"Forgotten Island' premieres to rave reviews, audience joy and so-so box office

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Producers and cast members pose for selfies at the US premiere of 'Forgotten Island.'

When the newly minted Lucas Museum of Narrative Art opened its doors for its historic first-ever film screening on September 23, it didn't choose a standard Hollywood blockbuster. Instead, it handed the keys to Forgotten Island —and two days later, DreamWorks Animation's latest feature is setting both the internet and nationwide theaters on fire. 

Boasting a staggering 98% to 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 72 on Metacritic, directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado haven't just made a hit; they’ve created a cultural milestone.

From the glitzy museum premiere to standard Friday matinees, the verdicts are rolling in from critics and audiences alike. Here is how the world is reacting to this vibrant explosion of Filipino culture.

The Critics: Visually stunning and pure chaos 

Mainstream critics are universally dazzled by the film's kinetic, anime-inspired aesthetic and its deeply respectful integration of Philippine mythology. For many Western reviewers, it is being hailed as an absolute triumph of original storytelling.

"A gorgeous, hyper-stylized adventure that effortlessly marries emotional depth with jaw-dropping folklore," writes Variety. "It’s the most visually inventive film DreamWorks has delivered in years."

Even the rare pushback feels like a compliment to the movie's relentless energy, with critics noting its frantic, Hangover-style quest structure.

The Guardian was slightly more fatigued by the pace, calling it a "frantic, over-energized experience that rarely slows down to breathe." However, Mashable completely disagreed, enthusiastically crowning it as "a chaotic joyride and an epic adventure for weirdos."

Set against a nostalgic 1990s backdrop, the film focuses on two Filipino BFFs: Jo (voiced by Grammy winner H.E.R.) and Raissa (voiced by Liza Soberano), two lifelong best friends standing at the precipice of adulthood. 

On the final night after their high school graduation, just before their lives pull them down separate paths, they unexpectedly stumble through a magical portal. They are transported to Nakali, a fantastical island straight out of Philippine mythology. To find their way home, the two must navigate a breathtaking landscape populated by legendary folkloric creatures, forcing them to confront the evolution and survival of their friendship. 

The Gateway: How it plays with Non-Filipino audiences

One of the film's biggest triumphs is how it is received outside of the diaspora. Non-Filipino viewers and critics aren't just tolerating the dense Filipino lore; they are entirely enchanted by it. Reviews note that while the movie introduces creatures like the duwende (goblins) and tikbalang (were-horses), it never feels like a lecture.

"The rich mythology of the Philippines provides a fertile soil that will stun the uninitiated," notes The Mercury News.

RogerEbert.com pointed out the organic writing, stating that while general audiences "will likely learn a lot about Mercado's culture," the film's core themes remain universally human. "The threat of the mystical island—losing the memories of the person you love most—is a deeply moving metaphor for the fear of growing apart."

Box office and word-of-mouth potential

Forgotten Island is currently projected to open with a modest $14 million to $18 million domestically. While the film is a massive hit with critics, it is facing a highly competitive weekend and a slow box office start that underperforms early tracking expectations.

The early box office data and tracking dynamics highlight several factors shaping its theatrical run:

• Strong Previews: The film grossed $1.48 million in domestic previews across Thursday showtimes, Mystery Monday, and Sunday sneak peeks. This is a strong start for an original film, pacing slightly ahead of DreamWorks' 2022 hit The Bad Guys ($1.1 million previews). With an almost 100% on Rotten Apples, the feature is the Dreamworks' highest rated animated film of all time.

• Tough Weekend Competition: The movie is not expected to claim the #1 spot this weekend. It is battling major crowded theatrical traffic, including the highly anticipated re-release Avengers: Endgame Encore and the horror debut of Resident Evil, placing it on track for a 4th or 5th place finish.

• Long-Term "Legs" Potential: Carrying an $80 million production budget, the movie will rely heavily on sustained long-term performance. Because it faces zero major family film competition until The Cat in the Hat debuts in early November, box office analysts predict its near-perfect critical reviews will drive strong word-of-mouth over the coming weeks.

View from the edge: A historic celebration of representation

For Filipino and Filipino American theatergoers, Forgotten Island is less of a standard movie release and more of a historic victory lap. Audiences are flooding social media with praise for seeing specific cultural nuances and monsters like the manananggal proudly centered in a massive Hollywood production.

The star-studded cast—featuring voice performances from H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Lea Salonga, Dave Franco, Jo Koy and Manny Jacinto — has only amplified the AAPI community's excitement.

At the premiere, star Jacinto captured the emotional weight of the moment: "Seeing this wave of support from the community is just huge. These opportunities are so rare, and to see our stories told on this scale is everything."

