Pilita Corrales, Asia’s Queen of Song, Dies at 85
Pilita Corrales, the singer and entertainer affectionately known as “Asia’s Queen of Song” and whose career spanned six decades, passed away on Saturday (April 12). She was 85 years old. Her death was confirmed by her daughter Jackielou Blanco and her granddaughter Janine Gutierrez in an Instagram post. They did not immediately mention the cause of death.
Corrales, who was born Pilar Garrido Corrales on August 22, 1939, in Lahug, Cebu City, began her career in the late 1950s as a magician’s assistant in The Bobby Limb Show in Australia before later on becoming a solo recording artist. She recorded the first album for Astor Records in 1959, which featured Arthur Young & his Orchestra. Her hit single “Come Closer To Me” made her the first woman to land in Australia’s pop chart.
Her success in Australia eventually led to her amassing listeners and fans in her home country. Her signature songs include “A Million Thanks to You” and “Kapantay ay Langit,” both of which have become timeless classics. She was also known for her ability to perform in multiple languages, including English, Filipino, Spanish, and Cebuano, as well as for her distinctive performing style of bending backwards while carrying a microphone.
According to most online resources, Corrales recorded over 135 albums and won countless industry accolades, including a win for Best Performer at the inaugural Tokyo Music Festival in 1972 and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Philippine Association of the Record Industry (PARI) in 1991.
But it wasn’t just in music that Corrales made a name for herself. She headlined a popular TV show, called “An Evening with Pilita,” which set the standard for musical variety shows in the in Philippines. She also appeared in several films, including “Darna! Ang Pagbabalik” (1994) and “Di Bale Na Lang” (1987), and made many memorable guest appearances on multiple TV programs. She was also notably one of the judges for the inaugural season of Philippine Idol and also represented the Philippines as a judge in Asian Idol, which was held in Indonesia.
In her personal life, Corrales was a devoted mother and grandmother. She is survived by her children, actress Jackielou Blanco and actor Ramon Christopher Gutierrez, as well as her granddaughter, actress Janine Gutierrez. Her family was a source of pride and inspiration, and she often spoke about her desire to leave a lasting legacy for them and for aspiring artists.
Even in her later years, Corrales remained active in the entertainment industry, mentoring young talents and performing occasionally. Her passion for music and dedication to her craft never waned, embodying the spirit of a true artist.
Pilita Corrales’s passing is a profound loss to the Filipino community and the world of music. Her voice, grace, and contributions have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
