Filipino women have greatly impacted music with their amazing voices and talents. Many music fans agree that these singers deserve more recognition on the global stage.
This article will introduce you to over 26 female Filipino singers making waves with their music.
From pop stars to indie artists, you’ll discover a range of talented women who represent the rich musical culture of the Philippines. We’ll explore their unique styles, career highlights, and the songs that have made them popular.
By the end, you’ll have a great new music playlist and a deeper appreciation for Filipino women’s contributions to the music industry.
Iconic Pop Female Filipino Singers
1. Sarah Geronimo
Sarah Geronimo is one of the most famous pop stars in the Philippines. She started her career as a child singer and has become a multi-talented artist. Sarah is known for her powerful voice and energetic performances. Her hits include “Tala” and “Kilometro.”
- Birth Date: July 25, 1988
- Major Songs: “Tala,” “Kilometro,” “Forever’s Not Enough”
- Major Achievements: Winner of the reality talent search “Star for a Night” (2003), numerous awards, including Awit Awards and ALIW Awards
2. Regine Velasquez
Often called “Asia’s Songbird,” Regine Velasquez has a decades-long career. She’s famous for her wide vocal range and emotional performances.
Regine has released many popular albums and singles, including “On the Wings of Love,” one of her most beloved songs.
- Birth Date: April 22, 1970
- Major Songs: “On the Wings of Love,” “You Are My Song,” “Dadalhin”
- Major Achievements: First Asian artist to perform a solo concert at Carnegie Hall, multiple Awit Awards, and recognition as one of the Philippines’ best-selling artists
3. Julie Anne San Jose
Julie Anne San Jose is a young singer who’s made a name for herself in the Filipino music scene. She’s a talented vocalist and also plays multiple instruments. Her song “Deeper” showcases her musical skills and has become a fan favorite.
- Birth Date: May 17, 1994
- Major Songs: “Deeper,” “I’ll Be There,” “Forever”
- Major Achievements: GMA Network’s Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho feature, recipient of numerous local music awards
4. Yeng Constantino
Yeng Constantino rose to fame after winning a TV singing contest. She’s known for her unique voice and songwriting skills. Yeng’s music often deals with themes of love and life experiences. Her hit song “Hawak Kamay” is popular among Filipino listeners.
- Birth Date: December 4, 1988
- Major Songs: “Hawak Kamay,” “Ikaw,” “Chinito”
- Major Achievements: Winner of “Pinoy Dream Academy” (2006), multiple Awit Awards, known for her impactful songwriting
Notable R&B and Soul Filipino Singers
5. KZ Tandingan
KZ Tandingan is known for her soulful voice and unique style. She gained fame after winning a singing competition and has become a prominent figure in Filipino R&B. KZ’s cover of “Rolling in the Deep” showcases her ability to make songs her own.
Her original tracks, such as “Labo,” have also won her many fans.
- Birth Date: March 11, 1992
- Major Songs: “Rolling in the Deep,” “Labo,” “Mahal Ko o Mahal Ako”
- Major Achievements: Winner of “The X Factor Philippines” (2012), multiple Awit Awards, featured on “Singer 2018” in China
6. Kyla
Often called the “R&B Queen of the Philippines,” Kyla has a smooth, velvety voice perfect for slow jams. She’s been in the music industry for over two decades and has collaborated with many international artists.
- Birth Date: January 5, 1981
- Major Songs: “Hanggang Ngayon,” “If the Feeling is Gone,” “I Feel For You”
- Major Achievements: Multiple Awit Awards, MTV Southeast Asia Viewer’s Choice Award, collaborations with international artists
7. Jaya
Jaya is a veteran soul singer with a powerful voice. She’s been performing since the 1990s and has earned the title “Queen of Soul” in the Philippines. Her rendition of “Dahil Tanging Ikaw” is a staple in Filipino soul music.
- Birth Date: March 21, 1970
- Major Songs: “Dahil Tanging Ikaw,” “Wala Na Bang Pag-ibig,” “Laging Naroon Ka”
- Major Achievements: Multiple Awit Awards, known as the “Queen of Soul,” long-standing career in the music industry
Indie and Alternative Filipino Singers
8. Reese Lansangan
Reese Lansangan is a singer-songwriter known for her quirky lyrics and indie pop sound. She’s also a visual artist, which shows in her creative music videos. Reese’s song “Grammar Nazi” gained attention for its clever wordplay and catchy melody.
- Birth Date: October 16, 1990
- Major Songs: “Grammar Nazi,” “Exploration No. 5,” “A Song About Space”
- Major Achievements: Multiple independent music awards, notable presence in the indie music scene, acclaimed music videos
9. Clara Benin
Clara Benin is known for her gentle voice and folk-inspired sound. She often performs with just her guitar, creating an intimate atmosphere. Clara’s song “Parallel Universe” showcases her heartfelt lyrics and soothing vocals.
