When we talk about rock, ska, and jazz icons in the Philippines, Myra “Skarlet” Ruaro stands out as a true force. With a career that has traversed genres and defied conventions, Skarlet has cultivated a persona that combines the elegance of a New Orleans jazz queen with the passion and grit of a rock icon. She’s not just a performer but a pillar of Philippine music who has made an indelible mark on both mainstream and indie scenes. Here’s a look at the dynamic journey of an artist who’s never stopped evolving.
The Early Breakthrough: Ardourn Delirium to Put3Ska
Skarlet’s entry into the music world came in the 1980s with Ardourn Delirium, where she explored the moody depths of new wave music. But it was with Put3Ska that she truly made history. As the lead vocalist and songwriter for Put3Ska from 1994 to 1998, she helped popularize ska in the Philippines. Their debut album featured the hit “Manila Girl,” a song that became an anthem of urban Filipina pride and cemented Skarlet’s status as the “Queen of Philippine Ska.” Her powerful stage presence, energetic vocals, and undeniable charisma made Put3Ska’s performances legendary, earning them fans across the country and accolades like NU 107 Rock Awards’ Vocalist of the Year, Best Live Act, and Best New Artist in 1995.
The Brownbeat All-Stars and New Horizons
After her time with Put3Ska, Skarlet continued her musical journey with the Brownbeat All-Stars, blending ska, reggae, and jazz into a fresh sound that was uniquely Filipino. As vocalist, songwriter, arranger, and producer, she released two albums under VIVA Neo Records, solidifying her status as a powerhouse in the industry. The band’s unique style won critical acclaim and awards, including KATHA’s Best Performance by a Group for the song “Lampungan” in 2001 and Best Ska Song for “Brownbeat Theme” in 2002. Skarlet’s versatility and talent kept her on top, and the Brownbeat All-Stars became a defining band in the Philippine reggae-ska scene.
A New Era of Jazz and Personal Accomplishments
Skarlet transitioned to jazz in the late 1990s, releasing her celebrated solo jazz album, The Powder Room Stories, which won the 2008 Awit Award for Best Jazz Recording. This work showcased her as a jazz artist with a style all her own—classic yet innovative, sultry yet fierce. Her jazz performances, swinging with both dynamism and sophistication, drew seasoned musicians to collaborate with her on the bandstand, a testament to her exceptional skill and style. Her establishment of iconic jazz venues like TEN02 and later Skarlet Jazz Kitchen in Quezon City became beloved hubs for jazz and blues lovers, amplifying her influence on the local music scene.
Skarlet Today: A Champion of Musicians and Community Leader
In 2012, Skarlet founded Heart of Music, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing healthcare support and alternative income sources to aging and low-income musicians. Her passion for uplifting fellow musicians speaks to her deep-rooted commitment to the Filipino music community. Through Heart of Music, she promotes music education at the barangay level and champions small-scale entrepreneurship among musicians.
A Legacy of Accolades
Throughout her career, Skarlet has garnered a trove of awards that highlight her versatility:
- Philippine International Jazz Foundation’s Koyang Award (2012)
- Best Jazz Recording, Awit Awards (2008)
- Vocalist of the Year, NU 107 Rock Awards (1995)
- Best Ska Song, KATHA Awards (2002) for “Brownbeat Theme”
In addition to her awards, Skarlet’s contributions have been recognized internationally. She represented the Philippines at MIDEM Asia in 1997 and has become an enduring symbol of artistic integrity and excellence.
Skarlet’s Everlasting Impact
Myra “Skarlet” Ruaro’s legacy isn’t just her music; it’s her unwavering commitment to her craft, her advocacy, and her community. Her career spans decades and genres, from the streets of Manila to jazz joints, with hits like “Manila Girl” and The Powder Room Stories standing as milestones in Filipino music. Skarlet is an icon not only because of her talent but because she has forged a path for others to follow, inspiring countless musicians to take risks, blend genres, and honor their roots. For music lovers and aspiring artists, Skarlet remains a legend—a fierce advocate for her community, and an eternal queen of Philippine music.