence,
and engagement with the audience.
3. Theme Representation (20%): How well the
performance reflects the influence of K-pop on
Filipino culture.
4. Introduction (10%): Clarity and relevance of
the introduction to the performance.
5. Costumes and Props (10%): Appropriateness
and effectiveness in enhancing the K-pop
theme.
5. Submission:
• Video Submission: Record your performance
and upload the video to a shared platform (e.g.,
Google Drive) on October 5, 2024