When you think of R&B, legends like Aretha Franklin and Marvin Gaye instantly come to mind. With classics like “Respect” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” these songs had smooth melodies and lyrics that hit deep. But the mix of soul, funk, and pop made them iconic. And, Kyla, the Philippines’ Queen of R&B had her fair share of those moments throughout her career too.
For tracks like “Huling Sayaw,” “Hanggang Ngayon,” and her iconic rendition of “On the Wings of Love,” Kyla’s soothing vocals shine as a true gem in the OPM scene. She’s like a diamond in the rough, effortlessly blending rich emotion with technical skill. Even as a seasoned veteran in the industry, she continues to inspire and amaze audiences, maintaining her status as a beloved figure among fans and aspiring artists alike.
With modern R&B queens like SZA and H.E.R. taking over, the vocal range is hitting new heights, and they’re serving up major moments in every track. But it’s always been that “Kinyla” vibe. Known for her insane riffs and runs, she takes it all the way, making everything a little more extra. That’s her signature, the Kyla way.
One memorable moment that highlights her influence is the collaboration with MC Einstein. Him being a huge fan of Kyla, sharing the stage with her felt like a dream come true. For the former Ex Batallion member, it wasn’t just a duet as it was an acknowledgment of Kyla’s legendary status in Pinoy R&B. Their performance wasn’t just about their talents, it was a perfect example of what happens when two artists genuinely admire and respect each other. It’s like they fed off each other’s energy, creating something bigger than the sum of its parts. Kyla has this rare ability to lift every song to new heights, making her impact on the music scene memorable and enduring.
As the song’s composer and a passionate R&B fan, MC Einstein views his duet with Kyla as a dream come true. For him, working with a legendary artist like her is not just an opportunity because it’s a milestone in his musical journey. He recalled one standout moment during the project that really made an impact: right after hearing the demo, Kyla leaned in and asked, “Kelan tayo mag-rerecord?”
When she asked this question as a casual inquiry, it was a huge compliment that showed her genuine enthusiasm. It also showed her eagerness to create and collaborate, reinforcing the idea that even seasoned artists like Kyla are always excited about new music. For MC Einstein, that moment symbolized validation from one of the industry’s greats, making the entire experience even more special and motivating.
Kyla’s legacy goes far beyond her exceptional voice. She has established a benchmark in the Pinoy R&B scene that influences countless artists and shapes the genre’s direction. Her impact resonates through her unique sound and emotional performances, reminding us why she’s still the queen of Pinoy R&B.
“Lambalak” is available to stream on all major music streaming platforms. The official visualizer is available to watch on the MC Einstein TV YouTube channel.
