Filipino ‘Budots’ pioneer DJ and producer DJ Love (Sherwin Tuna) is pleased to announce a brand new release with the arrival of ‘Sabak Sa DJ Basuri’ (24th July), from the upcoming debut album ‘Budots World (Reloaded)’ released 7th August through Eastern Margins.
DJ Love (Sherwin Tuna) explains for the single ‘Sabak Sa DJ Basuri’: “I was inspired by the sound of the ‘Basuri Horn’ of the buses in Davao, which is a very common sound. This horn is very entertaining, so I created a Budots style version of it, then paired it with vocals inspired by ‘Sabak sa DJ’ and ‘Paro Paro G’ (fellow budots producers) as a tribute.”
DJ Love will perfom Margins United Festival by Eastern Margins on 28th Sep in London – https://dice.fm/event/
Tell us more about your new single ’Sabak Sa DJ Basuri’?
“Sabak sa DJ” – I was inspired by this music because the basuri horn of the buses in Davao is very popular. This horn is very amusing to me, so I created a Budots-style version of it. Then, I added “Sabak sa DJ” vocal interpolations reminiscent and inspired by “Paro Paro G” by DJ Sandy, who is also a Budots producer that i look up to. “Sabak sa DJ” is just one example of the 12 remixes I made. All the music I created was inspired by the surroundings in our area. “Sabak sa DJ” was inspired by the horn of a vehicle or garbage truck music. It became famous and trended, so I made it a remix.
What is ‘Budots’ music to those unfamiliar with it? And why is it so popular now in the Philippines?
The Budots genre is a unique and grassroots dance music style originating from the Philippines, particularly from the slums. It was created as a means to engage the youth in positive activities and steer them away from gang violence and drug addiction. The genre is characterized by its freestyle dance steps, which often mimic fighting movements like punching or brawling, but in a dance context. It integrates everyday sounds from the surroundings, such as vehicle horns, garbage truck music, and even animal noises, reflecting the daily life and environment of the poor in the Philippines.
Budots music and dance are highly accessible, and often practiced by those from underprivileged backgrounds who seek to reform and avoid vices. It has a strong social message of “yes to dance, no to drugs” and aims to provide an alternative path to fame and recognition through creative expression rather than violence or substance abuse.
The genre also emphasizes the inclusion of trending sounds and social media vocals, making it a dynamic and evolving form of expression that resonates with its audience. Performers of Budots, such as the Camusgirls and Camusboys, continue to propagate its values and style, showcasing the potential and talent within the Filipino community.
Budots is more than just a music and dance genre; it is a cultural movement that uses creativity to address social issues and provide a positive outlet for the youth and its popularity stems from its cultural authenticity, accessibility, viral potential, engaging performances, positive social messages and its role in expressing community and identity.
Name 3 artists you’d currently like to work with and why?
DJ Ericnem, DJ Danz, DJ Francis — These are the pioneers of Budots. They all know my taste in music, so when we collaborate, it’s not difficult. They are all the best producers in the world of budots
