Herbert Hernandez: A Rock Star Who Inspires Beyond Music

Herbert Hernandez’s journey in music has been nothing short of extraordinary. His story is like the script of a blockbuster film: a talented young boy, taught to play the guitar by his elder brother, forms a college band that goes on to achieve nationwide fame and becomes a prolific songwriter and performer in the Filipino music scene. Now in his early 40s, Hernandez shows no signs of slowing down, remaining a vibrant presence both on and off stage.

Hernandez serves as the lead guitarist for Moonstar88 (the band he started during his college days at the University of Santo Tomas) and 6cyclemind (with whom he has toured since 2010). But music is only part of his multifaceted life. He is also a co-founder of the award-winning advertising agency GIGIL, a husband of over 15 years, a father to three, and an enthusiast of biking, running, and traveling. On top of that, he invests his energy into meaningful pet projects that reflect his passions.

Despite his accolades, Hernandez Hernandez remains grounded. He credits his success to God and his family, showcasing a humility that endears him to fans and colleagues alike.

A Life of Early Excellence

From a young age, Herbert excelled in various areas, including the arts, music, movies, sports, and academics. His parents—a mechanical engineer father and an insurance sales agent mother—ensured he received a solid traditional education, but his creativity always took center stage. His older brother Darwin introduced him to the guitar during high school, but Herbert never compromised on academics.

He juggled numerous responsibilities, including serving as student council president, leading the drum and lyre club, and excelling in table tennis. He also won prestigious awards like the Math Olympiad Provincial Competition, the Juan Luna Award, and the Gerry Roxas Leadership Award. Success seemed to follow him in every endeavor.

In college, he graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Fine Arts, majoring in Advertising. It was also during this time, in 1999, that he founded Moonstar88, a pop/alternative rock band that became an iconic part of the Filipino music landscape. Though initially just the band’s guitarist, Hernandez was inspired in 2002 to write his first hit song, Sulat. This track marked his debut as a songwriter and set the stage for other beloved hits like Migraine. Today, he is recognized by the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (FILSCAP) as one of the country’s top songwriters.

Balancing Music and Advertising

Hernandez once considered leaving music to focus on his corporate advertising career. However, a former boss convinced him to see music as a creative outlet and stress reliever. This advice proved pivotal, allowing him to excel in both fields.

One of Hernandez’s most cherished projects is the concert series “Lakihan Mo Logo” (Make the Logo Bigger), which highlights bands composed of Manila-based advertising professionals. Over 12 years, the series has staged 58 concerts, with some participants even landing recording deals. He also organized 12 “Rockovery” concerts, raising funds for ailing members of the advertising industry, blending his twin passions of music and advertising for a greater cause.

A Champion for Filipino Artists

In 2018, Hernandez co-founded The Indierectory, a platform that connects freelance and independent Filipino artists with potential clients in advertising. His vision is to elevate Filipino talent and eventually take this initiative to a global stage. For Hernandez, this project embodies his dedication to empowering others and leaving a legacy.

What’s Next for Herbert Hernandez?

Despite a demanding schedule that includes gigs, family time, and growing GIGIL into a global powerhouse, Hernandez continues to stay devoted to his music. Although neither Moonstar88 nor 6cyclemind has released an album since 2012, Moonstar88 is gearing up for new music in 2023, including a vinyl release titled Lourdes 2088.

Music has been more than just a creative outlet for Hernandez—it has also been a financial safety net. During GIGIL’s early days, he leaned on his music earnings to bridge the gap between his corporate job and running his own agency. While he no longer relies on it financially, the connection with fans and the joy he brings through his performances keep him going.

Here’s to many more years of unforgettable music from Herbert Hernandez, alongside Moonstar88 and 6cyclemind.

We’re rooting for you, Herbert!