Mood songs

There is no other holiday in the Philippines that is given so much attention and celebrated than Christmas – more so if the day falls right before or after the weekend – and yesterday’s was certainly no exemption.

Aside from the “musts” on the family table, like ham and cheese, there is the Christmas tree that is laden with gifts that were received and to be given away. It’s a time for sharing and reconnecting with family members, truly a more fitting yearender for all.

Christmases like this year’s is also the best time for fun, and for most Filipinos, this means bringing out the karaoke or videoke machines, either in the privacy of the home or more publicly on the streets, and used for hours on end.

In the years before “instant” sing-alongs through Spotify, SoundCloud or Google Play, the top favorite song for Filipino belters was Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” This is the stuff that created urban legends in karaoke bars of drunken brawls that even ended with people getting shot.

Filipinos just can’t get enough of that timeless line, “I did it myyyy way.” Frank Sinatra could never have imagined how his 1969 hit, written by Paul Anka, could live on and on in the hearts of Filipinos.

Here are a few other foreign and Filipino songs by both international and local singers or bands that have become undeniable favorites. I’m sure you’ll find one that you like.

International hits

A favorite mostly by women and the gay community, Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” is one of the most requested – even in other countries’ surveys. This 1978 release is about a woman’s will to overcome heartbreak, a subject that zillions of women can identify with.

There have been many successful versions of this song by various artists, including American singer Demi Lovato for the sound track of The Angry Birds Movie in 2016.

Swedish ABBA’s “The Dancing Queen” has withstood four decades, and is one of the coolest dance songs that is still played in discos. It was included in the playlist of the successful musical Mamma Mia!, and its eventual movie adaptation.

There are many more Pinoy faves, but songs like “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler, the movie Titanic’s “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion, “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi, and “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran are still standouts.

Same too for “Versace On The Floor” by Bruno Mars, “Sorry” by Justin Bieber, “Always Be My Baby” by Mariah Carey, “One Call Away” by Charlie Puth, and “Where Do Broken Hearts Go” by Whitney Houston.

High notes

The following next songs are undeniably difficult, such that the amateur belter would not dare to sing, but gutsier Filipinos have no fear.

“I Will Always Love You” by American legend Whitney Houston was released for her 1992 movie, The Bodyguard. The original was, however, popularized by Dolly Parton in 1974.

The song is considered a test for every aspiring songstress, in much the same way that Charice Pempengco did when she sang on YouTube, and later, for Oprah Winfrey in her immensely popular US television show, The Oprah Winfrey Show.

Another challenging song is “Without You,” originally set by British rock group Badfinger. Over 180 versions have been released, but it is American songbird Mariah Carey’s version in 1994 that brought the song international fame, and Filipinos’ adulation.

According to Wikipedia, British pop icon Paul McCartney described the ballad as “the killer song of all time.” It may not be as lethal as “My Way,” but many of those who attempted to sing it in bars found themselves with strained vocal cords after finishing the high notes, or losing face.

Another song with impossibly high notes is Chaka Khan’s “Through the Fire,” released in the album I Feel For You in 1984. So far, no singer has attempted to record this hit R&B song with as much success as Khan.

Truly Filipino

Whether as an original Filipino piece or a version of a popular international release, the following are also among the popular songs chosen in the karaoke joints or during videoke sessions.

The version of “Bakit Ngayong Ka Lang” by Filipino band Freestyle is a popular male-female duet song choice locally. The clever arrangement of verses has made it a favorite among amateur singers. The song was originally written and sung by Filipino artist Ogie Alcasid.

Filipino disco group VST & Company has long disbanded, but its music lives on. One of the most popular in-demand in karaoke bars is “Awitin Mo at Isasayaw Ko,” a swinging song penned by local television personality Joey De Leon.

“Till I Met You” by Filipino pop diva Kuh Ledesma is another original Pilipino song composed by Odette Quesada and Noel Pointer. This is also favorite request song in karaokes and meant to be sung with a partner.

Of course, we can’t miss out on Filipino actress and singer Sharon Cuneta’s “Langis at Tubig.” Composed by the highly acclaimed song writer George Canseco, this OPM is another favorite.

Other Filipino originals include “Harana” by Parokya ni Edgar, “Bakit Nga Ba Mahal Kita” by Roselle Nava, and “Halik” by Aegis. “Foolish Heart” by Nina is also oft requested, although the original is written by Steve Perry, formerly from the band Journey.

Going through these song titles alone makes one get in the mood, even if some of the songs are sad. Here’s hoping each and everyone had a joyous Christmas celebration with family and friends yesterday.

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