GIRLMONDAY: The Unplanned Birth of a Bisrock Sensation
It all started on March 14, 2024, at a vibrant city fiesta in Canlaon City. Four musicians—Cocoy Daragosa on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Jemar Genon on lead guitar and backing vocals, Jekoy Ferrer on bass guitar and backing vocals, and Kenneth Avila on drums and backing vocals—took the stage for what seemed like just another performance. Little did they know, this impromptu show would spark the formation of their band, GIRLMONDAY, marking the beginning of an inspiring musical journey.
From Personal Stories to Chart-Topping Tracks
Following that fateful debut, GIRLMONDAY quickly channeled their energy into songwriting, drawing heavily from their own life experiences. Songs like “Hilak Lang,” “Biyahe,” and “Nganong Gi Biyayaan” not only captivated audiences but also mirrored the deep, unbreakable bond shared among the four members. These tracks resonated widely, helping the band build a loyal and growing fanbase across the region.
Milestones and Major Breakthroughs
As their popularity soared, GIRLMONDAY achieved significant milestones that solidified their place in the local music scene. They released their first album, a collection of heartfelt tracks that showcased their unique sound. The band also graced the stages of major Cebu events, including the iconic Sinulog festival, Rakaran, and Yukbo, thrilling crowds with their energetic performances. A standout moment came when they had the honor of opening for the renowned Bisrock band Missing Filemon, a testament to their rising influence.
Their music has gained further traction through airplay on popular radio stations such as iFM 93.9 and B Orig Free FM 89, expanding their reach beyond live audiences. GIRLMONDAY’s style is a distinctive blend of alternative rock infused with Bisrock elements, often delving into themes of love, betrayal, and personal struggles—all rooted in real-life narratives that listeners find relatable.
Forging a Unique Sound and Mentorship
“We don’t follow the usual sound,” explained Daragosa. “We fuse rock with our personal influences and turn it into something uniquely ours.” This innovative approach has set them apart in a crowded music landscape. The band also acknowledges the invaluable support and mentorship from Missing Filemon, particularly from Insoy Niñal, who guided them in honing their Bisaya songwriting skills, further enriching their artistic development.
Future Plans and Brotherhood Beyond Music
Currently, GIRLMONDAY is actively working on music videos for selected songs from their debut album while simultaneously recording new material for a highly anticipated second release. Although they do not yet have a regular bar residency, the band continues to perform through bookings and special events, keeping their connection with fans alive and dynamic.
For the members, who were close friends long before forming the band, GIRLMONDAY represents much more than a musical project. “It’s family,” the group emphasized, describing a brotherhood that has only strengthened over time through shared experiences and creative collaboration.
Commitment to Local Music and Ongoing Journey
As GIRLMONDAY continues to make waves in the local music scene, they remain steadfast in their mission: producing meaningful songs, promoting Bisaya music, and supporting the growth of original local talent. From that humble beginning at a city fiesta to their expanding presence in the Bisrock community, GIRLMONDAY’s journey is still unfolding, promising more heartfelt music and memorable performances ahead.
