Embedded Files
"Manila Sound" was coined by entertainment writers to describe a unique pop music phenomenon that captivated the entire nation. Initially dismissed by some as a fad, Manila Sound proved its staying power.
"Manila Sound" was coined by entertainment writers to describe a unique pop music phenomenon that captivated the entire nation. Initially dismissed by some as a fad, Manila Sound proved its staying power.
Recording the tracks of "Pers Lab"
In 1975, the game changed with the release of Hotdog’s third single, "Bitin Ako Sa’Yo" as Vicor Music Corp.’s Sunshine label also released Cinderella's debut single, Hotdog had its first competitor in the market. Cinderella's hits like "TL Ako Sa’Yo," "Bato sa Buhangin," and "Superstar ng Buhay Ko" quickly climbed the charts, proving the audience's insatiable appetite for new and original, Pilipino Pop music.
This wave of enthusiasm set off a chain reaction, leading many recording companies and their talents/artists to join the Manila Sound bandwagon, cementing its place in the annals of Original Pilipino Music.
Before Hotdog’s “Ikaw ang Miss Universe” and “Pers Lab” in 1974, there were already a few original pop recordings, but they didn’t generate widespread interest across all social classes. It wasn’t until the emergence of “Manila Sound” that this broad appeal developed. Hotdog had the magic key that opened the door to acceptance: Tagalog, Taglish, or Pilipino lyrics set to original pop music.
But just as Hotdog’s third single "Bitin Ako Sa’Yo" and Cinderella’s "T.L. Ako Sa’yo" started to dominate the airwaves, the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), led by Ka Doroy Valencia, suddenly banned all Manila Sound original music from radio and television. They claimed the songs had double meanings that were inappropriate for the public. Remember, this was still during martial law.
I've heard other theories about the ban. Some say it was because we were competing with foreign record labels and Manila Sound was rapidly capturing a significant share of the market. Frankly, I have no idea why we were banned. Fortunately, after a few weeks off the air, they finally decided to lift the ban.
1974 - Flames Supper Club, Roxas Blvd. Pasay City.
One of Hotdog's very first gigs.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse