Listen and watch this.....
drive.google.com/file/d/1mxxpY7w27a6NrornMfNlnrR8RpI9SJBD/view?usp=drivesdk
The era of singers like (not mention) the great singer Joel Tingbaoen, who passed away at the age of 73, is now or has become a thing of the past.
Joel T represented the enchanting and empowering country songs of the igorots, evoking relatable feelings and experiences.
We can all agree that his performances and compositions captivated our daily journeys through the streets of Baguio City and La Trinidad Benguet, and even reached as far as Mountain Province, to me JT indeed was jukebox king of Igorot country songs.
Boy I miss him dearly that I kept 2 of his albums in my storage in Germany
Today,(not to mention) we celebrate legendary female country singers with golden voices, such as the young and talented singer Aquila Packing, talented musicians like Ms. Rica Aquino, and adept composers like Rafael Manuel Jr. and more
The Igorot country music genre continues to evolve dynamically, responding to our ethnic changes and balancing acts, technological advancements, and shifts in the preferences of our Igorot audience. Numerous factors contribute to this evolution, advancing from tape recorders to discs, karaoke, and now, the realm of internet AI.
1. Fusion with Other Genres - Country music frequently integrates with pop, rock, hip-hop, and R&B, leading to the birth of sub-genres such as country pop and country rap. We should take pride in extraordinary Igorot artists like Madame Ingrid Payaket, Mr. Roque Belino, Mr. and Mrs. Bateg, and numerous other personalities who exemplify our heritage. As Igorots, we should actively explore these collaborations.
2. Diverse Voices - Our genre has embraced inclusivity, featuring a broader range of artists, including emerging talent from the Cordillera community and potentially acknowledging the contributions of LGBTQ musicians. This diversification introduces fresh perspectives and narratives into the music.
3. Changes in Themes - Contemporary country music often tackles modern-day issues like mental health, social justice, and personal identity, reflecting the concerns of today's society.
4. Digital Platforms - The emergence of streaming services and social media has revolutionized how country music is produced, marketed, and shared. This evolution allows independent artists to reach wider audiences and opens up new pathways for discovering music.
5. Production Techniques - Advances in music production have resulted in a more refined and varied sound, incorporating electronic elements and state-of-the-art recording technology that attract younger listeners.
6. Lyric Evolution - The focus of country music lyrics has shifted from traditional storytelling to more introspective and relatable themes, often resonating deeply with the personal experiences and encounters of Igorot listeners.
In summary, the ongoing transformation of Igorot country music ensures its relevance while reflecting the evolving tastes of our audience and honoring our rich culture and traditions.
Listen and watch below from our very own Baguio girl Ms. Maruja. S. Gigante...
drive.google.com/file/d/1JM6UhOM2_2XHtCozDA-scQzCLsiTmZHE/view?usp=gmail
Kailyan
