When OPM Became Cool

When the song Manila came out in the mid 70's, it revolutionized the way Filipinos viewed local music. Our colonial mentality favored Western songs as more superior and Filipino songs were considered low class and not worthy of our attention. Tagalog songs were for the maids, drivers and the promdi's (Tagalog slang for "from the provice"). At least in
my superficial world, that's how Tagalog songs were treated.

My tita (aunt) Ronnie brought home a 45 rpm of Hotdog's song, and with her persuasive character, convinced me that this new Manila Sound is worth listening to. And she was right. A few weeks later, Manila was being played everywhere, and for the first time, we Filipinos were proud of our music.

Manila hit the right chord with the locals by combining Tagalog and English lyrics - the term Tag-lish was born. Hot Dog's Manila sound paved the way for OPM (Original Pilipino Music) movement. Thanks to brothers Dennis and Rene Garcia, the acceptance of OPM in Filipino pop culture would have never been realized in my lifetime if it wasn't for their song.

A couple of year's ago, the Ateneo College Glee Club performed Manila at a concert here in Grand Rapids. And for that one moment, home just felt a lot closer. "Manila, I'm coming home..."