International singer Lea Salonga and the singing group The CompanY are just two of the Filipino artists who remember the legacy of Abuyog, Leyte Original Pilipino Music (OPM) stalwart Danny Javier.
They are vanguards of Philippine music to be able to pay homage to a legend in the local Tin Pan Alley.
Lea and The Company have worked professionally and inspiringly with Danny by singing some of his compositions or the songs of the Apolinario Mabini Hiking Society, APO Hiking Society, for short.
According to a blog, Javier as a pillar of OPM was an indelible mark on the country's music history.
Danny formed the APO with Jim Paredes and Boboy Garrovillo in 1970. The group was known for hits like "Pumapatak ang Ulan," "Kaibigan," "Doo Bidoo," and "Blue Jeans."
Javier composed many iconic songs, including "Show Me a Smile," "Pag-ibig," "Lumang Tugtugin," and "Kumot at Unan.
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He emceed, together with Jim and Boboy, popular shows like "Sa Linggo nAPO Sila" and acted in various TV dramas and films.
He coined the term "Original Pilipino Music" (OPM) which refers to the music of the Philippines and Philippine pop songs.
He used this commercial acronym to promote the then-emerging Filipino pop music movement, which contrasted with the previous "Manila Sound" and became a symbol of reclaiming Filipino cultural identity during the Martial Law era.
Javier passed away on October 31, 2022, at the age of 75 due to complications from prolonged illnesses.
Javier's legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans, with tributes pouring in from fellow artists.
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