Reported By: Atdao Natividad
You have probably heard his blend of CHamoru music on Spotify, or on the radio, and one thing for sure is that Joe Garrido’s music career is on the rise. Originally from the village of Dededo, University of Guam alumnus Joe Garrido has been pursuing his fusion of CHamoru music for nineteen years. His first original song on a platform was “An Hu Atan Hao’’, featuring Stacia Guzman.
Garrido’s inspiration for music came from his dad’s brother, who is the former drummer in the band ‘Para Isla’. “I would go to his house often and watch his band practice and was immediately inspired.” says Garrido. He then learned how to play the drums, guitar, and ukulele.
Using music and song is one of the most common ways to learn a language.. Garrido states, “ people who listen to my music can feel personally connected to want to learn the song and the meaning behind it.” He aims to make music that is modern and relatable to his audience. “CHamoru music will only add value to the longevity of the language in which it is being used”, Garrido says.
One of Garrido’s most famous songs, “Kåntan CHamoru” was written in a few different contexts. It was written about how CHamoru music brings all CHamoru people together despite their differences. This song, like many others of his, connects his listeners to culture and language through music.
Garrido claims to have responsibility as a CHamoru musician to assure that the words he uses are comprehensible and correct. Garrido said, “CHamoru music will assist in the revitalization of the CHamoru language as music plays a big role in people’s lives.” Joe Garrido’s music continues to want to make his listeners get up and dance and has his newest song “Lånchon Chångao” out now on music platforms and link below: