Like a soundtrack to life’s most bittersweet experiences, the songs of the band we’re talking about in this post resonate deeply, pulling at the heartstrings of listeners everywhere. With their heartfelt lyrics, infectious melodies, and undeniable connection to their audience, they’ve made their mark in the music scene, proving that hugot music is here to stay.
Whether you're nursing a broken heart, celebrating love, or just looking for good vibes, This Band has a song for you. So, if you want to know everything about them, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into their story, music, and why they’re one of the biggest names in OPM today.
Who is This Band?
Formed in 2017, This Band is a Filipino pop-rock band known for their soulful, heartbreaking lyrics and infectious melodies. Their music blends pop, alternative, and soft rock, creating an emotional rollercoaster that resonates with fans of all ages.
The band consists of:
- Andrea Manzano – Vocals
- Euwie Von Loria – Guitars
- Miccael Galvan – Bass
- John Kenneth Macaranas – Drums
- Raymart Gubat – Guitars
- Melvin Carson – Keyboards
How This Band Came To Be
It all started with songwriter Euwie Loria (rhythm guitar), John Macaranas (drums), and Miccael Galvan (bass). The trio had the musical talent, but they knew they needed more to make an impact—most importantly, a vocalist who could bring their original compositions to life.
Enter Andrea Manzano, a young singer searching for the perfect sound to match her voice. The moment she joined, everything clicked—her emotive delivery and This Band’s light soul-pop music were a match made in musical heaven. Soon after, Melvin Carson (keyboards) and Raymart Gubat (lead guitar) completed the lineup, transforming This Band into a full-force musical powerhouse.
Why They Chose That Name
So, why are they called This Band? Well, legend has it that the members kept hearing themselves referred to as “this band” during gigs. Instead of stressing over a complicated band name, they embraced the simplicity and just went with it. And guess what? It totally worked. With the success they’re enjoying now, they might just become The Band of the moment!
The Breakthrough: The Phenomenon of “Kahit Ayaw Mo Na”
Every band dreams of that one song that changes everything, and for This Band, it was "Kahit Ayaw Mo Na". Released in 2018, the song became a massive hit, racking up millions of streams on Spotify and YouTube. It wasn’t just another love song—it was an anthem for everyone who has ever held onto a love that was slipping away.
What started as another heartfelt hugot anthem quickly turned into a dance phenomenon. Though Andrea and the guys never intended for it to be a dance track, the song’s infectious melody and emotional lyrics inspired countless dance covers, making it a staple at events, parties, and even TikTok challenges.
But it didn’t stop there. The song also paved the way for cheesy yet heartfelt short films made by high school students, turning “Kahit Ayaw Mo Na” into the unofficial soundtrack of young love, heartbreak, and what-ifs. Its influence spread across social media, making it one of the most requested and played OPM songs of its time.
Thanks to this unexpected wave of popularity, This Band found themselves in the spotlight, proving that their music could touch people in more ways than they ever imagined.
More Than Just One Hit: Their Musical Evolution
While many thought they’d be a one-hit-wonder, This Band proved they were here to stay. They followed up with equally emotional and impactful songs like:
- "Hindi Na Nga"
– Another tearjerker that talks about accepting that a
relationship is truly over.
- "Di Na Babalik"
– A song about closure and finally moving on.
- "Bitaw Na" – A powerful ballad about letting go of a love that has become toxic.
Their music has remained consistent in delivering heartfelt lyrics with catchy melodies, making them a staple in hugot playlists everywhere.
Why Their Music Resonates With Fans
This Band’s music works because it’s raw, real, and relatable. Their lyrics capture emotions that many Filipinos experience—unrequited love, heartbreak, moving on, and even regret. Their ability to tell painful yet beautiful love stories through music is what keeps fans coming back for more.
They also stand out for their unique sound, blending melancholic storytelling with pop-rock sensibilities, making them one of the few bands that can break your heart and make you sing along at the same time.
Andrea Manzano’s Struggle with Comparisons to KZ Tandingan
When their second hit “Hindi Na Nga”became popular, listeners began to notice This Band’s similarity to Aegis. But before that, there was one comparison that trended in the airwaves.
When Andrea Manzano stepped into the spotlight as This Band’s lead vocalist, she quickly gained recognition for her distinctive voice and emotional delivery. However, as her popularity grew, so did comparisons to KZ Tandingan, one of the most respected female vocalists in the OPM industry.
In an interview, Andrea admitted that being constantly compared to KZ was both flattering and overwhelming. While she deeply admires KZ’s artistry, she also wants to be recognized for her own style and identity as a singer.
She emphasized that rather than imitating anyone, she focuses on pouring her own emotions and experiences into her performances, ensuring that This Band’s music remains authentic and true to their style.
Despite the comparisons, Andrea continues to shine in her own way, proving that she is not just another voice in OPM, but a rising star with her own distinct sound.
Discography
As a streaming-era band, This Band released singles before compiling them into a full album. This approach allowed them to build a loyal fan base, with each song resonating deeply with listeners even before they had an official album.
As of this writing This Band has released 2 albums:
Huwag Matakot
Released in 2019, “Huwag Kang Matakot” is This Band’s debut album that introduced their signature hugot sound to the world. Featuring the viral hit Kahit Ayaw Mo Na, the album is packed with emotionally charged tracks about love, loss, and moving on. It resonated deeply with listeners, establishing This Band as a force to be reckoned with in the OPM scene.
This Band Stripped Down Album
Their second album, released in 20201, is a more intimate and raw take on their biggest hits, this album showcases the band's versatility. Stripping away the full-band arrangements, it highlights Andrea Manzano’s heartfelt vocals and the band’s songwriting prowess. Perfect for those who want to experience their music in its purest form.
Awards and Recognition
- Asian Academy Creative Awards (2020) - Best
Branded Program or Series for Coke Studio Season 3: Family Feels
featuring Sarah Geronimo and This Band.
- Awit Awards (2019) - Best Performance by a Group Recording Artist for Kahit Ayaw Mo Na.
Final Thoughts: Why We Love This Band
In a sea of OPM bands, This Band stands out because they give us music that mirrors our deepest emotions. Their songs feel like a heart-to-heart conversation, making them one of the most relatable and beloved acts in the country.
So if you’re looking for the ultimate soundtrack to your next heartbreak (or even just a good cry), This Band has got you covered.
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