Steven Tyler’s vocals and stage presence make him one of the most challenging rock legends to impersonate. But on “Your Face Sounds Familiar,” several Ka-Familiars took on the challenge of transforming into Aerosmith’s frontman and delivered renditions that had judges on their feet and audiences screaming.
Here are five unforgettable Steven Tyler transformations on the “YFSF” stage that graced our screens:
Tutti Caringal (YFSF Season 1, 2015) - “I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing”
From a rockstar transforming into a rock legend, Tutti Caringal was indeed Steven Tyler in this performance. From the moment he stepped on stage, judge Sharon Cuneta gave him a standing ovation. With makeup, styling, and vocals that screamed Steven Tyler, Tutti had the crowd cheering even before he hit the final chorus.
The judges couldn’t hold back their admiration, giving him a standing ovation mid-performance. Coach Jed Madela called it simply “perfect,” while guest judge Boy Abunda praised how closely he resembled the rock icon. But it was Sharon’s words that sealed the judges’ approval: “You’re the next best thing. You nailed it!”
Tutti placed 7th at the end of his season.
CJ Navato (YFSF Season 3, 2021) - “I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing”
CJ Navato proved that he’s more than just an actor. His take on Steven Tyler was rich in detail, from the rockstar’s signature movements to his vocal ad-libs. The judges watched in awe as CJ delivered his performance.
Judge Ogie Alcasid commended him, saying, “You always have this ‘I want and I can’ attitude… you’re amazing.” Meanwhile, Gary Valenciano was moved by CJ’s passion in impersonating Steven Tyler, “Hindi ka lang gumagaya sa tunog at itsura ng artist, pero pati kaluluwa dinadala mo. And that’s what makes you very unique.”
CJ placed 6th in his season.
Justin Alva (YFSF Kids Season 1, 2017) - “I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing"
Even the kids’ edition of YFSF got their shot at rock royalty. Justin Alva’s version of “I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing” was a delightful surprise. He captured Steven Tyler’s hand gestures and mannerisms, all while maintaining strong vocals even as a kid.
Judge Sharon Cuneta couldn’t help but admire Justin, “Nakakatuwa na at your age, gayang gaya mo halos ‘yung boses niya.” The judges commended Justin for his effort in transforming into Steven Tyler, despite the intricate details of his body movements and vocal techniques.
Justin placed 4th in his season.
Onyok Pineda (YFSF Kids Season 2, 2018) - I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing”
Onyok Pineda rocked the entire theatre during the grand finals of his season with his electrifying Steven Tyler performance. The cheers were deafening as he stepped on the stage, getting the entire crowd to sing along like it was a real Aerosmith concert.
Coaches Jed Madela and Nyoy Volante couldn’t stay seated and gave Onyok a standing ovation after his performance. Judge Ogie Alcasid exclaimed, “Ikaw na! Ang galing mo!” while Sharon Cuneta praised his vocals, “Lahat ng nota tinamaan mo hanggang pinakamataas… lahat ng timing mo sa galaw eksakto.”
Onyok placed 2nd at the end of the season.
Pepe Herrera (Season 4, 2025) - “Cryin'”
Known as a theater actor, Pepe Herrera took a challenge into the rock scene with his rendition of “Cryin’.” His performance was a refreshing take on Steven Tyler. Before the judges could even comment, Pepe stayed in character during a playful acting challenge with the panel, much to the delight of the audience.
Sharon Cuneta applauded Pepe, saying, “Parang walang bagay na ‘di kayang gawin ni Pepe. That was a great performance.” Coach Klarisse De Guzman also praised his vocal control, noting, “’Yung boses kuhang kuha mo, ‘yung placement na-maintain mo.”
Whether young stars or seasoned artists, each Ka-Familiar brought their own flavor of Steven Tyler to life, keeping the rockstar spirit alive on the “YFSF” stage.
Can’t get enough of these iconic performances? Catch more on “Your Face Sounds Familiar” every weekend night on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live (KOL), A2Z, TV5, and iWant!