Emerging from the vibrant Caraga region, the band Oh! Caraga infuses Bisaya pride with musical craftsmanship, capturing the essence of Mindanao in a unique blend of folk, rock, and country influences. Formed by siblings Adam and Kenneth and their friend Sherwin at Mindanao State University in Marawi, the band’s journey from casual jamming to musical storytellers is a tale rooted in resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to their heritage.
“We started with simple jamming,” says Kenneth, recalling their college days. “In 2017, we rebranded to Oh! Caraga, a name that symbolizes the pride and history of our homeland.” This pride radiates in their music, a sound that resonates with both authenticity and innovation. Their journey wasn’t easy. Financial struggles initially barred their way, but with support from platforms like the Vispop Music Fest, they broke through. “Jude Gitamondoc, one of Vispop’s founders, saw our potential and helped us produce our first album, Way Sukod,” Kenneth adds. This album became a milestone, cementing Oh! Caraga’s place in the local music scene.
The band’s musical style is distinct yet familiar, drawing on various influences from Switchfoot and Coldplay to folk-pop and traditional Bisaya sounds. “We’re a new breed of Bisaya artist,” Sherwin says. “Our style blends the country rock setup with a modern twist, creating something very Filipino, very OPM.” This approach allows them to honor their roots while engaging a broader audience, capturing listeners with both lyrical depth and musical warmth.
One of Oh! Caraga’s defining qualities is its commitment to Bisaya. In a music industry often dominated by mainstream Tagalog or English songs, they’ve chosen to maintain their native language as a central part of their work. “Bisaya is something we should treasure,” Kenneth explains. “We want our community and language to be heard worldwide.” Their songs explore universal themes – love, hope, and resilience – expressed in Bisaya, turning each performance into a cultural celebration.
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he band’s songwriting process is as collaborative as it is organic. Whether it’s Sherwin crafting the first verse or Adam finishing the melody, their songs evolve from a shared creative energy. “We critique each other’s work before finalizing anything,” says Kenneth. This attention to detail results in songs that feel both polished and heartfelt. Before production, the band subjects each song to a “songwriting clinic” to ensure it meets their standards. “We want to create good art, something listeners can truly feel,” Kenneth shares. This meticulous process has led to a catalog of songs that resonate deeply with fans, often touching on profound themes of love and purpose.
Oh! Caraga’s music transcends the typical boundaries of romance, venturing into expressions of love for family, community, and even a higher power. “It’s about love bigger than ourselves,” says Kenneth. “It’s a love for one’s parents, siblings, or even society.” This depth has earned them a dedicated fanbase, with many listeners sharing how their songs helped them cope with difficult times. “Some fans say our songs helped them cope with depression or even prevented suicide,” Kenneth reveals. The band considers these connections among their most significant achievements, valuing the healing power of music above fame.
Despite their success, Oh! Caraga has faced its share of challenges as a local band. “There’s this ‘local band mindset’ that can be limiting,” Sherwin reflects. Yet they remain determined to break through these limitations, working tirelessly to create a lasting impact. Their live shows are an extension of their mission, a showcase of Bisaya culture and energy. “Our live shows are energetic, expressive – a visualization of the sound,” Sherwin describes. “We give our best in every performance, showing the beauty of our language and culture through music.”
As Oh! Caraga looks to the future, their ambitions are clear. The band aims to expand their reach, bringing Bisaya music to an international stage. They’re currently working on a new album, Bagani, and hope it will gain recognition for Bisaya music worldwide. “We want all Bisaya-speaking people to feel proud of their language,” Kenneth says, envisioning a time when their music can inspire audiences beyond borders. Their dream of performing on international stages, perhaps even at the Nobel Peace Prize concert, reflects both their passion and sense of purpose.
Oh! Caraga’s story is one of authenticity, commitment, and cultural pride. Their advice to aspiring musicians? “Stay focused and authentic,” says Kenneth. “Do the hard work, screen your songs, and make sure they’re great.” This ethos of quality over quantity and purpose over profit defines Oh! Caraga’s journey and sets them apart in a crowded industry. “We’re not just a band; we’re storytellers,” Kenneth concludes, encapsulating the band’s mission to create music that uplifts, empowers, and unites.
In the words of their bandmate Sherwin, “We did it, now it’s your turn.” Oh! Caraga’s journey reminds us that success is not only measured in fame but in the lives touched and the stories told. Their music, much like their name, is an exclamation – a proud and resounding “Oh!” for the Caraga region, and a testament to the enduring power of local music in a global world.