An early audience member posting on X (formerly Twitter) echoed the sentiment: "I took my parents to see it today and we were all crying by the end. Seeing a manananggal on a theater screen while Dave Franco plays a chaotic creature named Raww is the exact chaotic energy my inner child needed."

It is hoped that the feature will catch on like last year's big hit,  K-pop Demon Hunters animated movie, which captured a wide ranging audience beyond the Asian American community.

Ultimately, Forgotten Island is proving that the most specific stories are often the most universal. Unfortunately, in too  many eyes, "universal" means white, male and born in the US. 

We are betting that "universal" means more than that narrow perspective. RogerEbert.com's review gets it. Forgotten Island  captures the heart of "Forgotten Island" goes beyond race or nationality: "... friendships, even very close ones, have a lifespan, and that even though changes in circumstance or geography might not completely end the friendship, it will alter it and make it less central to daily life — and that’s not only a bearable disappointment; it’s a natural part of growing up that almost everyone has had to deal with."

By grounding a wildly imaginative mythical world in a deeply relatable story about two lifelong best friends facing the reality of growing up, DreamWorks has delivered a masterpiece that belongs to everyone who has ever had a friend.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. If you find this perspective interesting, please repost.

'Forgotten Island': Upcoming animated epic Is a love letter to Filipino culture and music

"Forgotten Island" is premiering Sept. 25 by Universal Studios.

Anticipation is reaching a fever pitch for DreamWorks’ upcoming animated epic Forgotten Island, especially after early preview audiences—including a rapturous crowd at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival—met the film with a roaring five-minute standing ovation.

The buzz isn't just about the breathtaking animation or emotional storytelling; it’s about a historic moment for Filipino representation on the global screen.

         FYI: Click here to view trailer of 'Forgotten Island''

Produced by DreamWorks Animation, the movie serves as a high-profile celebration of Filipino identity, values, and precolonial history. For the first time on this scale, a major Hollywood studio feature film is putting the sights, folklore, and unmistakably vibrant sounds of the Philippines right at center stage.

“What's been thrilling for us all along is giving a voice to Filipino culture and Filipino stories, and seeing how that has translated into this freshness in the music... Many amazingly talented Filipino artists have come together to create this unified...” says Joel Crawford, who along with FilAm Januel Mercado.

A historic tapestry of sound

What sets Forgotten Island apart is its intentional, genre-spanning soundtrack engineered by composer Nathan Matthew David and Universal Pictures’ SVP of Film Music Angela Leus. The music acts as a cultural bridge: when the story begins in the human realm, the score hums with nostalgic '80s pop, '90s analog synths, and classic hip-hop.

With both H.E.R., left, and Liza Soberano born in the Bay Area, the voices
for the 'best friends" in Forgotten Island.

The moment the main characters step through a mystical portal into the world of Nakali, the musical palette undergoes a radical evolution. The soundtrack bursts open with deep cultural heritage, weaving together:

• Indigenous Tribal Instruments & Chanters: Rich, multi-layered rhythm arrangements that ground the fantasy world in real ancestral heritage.

• Traditional Gandingan: A southern Philippine talking gong utilized specifically for mythical character moments.

• The Las Piñas Bamboo Pipe Organ & Tagalog Choir: Sacred, historic sonic textures rarely heard in mainstream Western filmmaking.

Universal Pictures' film music team notes that the track captures an unforced, natural chemistry. The vocal delivery mirrors the growth of two strong Filipinas, serving as the musical heart of the film's transition into the magical world of adventure.

An all-star Filipino & FilAm musical lineup

R&B artist and Grammy winner H.E.R., aka Vallejo-born Gabby Sarmiento, was not asked to create a song for the film. However, it happened organically. After viewing  the feature onscreen, she was inspired to write "BRB" which stands out for seamlessly integrating Tagalog lyrics into modern pop structures. This design choice is meant to ground the upbeat track in authentic Filipino language and culture.

The song delivers a rich, dual-vocal dynamic featuring both H.E.R. and co-star Liza Soberano, who was born in Santa Clara, California. 

The P-pop group BINI made performed "Parallel World" part of Forgotten Island's soundrack
 at the recent ComicCon in San Diego.

To execute this ambitious sonic vision, the filmmakers assembled an unprecedented lineup of global Filipino powerhouses, delivering original tracks and reimagined anthems:

• H.E.R. & Liza Soberano: The lead voice actors team up on the title track "BRB," an original contemporary pop anthem written by Oscar and Grammy winner H.E.R. The track fuses Tagalog lyricism with upbeat pop energy to mirror the central bond between lead characters Jo and Raissa.

