Beat This Anniversary
One of the numerous epiphanies I've had during this pandemic was how important it was to be a part of a community. 2020 taught me that having a solid support system, regardless of their physical proximity, is enough to make even the heaviest of days worth living through. I was introduced to Alex "Phat Boy" Lim, the man behind Beat This PH in the thick of the "world's longest lockdown." Like everyone then, I was worried and unsure of what the future would look like and thought about putting my network to good use in search of extra work opportunities. A good friend of ours, Mikael Bersales of Salamin, introduced me to Alex after I had told him I was looking to write more. Back then, I had very little idea about the state of the local music scene, let alone any confidence to write editorials about artists I've yet to listen to. Nonetheless, Alex was welcoming, and not once did he make me feel bad about my lack of insight into the local music industry. From that day on, up to the present, I've felt a sense of belonging in a diverse community that continues to surprise me in the best ways possible.
This month, we raise a toast to our beloved digital base camp, Beat This Philippines, as we turn another year older and wiser. What started four years ago in June 2017 as a three-hour radio show that aired once a month has now grown into so much more, all while keeping true to its roots and promise—to celebrate the talent and work of Filipino artists from all over the globe.
In the early days of the radio show, it served as a mixer to get acquainted with the new artists and producers in Cebu. It was a chance to forge friendships and build connections that would become the brand's foundation. In July 2020, Alex, together with Filipino-Australian recording artist Cameron Klepiak aka Boy Graduate started BEHIND This Beat. A podcast that showcases and connects with Filipino creatives locally and abroad. Last year, Saweetie graced the show to honor her Filipino roots. An outstanding display of solidarity that brought even more credibility to the movement. Since then, the podcast and website have featured some of the best Filipino musicians today. One of the brand's strengths lies in its inclusivity regardless of genre, artists' age, or influence.
Beat This Philippines is at the forefront of the Global Pinoy Music movement, or as Alex has lovingly coined it, #GLOPM. This is not only a movement but also a community that bridges Filipinos abroad to the land that will always welcome them home no matter how far they've come.
If you are yourself a Filipino or have been a fan of this talented collective, or even the least bit curious about this, we invite you to join us as we shift to welcome more mainstream recognition in our 4th year, starting with Beat This SESSIONS Worldwide — a concept that connects all and represents all, by watching this, you make it grow and you allow the Filipino Global Movement to grow. For this entire month, we will be showcasing 30 of the best Filipino artists everywhere in the world. We can only promise a good time and the joy of discovering and connecting with a good piece of music and artistry.
2021 is an exciting time for many reasons. It's the light at the end of the tunnel for many of us and as we look back on the journey that brought us here, we are grateful for all the people who've been a part of Beat This Philippines in every capacity. In our last weekly staff meeting, Alex bashfully thanked each of us for standing by him, the vision, and the Filipino Global Movement. It's been a hell of a ride and we're only just at the cusp. Sometimes you gotta create what you want to be a part of. So, if you've been wondering when our turn is on the world stage, there is no better time than right now, kabayan. Thank you for riding along. We hope to share more amazing music and talented artists with you in the years to come.
About The Author
Bea del Rosario is the editor of Beat This Philippines. A few of her favorite things include music and lyrics, women in comedy, and the inevitable humor of corporate copy. She lives in Manila with her dog Cashew.
