Another pillar of the Philippine entertainment industry bid farewell as OPM legend Hajji Alejandro died on Monday, April 21, after a battle with stage 4 colon cancer. He was 70.
Hajji Alejandro, one of the most iconic figures in Original Pilipino Music (OPM), has passed away, leaving the music industry and his family in deep mourning. Known for his signature hit “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika,” Alejandro was an integral part of the Filipino music scene, and his contribution to OPM will forever be celebrated.
Alejandro, who is survived by his three children—Rachel, Barni, and Ali—was also known as the “Kilabot ng mga Kolehiyala” for his widespread appeal and charm during his rise to fame in the 1970s. Despite facing personal challenges, Alejandro’s love for music and his remarkable talent remained evident throughout his career.
A Rising Star and Icon in Filipino Music
Hajji Alejandro’s career in the entertainment industry began in the Circus Band, alongside future stars like Basil Valdez and Jacqui Magno. His breakthrough as a solo artist came when he participated in the 1977 Metropop Music Festival. It was during this contest that he introduced his now-legendary hit “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika”—a song that became synonymous with Filipino pride and identity. His memorable performance in the competition, which earned him the grand prize, helped propel him to stardom.
In 1978, Alejandro, along with renowned composer Ryan Cayabyab, represented the Philippines at the International Seoul Song Festival in Korea, where they won the Grand Prix for “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika.” This victory marked a milestone in Filipino music history, as it was the first Filipino song to win the highest award at an international song competition.
Reflecting on this achievement, Alejandro recalled, “Words simply cannot express the pride and joy of winning such a historic musical event in our country. That was definitely a major highlight in my career.”
Legacy and Continued Impact
Throughout his career, Alejandro released numerous hits, earning widespread admiration for both his vocal talent and his passion for Filipino music. His song “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika” remains a cultural treasure, hailed by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) as a symbol of Filipino nationalism in music. The NCCA recognized the song’s contribution to promoting Filipino pride and the beauty of Filipino music in the world.
In recent years, Alejandro continued to perform, joining fellow OPM greats like Rey Valera and Marco Sison in the “Four Kings and a Queen” concert tour in 2022. He also performed alongside his daughter Rachel in concerts in Australia and the Philippines, keeping the OPM legacy alive for a new generation of fans.
Short Biography:
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Hajji Alejandro: Known for his song “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika,” Hajji Alejandro was a pioneer in the OPM industry. His music career spanned decades, during which he earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious Grand Prix at the International Seoul Song Festival in 1978. Alejandro is remembered not only for his musical contributions but also for his charm and the deep connection he had with his fans.
Hajji Alejandro’s passing marks the loss of a true icon in Filipino music. His contributions to OPM will be remembered, and his songs will continue to resonate with fans for generations to come. His legacy as a performer and a symbol of Filipino pride remains a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.
