Filipino composer Dodjie Simon’s ‘Best of All’ enters 2027 Grammy race

Renowned Filipino songwriter and executive Dodjie Simon has submitted his latest album, Best of All (The Music of Dodjie Simon), for consideration in the 69th Annual Grammy Awards.

Released 11 August, the seven-track Original Pilipino Music collection qualifies for the Recording Academy’s 2027 award cycle. It is under consideration for best global music album and best engineered album, non-classical. Additionally, two featured tracks were submitted for arranging awards: "Ikaw Lamang" for instruments and vocals, and "Kulang Ang Paleta" for instrumental or a cappella.

Produced by Simon and choral conductor Joel Navarro, the album features prominent Philippine music figures, including Moy Ortiz, Nica Tupas, Bianca Lopez-Aguila and Joshua Cadeliña. A historic collaboration highlights "Kulang Ang Paleta," combining a melody by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, Tagalog lyrics by Simon and a four-part a cappella arrangement by Navarro.

Technical production was helmed by recording engineer Martin Andrew Guevara and Grammy-winning mastering engineer Jett Galindo.

A decorated OPM icon, Simon won the 1988 KBP MusicFest Grand Prize for "Isang Dugo, Isang Lahi, Isang Musika." His extensive catalog includes recordings by Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano and Sarah Geronimo. Beyond his musical achievements, Simon has built an extensive global IT career, serving as a chief information officer and IT vice president for international entities like AIG and the US Department of Veterans Affairs.

"Participating in the Grammy consideration process is a privilege that allows us to demonstrate how Philippine songwriting, choral arranging and vocal performance hold a rightful place on the global recording stage," Simon said.

The first round of Grammy voting runs 12-22 October, with nominees announced 16 November. The 69th Annual Grammy Awards will be held 7 February 2027, in Los Angeles.