Filipinos need their daily dose of queer pop perfection this Pride Month. And to that, these artists say, “Consider it done.”
As our local music scene continues to evolve and dip its toes in new creative pursuits, we can’t thank these queer trailblazers enough for giving us songs that speak their truths at full volume. Whether they’ve dominated the charts or taken over our timelines for weeks on end, you can count on them to deliver hit after hit and bring utmost pride to the LGBTQIA+ community.
Photo: Denise Julia, BJ Pascual (via Marina Summers)/X
Our favorite queer Filipino artists have spent years honing their craft as a creative outlet and a meaningful platform that helps uplift their fellow storytellers at heart. Their bodies of work may span diverse genres, but they all come together to inspire fans to love and express themselves freely.
Queer excellence lives on this Pride Month as we spotlight ten Filipino artists who are changing the game for Original Pilipino Music (OPM). Don’t be surprised when you spot them singing and dancing their hearts out at nationwide parades, drag shows, and concerts for a cause. Because once you do, you’re in for a fabulously colorful experience you’ll never forget.
Denise Julia
This R&B diva is going places, and we couldn’t be prouder of her growth. She reached a major career milestone this year when she recently signed with EMPIRE, the same international label that handles Kendrick Lamar, Bebe Rexha, and Anderson .Paak, among many others.
From the streets of Manila to the bright lights of New York City, Denise Julia has her heart set on bringing her artistic prowess to global stages and inspiring her fellow Filipina go-getters to do the same.
You can explore Denise Julia’s discography starting with these songs:
- “Changes”
- “B.A.D.”
- “Butterflies (2 a.m. Version)”
- “Lackin’”
- “Sugar n’ Spice”
Sassa Gurl
What can’t she do?
One thing you’re bound to learn about Sassa Gurl is that she’ll always speak her mind, be it through acting, content creation, fashion, filmmaking, and even music. Ever since her hilarious skits blew up online, she’s proven to be a multifaceted artist and inspiration for the LGBTQIA+ community who isn’t afraid to stand her ground.
You can explore Sassa Gurl’s discography starting with these songs:
- Her latest single, “Mahiyain”
- “Maria Hiwaga”
- “Ganda Gandahan – Remix” (with Dia Maté)
Stef Aranas
You never know what to expect from rising singer-songwriter Stef Aranas, and that’s what makes her music so engaging. Since 2017, she’s been earning her stripes as a queer recording artist through sultry singles that feature cornerstones in Filipino culture and city life.
You can explore Stef Aranas’s discography starting with these songs:
- “Don’t Like You Like That”
- “Cvnty 2.0” (featuring Drag Race Philippines and Down Under vs the World star M1ss Jade So)
- “QC Gurlz Remix” (featuring Sassa Gurl)
Jason Dhakal
If you’re a fan of soulful vocals and mellow love songs, then Jason Dhakal’s music is right up your alley. His signature R&B-infused sound has earned him collaborations with Arthur Nery, DENȲ, and Jess Connelly, to name a few, as well as multiple singles that’ve garnered over a million streams since their release.
You can explore Jason Dhakal’s discography starting with these songs:
- “Happy W U” (with Arthur Nery)
- “Para Sa Akin”
- “Kailan?”
Dom Guyot
Versatility has always been in Dom Guyot’s vocabulary. Whether it’s on a punchy dance track or a sentimental anthem, trust that you’ll never catch him lacking in his lyricism, stage presence, and overall body of work. It’s no surprise that his music has been making its rounds on social media since he entered the industry in 2019.
You can explore Dom Guyot’s discography starting with these songs:
- “Balik” (with Adie)
- “Ambitions”
- “Manloloko” (with Zae)
Marina Summers
Anyone who’s been a fan of Marina Summers since the first season of Drag Race Philippines can attest to her evolution as a performer, advocate, artist, and role model for young queer Filipinos. The international stage was made for Marina, and her dynamic discography gets that point across loud and clear.
You can explore Marina Summers’ discography starting with these songs:
- “AMAFILIPINA”
- “WALANG KABA”
- “EABAB”
- “BORN TO DO DRAG”
Viñas Deluxe
Viñas Deluxe’s music is what you get when you combine the tagos-sa-puso feels of OPM with the theatrical, comedic, and campy artistry that she has showcased through drag. Her self-titled debut EP is a testament to her journey as a well-rounded queen, which we can’t wait to see more of in the years to come.
You can explore Viñas Deluxe’s discography starting with these songs:
- “Misis”
- “Bongga”
- “I’m Feeling Sexy Tonight”
Maxie Andreison
Pride and purpose join forces in fueling Maxie Andreison’s discography. As the reigning queen of the original Drag Race Philippines franchise, she never forgets to uplift the community through her impactful lyrics and creative advocacies. Filipinos are finally paying more attention to drag artists’ music now, and we have Maxie (and many of her fellow queer hitmakers) to thank.
You can explore Maxie Andreison’s discography starting with these songs:
- “Laban”
- “Halika Na Lika Na”
- “Inay”
Arizona Brandy
Arizona Brandy knows a thing or two about going viral. When she performed “Arizona B” on Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale, the whole world was instantly hooked on the song’s catchy, budots-inspired verses. That moment solidified iconic Arizona’s status as a performer and entertainer who never fails to bring smiles to our faces.
If you enjoyed “Arizona B” as much as we did, her follow-up single “Isaw,” a collaboration with budots pioneer DJ Love, will definitely get you grooving, too.
ALSO READ: Need a Feel-good Story to Watch This Pride Month? This Filipino GL Series Has You Covered
Who are your favorite queer Filipino artists? Share your picks with us in the comments below!
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