Pilita Corrales, dubbed “Asia’s Queen of Songs,” died on Saturday. She was 85.
Born in Cebu on August 22, 1939, Corrales was widely regarded as a trailblazer in Philippine music and had recorded more than 135 albums over a career that spanned more than six decades.
She was the first Filipino artist to top the Australian pop charts and win international recognition at the Tokyo Music Festival in 1972.
Her influence extended into television and film, with her variety show “An Evening with Pilita” considered a landmark in Philippine broadcasting.
Corrales received multiple accolades, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Philippine Association of the Record Industry (PARI) and an honorary Doctorate in Music from the University of Visayas.
She is remembered for timeless hits such as “A Million Thanks to You” and “Kapantay ay Langit,” and is widely credited with helping bring Filipino music to international audiences.
Actress Janine Gutierrez paid tribute to her grandmother and honored her legacy both as a public figure and a family matriarch.
“Pilita touched the lives of many, not only with her songs but also with her kindness and generosity,” wrote Janine. “She will be remembered for her contributions to the entertainment industry, but most of all for her love of life and family.”
“Please join us with your prayers and kind thoughts as we celebrate her beautiful life,” she added.
The family has yet to release details regarding memorial services.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Pilita Corrales, Asia’s Queen of Song, dies at 85.”