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About this song


Anak

1978

Composer: Aguilar, Freddie
Lyricist: Freddie Pascual Aguilar
Arranger: D' Amarillo
Performer: Freddie Pascual Aguilar
Album: Anak
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Key / Mode: A minor
Genre: Songs of Reflection / Longing
Form: Rock Ballad
Historical Period: Contemporary
Date of Composition: 1978
Premiere Performance: First performed by Freddie Aguilar in the First Metro Manila Popular Music Festival in 1978
About the Song: A hit in Asia and translated into a dozen languages (including English, Japanese, French, Russian, and German), Aguilar's first hit is among the most popular folk ballads ever recorded in the Philippines. The song dwells on the sacrifices made by doting parents for their children, upholding traditional family values and criticizing prodigal children who forget what their parents have done for them once they have grown. The lyrics are sung in a way that they almost sound like they are spoken, striking an emotional chord when Aguilar speaks directly to prodigal children then ends the song with a call for the them to ask for forgiveness and total understanding from their parents. The duple time of the rhythm gives the song a reflective character while the acoustic guitar accompaniment hints at a folk-rock influence. (From CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art, vol. 6, p. 221-222)