I remember when I first heard the words “EBoy” (Emo Boy) and “EGirl” (Emo Girl) from a teenager, and how it felt like it took away the essence of what emo truly means. I cringed at how it kind of become glamourized or sounded really conyo. As a socially awkward millenial, I don’t know if I’ll laugh because it’s funny to my ears or sad because it makes me feel old.
Now my concern is this Gen Z musician, John Red Santiago, promoting his music as “ERock” or the emotional kind of rock.
As the younger generation of Filipinos is increasingly becoming interested in our local music scene again, I think it is important to educate them that what Santiago is calling ERock, is actually not a new genre to Filipinos because it is actually emo music. This is not to criticize his music nor his skills, but only to help understand the roots of his so-called “ERock.”
What is Emo?
Emo music originated in the mid-1980s in the US and was characterized by its emotional lyrics and expressive vocals. The genre gained popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s, with bands such as Jimmy Eat World, Dashboard Confessional, Paramore, and My Chemical Romance becoming household names. And here in the Philippines we have bands like Chicosci, Typecast, and Urbandub to name a few.
Emo music is often associated with themes of heartbreak, loneliness, and angst, and its fans are known for their distinctive fashion sense, which includes black clothing, heavy eyeliner, and dramatic hairstyles.
Rebranding Emo for younger audience?
While Santiago may be introducing emo music to a new generation of Filipinos, it is important to recognize that this genre has been around for decades and has a rich history and cultural significance. By calling it Erock or emotional kind of rock, Santiago is essentially rebranding emo music and perhaps making it more palatable to a younger audience, but is it a good rebrand or nay?
However, it is important for young Filipinos to understand the roots of the music they enjoy and appreciate its history and cultural significance. Emo music has been associated with a particular subculture and has been a source of identity and community for many people. By recognizing the genre as emo, young Filipinos can connect with this subculture and appreciate its contributions to music and popular culture.
Moreover, by educating young Filipinos about emo music, we can also address some of the negative stereotypes and misconceptions associated with the genre. Emo music and its fans have often been unfairly criticized and mocked, with the genre being associated with depression, self-harm, and even suicide. By understanding the true nature of emo music and its fans, we can combat these harmful stereotypes and promote a more positive and inclusive image of the genre.
