Michael Kevin, known as the "Hugot King" among his peers in the independent music scene, is a rising singer-songwriter from Angeles City, Philippines. With his simple yet sincere approach to songwriting, Kevin pours the complexities of universal emotions—especially love and heartbreak—into his music. Capturing and transforming these feelings into songs has earned him a loyal following. It's this authenticity that makes his music so easily relatable. In a world where words often fall short, Kevin uses songwriting as a way to express what's too difficult to say aloud.
Blending elements of alternative, pop, and ballads, Kevin's music strikes a chord with listeners, offering lyrics that reflect familiar experiences. His songs go beyond being personal expressions; they create a connection, almost like a conversation between friends. His simple yet powerful lyricism has helped him carve out his unique space in the OPM scene.
Kevin is also a founding member of the Songwriters Cabalen Community. This group, grounded in the musical traditions of Pampanga, works to support and elevate local songwriters. Through this initiative, Kevin aims to give Kapampangan musicians a platform to share their stories, helping to strengthen the local music scene while preserving its cultural roots.
In July 2023, Kevin's growing reputation was formally recognized when he became a member of the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (FILSCAP) shortly after he released his debut album Pag-ibig at Kabiguan, which featured his debut song "Eva" (2021). Just last December, he dropped his latest track, "Ikaw Lamang, O Sinta", adding another chapter to his expanding catalog. Michael Kevin shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to evolve and refine his sound.
In this exclusive interview with Michael Kevin, he takes us through his musical journey, the inspiration behind his heartfelt songs, and his hopes for the future of independent songwriting in the Philippines.
Michael, you've earned the title "Hugot King" from your fellow artists. How do you feel about this nickname, and how has it shaped your approach to songwriting?
My initial reaction was, "Wow, Hugot King? Am I really that dramatic?" (laughs) However, I eventually found out that it's a badge of honor! I believe it shaped my approach by increasing my awareness of the narrative and lyrical strength. Also, being referred to as the "Hugot King," in my opinion, is a reflection of how universally relatable my songs are. My objective has always been to express genuine, raw emotions through my music, so it feels satisfying. This nickname serves as a reminder that vulnerability in songwriting isn't just therapeutic for me, but it also builds a bridge to the listeners who need to feel understood.
Your music often deals with themes of love and heartbreak. How do you channel these emotions into your songwriting, and is there a personal experience that has influenced your music the most?
Everyone can relate to the themes of love and heartbreak. I reflect on the times that struck a chord with me and turn those emotions into lyrics that I hope others will find relatable. Music has always been a way for me to express myself in ways that words could not, and it has been my driving force since I started songwriting.
…being referred to as the "Hugot King," in my opinion, is a reflection of how universally relatable my songs are.
Michael Kevin
As one of the founding members of the Songwriters Cabalen Community, what do you think is the most important role of an independent artist in today's music industry, especially in terms of preserving and promoting OPM?
Independent artists can emphasize how significant it is to promote music in regional languages like Kapampangan to highlight the variety of Filipino music and give voice to underrepresented groups.
Music has always been a way for me to express myself in ways that words could not, and it has been my driving force since I started songwriting.
Michael Kevin
Joining FILSCAP in 2023 was a huge milestone for you. What does this membership mean for your career, and how has it helped you grow as a composer and songwriter?
My decision to join FILSCAP is a big step in legitimizing my career as a songwriter. It also highlights how it supports my objectives of securing my intellectual property and establishing a connection with the music industry. Another thing, it broadened my understanding of royalties, copyright, and performance rights, among other aspects of the music industry.
Your music blends alternative, pop, and ballad elements. How do you decide on the sound of each new project, and do you find yourself experimenting with different genres or sticking to a specific style?
The emotions that I want to express influence the sound of every project. I first consider the narrative or message, and then I determine which blend of genres—whether it's the intimacy of a ballad, the rawness of alternative, or the catchiness of pop—will best make it come to life. As of now, when it comes to trying out other musical genres, I stick to the following: pop, ballad, and alternative.
"Eva" is your most-streamed song. How did that song come together for you?
To be honest, I had no expectation that "Eva" would be my most recognized song. Even though it was just a song I wrote for the girl I was in love with in my college days, I'm so glad it found its audience.
The emotions that I want to express influence the sound of every project. I first consider the narrative or message, and then I determine which blend of genres—whether it's the intimacy of a ballad, the rawness of alternative, or the catchiness of pop—will best make it come to life.
Michael Kevin
As an independent artist, what challenges have you faced in promoting your music, and how do you navigate the competitive landscape of the Filipino music scene?
Starting without an existing audience has been one of the most difficult things I've had to deal with. Getting people to find and enjoy my music takes time and work. It can be challenging for us, independent artists, to balance the artistic aspects of creating music and the commercial aspects of promoting it. Although it may seem like a full-time job, marketing is essential to getting your work seen. Navigating the competitive Filipino music scene can be challenging. However, I see the scene as a community rather than just a place for competitiveness. Encouragement and support for other artists contribute to the growth and success of the whole industry.
Looking ahead, what are your plans for future projects or collaborations, and how do you see your music evolving as you continue to grow as an artist?
I'm currently working on some new music that I aim to release this year. My goal is for my music to be timeless so that listeners can revisit it in the future and still find something to relate to.
Navigating the competitive Filipino music scene can be challenging. However, I see the scene as a community rather than just a place for competitiveness. Encouragement and support for other artists contribute to the growth and success of the whole industry.
Michael Kevin
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Reese is a freelance creative with a passion for music blogging, diving deep into the sounds that shape her world. Her musical tastes span from the raw energy of post-punk to the storytelling charm of folk rock, but it's Echo & the Bunnymen who reign as her ultimate heroes.
