We all know and love the music of The Sims.
Whether it’s the iconic franchise’s memorable (if ambient) score, quirky tunes, or real-life hit songs that have been translated into the game’s own language of Simlish, music has always been a central component of the games, as it serves its purpose in immersing you further into the digital world on our PC’s screens.
We’ve already seen the likes of world-renowned musicians like Katy Perry, The Black Eyed Peas, Paramore, My Chemical Romance, Carly Rae Jepsen, Lily Allen, Soulja Boy, Japanese Breakfast, and even FKA Twigs re-record some of their discography’s highlights with the gibberish-but-somehow-familiar language to make it fitting for the game’s setting, even as it elicits cheers and laughs from fans and players alike. Yet beyond the comedic nature of such re-recordings, there lies a special and equally endearing charm that comes with hearing these tracks in such a stylized manner.
Given the colorful character and catchy nature of OPM, there’s no doubt about just how well Filipino music would fit within the world of The Sims. Whether it’s the classic alternative rock sound that’s become beloved by multiple generations, the funk-pop sound that’s made OPM superstars, or even the eclectic sound of P-pop that’s currently dominating several global markets, there’s a whole lot to work with when potentially adapting Filipino music within the world of The Sims.
In this list, Billboard Philippines shares our picks for the Filipino songs we’d love to hear translated into Simlish — making the case for which hit songs would sound best to become the quirky soundtrack to our pixelated lives.
“Salamin, Salamin” by BINI
With its bubblegum pop nature and shimmering hooks, BINI‘s “Salamin, Salamin” is practically begging to be reimagined in Simlish. The catchy chorus and rap segment are bouncy and chant-like, making it easy for Sims to sing along while dancing at a nightclub, in their bedrooms, or even in front of their mirror. The prismatic production of FlipMusic could translate quite well into the whimsical charm of The Sims, where it can be set as the soundtrack for numerous humorous or dramatic interactions — even bringing a playful, glamorous energy to the game’s soundscape.
“Migraine” by Moonstar88
Though more melancholic in tone, Moonstar88‘s “Migraine” has a soaring chorus that makes it instantly memorable and oddly fitting for The Sims, especially as they belt along gibberish with their whole heart. Its emotional hook could translate into hilarious irony when sung in Simlish, as Sims melodramatically belt it out in karaoke or strum it on a guitar. The wistful yet catchy melody captures the bittersweet humor of the franchise, where Sims often face absurd mishaps that mirror the “migraine” moments of the everyday lives of your digital avatars.
“You’ll Be Safe Here” by Rico Blanco
Rico Blanco‘s heartfelt ballad, “You’ll Be Safe Here,” seems like a natural fit for The Sims given its warm and reassuring chorus, which would shine in Simlish. The track’s soothing melody lends itself to background music during tender gameplay moments, whether it be family interactions, romantic “WooHoo” segments, or parent-child bonding. The heartfelt hook has the potential to become even more endearing in the gibberish language of The Sims, underscoring the franchise’s tendency to balance humor with surprisingly touching emotional beats.
“Come Inside Of My Heart” by IV of Spades
IV of Spades‘ chart-topping hit, “Come Inside Of My Heart,” evokes a dreamy and romantic quality that’s akin to many of the jukebox tunes from the world of The Sims. In a way, it’s perfectly suited for romantic interactions in the game, considering how the track’s smooth falsettos and swooning chorus would sound both hilarious and heartfelt in the Simlish language. The lush instrumentation and airy vocals embody the whimsical romance that The Sims often plays with in its storytelling, even potentially enhancing moments where Sims are stargazing, proposing, or awkwardly flirting.
“DUNGKA!” by SB19
Perfect for any Sims block party, SB19‘s high-octane track “DUNGKA!” could act as the perfect party anthem and chaotic in-game moments for the worlds of Pleasantview to San Myshuno. Its punchy beat drops and chant-heavy hooks are tailor-made for The Sims’ silly dance moves and over-the-top reactions, while the song’s irreverent humor and explosive chorus would thrive even further in the exaggerated universe of The Sims. It’s the perfect tune to soundtrack their quirky antics, whether it be at the spontaneous dance-offs in public spaces to over-the-top social gatherings in-game.
“Fallen” by Lola Amour
With its funky grooves and irresistible horn sections, Lola Amour’s “Fallen” would make a fantastic upbeat addition to The Sims’ soundtrack. It could very well be one of the coolest songs being played by your aspiring indie musician Sim, given its playful and endlessly repeatable hook. The track could also kind of become the earworm that Sims could easily hum or dance to, as they sing along to the song’s blend of cheeky lyrics, embodying its laid-back energy that matches the everyday absurdity of The Sims, whether it be in moments where Sims are serenading a crush or awkwardly crashing a party.
“Ere” by Juan Karlos
The dramatic rise and raw, belted chorus of Juan Karlos‘ “Ere” make it an instant standout for a Simlish rework. Its slow build-up into an emotional explosion would be hilarious in The Sims’ exaggerated context, whether during karaoke nights or dramatic cutscenes. The intensity of the hook would contrast comically with the lighthearted tone of the game, creating iconic moments where Sims’ melodrama is matched by one of OPM’s most powerful ballads as of late.
“Pare Ko” by Eraserheads
As a classic anthem of friendship, heartbreak, and youthful rebellion, the Eraserheads‘ classic hit “Pare Ko” is iconic for its sing-along chorus that’s perfect for Simlish adaptation. Its conversational lyrics would feel natural in the Sims’ gibberish dialogue style, while the anthemic hook would thrive in group singing or karaoke features. Translating its laid-back yet cathartic energy into Simlish would make it both nostalgic and absurdly funny — exactly the kind of cultural nod that keeps The Sims’ soundtrack fresh and relatable.