17 Best Opm Songs of All Time: Top 17 Hits You Can’t Miss

Hey there music aficionados! TBone here, owner of Level Tunes and your friendly neighborhood DJ. Today, we’re going on an epic sonic journey, diving deep into the heart of Original Pinoy Music (OPM).

What’s the mission, you ask? To compile the 17 best OPM songs of all time.

As a life-long music enthusiast, and a proud Pinoy, I felt the irresistible pull to showcase these musical masterpieces. They have not only shaped our music industry, but also resonate with our unique Pinoy spirit.

Buckle up, my friends, because we’re about to travel through decades of OPM greatness! Let’s tune in,

Here are the best Opm songs of all time that you can check out:

List Of Best Opm Songs of All Time

Top Opm songs of all time in a list format:

1. “Anak” by Freddie Aguilar

“Anak,” penned and sung by the great Freddie Aguilar, is arguably one of the most iconic OPM songs of all time. Released in 1977 under the album “Anak,” this song marked its legacy under the Sunshine Records label. “Anak” narrates a heartfelt tale of a wayward child, a universal narrative that touches many. It’s this raw, emotional storytelling that elevates the song to its classic status. Aguilar’s deep, resonant voice, coupled with the song’s hauntingly beautiful guitar riffs, creates a striking musical combination. This timeless piece resonates with me because of its authentic representation of the Philippine culture.

2. “Himala” by Rivermaya

“Himala,” from Rivermaya’s 1994 album “Trip,” under the BMG Records Pilipinas label, is a classic example of 90s OPM rock. Bamboo Mañalac’s powerful vocals paired with Rico Blanco’s exceptional songwriting skills made this song a timeless hit. “Himala” possesses a certain mystical aura, which, when combined with its poetic lyrics, results in an almost magical musical experience. Its transcendental message about miracles and human nature is what makes it a standout for me.

3. “Ang Huling El Bimbo” by Eraserheads

“Ang Huling El Bimbo,” an Eraserheads masterpiece from their 1995 album “Cutterpillow,” was released under the Musiko Records & BMG Records (Pilipinas) Inc. label. This song tells a tragic tale of love and loss that’s weaved through catchy rhythms and Ely Buendia’s passionate vocals. Its unique blend of storytelling and music creates a nostalgia-inducing narrative that’s iconic in the OPM scene. It earns its place on my list because it’s a perfect demonstration of the band’s raw talent and innovative approach to music.

4. “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko” by Rey Valera

Released in 1979 under Vicor Music, “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko” by Rey Valera is a timeless love song that’s touched the hearts of many generations. This song, from the album “Rey Valera’s Greatest Hits,” speaks about enduring love, making it a perennial favorite at weddings. Valera’s sincere delivery of heartfelt lyrics combined with a gentle, soothing melody is why I consider this song an enduring classic.

5. “Tadhana” by Up Dharma Down

“Tadhana,” released in 2012 under Terno Recordings, is a poignant track from the album “Capacities” by Up Dharma Down (UDD). With Armi Millare’s ethereal vocals and the band’s blending of different musical styles, “Tadhana” is a testament to the evolution of OPM. The song’s exploration of fate and love resonates deeply, and it’s this mixture of depth and accessibility that makes it one of my top picks.

6. “Pare Ko” by Eraserheads

A track that resonates with Filipino youth is the iconic “Pare Ko” by Eraserheads from their 1993 debut album “Ultraelectromagneticpop!” under BMG Records Pilipinas. This song, with its raw emotions, catchy melodies, and colloquial lyrics, struck a chord with many. Its casual exploration of youthful love and heartbreak remains relatable, marking it as an anthem for a generation.

7. “With A Smile” by South Border

“South Border,” the rhythm and soul band, put forth “With A Smile” in their 2004 album “Episode III” under Sony BMG Music Entertainment. This cover of the original Eraserheads song offers a refreshing take, filled with velvety vocals and soulful arrangements. I chose this because it showcases the versatile adaptability of OPM in capturing emotions across different genres.

8. “Hawak Kamay” by Yeng Constantino

“Hawak Kamay,” a hit from Yeng Constantino’s 2006 debut album “Salamat” under Star Music, is an uplifting song about friendship and hope. Constantino’s refreshing vocals, combined with the song’s positive message, earned it widespread recognition. It’s on my list because of its heartfelt lyrics and powerful testament to unity and companionship.

9. “Sana Maulit Muli” by Gary Valenciano

“Sana Maulit Muli,” released in 1987 by Universal Records from Gary Valenciano’s album “Moving Thoughts,” is a poignant OPM ballad. Its beautiful melody, together with Valenciano’s emotive performance, creates a poignant musical piece. The song’s exploration of love and longing has made it a timeless OPM classic in my book.

10. “Kisapmata” by Rivermaya

“Kisapmata,” from Rivermaya’s 1994 self-titled album under BMG Records Pilipinas, is a powerful rock ballad. Its intense and emotional lyrics, combined with the band’s remarkable performance, captures the essence of intense love. This song earns its spot in my list for its profound emotional impact and melodic excellence.

11. “214” by Rivermaya

“214,” another unforgettable track from Rivermaya’s 1994 self-titled album under BMG Records Pilipinas, is a heartfelt love song. Its beautiful melody and lyrics that speak volumes about unconditional love, together with Bamboo’s enchanting vocals, are why this song finds a place in my heart and this list.

12. “Ikaw” by Yeng Constantino

Yeng Constantino’s “Ikaw,” from the 2014 album “All About Love” under Star Music, is a heartwarming dedication to love. This song, filled with heartfelt lyrics and Constan

13. “Kaleidoscope World” by Francis Magalona

Released in 1995 under the BMG Records label, “Kaleidoscope World” from Francis Magalona’s “Freeman” album is a lyrical masterpiece. With its insightful lyrics that highlight unity in diversity and an irresistible hip-hop beat, this song breaks boundaries, representing the depth and versatility of OPM. I love it for its thought-provoking content and how it reflects our colorful Filipino culture.

14. “Burnout” by Sugarfree

“Burnout,” from Sugarfree’s 2003 album “Sa Wakas” under PolyEast Records, is a touching ode to heartbreak and acceptance. Ebe Dancel’s hauntingly beautiful vocals, combined with poignant lyrics, offer a raw and relatable depiction of love and loss. It’s this very authenticity that secures its place in my list and in the hearts of many listeners.

15. “Tuloy Pa Rin” by Neocolours

A beloved OPM anthem of resilience, “Tuloy Pa Rin” by Neocolours, from the 1988 album “Making It” under Universal Records, captures the Filipino spirit. The band’s harmonious blend of pop and soul, along with its encouraging lyrics about moving forward, make it a standout. This song deserves a spot on the list as it continues to inspire, making listeners smile through life’s ups and downs.

16. “Harana” by Parokya Ni Edgar

Parokya Ni Edgar, known for their unique mix of humor and melody, gifted us with “Harana” in their 1999 album “Gulong Itlog Gulong” under Universal Records. This playful song, capturing the essence of Filipino courtship, has a charming appeal. I’ve included it here for its creativity and fun vibe, epitomizing the band’s innovative approach to OPM.

17. “Beep Beep” by Juan Dela Cruz Band

Closing the list with a classic, “Beep Beep” by Juan Dela Cruz Band from the 1978 album “Maskara” under Sunshine Records. This rock anthem, with its catchy guitar riffs and lively rhythm, portrays the hustle and bustle of Manila. It gets its well-deserved spot on this list for its undeniable influence in shaping Pinoy rock music.

other songs.

Fun Facts: Best Opm Tracks of All Time

1. “Anak” by Freddie Aguilar

Fun fact: “Anak” holds the distinction of being the most commercially successful Filipino recording in history. This song was released in 53 countries worldwide and was translated into 29 different languages!

2. “Himala” by Rivermaya

Fun fact: “Himala” is such a classic that it has been used in multiple films and television shows in the Philippines. The song’s timeless appeal continues to inspire contemporary Filipino artists who frequently cover it.

3. “Ang Huling El Bimbo” by Eraserheads

Fun fact: This song was so popular that a musical of the same name was produced, using Eraserheads’ discography as the soundtrack. “Ang Huling El Bimbo: The Musical” had a successful run in Manila from 2018 to 2019.

4. “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko” by Rey Valera

Fun fact: Although known as a timeless love song, “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko” was originally composed by Valera as a song of gratitude and farewell to his fans, fearing that his fame was fleeting.

5. “Tadhana” by Up Dharma Down

Fun fact: “Tadhana” gained widespread recognition when it was used as the theme song for the 2014 film, “That Thing Called Tadhana,” which depicted the journey of two broken-hearted individuals finding themselves in each other.

10. “Kisapmata” by Rivermaya

Fun fact: The title “Kisapmata” is a Filipino word for “blink of an eye,” a metaphor for how quickly love can change, aptly fitting the song’s theme.

13. “Kaleidoscope World” by Francis Magalona

Fun fact: Francis Magalona’s children Elmo and Saab Magalona released a tribute version of “Kaleidoscope World” after their father’s passing, adding their own verses but maintaining the original’s message of unity and hope.

14. “Burnout” by Sugarfree

Fun fact: Despite being a heart-wrenching song, “Burnout” has a surprisingly upbeat tune. This poignant contrast is a hallmark of Sugarfree’s musical style, using catchy melodies to deliver emotionally heavy lyrics.

15. “Tuloy Pa Rin” by Neocolours

Fun fact: The resilience anthem “Tuloy Pa Rin” found new life and popularity among younger audiences when it was used in a viral fast-food chain commercial, proving that its message of moving forward resonates across generations.

17. “Beep Beep” by Juan Dela Cruz Band

Fun fact: “Beep Beep” was made as a commentary on the chaotic traffic situation in Manila during the late ’70s, yet it remains relevant today as the city’s traffic woes continue. Talk about timeless relevance!

And that’s the finale of our OPM journey, folks! We’ve laughed, cried, and reminisced with these classic Pinoy tunes. Until next time, let’s continue to celebrate our music. After all, every beat and lyric tells our unique Filipino story. So, keep rocking to that rhythm, mga kaibigan!

Thanks for reading.

TBone