BOP NOT FLOP: Gloc-9’s timeless but underrated songs
Before jamming to K-pop and TikTok mash-ups, an era arrived when our constant sing-along came from OPM hit artists like Gloc-9.
Although “Sirena,” “Upuan,” and “Magda” are a few of the acclaimed rapper’s songs we loved, there is more to know of his undelved artistry.
Timeless but underrated— we’ll unearth hidden beats and melodies whose value goes unnoticed through time!
Gloc-9: The blacksmith poet
Nearing the quadricentennial anniversary of his career, Aristotle Pollisco, better known as Gloc-9, has established his musical reputation throughout the years. Aside from collaborating with the biggest names like the late Francis M., he is one of the first recipients of the SUDI National Music Awards by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
In honor of numerous bars and powerful verses he wrote, let’s take a look at some of Gloc-9’s hidden gems:
Hindi mo nadinig (Gloc-9 ft. Jay Durias)
“Minahal naman kita, bakit hindi mo nadinig”
Although the line may seem sweet and romantic, the first on our list is far from your conventional love song. Released in February 2013, “Hindi mo nadinig” is a song told from a betrayed lover’s perspective and, well, his gruesome revenge.
Other than the lyrics, its music video is worth watching too if you want to appreciate how imagery gives life to Gloc-9’s words. The song may have tolerated vengeance, but it speaks a lot for us to reflect on selfless love and sacrifices.
Takipsilim (Gloc-9 ft. Regine Velasquez)
“Buhay natin ay hiram ‘yan ay dapat mong alam
Dahil ang kahapo’y ‘di na natin pwedeng balikan”
What more is news other than Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez herself collaborating with a hip-hop icon such as Gloc-9?
Translates to twilight or nightfall in English, “Takipsilim” is a lament for someone dying. It is almost an elegy as the lyrics wail about regrets and the costs of fleeting life.
Sad but beautiful, this masterpiece deserves to be heard and valued more. Aside from the music that will linger on your ears, the lyrics are captivating too. It’s amazing how Gloc-9 tells us a story we never know is better sung.
Payag (Gloc-9)
“Kilala mo pero ibang mukha
Bakit, bakit pumapayag ako?”
Have you ever thought about how you could have enabled injustice? If not, then might as well carefully contemplate with a song that perfectly fits.
For sure you’ve heard of “Upuan,” which is an undying anthem to our country’s political narrative. While it calls out to those corrupt in power, “Payag” meanwhile, is an outcry to one’s conscience.
Gloc-9 is known for his pieces that tackle social issues, particularly innuendos about politics. And they don’t disappoint — in case you are needed to be told. Hence, listening to “Payag” might knock some sense that eventually could propel you towards good character development.
Industriya (Gloc-9 ft. KZ Tandingan)
“Pakinggan mo ang mga kwento ng industriya”
Last but not least! Another remarkable joint effort in music that we’re certainly sleeping on is Gloc-9 with Asia’s Soul Supreme KZ Tandingan. Dropped earlier in 2016, “Industriya,” as the title implies, is privy to what happens inside the world of showbiz.
KZ’s unique singing voice gave justice to Gloc-9’s yet another excellent work. Meaningful and substantial, the song amplifies something that may not be relatable to everyone but remains completely relevant.
The intended message: knowing the essence of responsible fame, and learning to look back to our roots no matter what.
Choose local, choose OPM
Perhaps you’re adding these now to your playlist? That was the intention!
We may be the greatest fans of international artists and personalities but Original Pinoy Music or OPM is always everyone’s home.
So let’s experience new last-song-syndrome (LSS) and together, celebrate the music of our own.
