THE LEGENDS

Rock and roll is an abused term to begin with. It is one of the fastest growing music genres in the Philippines aside from hip-hop and pop. It has become a mainstream type that the Philippine culture is very much well-oriented with. It influenced not just the lifestyle of the Filipinos in general but almost all aspects of their existence as well, be it political, emotional, mental or even spiritual.

If there are big names in the field of politics, psychology and mathematics then there are also music legends, rock legends for this matter. In the Philippines, these icons are in the forms of Pepe Smith, Basti Artadi, Karl Roy, Ely Buendia, Reg Rubio and Marc Abaya, to name a few.

Kjwan (Marc Abaya) - audience hug

Drummer slash singer slash song writer, this all around fellow of 61 years old is the man called Pepe but in real life, is known to be as Joseph William Feliciano Smith or plainly Joey Smith. He is considered a pioneer of Philippine rock and has contributed so much to the progress of Philippine sound via his band during the 70s, the Juan de la Cruz Band. Age doesn’t matter for Smith. He is still promoting the cause of Philippine rock and is present every major national rock concert considering that he’s quite old enough for such things. When asked what makes him a rock icon, Smith was humble. He believes that Filipinos like his music and he owes everything to his experiences.

Juan De La Cruz Band

Another persona in the rock industry would be Karl Roy. He is the Prince of Philippine rock and roll and a historical outlet of Philippine funk. He was actually the front man of the phenomenal local rock outfit called P.O.T. At present, he manoeuvres the hard kicking rock band Kapatid, which is famous for their energy and all. Being yourself is Roy’s advice to every ambitious rock soul, for evolution is just a follow up of living your life the way you want it to happen.

Joey Ayala at ang Bagong Lumad

For those who might not have noticed, Ely Buendia is a flavour for the young rock and roll crowd. Officially as Eleandre Basiño Buendía, Ely was the lead vocalist of the alternative group The Eraserheads. Due to circumstances, the band broke up which ended up with Buendia’s leaving. At present, this rock image along with his legacy is still a main player in the Philippine rock music with his freshly compiled band Pupil which is also alternative in taste. Buendia actually doesn’t regard himself a legend in the field of rock and roll. Just like any other rock star who made a hit and blow in the Philippine rock scene, Buendia is meek as well. Last January 2007, he had this sudden heart attack which signalled an omen, as how Buendia would describe it. He thought it was the end of his career. But faith kept Buendia on the track. Sticking to your goal and passion will keep you going. That’s the principle of a true blooded legend.