Angela Ken Writes Songs That Know You Better Than You Do
Grounded in Tagalog lyricism and raw honesty, Angela Ken's music proves that the most powerful stories come straight from the heart.
PHOTOGRAPHY Shaira Luna
STYLING Gian Gonzalez Latorre
CREATIVE DIRECTION Tin Dabbay
Music is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture, serving as a bridge that connects people through shared emotions and stories. For OPM (Original Pilipino Music) singer-songwriter Angela Ken, music is her way of baring her soul. Vulnerability is at the heart of her sound, woven seamlessly into every lyric and melody.
Authenticity, according to Ken, begins with vulnerability. It allows her to form a deep connection with her audience. “I ensure that whenever I think of a storyline or theme, I ask myself, ‘Does it feel real?’ or ‘Is it speaking to me?’” she shares. By staying true to her emotions, she creates music that rings true with listeners.
A big part of that authenticity comes from singing in Tagalog, a language rich in emotional depth. Ken takes pride in being part of the OPM community, which she believes is finally getting the recognition it deserves. “I’m very proud to say that OPM is finally receiving the recognition it deserves. As an OPM artist, it’s truly heartwarming to express the emotions and stories I want to share in my native language. Even though it’s in Tagalog, it paves the way and reaches the international stage.”
When it comes to crafting her music, Ken sees lyrics, melody, and production as equal players. “There is no right or wrong when it comes to music. It is a balanced art form where you can write, sing, and express yourself freely without judgment. Lyrics, melody, and production work together like a team, and I believe that it’s not possible to determine which element is better; they come together perfectly when you know what you’re doing and are happy with your work.” What matters most to her is the heart behind the song. “Everything will fall into place if the intention behind the song is genuine and pure.”
For Ken, songwriting is just as much about discovery as it is about expression. Each song is unique, and every process leads her to new realizations. Sometimes, she writes with the intent of expressing something personal, only to find that listeners interpret it in ways she hadn’t expected. “Interestingly, I often intend for my songs to be a form of self-expression, but others frequently interpret them as being self-explanatory, and vice versa.”
That unpredictability is part of what makes music so powerful. Beyond her artistry, Ken is shaped by the strong women in her life. Growing up with her grandmother and mother, she learned that providing for loved ones isn’t defined by gender — it’s about dedication and heart. Their unwavering support has shaped her perspective, instilling resilience and a deep passion for her craft.
“There is no right or wrong when it comes to music. It is a balanced art form where you can write, sing, and express yourself freely without judgment."
Ultimately, Ken wants her songs to serve as a source of comfort and validation. She hopes listeners feel embraced by her music, especially those who struggle to articulate their emotions. “I aim to be the voice for emotions that we often can’t express or are afraid to reveal,” she says. Through her music, she wants to offer reassurance, like a quiet friend who understands without
needing words.
PRODUCERS Tin Dabbay, Loris Peña, and Maura Rodriguez
ASSISTANT STYLIST Pao Mendoza
HAIR Bonita Teańo and Jan Edrosolan
MAKEUP Don de Jesus and Janica Cleto
VIDEO Kevin Redder
