2023 Excellence in Music Award: Apo Hiking Society

Apo Hiking Society or APO (named after Philippine revolutionary hero Apolinario Mabini) is a trio of singer-songwriters: Jim Paredes, Boboy Garovillo and the late Danny Javier, who collectively produced a legacy of popular hits that spans five decades and 22 albums, uniquely blending folk, pop, jazz, and rock. APO composed and performed some of the most enduring pop songs still being performed and reimagined today across three generations of artists. 

Apo rose to prominence in the 1970’s, with Javier often credited for coining the term Original Pilipino Music (OPM). The group went on to expand the Filipino pop music genre, composing and performing some of the most enduring pop songs still popular today. The band recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a wildly successful anniversary concert featuring some of the band’s iconic hits and showcasing the timeless appeal of their music to various audiences.

Almost fifty years after APO first toured the United States, FASO welcomed APO back to Los Angeles with the Excellence in Music Award to spotlight their new music to a new generation of listeners and recognize their significant contributions to the Filipino music industry.

Ladies and gentlemen, may we present to you, our Excellence in Music Awardee, Apo Hiking Society.