Juan Karlos’ ‘ERE’ dominates the airwaves and local music scene according to Google
As we bid farewell to 2023, the musical landscape of the Philippines reflects a dynamic blend of local talent, international hits, and the transformative power of social media in shaping musical trends.
James Arthur’s “Say You Won’t Let Go” stands tall as a timeless anthem, with its enduring popularity seven years after its initial release. This song not only joined the exclusive billion-views club on YouTube but also clinched the title of the most searched song in the Philippines. Its ability to maintain such resonance speaks to the enduring nature of love encapsulated in its lyrics.
Local sensation Juan Karlos struck emotional chords once again with “ERE,” a ballad that follows the success of “Buwan.” This powerful track resonates with those who have experienced heartbreak and sudden ghosting, cementing itself as an anthem for the emotionally wounded.
Indie brilliance echoed through the airwaves with Sunkissed Lola’s “Pasilyo,” a wedding-themed track celebrated for its exceptional storytelling, lyricism, and captivating vocals. The song not only found a place on local radio but also showcased the growing influence of independent artists in shaping the country’s music scene.
Dilaw, a Baguio-based indie band, stormed the charts with “Uhaw,” a song that not only claimed the top spot for six consecutive weeks but also set a new record as the most-streamed song in the Philippines on Spotify within a 24-hour period. This achievement solidified Dilaw’s position in the industry, underscoring the prowess of local talent against international giants.
On a patriotic note, searches for “Chosen Land” (Lupang Hinirang English) surged during the Philippines’ Independence Day, reflecting the nation’s collective pride and patriotism through music.
Miley Cyrus’s “Angels Like You” secured its place as the second most searched foreign song in the Philippines, demonstrating the enduring popularity of international artists in the country. Meanwhile, Rihanna’s “California King Bed,” a decade-old favorite, continued to capture the hearts of Filipino TikTok and Reels creators, illustrating the timeless influence of Rihanna’s music on social media platforms.
“Rapstar” by Flow G dominated the rap scene, garnering nearly 100 million views on YouTube and surpassing global releases. This marked a significant achievement for the Filipino rap scene, showcasing success against all odds.
Lola Amor’s “Raining In Manila” became a rock band triumph, amassing 65 million views on YouTube and earning a spot as the OST for the Rain in Espana series, demonstrating the band’s crossover success.
In an unexpected twist, Mayonaise’s 2004 hit “Jopay” experienced a TikTok resurgence, thanks to a viral video inspired by the 2022 movie Ngayon Kaya. This revival resonated with its original audience and Gen Z and Gen Alpha, emphasizing the timeless quality of well-crafted music.