In the heart of the Philippine music scene, a name resonates like a cherished melody—Ely Buendia. His contributions to OPM (Original Pilipino Music) are not just legendary; they are woven into the very fabric of the nation’s musical heritage. From his early days with the iconic Eraserheads to his solo ventures and beyond, Ely Buendia’s journey through the world of music has been a remarkable one.

In a candid and enlightening conversation with Ely Buendia, we delve into his recent triumphs, his creative process, and the intriguing chapters that lie ahead. With the success of the “Ang Huling El Bimbo” reunion concert tour, a Netflix documentary in the pipeline, and his foray into the world of NFTs, Ely Buendia continues to evolve, surprise, and inspire. This is a glimpse into the mind and soul of a Filipino musical icon.

Congratulations on the success of Eheads reunion concert in the Philippines back in December and now in your US and Canada tour. Let’s rewind to 2021, you said in a podcast that you don’t really miss doing live performances that much… Did the success of the reunion concert change your mind (and heart) about your statement of not missing doing live performances? If yes, should the fans expect more shows from Ely Buendia after the reunion concert tour?
Well a guy can change his mind right? haha. But really, the main impetus for me was that I wanted to do something positive for myself and the people who look up to us, the fans and the general public. 

During the quarantine and lockdown, you also mentioned in a podcast that you had a “weird reaction… wouldn’t call it depression… don’t know what to think…” so then you “had not been writing songs… recording wala…” But now that there’s no more quarantine and lock downs, have you found the groove and the time to start writing songs again?

I guess everyone felt that way during the lockdown, right? But as far as writing new songs, I always have ideas but I have to feel the need to see it through to the end. And this is what stops me: the thought of people comparing them to what I wrote before. Life’s too short for that, wouldn’t you agree? It’s some form of self-imposed writer’s block.

Can you walk us through your songwriting process? How did Ely Buendia get inspiration in creating some of the greatest and most played OPM songs?

I just wrote about things that interest me at the time, added some absurdist humor, some metaphors, street slang, and there you go, some of the greatest and most played opm songs haha.

People heard you say that your least favorite, and won’t even sing again, is the song “Para sa Masa” because it’s “condescending” and “pretentious”. If you were to rewrite that song, how would you like it to be?

Actually since nobody took offense I guess it was just me. which probably proves my point. but i’m allowed to be critical about my own work. Also, we did end up playing it on the North American Tour.

Despite the “controversial” statement you made previously that you weren’t really close friends with the other Eheads members, you definitely did amazing music as a group. With the success of the reunion concert back home and abroad, would you say there’s a chance that you guys would come up and release new songs together?

Let’s see.

”Ang Huling El Bimbo: The Musical” has been a huge success as well. (You’ve seen it, right?) Which part of the play do you love the most? If you could, which part would you delete or revise or improve? Would you want to see another Eheads-inspired musical or movie?

I generally enjoy new takes on old things and I liked the fact that the production took it in a whole unexpected direction, which I appreciate.

If there’s going to be a film about the story of Ely Buendia and the Eraserheads , you know something like the “Bohemian Rhapsody”, who would you like to play as you (and why)?

Marlon Brando because he’s the goat.

There’s news that you are diving more into the digital world, and that you have a collaboration for a Fine Arts NFTs. Tell us more about it.

I wrote a short song called “Flaming Lullaby” and they’re selling it as an NFT. I won’t pretend I have a clue what NFT’s are but it’s a nice change of pace for me, it’s like a whole new frontier that’s full of possibilities and you can be who you want to be.

Is it true that you also have a Netflix special coming up? Without being a spoiler, could you share with us a little teaser (about it)?

There’s going to be a documentary on the Eheads and that’s all I can say for now.

With these reunion concerts/live performances, your own musical NFTs, a Netflix special, plus of course you are a songwriter, you’ve also written a column in a newspaper, you’ve been on TV and the silver screen … What else is out there that THE Ely Buendia have not set foot on yet?

Politics! Just kidding.

The name of our magazine is “Hiraya” which means fruit of one’s hopes, dreams, and aspirations. What do you still hope for, dream of, and aspire to become? 

I’m just thankful for everything and anything good that will come my way.

Finally, being an icon of the Philippine music industry, what message could you give to aspiring Filipino artists. 

Be on your own way.

As we conclude our conversation with Ely Buendia, we’re left with a sense of awe and inspiration. His unwavering commitment to creativity, his candid reflections on his art, and his hopeful message to aspiring Filipino artists resonate deeply. Ely Buendia embodies the spirit of someone who has dared to be different, who has painted his own musical canvas, and who continues to dance to the rhythm of his own life’s song.

In the world of Hiraya, where dreams and aspirations bear fruit, Ely Buendia stands as a shining example. His journey reminds us that with passion, perseverance, and a dedication to one’s craft, anything is possible. As we mark the conclusion of this chapter in the Eraserheads’ story, we carry with us the melodies, memories, and inspiration that their artistry has gifted us. While it is uncertain if this tour is truly their last dance together, one thing is for sure with Ely Buendia and the Eraserheads, the music never stops, and the journey continues for each of them in new and exciting ways.