Renowned Filipino music icon Ferdinand Pascual Aguilar, who is commonly known as Freddie Aguilar, has passed away at the age of 72. He was incredibly famous for his heartfelt patriotic songs, which used to reflect the soul and hardships of the Filipino people, and so, after his death, he has left a legacy behind him that has influenced Original Pilipino Music (OPM).
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Early Life
Born on February 5, 1953, in Santo Tomas, Isabela, Freddie had his interest in music from the start as he started writing songs at age 14. However, he was a student of Electrical Engineering, but his interest in music led him to the streets and stages of Manila as a folk and bar musician. In 1973, his career started with performances at the Hobbit House in Ermita, Manila.
It was in 1977 that Aguilar penned “Anak,” a heartfelt song from personal experience, regrets, and reconciliation. This song, which gained relatability with universal themes of parent-child relationships, went on to sell 33 million copies worldwide. It was also translated into 51 languages, it remains the Philippines’ best-selling musical record of all time.
Educational Qualifications
Freddie Aguilar was enrolled in Electrical Engineering at the De Guzman Institute of Technology but did not complete the degree. At the age of 18, he left college and parted ways with his family to pursue a music career. He began performing professionally at 20. Five years later, reflecting on his life choices and regrets, Aguilar composed the iconic song "Anak," which later became a global hit.
Global Recognition
Freddie’s Anak gained international fame, reaching No. 1 in Japan and gaining an audience in Europe, Malaysia, and Africa. Once ranked, Aguilar was ranked as the second-best-selling artist by Billboard in Europe in 1981. Freddie’s voice, which is rich in emotion and authenticity, became globally synonymous with Filipino identity and family values.
Achievements
In 1994, Freddie was honoured with the “Rock Achievement Award” at the NU Rock Awards. He got this for his significant contributions to the Philippine rock music scene. This award was not only to celebrate his enduring influence & musical legacy but also to celebrate the impact of his socially relevant songs on generations of listeners.
Personal Life
Freddie Aguilar married Josephine Queipo in 1978, and they had four children named Maegan, Jonan, Isabella, and Jeriko.
In 2013, Aguilar stirred controversy after making a relationship public with 16-year-old Jovi Gatdula Albao. He was then converted to Islam and got himself the name Abdul Farid. He then got married to her under Islamic rites in Maguindanao on November 22, 2013.
Later, on January 3, 2018, a fire destroyed Freddie’s home in Quezon City, causing much damage. His wife, son Jonan, and mother-in-law escaped safely, while Aguilar was away performing at his bar “Ka Freddie’s” along Tomas Morato Avenue, during the fire.
Conclusion
So, even after several controversies in his later years, Aguilar remained an influential figure. He used to perform regularly at his bar, “Ka Freddie’s,” and advocated for cultural reforms, including the creation of a Department of Culture and Arts in the Philippines.
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