Nestled in the heart of Angeles City, Pampanga, a city synonymous with vibrant culture and artistic expression, resides a young musical prodigy named Sebastian Kidd. At just 23 years old, Sebastian has carved a niche for himself in the tumultuous world of music, where his journey began as a humble 13-year-old dreamer, fervently scribbling song drafts that echoed the innocence of adolescence.
For Sebastian, music is more than just a collection of notes and lyrics; it's a therapeutic escape, a conduit through which he channels his innermost thoughts and emotions. His love affair with songwriting bloomed upon encountering a medley of genres – from the raw intensity of Hip-Hop to the rebellious spirit of Punk, the soul-stirring melodies of Metal, and the anguished beauty of Emo. However, it was My Chemical Romance's inaugural album that cast the spell, awakening a fervent passion for crafting tunes that resonated with his soul.
While Sebastian's sexual identity remains a part of his individuality, it doesn't define him as an artist. Within the familial circle, only his cousins are privy to this personal facet, as he navigates the delicate balance between self-expression and generational differences. He chooses not to engage the older generation in discussions regarding his sexuality, an approach that has preserved the sanctity of his creative journey. “It doesn’t bother me, so why should I bother people with it. Okay lang kung alam nila, edi ganon. Never naman naging issue,” he affirms, a testament to his unwavering self-assurance.
Sebastian's musical evolution is akin to a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of experimentation and artistic growth. His roots in rap, influenced by luminaries such as Tyler, the Creator, Earl Sweatshirt, and MF Doom, laid the foundation for his expressive prowess. However, as the tides of creative inspiration flowed, he embarked on a genre-transcending expedition. His current inclinations gravitate towards Hyperpop and Pop-punk, with artistic influences as diverse as Brakence, Midwxst, Zild, One Click Straight, and Ena Mori. This willingness to traverse musical landscapes showcases his unyielding creative ambition: “Ayokong ma-stock sa iisang genre lang, gusto ko talaga nag e-explore kasi hindi ko makikita yung potential ko as a songwriter if hindi ako mag e-explore ng ibang genre.”
In an industry where dreams can often be eclipsed by doubts of viability, Sebastian stands as a resilient beacon. He's no stranger to the uphill battles faced by aspiring musicians, regardless of sexual identity. “I know straight people who are just having the same hard time as me. I know a lot of Queer artists who are trying to get their music out there pero no one bats an eye,” he reflects, acknowledging the common challenges that unite musicians on their arduous paths to recognition. In this journey, patience becomes his compass, guiding him through the maze of uncertainties towards the spotlight he yearns for.
Within the music industry's symphony of hidden narratives and unspoken struggles, the melodies crafted by queer Filipino musicians like Sebastian resonate as timeless notes. They are woven intricately into the tapestry of the country's musical heritage, creating a harmonious blend of artistic expression and personal identity that refuses to be silenced. As Sebastian Kidd's story unfolds, he reminds us that beneath every melody lies a tale of passion, perseverance, and the unyielding pursuit of one's artistic truth.
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