11 List of Ilocano Songs: Songs You Can’t Miss

Hey there, music enthusiasts and fellow DJs! It’s your pal TBone from Level Tunes, back with another dose of musical exploration.

Today, I’m super excited to share a special list that’s close to my heart: 11 incredible Ilocano songs.

Being a DJ, I’ve always believed in the power of music to transcend boundaries, and exploring regional sounds is a passion of mine.

Ilocano music, with its unique blend of traditional Filipino melodies and heartfelt lyrics, offers a rich cultural experience that I just had to dive into.

Whether you’re an Ilocano music newbie or a seasoned fan, this list is a journey through the soul-stirring world of Ilocano tunes.

So, let’s get ready to add some amazing tracks to our playlists.

Here are the list of Ilocano songs that you can check out:

List of Ilocano Songs:

List of Ilocano songs in a list format:

1. “Pamulinawen”

Artist: Unknown
Album: Traditional
Year: Traditional
Record Label: N/A

“Pamulinawen” is a classic folk song, an iconic piece in the Ilocano songbook. Its origins are rooted deep in the folk traditions of the Ilocos region. The song is a serenade, traditionally sung by a young man to woo his beloved, with the lyrics metaphorically referring to a hard-hearted lady. Its melody is gentle yet captivating, embodying the simplicity and depth of rural love. What makes this song timeless is its ability to connect generations, remaining a beloved piece for many Ilocanos worldwide. It’s a must for understanding the foundation of Ilocano music.

2. “Ti Ayat Ti Maysa Nga Ubing”

Artist: Nora Aunor
Album: Nora Aunor Sings Ilocano Songs
Year: 1973
Record Label: Alpha Records

This song, performed by the legendary Filipino actress and singer Nora Aunor, translates to “The Love of a Young Child.” It’s a beautiful, heartfelt ballad that speaks of innocent love and youthful affection. Released in the early ’70s, this track showcases Nora’s versatility as a singer, able to convey deep emotion in a language that’s not her own. The song has a lullaby-like quality, making it a soothing listen. It’s a gem from Nora’s album that showcases her ability to connect with various Filipino cultural heritages.

3. “Manang Biday”

Artist: Unknown
Album: Traditional
Year: Traditional
Record Label: N/A

Another folk classic, “Manang Biday” is an Ilocano traditional song that’s often performed at cultural events and gatherings. The song is a playful courtship dance number, where the lyrics invite Manang Biday, a lady, to come down and join the singer. The rhythm is upbeat and lively, making it a popular choice for festivals and celebrations. This song is a window into the vibrant community life of the Ilocanos, reflecting their joyous spirit and rich cultural traditions.

4. “Bannatiran”

Artist: Unknown
Album: Traditional
Year: Traditional
Record Label: N/A

“Bannatiran” is a traditional Ilocano folk song that speaks about a local bird, the bannatiran, which is known for its beautiful and distinct plumage. The song is often interpreted as a metaphor for longing and unrequited love, where the singer compares their beloved to the elusive bird. The melody is both melancholic and enchanting, making it a staple in the repertoire of Ilocano serenades. Its cultural significance and the poetic beauty of its lyrics make “Bannatiran” a must-listen for anyone interested in traditional Filipino music.

5. “Dungdungwen Kanto”

Artist: Mabuhay Singers
Album: Philippine Folk Songs
Year: 1960s
Record Label: Villar Records

“Dungdungwen Kanto” by the Mabuhay Singers is a harmonious blend of traditional Ilocano music with a more contemporary folk style. This song is a playful and light-hearted serenade, which is part of its enduring charm. The Mabuhay Singers, known for their harmonious renditions of Philippine folk songs, bring a delightful and spirited energy to this track. Released in the 1960s, it represents a time when Filipino music was undergoing a transformation, blending traditional sounds with new influences.

6. “Naraniag A Bulan”

Artist: Vhen Bautista a.k.a. Chino Romero
Album: Ilocano Songs
Year: 1990s
Record Label: Alpha Records

“Naraniag A Bulan,” performed by Vhen Bautista, also known as Chino Romero, is a modern take on the classic Ilocano love song. Translating to “Bright Moon,” this song combines traditional Ilocano lyrics with a contemporary melody, creating a romantic and dreamy atmosphere. Vhen Bautista’s soulful voice adds depth to the song, making it a popular choice among both young and older Ilocano audiences. It’s a beautiful example of how traditional themes can be reinvented to stay relevant and appealing in modern times.

7. “Ti Ilukom”

Artist: Mabuhay Singers
Album: Ilocano Songs
Year: 1960s
Record Label: Villar Records

“Ti Ilukom” by the Mabuhay Singers is an upbeat and lively song that showcases

the vibrant and rhythmic aspect of Ilocano music. The title translates to “Close Your Umbrella,” a playful and metaphorical invitation to a lover to come closer. Performed in the 1960s, this song by the Mabuhay Singers captures the essence of Ilocano folk music while infusing it with a more modern, upbeat energy. It’s a testament to the group’s ability to bridge traditional sounds with contemporary appeal, making it a timeless piece in the Ilocano music scene.

