OPM: A Guide to Original Pilipino Music
OPM, or Original Pilipino Music, is a genre of music that originated in the Philippines. It is characterized by its use of the Tagalog language and other regional Philippine languages. OPM has been influenced by a variety of musical styles, including Western pop, rock, and R&B.
OPM has a long and rich history. It began in the early 20th century, when Filipino musicians began to incorporate Western musical elements into their own music. This led to the development of a new style of music that was both Filipino and Western.
In the 1950s and 1960s, OPM experienced a golden age. During this time, a number of talented Filipino musicians emerged, including Levi Celerio, Freddie Aguilar, and Sharon Cuneta. These artists helped to popularize OPM both in the Philippines and abroad.
OPM continued to evolve in the 1970s and 1980s. During this time, a number of new OPM bands emerged, including Eraserheads, Parokya ni Edgar, and Bamboo. These bands helped to bring OPM to a new generation of listeners.
In the 1990s and 2000s, OPM experienced a decline in popularity. This was due in part to the rise of Western pop music and the increasing popularity of K-pop. However, OPM has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing times.
Today, OPM is more diverse than ever before. It encompasses a wide range of styles, from pop and rock to hip hop and R&B. OPM is also increasingly being performed in English and other languages.
OPM is an important part of Philippine culture. It is a source of pride for Filipinos and a way for them to express their identity. OPM is also a valuable cultural resource that can be used to educate people about Philippine history and culture.
The Golden Age of OPM
The golden age of OPM is generally considered to be the 1950s and 1960s. During this time, a number of talented Filipino musicians emerged, including Levi Celerio, Freddie Aguilar, and Sharon Cuneta. These artists helped to popularize OPM both in the Philippines and abroad.
Levi Celerio was a Filipino composer, lyricist, and multi-instrumentalist. He is considered one of the greatest Filipino composers of all time. Celerio composed over 4,000 songs, including the popular OPM songs “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko” and “Ang Larawan.”
Freddie Aguilar was a Filipino singer-songwriter and guitarist. He is best known for his song “Anak,” which is one of the most popular OPM songs of all time. “Anak” has been covered by numerous artists, including Michael Learns to Rock and Lea Salonga.
Sharon Cuneta is a Filipino actress, singer, and television host. She is one of the most popular Filipino celebrities of all time. Cuneta has released numerous OPM albums, including “Kahit Na” and “Bituin.”
OPM in the 1970s and 1980s
In the 1970s and 1980s, OPM continued to evolve. During this time, a number of new OPM bands emerged, including Eraserheads, Parokya ni Edgar, and Bamboo. These bands helped to bring OPM to a new generation of listeners.
Eraserheads were a Filipino rock band that formed in 1989. They are considered one of the most influential OPM bands of all time. Eraserheads released a number of hit albums, including “Cutterpillow” and “Sticker Happy.”
Parokya ni Edgar is a Filipino rock band that formed in 1993. They are known for their humorous lyrics and catchy melodies. Parokya ni Edgar has released a number of hit albums, including “Kiko” and “Bigotilyo.”
Bamboo is a Filipino rock band that formed in 2001. They are known for their powerful vocals and energetic performances. Bamboo has released a number of hit albums, including “Ascension” and “Light Peace Love.”
OPM in the 1990s and 2000s
In the 1990s and 2000s, OPM experienced a decline in popularity. This was due in part to the rise of Western pop music and the increasing popularity of K-pop. However, OPM has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing times.
A number of new OPM artists emerged in the 1990s and 2000s, including Sarah Geronimo, Regine Velasquez, and Gary Valenciano. These artists helped to keep OPM alive and relevant.
Sarah Geronimo is a Filipino singer and actress. She is one of the most popular Filipino celebrities of all time. Geronimo has released numerous OPM albums, including “Popstar: A Dream Come True” and “The Great Divide.”
Regine Velasquez is a Filipino singer and actress. She is known as the “Asia’s Songbird.” Velasquez has released numerous OPM albums, including “On the Wings of Love” and “Ultimate Hits.”
Gary Valenciano is a Filipino singer, dancer, and television host. He is known as the “Prince of Philippine Showbiz.” Valenciano has released numerous OPM albums, including “Gary V” and “Love Songs.”
OPM Today
Today, OPM is more diverse than ever before. It encompasses a wide range of styles, from pop and rock to hip hop and R&B. OPM is also increasingly being performed in English and other languages.
A number of new OPM artists have emerged in recent years, including Ben & Ben, Moira dela Torre, and SB19. These artists are helping to bring OPM to a new generation of listeners.
Ben & Ben is a Filipino indie folk band. They are known for their beautiful harmonies and heartfelt lyrics. Ben & Ben has released a number of hit songs, including “Kathang Isip” and “Leaves.”
Moira dela Torre is a Filipino singer-songwriter. She is known for her powerful vocals and emotional lyrics. Moira dela Torre has released a number of hit songs, including “Tagpuan” and “Paubaya.”
SB19 is a Filipino boy band. They are known for their catchy songs and energetic performances. SB19 has released a number of hit songs, including “Go Up” and “What?”
Conclusion
OPM is an important part of Philippine culture. It is a source of pride for Filipinos and a way for them to express their identity. OPM is also a valuable cultural resource that can be used to educate people about Philippine history and culture.
OPM has a long and rich history. It has evolved over time, adapting to the changing times. OPM is more diverse than ever before, and it is continuing to grow and evolve.
OPM is an important part of the Philippine music scene. It is a genre that is loved by many people around the world. OPM is here to stay, and it is sure to continue to entertain and inspire for many years to come.