Ruby Ibarra Shines at NPR Tiny Desk Contest with Powerful Performances and Cultural Narratives

Filipina-American rapper Ruby Ibarra recently captivated audiences with her compelling musical showcase on NPR’s Tiny Desk series, delivering a trio of impactful tracks that highlight her storytelling prowess and cultural roots. Her appearance marks a significant milestone, as she was selected from over 7,500 submissions nationwide, standing out with her heartfelt note titled “Bakunawa,” which she released last fall.

Breaking Through: From Local Roots to National Recognition

Hailing from Tacloban City in the Philippines and now based in Washington, D.C., Ibarra’s journey to the Tiny Desk stage is a testament to her resilience and artistic talent. Dressed in a simple “I Cherish Pinays” tee and sporting a sleek ponytail, she performed alongside her all-Filipino band, creating a vibrant atmosphere with her dynamic set of songs, driven by lively instrumentals and authentic storytelling.

Reflecting on her identity, Ibarra emphasized the importance of immigrant narratives, stating, “Being human is no longer illegal. Immigrants have been here, living and working among you,” before introducing herself: “I am Ruby Ibarra from Tacloban City, Philippines, now residing in Washington, D.C.” Her words resonate with many who see her as a voice for the immigrant community, advocating for visibility and inclusion.

Musical Influences and Cultural Fusion

In an interview with Rolling Stone, Ibarra shared insights into her musical influences, tracing her early inspiration to the vibrant sounds of her childhood in the Philippines. “Many of my earliest memories are filled with music, as my cousins and uncles performed at local fairs and community events,” she recalls. This early exposure laid the foundation for her passion for music and storytelling.

After relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area, Ibarra’s musical palette expanded, drawing inspiration from the Golden Age of hip-hop, including icons like Tupac, The Fugees, and Wu-Tang Clan. Her unique style seamlessly blends Tagalog and English lyrics, weaving narratives that reflect her dual cultural identity and personal experiences.

Selected Tracks and Personal Significance

During her NPR performance, Ibarra showcased three songs: “Bakunawa,” “Today,” and “7000 Miles.” Each piece carries a distinct message-“Bakunawa” explores mythological themes, “Today” serves as a reminder that life’s most meaningful moments unfold in their own time, and “7000 Miles” addresses the current social and political climate in the United States.

“There are ongoing questions about belonging and acceptance,” Ibarra explains. “As an immigrant, I’ve always been an advocate for ensuring that people feel seen and valued. This performance was an opportunity to foster dialogue and celebrate my experiences as a Filipina immigrant.”

Highlighting Filipino-American Talent and Community

One of her most notable works is the song “Circa 91” from her 2017 album of the same name, which narrates her mother’s journey from the U.S. to the Philippines and reflects on her own evolving worldview. During her Tiny Desk performance, her mother was in the audience, and Ibarra recalls the emotional moment when the chorus, “Mama will make it in America,” moved everyone to tears. “Seeing my family’s reactions was incredibly touching,” she shares, emphasizing the song’s personal significance.

Her band, featuring talented Filipino-American musicians like June Millington of Fanny and others, exemplifies the vibrant community of Filipino artists making waves in the music industry. Ibarra hopes her appearance will inspire more Filipino-American artists to share their stories on prominent platforms, opening doors for future generations.

Looking Ahead: New Projects and Artistic Growth

Currently, Ibarra is focused on her upcoming sophomore album, set to be released through her independent label, Bolo Tune Collective, which she co-founded with producer Lasi in 2023. Her goal is to craft music with meaningful messages, ensuring each song serves a purpose and sparks conversation.

As a mother, Ibarra’s songwriting continues to evolve, reflecting her personal growth and experiences. She aims to create music that not only resonates with her audience but also becomes a tool for dialogue and understanding, especially for her daughter’s future.

“My music is always changing, and I want to keep pushing myself as a songwriter,” she affirms. “Passing on my stories and lessons is important, and I hope my songs will help foster empathy and connection in the years to come.”

Watch Ruby Ibarra’s Tiny Desk Performance

Experience her powerful set firsthand by watching her Tiny Desk concert below: