By: Andrei Yuvallos - @inquirerdotnet
While many of the most popular Filipino Christmas songs we listen to today were made in the 20th century and the early ’00s, that doesn’t mean Pinoy artists aren’t coming out with new holiday tunes every year.
The local Filipino music scene is alive and thriving, and the holiday season is another source of inspiration for these artists. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with listening to the same nostalgic Christmas music as our parents, but if you’re looking for something new (both to you and in general), here are a few newer Christmas tracks that can help you expand your OPM listening horizons.
“Bibingka” by Ben&Ben
If you really want to feel the Filipino Christmas spirit, this love song by Ben&Ben will do just the trick. What could be more romantic and Filipino at the same time than offering your crush some bibingka after Simbang Gabi? Probably next to nothing.
“Ligaya” by SB19
P-pop group SB19 is on their way to world domination, but they’re stopping by the holiday music genre on their way there with a heartfelt song about the true joy of Christmas.
“No Snow” by Reese Lansangan
Reese Lansangan’s “No Snow” perfectly encapsulates the hurdles of being in a tropical country (while being very in love) during Christmas time. It’s sometimes too warm to cuddle, but you’ll still want to anyway.
“Baby, Merry Christmas” by Keiko Necesario
“Baby, Merry Christmas” is another addition to the cozy, romantic song genre. Necesario’s jazzy vocals fill the room with warm and fuzzy feelings that’ll make you want to cuddle up to someone (even if that someone is your family pet) this Christmas.
“Xmas Lights” by Ang Bandang Shirley
Longing is another common theme in Pinoy Christmas music, and “Xmas Lights” by Ang Bandang Shirley has the capability to make you miss someone who’s right next to you. It’s a light and nostalgic Filipino rock song that’s perfect if you’re a bit of a grinch because of a long distance relationship.
“Tayong Dalawa sa Pasko” by NOBITA
In another entry to the nostalgic, longing category, “Tayong Dalawa sa Pasko” by NOBITA is a grand, Christmassy love letter to someone you wish was in your arms instead of somewhere else this Christmas. Someone please get me some tissues and a cup of hot chocolate.
“Christmas Party” by Eraserheads
Local rock legends Eraserheads’ entry to the Christmas song genre is a funky, uplifting, celebratory song that talks about making a change, uniting, and enjoying Christmas as a community. It’s a good change-up if you’re getting too bummed by all the longing.
“Wish Ko sa Pasko” by The Sexbomb Girls
What would a modern Christmas song list be without a song from the Philippines’ original national girl group, The Sexbomb Girls? It’s a light, cheery track filled with all our favorite Sexbomb Girl sighs and adlibs. There’s some longing, but it’s still a fun track.
