End your Pride Month celebration with these songs that resonate love stories of all music genres and sexual orientations
One of the best things about music is the freedom one has in telling stories. Through the melody and lyrics of each song, listeners will feel like they have another individual on the other line who can understand what they’re going through. The companionship that music offers is one-of-a-kind, and that goes the same way for those that tell the stories of love of all forms.
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Though the official celebration of Pride ends today, the action towards solidarity, justice, and respect must not stop here. The music must go on. With that, here are some tracks that a community member or ally can listen to as we all hope for a brighter tomorrow for the LGBTQIA+ members of our society.
Pop off with pride
If you need some motivation to continue serving and slaying after June, Flexbomb Girls’ rendition of “Pop Off Ate” is the perfect pick-me-up whether it’s Pride Month or not. The appeal of the song goes beyond its beat, with the Drag Race PH contestants Turing, Eva La Queen, Marina Summers, Brigiding, and Lady Morgana rapping in three languages. In this track, Brigiding even explicitly voices out, “You can reach for the heights, don’t let them take your rights!”
Pine over pride
Liking someone and hiding your feelings is torture enough, but more so when you’re judged for who you like. For those who are still figuring things out about themselves, Brisom’s “Balewala” is the song for you. Though the music video tells the story of romantic love, the song can also be a personal anthem of showing your true colors.
Stand with pride
“Hey, Jay” by Eraserheads feels like a comforting hug from your barkada. Whether you’re a member of the LGBTQIA+ community or merely an ally, you can dedicate this song to show your support to others. The acoustic accompaniment is a perfect jamming track with your friends for your next road trip or listening session.
Rise towards pride
Filipino rap has always been laced with a sharp flow and booming beats. With Gloc 9 and Ebe Dancel’s “Sirena,” this classic Filipino rap flavor was married with a soft rhythmic lead that shows both the delicate and strong side of a sirena. The term, in Filipino language, is usually attributed to the gay community. More than its sound, it is the lyrics of the song that truly makes all the difference— “‘Di sinusukat ang tapang at ang bigote sa mukha dahil kung minsan, mas lalaki pa sa lalaki ang bakla.”
Love beyond pride
Not all love stories thrive, especially in the narratives of our queer community. Sometimes, another form of love wins, and we just have to live with that. “Belinda Bye Bye” by Barbie’s Cradle tells this exact bittersweet story. Heartbreak may always be good to sing about, but this song can just tug your heartstrings a little harder.
Featured Image: BARBIE’S CRADLE (via YouTube)
