Almost two decades since the passing of King of Pinoy Rap Francis Magalona, his sons Elmo and Arkin are continuing to navigate life both as artists and as heirs to a legacy that helped shape Filipino music.
Francis, fondly called “Kiko,” passed away in 2009 at the age of 44 due to multiple organ failure “secondary to severe sepsis and secondary to pneumonia.” He has six children and two step-children with his wife, Pia Magalona.
In a candid interview with Boy Abunda on Fast Talk on March 27, Elmo and Arkin opened up about the realities of growing up under the name of the master rapper and the quiet pressure that comes with it.
“I just really learned to accept na as much as we try to escape being under the shadow, ako I learned to accept na it’s a part of my life,” Elmo said.
“You don’t really try to run away from the shadow because it’s part of you. At the same time, I don’t let it be my whole personality. I just accept it and let people know na, kapag they’re requesting to hear papa’s songs, nandoon kami. We are game to bring back the memories of the songs that he created,” he continued. “Pero I’ve also learned to set it aside and have something for my own para I have my own identity as well.”
For Arkin, who is also a singer-rapper going by the name Barq, the weight of expectation has transformed into something more meaningful over time.
“Personally, I treat it now na parang it’s not a pressure na set by the people. It's more of they acknowledge na anak kami ni Sir Kiko and it shows me the respect that they have for our father. It makes me more proud that they get to know us as the sons of Kiko. It makes me want to represent him more and make the newer generation discover him.”
Despite being raised by one of the country’s most influential music figures, the brothers revealed that their father was never a strict mentor when it came to their craft.
“Hindi talaga siya yung type na parang stage dad,” Elmo said, adding that his interest in music grew from curiosity about his father’s taste and influences, leading him to explore the same sounds Kiko once loved.
Still, the imprint of their father’s artistry is undeniable.
“I think we both have styles that are unique compared to our dad. Pero most of the foundation and technique, we still got it from his style,” Elmo explained.
During the interview, the brothers gave a glimpse into their evolving musical identities with Elmo performing his unreleased track “Bangon,” while Arkin showcased his single “Tumatak,” highlighting how each is carving a distinct path while staying rooted in their origins.
Following Francis’s passing, Elmo and Arkin have remained active in honoring his legacy through performances and appearances that celebrate his music. Alongside siblings like actress Maxene Magalona and content creator Saab Magalona, the Magalona family continues to keep the spirit of the King of Pinoy Rap alive.