- Birth Date: February 19, 1994
- Major Songs: “Parallel Universe,” “Tila,” “Wine”
- Major Achievements: Independent music awards, successful solo concerts, strong online following
10. BP Valenzuela
BP Valenzuela is an electronic music producer and singer. She creates dreamy, atmospheric tracks that blend pop and experimental sounds. Her song “bbgirl” is a good example of her unique style.
- Birth Date: October 7, 1995
- Major Songs: “bbgirl,” “Steady,” “Building Too”
- Major Achievements: Known for her experimental sound, features in music festivals, collaborations with other artists
11. Moira Dela Torre
Moira Dela Torre has a soft, vibrant voice perfect for heartfelt ballads. She’s known for writing songs that tell stories and touch listeners’ hearts. Moira’s hit “Tagpuan” has become a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions.
- Birth Date: November 4, 1993
- Major Songs: “Tagpuan,” “Malaya,” “Titibo-Tibo”
- Major Achievements: Multiple Awit Awards, recognized as one of the top streaming artists in the Philippines, popular for her heartfelt ballads
Famous Rock Filipino Female Singers
12. Barbie Almalbis
Barbie Almalbis is a rock icon in the Philippines. She first gained fame as the lead singer of the band Barbie’s Cradle and has since had a successful solo career.
Barbie is known for her unique voice and guitar skills. Her song “Tabing Ilog” is a classic in Filipino rock music.
- Birth Date: August 26, 1977
- Major Songs: “Tabing Ilog,” “Money for Food,” “Just a Smile”
- Major Achievements: Successful solo albums, multiple music awards, influential figure in the Filipino rock scene
13. Aia de Leon
Aia de Leon was the lead vocalist of the popular rock band Imago. She’s known for her powerful voice and emotional performances. After leaving Imago, Aia pursued a solo career. Her song “Sundo” with Imago remains a favorite among Filipino rock fans.
- Birth Date: December 5, 1977
- Major Songs: “Sundo,” “Akap,” “Ewan”
- Major Achievements: Numerous music awards with Imago, successful solo career, recognized for her impactful voice
14. Lougee Basabas
Lougee Basabas was the lead singer of the rock band Mojofly. Her strong, distinctive voice is well-suited for rock music. Lougee has continued to make music as a solo artist.
Her performance of “Tulog Na” with Mojofly is still popular today.
- Birth Date: October 24, 1984
- Major Songs: “Tulog Na,” “Another Day,” “Hiwaga”
- Major Achievements: Lead vocalist of Mojofly, continued success as a solo artist, respected in the rock music community
Jazz and Blues Singers
15. Sitti Navarro
Sitti Navarro is the “Bossa Nova Queen” of the Philippines. She’s famous for her smooth, jazzy voice and her renditions of classic bossa nova songs. Sitti’s version of “Para Sa Akin” showcases her talent in this genre.
- Birth Date: November 29, 1984
- Major Songs: “Para Sa Akin,” “Tattooed on My Mind,” “Hey Look at the Sun”
- Major Achievements: Known as the “Bossa Nova Queen,” multiple album releases, prominent figure in the jazz and bossa nova genres
16. Mishka Adams
Mishka Adams is a Filipino-British jazz singer with a rich, warm voice. She’s known for her interpretations of jazz standards and original compositions. Her album “God Bless the Child” highlights her skills as a jazz vocalist.
- Birth Date: April 19, 1984
- Major Songs: “God Bless the Child,” “Willow Weep for Me,” “Here in the Silence”
- Major Achievements: Released several jazz albums, performances in international jazz festivals, respected in the jazz community
17. Nicole Asensio
Nicole Asensio is a versatile singer who excels in jazz, blues, and rock. She comes from a family of musicians and has been performing since childhood. Nicole’s powerful voice shines in performances like her cover of “At Last.”
- Birth Date: December 3, 1985
- Major Songs: “At Last,” “Leader for a Day,” “Hawak Kita”
- Major Achievements: Versatile performer in multiple genres, numerous live performances, recognized for her powerful voice
18. Anna Fegi
Anna Fegi is a classically trained singer who has made a name for herself in jazz and blues. She’s performed internationally and is known for her wide vocal range. Anna’s rendition of “Fever” shows off her skills in the jazz genre.
- Birth Date: April 18, 1977
- Major Songs: “Fever,” “I Will Always Love You,” “Moon River”
- Major Achievements: International performances, respected jazz and blues singer known for her wide vocal range
Classical and Folk Female Filipino Singers
19. Lea Salonga
Lea Salonga is a world-renowned singer and actress. She’s famous for her musical theater roles, including Kim in “Miss Saigon” and as the singing voice of Disney princesses Jasmine and Mulan.
