Pilita Corrales will always be remembered for her iconic “liyad” (bending backwards) that served as the signature of her performances in the past seven decades. But beyond her glamour and sophistication that were often seen on stage, this Original Pilipino Music (OPM) icon left a mark that will stay forever.  

At the age of 85, she passed away as confirmed by her family, marking the end of her long thriving career.

READ: OPM icon Pilita Corrales dies at 85

More than half of Pilita’s life was spent putting smiles on the faces of her audiences as an all-around entertainer. She was a singer-songwriter, an actress, a comedienne, and a TV personality — all at the same time.  

In her 85 years, 70 of those were dedicated to serving the people through her timeless music and bringing enormous pride and honor to her homeland.  

Known as the “Asia’s Queen of Songs,” Pilita captured the hearts of her Filipino fans and supporters. Her music and influence transcended borders, earning herself international recognition.  

A legacy that lives on 

Throughout her career, the singer-songwriter had 135 albums under her belt, according to Billboard Philippines.  

Producing this massive number was surely not an easy task, but Pilita had her own special way of connecting to her listeners.  

It has been known to many that she was multilingual, capable of using Filipino, Cebuano, English, and Spanish. She used this as her advantage in writing songs, making them more relatable to people regardless of their race or origin.  

Pilita’s career boomed in Victoria, Australia after her single “Come Closer to Me” or “Acércate Más” became a big hit in 1959. 

She eventually became the host of a Spanish radio show “La Taverna” upon her return to Manila in 1963, where she was remembered for her song performances with guitar accompaniment.  

Her mesmerizing stage presence characterized by her fabulous looks and gowns made her a star at the Manila Grand Opera House.  

Eventually, she had her spotlight on Philippine television with her own show An Evening with Pilita.   

One of her biggest hits was “A Million Thanks to You,” which according to sources, paved the way for her signature backbend that lasted until the latter part of her career in the showbiz industry.  

Pilita’s 1972 album Philippine Love Songs became a big hit as well, featuring heartfelt songs like “Dahil Sa'yo,” “Kapantay ang Langit,” and “Kay Hirap Umibig,” among others.  

In 2005, Pilita achieved a great milestone after receiving the FAMAS Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognized her contribution to the industry.

 In May 2024, Baby Ruth Villarama, an award-winning documentary maker announced that they were working on a documentary that will pay tribute to Pilita's life story. Actress Janine Gutierrez, the legend's granddaughter played a part in the conceptualization of the documentary.

READ: Docu on Pilita Corrales in early stages of production

Struggle as a woman

 Having been raised in a very conservative time, Pilita’s journey was not without any challenge.  

Born on August 22, 1939, to a family of Spanish descent, she was sent to Spain for her studies at Colegio Mayor de Padre Poveda, in preparation for her arranged union with a wealthy man.  

But stars did not align with these plans and something else would determine her future. She later stepped into the industry that served as her home for the majority of her life. 

 In 2017, the late icon opened up about her experience being imprisoned in an abusive relationship with Carlos Lopez, a Paraguayan businessman, with whom she spent 16 years.  

READ: ‘It was hard to get out’: Pilita Corrales recalls abusive relationship

"What a big mistake that I did. That's when the suffering started... Ang hirap to get out," Pilita said in a 2017 interview with Boy Abunda, referring to her decision to leave the country to be with her partner.  

Lasting Influence

In Billboard Philippines’ 2023 issue, some veteran artists shared how the OPM icon influenced their careers in the music industry. 

Gary Valenciano told Billboard Philippines that his first television guesting when he was just starting out as an artist was on Pilita’s show. 

“One of the people who first saw me and who first believed in me was Tita Pilita,” he said.  

Meanwhile, Megastar Sharon Cuneta revealed in an interview that she grew up listening to the songs of the OPM Icon. 

Jaya, who is also an OPM legend, also recognized Pilita’s contribution to her career, recounting that she was given a “big break” performance by the OPM icon after noticing her performance abroad.  

Pilita Corrales may have departed, but the legacy she left in the country’s music landscape and her influence on the artists that came after her will always be cherished and remembered.