Grammy-nominated artist, Saweetie headlined the FIBA World Cup draw at the Smart Araneta Coliseum last April 29, 2023. Providing live renditions of her coveted tracks—Best Friend, Closer, My Type, and several others, the Fil-Am icon reconnected with her roots as the performance posed as a homecoming of sorts, welcoming the rap-fashion personality with open arms.
Unveiled as a guest for Latto’s bohemian-themed performance at this year’s Coachella, Saweetie landed on Philippine soil the Thursday evening of the draw. Unveiled to the press, she was draped in a lilac Francis Libiran piece before undergoing rehearsals at the Big Dome.
Integrating the West Coast’s upbeat spirit and energetic zeal into her persona, her virality consisted of covers and performances from her Jeep before emerging nationally. The Icy Grl emphasized the importance of staying true to who she is and her upbringing—as her success is a byproduct of an illustrious journey of continuous development, seeking individual expression through sound.
Photo caption: Saweetie Headlines FIBA World Cup Draw from FIBA Basketball
For Saweetie, being able to champion one’s heritage paved the way for her artistic and individual uniqueness.
“My advice would be to embrace the culture. What makes us so special is where we come from,” she tells Complex Philippines.
“I love that my mom taught me some of the core values she learned as a little girl. We should all be proud of where we came from because if it weren’t for the homeland, we wouldn’t be who we are today. That’s what makes us special.”
Spanning over a decade since her last visit to the Philippines, the Bay Area native is no stranger to the local culture. Bestowing remnants of home through her mother and grandparents, part of her foundation comes from the endearing Filipino influence, as its role remains paramount to her identity.
Saweetie scheduled a quick getaway to Palawan before departing for the United States, appearing at the 2023 Kentucky Derby and the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix. She also mentions the possibility of purchasing property locally—an indicator of her eventual return to the country.
Art Credit: James Francisco
