Loner Interview: A voice from the Filipino electronic dance culture

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From the vibrant Filipino metropolis, Loner emerges as a young artist capable of capturing the listener with his global and contemporary sound, but at the same time with a local lens, in a glocal hybrid fusion of international electronic sounds and the use of Tagalog in some of his productions.

Could you please introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Lean Ordinario and I am from Manila, Philippines. I make electronic music under the artist name LONER.

We’re curious about the name “Loner.” Could you share the story behind this choice?

I chose this name back when I was 17 because I wanted to create an outlet where I could do everything by myself and have full creative freedom. Until now I still enjoy doing most of the work myself so I decided to stick with the name.

Which song from your repertoire would you recommend as an introduction to your music for an international audience?

I would recommend my song “Ikaw Lamang”.

Congratulations on your new EP, “Dropstar”, released last August. Could you introduce this project to those who may not yet be familiar with your music?

Thank you! DROPSTAR is my attempt in transitioning towards a more dance music style, compared to my previous releases which was more pop influenced. I want to experiment with more genres and styles and be a more versatile artist.

The title of the EP is intriguing. Could you tell us why you chose “Dropstar” as its name and what was your creative process behind this project?

DROPSTAR is a twist on the word popstar. I used the word “drop” since it is often used in dance music when we refer to the “drop” after a buildup in a song. Since I was transitioning into a more dance music influenced sound, I figured this was the perfect name for the EP.

It’s been about three years since the release of “Make Noise”. I feel that “Dropstar” serves as an excellent follow-up, continuing and reshaping the direction of Filipino dance music. Have there been any changes—subtle or otherwise—in your musical journey that might help us understand the evolution of your artistic style and personality?

Thank you so much! Over time I realized that I was a producer more than I was a singer. When I listen to music, I naturally listen to the beat first then the melody. I find it more fun to make grooves rather than melodies, so I decided to embrace it and allow myself to naturally develop into that path.

A common theme in this EP seems to be confusion and disorientation—emotions often felt during the early stages of falling in love or experiencing a breakup. What’s your interpretation of the themes that emerge from this project?

When I make lyrics, I try to understand what the feeling of the song is to me then I revolve around that idea. I felt like the theme of the lyrics perfectly fit the longing feeling that naturally came out with the music. When I produce, I resonate more with chords that feel hopeful and nostalgic.

The tracks on “Dropstar” can inspire freedom on the dancefloor while also encouraging moments of introspection and personal reflection. Do you agree with this observation? Could you expand on your vision regarding this duality?

Yes I agree! Thank you for seeing it in that way. When conceptualizing the EP, I wanted to create dance music that you could listen to in the club and by yourself. I feel like dance music should not be limited to just club settings.

You primarily handle the writing, production, and mixing on your own. Could you share insights into your creative process? For instance, do you start with themes and lyrics, or do musical ideas come to you before the words?

I always start with a rough concept in my head before I sit down and create. I just let it flow until I build a 4-bar loop then I just build from there. Over time the beat develops into something I can draw inspiration from for the lyrics, but there are times where a catchy hook just randomly enters my brain

In an article on “Mixmag”, you mentioned that your decision to sing and write in Tagalog in a predominantly English-language Filipino electronic music market was intentional. Do you think the emerging Filipino electronic music scene is shifting towards greater use of the national language?

Music written in Tagalog has always been present but I hope my efforts can inspire more to use the language in genres they never imagined to hear it before. My mission is to inspire more to create new sounds using our own language and build a modern Filipino identity together.

In addition to producing music, you’re active as a DJ, primarily in Manila area. Who are your main musical and artistic inspirations?

I’ve been really into Mall Grab, DJ Heartstring, and ESP recently!

Although your new EP was just released, can you share if there are any new projects or plans in the works for the near future?
Thank you for your time and insights. We look forward to hearing more exciting news about your musical journey!

Yes, already got plans and just need to execute them in 2025. I’ll be releasing more music this year and I want to start organizing my own events. I want to break the limits I unsconsciously impose on myself and just do whatever feels right. Thank you so much for the great questions!

curated by
Skipper Fonzy Amgao

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