Have you ever stumbled upon a song that instantly takes you back to the early 2000s—when OPM was booming, MTV was the go-to music source, and bands ruled the airwaves? If you have, chances are, Mojofly played a big part in that nostalgia.
From their infectious melodies to their heartfelt lyrics, Mojofly has solidified their place as one of the most memorable bands in the Filipino music scene. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their music, this is the ultimate guide to everything you need to know about Mojofly—their journey, their greatest hits, and why their sound continues to resonate today.
So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the realm of Mojofly!
Who is Mojofly?
Mojofly is an OPM alternative rock band that first made waves in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. One of the most interesting things about Mojofly is their evolving lineup, with different vocalists bringing new energy to the band over the years.
But despite the changes, one thing has remained constant—their ability to create relatable, feel-good music that speaks to the heart.
Current Members:
- Lougee Basabas–Alejandro - vocals, guitar
-
Ali Alejandro - drums
-
Mark Reese Gelbolingo - bass guitar
-
Kiko Montecillo - keyboards
- Beejay Valera - guitar
Former Members:
- Kitchie Nadal - vocals, guitars (1999–2003)
-
JunJun Regelado - drums (1999–2002)
-
Raymond Golamco - guitar (1999–2001)
-
Ricci Gurango - bass guitar (1999–2008)
- Allan Elgar - guitar (2004–2007)
Each lineup change brought a fresh take on Mojofly’s sound, ensuring their music never went stale.
The Evolution of Mojofly: From Indie Gems to OPM Icons
Mojofly’s journey is one of reinvention and resilience. They started as an indie band with a small but dedicated following, and over the years, they became one of OPM’s most recognizable names.
1999–2003: The Kitchie Nadal Era
Mojofly was formed in 1999 by Ricci Gurango after leaving Hungry Young Poets. With Kitchie Nadal as the lead singer, the band quickly gained attention for their fresh sound and infectious melodies.
During this time, they released their debut album “Birthday”, which contained early favorites that introduced fans to their unique style.
But in 2003, Kitchie left the band to pursue a solo career, leading to one of Mojofly’s biggest turning points.
2003–Present: The Lougee Basabas Era
Rather than fading away, Mojofly came back stronger than ever with a new vocalist—Lougee Basabas, who had previously appeared in TV commercials and the show Eat Bulaga!. Her arrival marked a new chapter for the band, and they went on to release some of their biggest hits.
With Lougee on vocals, Mojofly became a staple of OPM rock, creating music that was both radio-friendly and deeply personal. Their new sound struck the perfect balance between alternative rock and pop, making them a favorite among Filipino listeners.
Over the years, Mojofly has continued to evolve, release new music, and perform for fans, proving that great OPM bands never fade away—they just keep reinventing themselves.
Lougee Basabas: More Than Just a Pretty Face
When Lougee Basabas took over as Mojofly’s lead vocalist in 2003, she had big shoes to fill. Kitchie Nadal had already established herself as a fan favorite, and many were skeptical about how Lougee would measure up. But rather than letting the pressure get to her, she proved that she was more than just a replacement—she was a powerhouse in her own right.
Lougee didn’t just bring her captivating voice
to the band; she also played a crucial role as a proficient
rhythm guitarist, showcasing her versatility as a musician.
Over time, she silenced the skeptics, delivering hit after hit that
cemented Mojofly’s legacy in OPM.
Beyond music, Lougee’s striking looks and natural charm made her a favorite among brands. Mojofly landed numerous commercial endorsements, largely due to Lougee’s appeal. She became the face of several advertising campaigns, further propelling the band’s popularity and proving that Mojofly wasn’t just about great music—they had the star power to match.
Mojofly’s Biggest Hits You Need to Hear
If you’re new to Mojofly or just want to relive their best songs, here are some of their most iconic tracks:
1. Mata
One of their most well-known songs, Mata is an emotional track about longing and unspoken feelings. The melancholic lyrics and haunting melody make it a fan favorite.
2. Tumatakbo
This song perfectly captures the feeling of being lost in life and constantly searching for something more. It’s an anthem for dreamers and wanderers.
3. Minamalas
A song that’s both catchy and humorous, Minamalas talks about those days when nothing seems to go right—something we can all relate to!
4. Another Day
A beautiful and uplifting track that encourages listeners to keep moving forward no matter what life throws at them.
5. Say It
A song that dives into the emotions of love, regret, and the things left unsaid. It’s a bittersweet track that resonates deeply.
Mojofly’s discography is filled with songs that capture love, life, and everything in between, making them a band that always finds a way into our hearts.
Discography
Studio Albums
- Birthday (1999) – Their debut album, featuring
their early sound with Kitchie Nadal on vocals.
-
A
Million Stories (2002) – Continued their momentum,
blending alternative rock and pop.
-
Now (2005) –
Marked a new era with Lougee Basabas, producing some of their biggest
hits.
- Mula Noon (2019) – A comeback album that showcased their evolution while staying true to their roots.
Compilations
- MOJOFLY - EP (2003) – A transition record
before the release of their next big hits.
-
Now Special
2-Disc Edition (2006) – A re-release of Now with
bonus tracks and acoustic versions.
- 2 in 1 Series: MOJOFLY (2006) – A collection of their greatest hits for new and old fans alike.
Awards and Recognition
Mojofly’s contributions to the OPM scene have not gone unnoticed, earning them industry accolades that cement their place as one of the country’s most beloved alternative rock bands.
- 1999 RX 93.1 Year-End Awards for OPM Artists –
Best New Artist
- 2006 MTV Pilipinas Video Music Awards – Best Animated Video and Favorite Indie Video for Tumatakbo
Final Thoughts to Ponder: Why Mojofly is an OPM Treasure
They’ve survived lineup changes, industry shifts, and the test of time—yet they continue to create music that Filipinos love and relate to. If you’re looking for songs that are catchy, meaningful, and full of heart, Mojofly is the band for you.
So go ahead—hit play on a Mojofly song today, and let the nostalgia (or newfound appreciation) kick in!
What’s your favorite Mojofly song? Let’s talk in the comments!
0 Comments