Las Vegas-based Filipino singer hopes to boost female rock music
Jessibel Guinto, Las Vegas-based Filipino singer. | Contributed photo
Not too long ago, the Philippine rock scene had been dominated by female band vocalists the likes of Acel Bisa, the former vocalist of Moonstar88 and Kitchie Nadal, ex-vocalist of the band Mojofly.
Now, a new wave of artists are entering the scene with the hopes of bringing back the fiery energy in the genre of Original Pilipino Music (OPM). One of them is Jessibel Guinto, a Filipino singer born in Davao and now based in Las Vegas.
Despite her pursuit abroad, Guinto remains deeply connected to her Filipino roots, as she hopes to use her music to help keep the spirit of Pinoy rock alive.
“Rock songs exude a distinct energy. There is power. There’s also a message. It’s like yelling your message via songs. I’m absolutely bringing back the female rock energy. Thank you to the rock legends that helped pave the road for us,” she said.
Coming from a family of musicians, Guinto underscored that the passion for music comes naturally from her, having been able to release her songs on digital music platforms. These include “Guhit ng Tadhana,” “Panalangin,” and “Isang Libong Ulit.”
Talking about her rock ballad, “Guhit ng Tadhana,” which she wrote and produced, the Las Vegas-based rock performer shared that it is about the strength of letting go and moving on. “Many of my songs represent not only my own heartaches, but the experiences of other women navigating love, relationships, and heartbreak,” she said.
When asked what advice she would give to the people who’s in the same path as her, Guinto stressed that it’s important that people will never lose the patience and hope to have a breakthrough in the industry.
“Huwag susuko kahit ilang beses na hindi magtagumpay. Gawin inspirasyon ang mga taong nagda-down para mas lumakas. Huwag nating madaliin ang pagkamit ng mga pangarap. Mag-focus sa tamang direksyon at tamang paraan. Win in silence, let them think you’re losing,” explained the singer.
(Don’t give up no matter how many times you fail. Use those people who are putting you down as inspiration to get stronger. Let’s not rush in achieving our dreams. Let’s focus on the right direction and the right way.)
Guinto is set to release her upcoming single “Buwan at Bituin.”