8. “Aglipay”

Artist: Unknown
Album: Traditional
Year: Traditional
Record Label: N/A

“Aglipay” is a traditional Ilocano song that celebrates the life and contributions of Gregorio Aglipay, a Filipino revolutionary hero and religious leader. The song is a poignant reminder of the Ilocano’s deep sense of history and pride in their heroes. Its melody is both solemn and inspiring, reflecting the reverence for Aglipay’s legacy. This song is not just a musical piece; it’s a cultural artifact that offers insights into the rich historical and social tapestry of the Ilocos region.

9. “Laglagipem Awan Nagbasolak” (I Remember, I Have No Regrets)

Artist: Melo Santiago
Album: Ilocano Songs
Year: 1990s
Record Label: Alpha Records

Melo Santiago’s “Laglagipem Awan Nagbasolak” is a heartfelt ballad that speaks to the soul. The song’s title translates to “I Remember, I Have No Regrets,” a poignant reflection on love and life. Released in the 1990s, Santiago’s voice carries a depth of emotion that resonates with anyone who has experienced love and loss. The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing the lyrics and Melo’s emotive singing to take center stage. It’s a beautiful example of the introspective and lyrical nature of Ilocano music.

10. “Ti Ayat Ti Meysa Nga Ubing” (The Love of a Young Child)

Artist: Freddie Aguilar
Album: Anak
Year: 1978
Record Label: Vicor Music Corporation

Freddie Aguilar’s rendition of “Ti Ayat Ti Meysa Nga Ubing” brings a fresh perspective to this traditional Ilocano song. Known for his iconic song “Anak,” Aguilar brings the same depth and soulfulness to this track. Released in 1978, his version blends traditional Ilocano elements with his signature folk style, creating a version that is both respectful of its origins and innovative. The song, in Aguilar’s voice, becomes a powerful narrative of youthful love, showcasing his ability to connect with a wide range of Filipino cultural expressions.

11. “Biag Ti Batac” (Life in Batac)

Artist: Unknown
Album: Traditional
Year: Traditional
Record Label: N/A

“Biag Ti Batac” is a traditional Ilocano song that celebrates the city of Batac in Ilocos Norte. The song is a lively and colorful portrayal of life in Batac, reflecting the pride of its people in their hometown. With its upbeat tempo and cheerful lyrics, it’s a popular tune at local festivals and gatherings. The song captures the essence of Ilocano culture – resilient, joyful, and deeply connected to their roots. It’s a wonderful auditory journey into the heart of Ilocos Norte, offering a glimpse into the vibrant life of its people.

Fun Facts: List of Ilocano Songs

1. “Pamulinawen”

• Folk Dance Adaptation: “Pamulinawen” is not only popular as a song but also as a folk dance. This dance adaptation showcases the traditional courtship rituals and is often performed during cultural events in the Philippines.
• Global Recognition: The song has been covered and adapted by various artists globally, showing the universal appeal of its melody and theme.

2. “Ti Ayat Ti Maysa Nga Ubing”

• Performed by a Cultural Icon: Nora Aunor, who sang this song, is a celebrated figure in Philippine cinema and music. Known as the “Superstar,” her rendition of this song helped popularize Ilocano music outside the Ilocos region.
• Symbol of Innocent Love: This song is often used to represent the purity and simplicity of childhood love in various cultural presentations.

3. “Manang Biday”

• Wedding Staple: “Manang Biday” is a popular choice at Filipino weddings, especially in the Ilocos region. Its joyful rhythm makes it perfect for celebrations.
• Educational Tool: The song is commonly taught in schools in the Philippines as part of music and culture education, making it familiar to Filipinos from a young age.

4. “Bannatiran”

• Symbolic Bird: The bannatiran bird mentioned in the song is known for its distinct and beautiful tail feathers, symbolizing unreachable or unrequited love in the song’s metaphor.
• Cultural Emblem: The song is considered an emblem of the Ilocano’s deep connection to nature and their environment.

5. “Dungdungwen Kanto”

• Mabuhay Singers’ Influence: The Mabuhay Singers, known for their harmonious voices, helped popularize this song across the Philippines, making it a beloved classic in Filipino households.
• Lighthearted Nature: Unlike many traditional Ilocano songs that focus on unrequited love or longing, “Dungdungwen Kanto” is more lighthearted and playful, showcasing a different aspect of Ilocano music.

6. “Naraniag A Bulan”

• Modern Revival: Vhen Bautista’s rendition of “Naraniag A Bulan” in the 1990s played a significant role in reviving interest in Ilocano songs among the younger generation.
• Romantic Serenades: This song is often used in romantic serenades and proposals in the Ilocos region, signifying its deep association with love and affection.

9. “Laglagipem Awan Nagbasolak”

• Melo Santiago’s Signature Song: Melo Santiago is particularly known for this song, which has become synonymous with his name in the Ilocano music scene.
• Theme of Reminiscence: The song’s focus on reminiscence and nostalgia resonates with many, especially those who have left their hometowns, making it a favorite among the Ilocano diaspora.

11. “Biag Ti Batac”

• Tribute to Batac: This song is a tribute to Batac City, known for its rich history and being the hometown of several notable figures in Philippine history.
• Festival Favorite: “Biag Ti Batac” is often performed during town fiestas and cultural celebrations in Batac, embodying the spirit and pride of the city.

That’s our musical journey through the heart of Ilocano culture! These songs are more than just melodies; they’re stories of love, tradition, and identity.

I hope you enjoyed discovering the rich tapestry of Ilocano music as much as I did. Keep tuning in for more musical adventures at Level Tunes!

Thanks for reading.

TBone