Lea’s powerful voice and precise technique have made her a legend in Philippine music.
- Birth Date: February 22, 1971
- Major Songs: “A Whole New World,” “Reflection,” “Sun and Moon”
- Major Achievements: Tony Award winner, Disney Legend, acclaimed international performer
20. Rachelle Ann Go
Rachelle Ann Go has made a name for herself in pop music and musical theater. She’s performed in West End and Broadway productions of “Miss Saigon” and “Hamilton.”
Rachelle’s rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Misérables showcases her classical training.
- Birth Date: August 31, 1986
- Major Songs: “I Dreamed a Dream,” “Defying Gravity,” “On My Own”
- Major Achievements: Laurence Olivier Award nominee, performances in major international theater productions, recognized for her powerful voice
21. Joanna Ampil
Joanna Ampil is another Filipino talent who’s made waves in international musical theater. She’s played lead roles in productions like “Cats” and “Miss Saigon.” Joanna’s performance of “Memory” from Cats demonstrates her classical vocal skills.
- Birth Date: June 1, 1975
- Major Songs: “Memory,” “Sun and Moon,” “I’d Give My Life for You”
- Major Achievements: Acclaimed international theater performer, multiple awards for her performances, respected figure in musical theater
22. Bayang Barrios
Bayang Barrios is known for her folk music, which often incorporates indigenous Filipino instruments and themes. She’s a strong advocate for preserving traditional Filipino music. Bayang’s song “Malayo Man, Malapit Din” is a great example of her folk style.
- Birth Date: June 12, 1968
- Major Songs: “Malayo Man, Malapit Din,” “Bagong Umaga,” “Salidummay”
- Major Achievements: Multiple awards for her folk music, advocate for Indigenous Filipino music, respected folk artist
Rising Stars
23. Morissette Amon
Morissette Amon, often called “Asia’s Phoenix,” has gained fame for her powerful voice and impressive range. She first gained attention in a TV singing contest and has become one of the Philippines’ top vocalists.
Her cover of “Rise Up” went viral and showcased her vocal prowess.
- Birth Date: June 2, 1996
- Major Songs: “Rise Up,” “Akin Ka Na Lang,” “Gusto Ko Nang Bumitaw”
- Major Achievements: Multiple awards, viral performances, recognized as one of the top vocalists in the Philippines
24. Janine Teñoso
Janine Teñoso is a young singer-songwriter who’s making waves in the OPM scene. She’s known for her heartfelt ballads and clear, passionate voice. Janine’s song “Di Na Muli” has become popular for its touching lyrics and melody.
- Birth Date: November 11, 1999
- Major Songs: “Di Na Muli,” “Umibig Muli,” “Ang Awit Natin”
- Major Achievements: Rising star in the OPM scene, popular for her heartfelt ballads, multiple music awards
25. Gigi De Lana
Gigi De Lana rose to fame through social media, where her covers of popular songs gained millions of views. She’s known for her ability to hit high notes with ease. Gigi’s performances with her band, The Gigi Vibes, have made her a rising star in Filipino music.
- Birth Date: September 24, 1995
- Major Songs: “Sakalam,” “We Belong Together,” “Bakit Nga Ba Mahal Kita”
- Major Achievements: Social media sensation, multiple viral covers, a rising star in the music industry
26. Zephanie
Zephanie is one of the youngest rising stars in Philippine music. She won a major TV singing competition and has since released several singles. Zephanie’s powerful voice belies her young age, as shown in her debut single, “Pangarap Kong Pangarap Mo.”
- Birth Date: February 14, 2003
- Major Songs: “Pangarap Kong Pangarap Mo,” “Isa Pang Araw,” “Sabihin Mo Na”
- Major Achievements: Winner of “Idol Philippines,” successful debut singles, recognized for her powerful voice
27. Ylona Garcia
Ylona Garcia is a young singer and actress who has gained popularity for her unique voice and engaging performances. She first rose to fame as a contestant on a reality TV show and has since built a successful music career.
Her song “Entertain Me” has gained international recognition and showcases her musical talent.
- Birth Date: February 28, 2002
- Major Songs: “Entertain Me,” “Don’t Go Changing,” “Walk In My Timbs”
- Major Achievements: Reality TV star, international music recognition, growing influence in the music industry
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through the world of Filipino female singers, it’s clear that the Philippines is a treasure trove of musical talent.
These women have left an indelible mark on the music industry, from pop sensations to soulful R&B artists and rock stars to jazz virtuosos.
Their voices entertain, inspire, and move listeners worldwide. By exploring these artists’ works, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich musical heritage of the Philippines.
Why not create a playlist featuring these incredible vocalists?
Start with a few songs from each artist we’ve mentioned and let their music transport you. Share your favorite discoveries with friends and family, spreading the joy of Filipino music.
The world of Filipino female singers is waiting for you to explore!