Pag naririnig mo ang pangalang Zild, ano ang una mong naiisip? Malamang, maaalala mo yung bass guitar, colorful outfits, and funky vibes ng IV of Spades—isa sa mga biggest breakout bands ng late 2010s. Pero ngayon, Zild Benitez has completely transformed himself from bassist of a famous band into one of the most unique and iconic solo artists in the OPM scene.
Mas raw, mas experimental, at mas totoo—Zild’s solo career proves na he’s more than just a former band member. His music is hitting millions of streams online, his visuals are turning heads, and critics are calling him the voice of the modern Pinoy youth.
So paano nga ba nangyari ‘to? Let’s talk about Zild’s journey—from band boy to solo game-changer.
Background: IV of Spades Days to Going Solo
Zild started as the bassist and co-vocalist of IV of Spades, the band behind viral hits like “Mundo,” “Hey Barbara,” at “Where Have You Been My Disco?” They were known for their retro vibe, catchy hooks, and matching vintage outfits.
Pero noong 2020, the band took a break—and Zild went full solo mode. Instead of keeping the same funky sound, he released something raw and emotional: his debut solo album “Homework Machine.”
This album showed a different side of him—mas malalim, mas experimental, and honestly, mas personal.
His Sound and Style: Wala Kang Katulad
Zild’s solo music is hard to label—indie pop? alt-rock? synthpunk? electro-poetry? He doesn’t fit into a neat box, and that’s what makes him exciting.
Sa mga kantang tulad ng “Kyusi,” “Sinungaling,” “Apat,” at “Duwag,” he mixes digital sounds, dreamy vocals, and poetic lyrics. Some songs feel like conversations with your subconscious; others feel like a hug from your sad 3AM self.
What stands out is his honesty. He sings about anxiety, identity, growing pains, self-doubt, and love—not in a cheesy way, but in a real, slightly awkward, very relatable way. It’s like reading someone’s diary na may beats.
And the visuals? Zild is known for his artsy, DIY-style music videos. Minsan lo-fi, minsan black and white, minsan parang galing sa panaginip. Pero lagi itong may kwento at feels.
Influence and Identity: Laging Authentic
Zild may be young, but he’s already influencing the next wave of OPM artists. Many up-and-coming indie acts say they admire his artistic freedom—the fact that he writes, produces, and directs most of his music and visuals.
His style is deeply influenced by both local and global acts. Pinoy artists like Eraserheads, The Itchyworms, and Sandwich can be felt in his sound. But you’ll also hear touches of Radiohead, The 1975, Clairo, and even Billie Eilish in his musical storytelling.
Hindi siya takot maging weird, and that gives other Filipino artists the courage to explore their own creative boundaries.
Live Performances: Intimate, Impactful, and Full of Soul
Watching Zild live is not your typical “concert hype” experience. Wala siyang back-up dancers o pyro effects. Instead, it’s just him—his music, his voice, and a vulnerable kind of presence.
Sa gigs, small festivals, or even livestreams, his energy is magnetic. When he performs “Dekada ‘70” or “Bungantulog,” you’ll see the crowd swaying silently, eyes closed, just feeling every lyric. It’s a mix of indie gig rawness and theatrical emotion.
Zild doesn’t scream for your attention. He draws you in slowly, and before you know it, hooked ka na samundong binuo niya.
Streaming Success: Dumadami ang Fans sa Digital
Despite not being a typical pop star, Zild’s music consistently lands on top playlists like OPM Rising, Pinoy Indie Mix, and Fresh Finds Philippines. His album “Medisina” and follow-ups are gaining millions of streams, not just in the Philippines but also abroad.
On Spotify, his monthly listeners continue to grow. On YouTube, his MV views may not always be viral-level, pero consistent ang engagement—loyal fans talaga. TikTok creators also use his songs for artsy edits and softboy content.
Critics and bloggers praise him for staying true to his vision, even when it’s not the most “mainstream.” According to NME and Bandwagon Asia, Zild is one of the most important voices of OPM’s new generation.
Zild Is Not Just a Solo Artist—He’s a Movement
Zild Benitez isn’t just making music. He’s creating art that speaks to a generation. He doesn’t follow trends—he starts them. He doesn’t chase clout—he builds connections.
So kung pagod ka na sa pare-parehong tunog, at gusto mo ng music na may soul, substance, and style, then Zild is your guy. Whether you’re heartbroken, healing, or just vibing with yourself, his songs are a companion through it all.
Add his music to your playlist. Feel the words. And let yourself be moved by one of OPM’s boldest voices today.
From IV of Spades to his own space—Zild is here, and he’s only getting better.
Sources:
NME Asia – “Zild: from IV of Spades to solo stardom”
Bandwagon Asia – “Zild talks going solo, making music in his room, and his album ‘Homework Machine’”
Spotify – Zild Artist Profile
Mike m. luster 