boyfriend

Biography

Boyfriends is a pioneering musical group from Quezon City, Philippines, best known for their influential role in the Manila Sound movement during the late 1970s and early 1980s[1][3]. Formed in 1970, the band originally featured Bob Guzman, Gary Ariola, Artie Ilacad, and Joey Abando, with Lloyd Sale joining later. Their signature sound blends pop, disco, and harmonious vocals reminiscent of the Bee Gees, which helped define the era’s Filipino popular music[1][2].

Throughout their career, Boyfriends released several albums, including 'Dahil Mahal Kita' (1978), 'With Love' (1978), and 'Forever' (1981), producing enduring hits such as 'Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal,' 'Dahil Mahal Kita,' and 'Sumayaw, Sumunod.' These songs have become staples in the Filipino music canon, covered by prominent artists like Lea Salonga, Ogie Alcasid, and Dingdong Avanzado[1]. Their music, characterized by catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, continues to resonate with new generations, cementing their legacy as icons of OPM (Original Pilipino Music)[1][3].

The Boyfriends' influence extends beyond their own recordings, as their work has been anthologized and frequently revived in contemporary media and performances. Their contributions to Philippine music have earned them recognition and awards, including the Awit Award for Dangal ng Musikang Pilipino, and their songs remain a touchstone for both nostalgic audiences and modern musicians[3].

Fun Facts

• Boyfriends' harmonies and disco-pop sound were so reminiscent of the Bee Gees that they were sometimes called the 'Bee Gees of the Philippines.'
• Their song 'Dahil Mahal Kita' became a theme song for both a major Filipino film ('Dolzura Cortez Story') and a popular TV series ('Guns and Roses').
• The band has seen multiple reunions, with original and later members returning for albums like 'Unplugged Reunion Album' (1995) and 'Akustik' (1999).
• Their music has been covered by a wide range of Filipino artists across genres, from pop divas like Lea Salonga to dance groups like the Sexbomb Girls.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Bee Gees - Stylistic influence; Boyfriends' harmonies and disco-pop sound were inspired by the Bee Gees' international success. (General influence on vocal arrangements and disco elements) [1970s]

Key Collaborators

• Joey Abando - Founding member, lead vocals and acoustic guitar; contributed to the band's early sound and success. (Albums: 'Dahil Mahal Kita', 'With Love', '3') [1978–1979, 1995 reunion]
• Bob Guzman - Lead vocals and lead guitar; core member throughout the band's history. (All major albums and performances) [1978–1995, 1999–present]
• Gary Ariola - Co-lead vocals, acoustic and rhythm guitars; key arranger and performer. (All major albums and performances) [1978–1995, 1999–present]
• Artie Ilacad - Drums and backing vocals; contributed to the band's rhythmic and vocal arrangements. (All major albums and performances) [1978–1995, 1999–present]
• Lloyd Sale - Keyboards; joined during the band's later period and reunion. (Albums: 'Unplugged Reunion Album', 'Akustik') [1999–present]

Artists Influenced

• Ogie Alcasid - Covered 'Dahil Mahal Kita' and 'Sumayaw, Sumunod,' citing Boyfriends as a major influence on his musical style. (Covers on '10th Anniversary' album (1998)) [1990s–2000s]
• Lea Salonga - Covered 'Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal' on her album, demonstrating the band's impact on contemporary OPM artists. (Album: 'Lea') [1990s]
• Sexbomb Girls - Revived 'Sumayaw, Sumunod' for a new generation, highlighting the band's cross-generational appeal. (Cover of 'Sumayaw, Sumunod') [2000s]
• Hori7on - All-Filipino global boy group who covered 'Sumayaw, Sumunod,' showing the band's influence on modern P-pop acts. (Cover of 'Sumayaw, Sumunod') [2020s]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal (The Ultimate OPM Collection)
2. Sumayaw Sumunod (The Ultimate OPM Collection)
3. Dahil Mahal Kita (The Ultimate OPM Collection)
4. First Love (Never Dies) (The Ultimate OPM Collection)
5. Nais Kong Malaman Mo (The Ultimate OPM Collection)
6. Salawahan (The Ultimate OPM Collection)
7. Bistado Na Kita (The Ultimate OPM Collection)
8. Nais Kong Malaman Mo (Akustik)
9. Mamahalin Kita (The Ultimate OPM Collection)
10. Pagtibok Ng Puso (The Ultimate OPM Collection)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz