Karaoke has always held a special significance in the hearts of millions of Filipinos.
Here in the Philippines, the act of karaoke is more than just a pastime — it’s an integral part of the social fabric, deeply rooted in the everyday lives of Filipinos. Beyond being a mere form of entertainment, it has evolved into a social activity — a communal celebration of music that brings people together in celebrations, gatherings, and even casual evenings at home.
Over time, the significance of karaoke culture has been reflected in the enduring popularity of numerous tracks and hit songs from the past two decades. From classic ballads and soulful anthems to timeless pop hits, such tracks have maintained their resonance with the Filipino people, reflecting an ongoing trend that highlights a devout appreciation for the art form.
This week’s chart data showcases the longstanding resonance of such a phenomenon, with several entries on the chart reflecting the songs that have been played on Magic Sings and other karaoke machines all over the country, over the years. Here, Billboard Philippines lists down the beloved karaoke hits that have charted on this week’s Hot 100 (dated July 13, 2024), and the reasons as to why such tracks continue to reverberate across the thousands of speakers and microphones across the country.
No. 31: “Tadhana” – UDD
UDD‘s “Tadhana” may have been released all the way back in 2012, yet it has solidified its status as a timeless track that continues to resonate far and wide over a decade later. Aside from its poignant lyricism, former lead vocalist Armi Millare’s distinct vocal performance is one of the song’s best aspects that many aspiring singers try to emulate. Yet together with its karaoke-friendly elements, the sonic journey its transports listeners to still remains fresh to this day.
No. 40: “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved” – The Script
In 2007, Irish rock band The Script first uttered the lyrics “Going back to the corner, where I first saw you…” out loud — which then lingered across the minds and ears of listeners worldwide for nearly two decades.
“The Man Who Can’t Be Moved” stands out on this week’s chart as one of the oldest (yet consistent) entries, though its longstanding impact and resonance with the Filipino audience could easily be attributed to how timeless the track is. Even when any Magic Sing machine plays the opening chords of the track, listeners can easily attribute lead singer Danny O’Donaghue’s raspy vocals to the melody and to go along with singing the rest of the song with full gusto.
No. 53: “Heaven Knows (This Angel Has Flown)” – Orange and Lemons
Like The Script, Filipino rock band Orange & Lemons has maintained a strong and consistent hold on Filipino listeners, particularly with their 2005 hit track, “Heaven Knows (This Angel Has Flown).” While its karaoke-friendly nature does indeed play a part in its popularity in the present day, there are also elements of nostalgia that amplify the emotional hold of the track to its listeners. The lyrics are simultaneously heartfelt and universal to the experience of so many lovelorn individuals, making it the perfect song for one to belt their heart out to.
No. 55: “Best Part” – Daniel Caesar and H.E.R.
This inescapable duet from Daniel Caesar and H.E.R. launched both artists into the mainstream back in 2017, but its impact is still going strong all these years later. Its emotionally resonant lyrics strike its listeners right in the heart, while the smooth, soulful melody and heartfelt duet between Caesar and H.E.R. create an intimate and captivating musical experience that stands out from a plethora of modern ballads. It’s easily one of the popular duets you’d immediately note on the list of tracks at a karaoke bar, proving its status as a karaoke favorite amongst millions of Filipinos today.
No. 66: “Sa Susunod Na Habang Buhay” – Ben&Ben
Ben&Ben have never shied away from making hit songs that stick with their listeners, and “Sa Susunod Na Habang Buhay” is just one of their many tracks that continue to leave an impact on its audience. Though it was first released back in 2020, it has found new life on both various forms of media (such as the MMFF film Rewind) and the thriving karaoke scene in the country, allowing listeners to belt their hearts out to every anguished lyric penned by Paolo and Miguel Benjamin. With its resurgence in the mainstream, it’s sure to hold a special place on anyone’s playlist and is on standby at thousands of karaoke machines nationwide.
No. 67: “Pasilyo” – Sunkissed Lola
Sunkissed Lola‘s viral “Pasilyo” is another certified hit, earning the coveted title of the most streamed song in the Philippines last year. Its viral nature on social media birthed an online movement that spawned several karaoke covers and renditions of the track, which all added to its sudden (yet well-deserved) surge in popularity. To this day, its influence and mellow nature continue to reverberate across the country, proving its potential as a timeless karaoke hit that will become a staple in several karaoke machines across the nation.
No. 70: “Yellow” – Coldplay
This fan-favorite ballad from Coldplay has stood the test of time, becoming one of the English pop-rock group’s most popular songs of all time. It may be a simple, straightforward ballad that tackles themes of adoration and love, yet there lies an enduring influence and universal appeal that strikes the hearts of the Filipino audience. The track’s memorable bridge features the memorable lyrics “It’s true, look how they shine for you…” — a pair of lines that continue to hold its weight as a karaoke favorite among those in touch with their feelings.
No. 75: “Night Changes” – One Direction
No one will ever forget about One Direction and the long list of hit songs they released in the four years of their career. Their hit track “Night Changes” is not merely a staple in their impeccable discography, but is also a certified karaoke favorite — perfect for anyone’s drunken spells or for groups of friends to sing along to in unison. Though there are tons of One Direction songs that are perfect for blasting at full volume, there’s a unique and heartfelt charm that “Night Changes” has on both its listeners and performers (well, those who at least try) which can only be characterized as a sense of warmth that lingers beyond its last note.
No. 82: “Kung Wala Ka” – Hale
Hale’s 2004 hit “Kung Wala Ka” continues its legacy as a timeless ballad and karaoke favorite due to its emotionally resonant lyrics, memorable melody, and distinctive vocal performance. The song’s themes of heartbreak and longing deeply connect with Filipino listeners who aim to give justice in their own impassioned karaoke renditions that ring across the Metro on the daily. Its poignant, melodic composition paired with the band’s heartfelt delivery to every note creates a powerful and heartfelt musical experience, which further solidifies its status as a beloved classic in Filipino music.
No. 89: “Just The Way You Are” – Bruno Mars
At the beginning of his path to global stardom, Bruno Mars released “Just The Way You Are” — a track that has cemented its position as one of the most memorable breakthrough songs in recent music history. The song’s themes of unconditional love and self-acceptance are accessible enough to connect with listeners upon its first play, while its catchy, uplifting melody paired with Mars’ heartfelt delivery creates an irresistible musical experience. Here in the Philippines, several karaoke singers try their hand at replicating the magic of Mars’ pitch-perfect vocals, though few have been able to accomplish such a feat. Still, it doesn’t hurt to try singing along to the lyrics with every play that keeps the track in the Hot 100 — close to fifteen years after its release.
No. 95: “Iris” – The Goo Goo Dolls
Released in 1998 as part of the City of Angels soundtrack, The Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris” blends heartfelt lyrics with a powerful melody, making it both deeply personal and universally relatable. Its poignant themes of longing, love, and introspection strike a chord with listeners of all ages, inviting them to immerse themselves in the reflective mood of the track. With an approachable level of vocal range and dynamics, it also provides ample opportunity for musicians to showcase their vocal prowess and emotional depth during karaoke performances, adding new life to its continuing resonance and popularity amongst wannabe rock stars.