To name the Top 10 Greatest Voices in Philippine Entertainment is a Herculean task that not everyone relishes. The Philippines is a hotbed for vocal resources not only locally but internationally, as well.
The list below is the opinion and observation of the writer of facts, events, and trends that had transpired in the music industry. Here are the Top 10 Greatest Voices of all time in Philippine Entertainment, in no particular order.
#1 – Nora Aunor
Nora Aunor was a singer before she became a top caliber actress. The excellent quality of her voice coming from such a petite girl in her teens had catapulted her to fame. Her rendition of the songs “And I Love Her So,” “Love Story,” “This Is My Life,” and countless others, were all hits. Her singing talent had opened her entry into the world of acting.
Even as an actress, she held the audience captivated with her sterling performances of any role given to her. Her star is not yet ready to fade, as she recently won Best Actress from international film organizations, and also during the MMFF with her entry “Thy Womb.”
#2 – Pilita Corrales
Pilita Corrales is tagged as the “Asian Queen of Songs” for her mellow, melodious voice that could bring shivers to anyone’s spine – including the goose bumps. She had been an icon of the music industry with her songs; “Kapantay ay Langit,” among others. She is well respected and admired for her unique singing style and voice.
Pilita’s unquestionable talent had earned her a spot as a judge and mentor on the X Factor Philippines 2012 competition.
#3 – Sharon Cuneta
Sharon’s voice is unadulterated and she could nail the high notes of a song without so much as batting an eyelash. Her songs “Tubig at Langis,” “Bituing Walang Ningning,” and “Mr. DJ” are such brilliant songs that they are Filipino favorites during Karaoke and singing competitions. Sharon Cuneta is a singer who will always be remembered.
#4 – Regine Velasquez
Regine is also Asia’s Songbird because of her incredible pitch. She could reach the highest note superbly. She had performed abroad to appreciative music lovers, who had only plaudits for her. She sold more than a million copies in Asia and is the only non-Chinese singer, who was able to do that in China. One of her top songs is “Minsan Lang Kitang Iibigin.”
#5 – Lea Salonga
Lea Salonga has undoubtedly earned her place as one of the Philippines’ greatest singer because of her extraordinary stage voice. She could croon a low baritone and hit high soprano, as well. Her voice is crisp and clear as the morning air.
Lea won Best Actress for her performance as Kim in “Miss Saigon”, not only a Tony, but also the Olivier, Drama Desk and other awards from international award giving bodies.
She sang for the Disney movies, “Mulan” and “Aladdin,” and was the first Asian to play Fantine and Eponine in the critically acclaimed stage play, “Les Miserables” in Broadway.
#6 – Gary Valenciano
Gary is “The Total Performer” and “Mr. Pure Energy,” a title that he truly deserves. He can sing ballads, sway and dance to a fast song, and then shift to a Christian song. His songs, “Warrior is a Child,” “Take Me Out of the Dark My Lord,” and “Hataw Na,” are only few of his hits.
His local and international concerts were hits, and Filipinos and foreigners flock to listen to his outstanding performances.
#7 – Martin Nievera
Martin is the King of Ballads. He has been considered as the music rival of Gary Valenciano in the music industry. The truth is they are friends, and their perceived rivalry does not affect their friendship. While Martin cannot dance as well as Gary, he can give Gary a run for his money. They were both judge-mentors during the X Factor Philippines 2012.
#8 – Charice
Charice Pempengco is known internationally for her powerful singing voice. She did a duet with no less than the famous singer, Celine Dion. She guested in some popular US shows such as Oprah, Glee, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Oprah Winfrey called her the “Most Talented Girl in the World.”
Her song “Pyramid” had made it to the Top 10 on Billboard 200 charts when it was released. She was the only Filipino who earned that prestige. Charice has also topped some music charts in Asia with “Pyramid.”
#9 – APO Hiking Society
The APO Hiking Society’s members are Jim Paredes, Boboy Garovillo, and Jim Paredes. The trio’s songs survived Martial Law, the onset of new beats, and are still being accorded airplay in radio stations around the country.
Some of their popular songs are: ‘Salawikain’, and “Batang Bata Ka Pa”. The group took active part in expressing the Filipino’s need for freedom through their songs. They have been performing locally and abroad to showcase Filipino songs and music.
The APO Hiking Society represents the OPM that Filipinos are proud of.
#10 – Sarah Geronimo
Sarah is the “Princess of Pop,” a title she deserves. She is a versatile singer with a wonderful voice that could sing R&B, soul, rock, and pop songs. She could dance too, a talent that not all singers possess. She performed a duet with one of the members of the internationally famous Backstreet Boy Band, Howie Dorough, in the song, “I’ll Be There.” Sarah Geronimo’s concerts are always well attended and applauded.
Do you agree with this list of the Top 10 Greatest Voices in Philippine Entertainment? If not, you can post your choices in the comment section below.
