Top OPM Artists and Their Hit Songs: A Guide for ESL Learners

 


Introduction: Discovering Filipino Music

Music is an important part of Filipino culture. OPM means Original Pilipino Music, which refers to songs created and performed by Filipino artists. OPM includes many genres such as pop, rock, ballads, folk, hip-hop, and indie music.

Filipino songs are popular because they often tell stories about love, friendship, dreams, family, and life experiences. Many OPM songs become famous because listeners can relate to their emotions and messages. Recent OPM favorites include artists such as Cup of Joe, BINI, Arthur Nery, Dionela, Ben&Ben, and many others. (GMA Network)


Vocabulary Words

1. Artist

Meaning: A person who creates or performs music, paintings, or other forms of art.
Example: The artist released a new album.

2. Hit song

Meaning: A very popular song that many people listen to.
Example: “Multo” became a hit song in the Philippines. (GMA Network)

3. Lyrics

Meaning: The words of a song.
Example: Many OPM lyrics talk about love and emotions.

4. Melody

Meaning: The main musical tune of a song.
Example: The melody of the song is easy to remember.

5. Genre

Meaning: A category or style of music.
Example: Pop and rock are different music genres.

6. Emotional

Meaning: Showing strong feelings.
Example: Many OPM songs have emotional lyrics.

7. Popularity

Meaning: The state of being liked by many people.
Example: Social media helped increase the popularity of many Filipino artists.

8. Performance

Meaning: The act of singing or playing music for an audience.
Example: The singer gave an amazing performance.


Famous OPM Artists and Their Hit Songs

1. Cup of Joe

Cup of Joe is a Filipino band known for modern OPM songs with emotional storytelling. Their song “Multo” became one of the biggest OPM hits and was recognized as a top streamed song in the Philippines. (GMA Network)

Popular songs:

  • “Multo”

  • “Tingin” (with Janine Teñoso)

  • “Misteryoso”

Music style: Pop, indie, emotional


2. Ben&Ben

Ben&Ben is a popular Filipino band known for heartfelt songs about love, relationships, and personal experiences.

Popular songs:

  • “Kathang Isip”

  • “Araw-Araw”

  • “Leaves”

Music style: Folk-pop, acoustic


3. Arthur Nery

Arthur Nery is known for his smooth voice and romantic songs. His music often talks about love and relationships.

Popular songs:

  • “Isa Lang”

  • “Pagsamo”

  • “Higa”

Music style: R&B, soul, pop


4. BINI

BINI is a Filipino girl group known for energetic performances and catchy pop songs. They became one of the most recognized Filipino pop groups. (GMA Network)

Popular songs:

  • “Pantropiko”

  • “Salamin, Salamin”

Music style: Pop, dance


5. Dionela

Dionela is known for creative songwriting and romantic songs. His songs became popular among younger listeners. (GMA Network)

Popular songs:

  • “Sining” (with Jay R)

  • “Marilag”

Music style: Pop, R&B


6. Maki

Maki gained attention through songs that express deep emotions and modern Filipino experiences. His song “Dilaw” became a major OPM hit. (GMA Network)

Popular songs:

  • “Dilaw”

  • “Saan?”

  • “Namumula”

Music style: Pop, alternative


7. TJ Monterde

TJ Monterde is known for romantic ballads. His song “Palagi” became one of the highly recognized OPM songs in recent years. (ABS-CBN)

Popular songs:

  • “Palagi”

  • “Ikaw At Ako”

  • “Tulad Mo”

Music style: Ballad, pop


Why Do People Love OPM?

Many people love OPM because:

  • The songs tell Filipino stories.

  • The lyrics express real emotions.

  • The melodies are easy to remember.

  • The songs represent Filipino culture.

OPM connects people because music can express feelings that are sometimes difficult to explain.


Reading Comprehension Questions

A. Answer the questions.

  1. What does OPM mean?

  2. Why do many people enjoy Filipino songs?

  3. What is a hit song?

  4. Which Cup of Joe song became a major hit?

  5. Name two popular songs by Ben&Ben.

  6. What type of music is Arthur Nery known for?

  7. Why is BINI popular?

  8. What themes can you find in many OPM songs?


Vocabulary Practice

Choose the correct answer.

  1. A very popular song is called a ______.
    a. genre
    b. hit song
    c. performance

  2. The words of a song are called ______.
    a. lyrics
    b. melody
    c. artist

  3. Pop, rock, and ballad are examples of ______.
    a. performances
    b. genres
    c. artists


Discussion Questions

  1. Who is your favorite OPM artist? Why?

  2. What Filipino song reminds you of a special memory?

  3. Do you prefer English songs or Filipino songs? Why?

  4. How can music represent a country’s culture?

  5. If you were a singer, what kind of song would you create?


Writing Activity

Write a short paragraph about your favorite OPM song.

Use these questions as your guide:

  • What is the title of the song?

  • Who sings it?

  • What is the song about?

  • Why do you like it?

  • What feelings does it give you?

Example:

“My favorite OPM song is ______ by ______. I like this song because ______. The lyrics are ______ and the melody is ______.”

Post a Comment

0 Comments