Freestyle, one of the most iconic names in the Philippine music scene, has given us some of the most beautiful and timeless music we have ever heard. The singer, who started his journey in music when he was only twelve years old, has had a long and illustrious career spanning over four decades. In this post, we will take a closer look at the life and music of Freestyle, including his beginnings, his most famous albums, his most famous songs, and his musical style and influences.
Freestyle's musical journey started in the mid-'70s when he joined the band, Hotdog. It was his first taste of music and he proved to be a talented vocalist. However, it was his solo career in the '80s that firmly established him as a star. His debut self-titled album, released in 1981, was an instant hit, and the accompanying single, 'Before I Let You Go,' still remains a fan favorite.
Freestyle went on to release several more albums, including This Time and The Best Of Freestyle, which became commercial successes in the Philippines and beyond. In 1998, he released Non-Stop, which included the hit single, 'Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang,' which won several awards and cemented Freestyle's status as a star.
While Freestyle's music range from pop to R&B, his signature style can be characterized by his smooth vocals, emotive lyrics, and mid-tempo rhythms. His influences include R&B legends such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Earth Wind and Fire, as well as the Beatles and Elvis Presley. He has credited these artists with teaching him the importance of melody and storytelling in music.
Of all his songs, 'This Time' is undoubtedly Freestyle's most popular and enduring hit. Released in 1995, 'This Time' has become the anthem of countless love stories and has been covered by numerous artists. The song was even featured on a popular Korean drama, helping to spread its popularity worldwide.
Aside from 'This Time,' Freestyle's other hits include 'So Slow,' 'Once In A Lifetime,' 'Till I Found You,' 'Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang,' to name a few. All of these songs are elevated by Freestyle's unique vocal style, which can convey both melancholic and hopeful emotions with equal ease.
Freestyle's journey in music has been long and illustrious, spanning over four decades. His signature sound, characterized by his smooth vocals, emotive lyrics, and mid-tempo rhythms, has become a hallmark of his music. And with timeless hits like 'This Time,' 'So Slow,' and 'Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang,' Freestyle's music legacy is undoubtedly secure. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering his music, Freestyle's music will continue to captivate and inspire music lovers for many more years to come.
