Chito Miranda, the celebrated singer-songwriter and frontman of the renowned Filipino rock band Parokya ni Edgar, has boldly proclaimed that the contemporary era is now the “golden age” of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), surpassing even the revered ’90s period that introduced bands like Eraserheads and Rivermaya to the scene.
Using his Instagram platform, Miranda conveyed his profound perspective on the present state of the local music landscape. Reflecting on their earlier days, he recalled how artists such as himself were once relegated to the sidelines, receiving treatment akin to “second-class citizens” despite their achievements. He cited disparities in remuneration and recognition, particularly when compared to mainstream singers and A-list celebrities.
“Bands and artists now get paid and are treated like celebrities.”
Miranda underscored a noteworthy transformation that has occurred over time, emphasizing that both seasoned and emerging artists are now enjoying the acknowledgement and compensation they rightfully deserve. He pointed to a significant shift wherein bands and performers are accorded the same status as celebrated personalities, marking a departure from the past norm.
The artist spotlighted the augmentation of creative liberty, attributing it to artists’ reduced reliance on mainstream media and record labels for their success. This newfound autonomy empowers musicians to craft and release content in alignment with their artistic inclinations, without being exclusively tethered to commercial viability or conforming to radio-friendly standards.
Miranda drew an insightful parallel between this newfound creative independence and the world of visual art, equating the phenomenon to an artist’s most authentic and unfiltered mode of expression—a form of artistry that resonates profoundly with Filipino audiences.
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Clarifying his position in the comments section, the singer-songwriter reiterated that his intention was not to instigate a comparison of musical generations or to assert the superiority of one over another. He stressed his appreciation for the transformation in how both established and budding artists are now treated and esteemed, firmly establishing the current era as a bona fide “golden age” for OPM.
Chito Miranda, a distinguished figure in the Filipino music scene, has been a pivotal contributor through his role as Parokya ni Edgar’s frontman. The band is celebrated for their insightful and humorous take on societal matters, etching their mark on the country’s musical canvas.
