Rap artist Gloc-9 recently revealed the heartfelt story behind his hit song ‘Sirena,’ which has become an anthem within the LGBTQ+ community since its release in 2012.
In an emotional exclusive interview with ABS-CBN News, Gloc-9 shared how the song, initially met with fear and apprehension, turned out to be a profound gift to his gay son.
‘Sirena’ gained immense popularity for its poignant portrayal of the struggles and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. Despite its success, Gloc-9 admitted feeling hesitant about its reception upon release, fearing it might unintentionally offend or misrepresent someone’s life.
“’Yung song na ‘yan, nung ire-release namin ‘yan, takot na takot ako. Takot na takot dahil ayaw kong maka-insulto ng tao. Alam ko kasi nung sinulat ko ‘yan, hindi ko tsinelas o sapatos ang suot-suot ko. Ako’y nagsuot ng ibang sapatos o tsinelas,” Gloc-9 shared. “Kaya ako natatakot kasi ayaw kong may naisulat ako dun na baka ‘eh sira ulo pala ito hindi naman ‘to ganyan.’”
However, the rapper’s fears were dispelled when he started receiving feedback from people who deeply connected with the song’s message. He recounted a poignant moment when a group of production personnel visited him for an interview and one of them was moved to tears by the song’s impact, revealing that it resonated with the life of her best friend.
Moreover, Gloc-9 shared encounters with fathers of gay children who expressed gratitude for the song, acknowledging its role in providing clarity and understanding of their children’s experiences.
What made Gloc-9’s revelation even more poignant was his acknowledgment that his own son is gay. At the time of writing ‘Sirena,’ he hadn’t yet known about his son’s sexual orientation and struggled with how to express his love and support.
“My son is gay. Nung sinulat ko ‘yun, hindi niya pa sinasabi sa amin. Hindi ko alam kung paano ko sasabihin sa anak ko na, kung gaano ko siya kamahal,” he revealed. Hindi naman ako ma-showbiz and I think para sabihin ko ito now, ako ay proud na proud sa anak. Ako ay excited sa kung ano man ang kaya niyang ma-achieve sa buhay niya. Minsan iniisip ko how life gives you hints of magic here and there. Nung natapos ko ‘yung ‘Sirena’ hindi ko naman alam. And I don’t mind. Anak ko ‘yun.”
However, upon his son’s coming out, Gloc-9 expressed overwhelming pride and unwavering support, emphasizing his unconditional love for his children.
“Ako’y proud na may anak ako na tulad ni Daniel. Mahal na mahal ko ang mga anak ko at gagawin ko ang lahat para sa kanila,” he said.
Reflecting on the song’s impact over the past decade, Gloc-9 realized that “Sirena” wasn’t just a song but a heartfelt gift to his son. “’Yun na ‘yung regalo.”
Despite the initial uncertainty surrounding its reception, the song has become a symbol of love, acceptance, and understanding within the LGBTQ+ community, resonating deeply with listeners across generations.
