The Philippine music scene has lost one of its most beloved icons. Hajji Alejandro, a legendary figure in Original Pilipino Music (OPM), recently passed away, leaving fans and fellow artists in deep sorrow. Known for his soulful voice and timeless hits, Hajji’s departure marks the end of an era in Filipino music.

A Life Devoted to Music

Hajji Alejandro’s career spanned decades, during which he became a household name, thanks to classics like “Nakapagtataka” and “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika.” His influence shaped a generation of musicians and listeners alike, contributing significantly to the rich tapestry of OPM.

The Final Moments: A Glimpse Into His Struggles

In the weeks leading to his passing, Hajji Alejandro faced numerous health challenges that deeply affected him and his loved ones. Close friends revealed that despite his frailty, he remained remarkably composed, expressing gratitude for the life he had lived and the music he was able to share.

Eyewitnesses recount emotional moments where Hajji was surrounded by family and close friends, sharing stories and laughter despite the pain. His resilience and positivity during this difficult time left a lasting impression on those around him.

Legacy and Impact

Hajji’s death is not just a loss of a talented artist but the fading of a symbol of dedication, passion, and artistry in Philippine music. Tributes have poured in from fellow OPM legends, contemporary artists, and fans, all honoring his remarkable contribution to the industry.

Many have pointed out that Hajji’s music transcended generations, touching hearts and inspiring new talents. His songs remain staples in karaoke bars and music playlists, ensuring that his legacy lives on.

What He Left Behind

Aside from his unforgettable music catalog, Hajji Alejandro leaves behind a legacy of humility and kindness. His humility in stardom and his genuine connection with fans are qualities that many admire. Family members have expressed their determination to preserve his memory through charitable projects and music scholarships in his name.

A Time for Reflection

Hajji Alejandro’s passing reminds us of the fragility of life and the power of art to immortalize the spirit of a person. As the nation mourns, fans are encouraged to revisit his music, celebrate his life, and continue to support the Filipino music industry that he helped nurture.

Hajji Alejandro, OPM legend and balladeer, is dead at the age of 70
Hajji Alejandro died of complications due to his stage 4 colon cancer, according to his family which confirmed the death of the OPM legend.

He died at the age of 70.

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Dad and Son, Angelito ‘Hajji’ T. Alejandro. At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as our family grieves this tremendous loss. We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time,” said Girlie Rodis, a family friend and long-time manager of Hajji’s daughter, Rachel Alejandro, in a statement.

He left behind his 3 children namely singer-actress Rachel Alejandro, Chef Barni and Mojofly drummer Ali Diaz Alejandro.
On his Instagram, Chef Barni, offered or popularized a song in his “Daddywaps.”

“I love you, Daddywaps… I’m gonna miss you forever,” he said when he sang the lyrics from Alejandro’s hit song “Ang Lahat Ng Ito’y Para Sa’Yo.”

“All this is for you. Tears and success, all brought to you. All tunes and songs, all thoughts and feelings, I offer them all, I offer them all to you.”

The struggle of the OPM singer against his colon cancer was made public by his longtime girlfriend Alynna Velasquez in her interview with broadcast journalist Julius Babao in March 2024. She revealed that she had undergone surgery and had been fighting the infection since Hajji returned.

Velasquez revealed in the interview that he was the one who blamed the family of the Alejandros for going public with Hajji’s health condition, even though he pointed out the OPM singer’s “critical condition, he created a greeting that he wanted to confide in one person.
“We had conflicting opinions… I apologize for whatever I said but I just got hurt, and I feel like Hajji has been my partner for 27 years, I think that I know him best,” he said.

Hajji’s death happened after the deaths of showbiz greats Superstar and national artist Nora Aunor on April 16 and Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales on April 12. Alejandro, the original heartthrob among college females, would launch his entertainment career in the 1970s. He made a fortune and was known as the “horror of the people.” kolehiyala (college crush)” and it is because of his captivating charm and swoon-worthy vocals. He has been active in the OPM scene for more than four decades.

The singer opened up in his interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer in February 2020 about maintaining his voice.

He said that he has a habit of “constantly humming,” even though he is conditioning himself one performance at a time.

“I’m constantly humming; that’s already a form of vocalization… But of course, when I have a scheduled performance, I start conditioning myself weeks before it. I avoid ice-cold drinks and going to crowded areas,” he said.

Discussing his longevity in the industry, Alejandro said that “playing” music is one of the things he stands for when it comes to maintaining his “long-decorated career” as a singer.

“My mindset is that you don’t work for music — you play it. And thus, I have been playing all this time. From Day 1, it was all about the music. Sometimes, you find yourself asking if now’s the right time to stop, especially as you get older. But at the same time, I can’t imagine doing anything else,” he said.

Hajji Alejandro is known for his hits “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika,” “Nakapagtataka,” “Tag-Araw, Tag-Ulan,” “Panakip-Butas,” “If I Were Man Enough,” and “May Minamahal.” These are just a few of Alejandro’s famous songs.