• BINI: The "Nation's Girl Group" brings their signature energy with "A Parallel World," a synth-pop original track produced alongside Shawn Wasabi and David.

• SB19: The undisputed kings of P-pop bring high-octane modern appeal to a classic, dropping a cover of Francis Magalona’s iconic nationalist hip-hop track "Mga Kababayan."

• Sophia Laforteza: The Filipina star from global girl group KATSEYE lends powerhouse vocals to a completely reimagined cover of INXS’s "Never Tear Us Apart."

• Lea Salonga: The Broadway legend provides haunting vocal textures across the score and chant work during key transformation scenes.

• Ruby Ibarra & Carl Angelo: Heavyweight FilAm hip-hop talent Ruby Ibarra joins Carl Angelo to deliver "Salbahae Ako," a fiery original track showcasing Pinoy rap at its finest.

The music reinforces the cultural significance of Forgotten Island. The movie it is the first major Hollywood-backed animated feature film deeply rooted in Philippine culture and folklore. 

The cast of Forgotten Island includes some prominent Filipino and FilAm talent, including H.E.R. as Jo, Liza Soberano as Raissa, alongside Lea Salonga, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, and Jo Koy.

By centering authentic language, native instrumentation, and an undeniable roster of talent, Forgotten Island is shaping up to be more than just a box-office event—it’s a major cultural celebration for the global Pinoy community.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. If you find this perspective interesting, please repost.

DreamWorks’ 'Forgotten Island' trailer drops, sparking excitement among Filipino Americans

Best friends face a dilemma in "Forgotten Island" which draws on Philippine mythology.

The internet just got a little louder, and for Filipino Americans, a whole lot more familiar. 

DreamWorks Animation released the official trailer for Forgotten Island on March 25, 2026, and it’s not just the animation that’s turning heads—it’s the jeepneys, the balisongs, and the unmistakable silhouette of a Manananggal soaring across the screen.

For a community that has long waited for its moment in the mainstream animation spotlight, this isn't just a movie; it’s a cultural milestone. Directed by Joel Crawford and FilAm animator Januel Mercado, the film is a love letter to Philippine folklore wrapped in a story about the one thing that binds the diaspora together: the bittersweet pain of leaving home.

“I was so excited. You have no idea. We were in the Philippines in 2019, and my mom was trying to scare us about all these stories. I literally grew up on them. I get to share a piece of my childhood in this work and with the world,” said Wilson (aka H.E.R.).

Soberano added, “It’s been a long-time dream of mine to be able to be in a project that really represented the Philippines in a very accurate way, but at the same time, is universal enough for people to be able to relate to.” She added, “To have Filipino culture showcased by a major studio is very exciting.”

"It Hits Different"

The excitement isn’t just about seeing familiar sights; it’s about hearing familiar voices. The film features a powerhouse cast led by Grammy-winner H.E.R. (voicing Jo) and Liza Soberano (voicing Raissa), who is making a name for herself in Hollywood and gaining the attention of producers and casting agents.

Wilson, who already has a Best Song Oscar for "Fight For You" in 2021) a Bay Area native, didn't hold back on what the feature film means for her and the Filipino American community.

"I’ve always wanted to be part of a project that showcases Filipinos and Filipino culture on a global scale," she told press at the trailer launch. "Growing up Filipino and Black... and always being loud and proud... but going other places and not necessarily seeing the representation... to see it in a film, it just hits different. It’s honestly so magical.

Liza Soberano, left, and H.E.R. provide the voices of the best friends in 'Forgotten Island.'

The film’s co-director, Januel Mercado, emphasized that while the creatures are fantastical, the heart of the story is grounded in the very real Filipino experience of separation best exemplfied by poor economic conditions forcing millions of Filipinos to seek employment in other countries. 

"We really thought about what the impact and value of those loved ones in your life is and how they contribute to the life you have and the person you become," Mercado explained.

A 'Who’s Who' of Filipino talent

It’s not just the leads. The credits read like a dream roster of Filipino excellence:

Lea Salonga as the Dreaded Manananggal (yes, the Disney Legend and beloved Broadway star) is playing the monster, and we are here for it).

Manny Jacinto (The Good Place), Dolly de Leon, (Triangle of Sadness), comedian Jo Koy (Easter Sunday), and Amielynn Abellera rounding out the supporting cast.

The feature is still in production, and the producers have been rather coy about the music. Speculation is that a yet-to-be announced song will feature either Salonga or H.E.R., or both of the stars.

        FYI: Click here to view trailer of 'Forgotten Island''

Social media has been buzzing since the trailer dropped. One fan on Threads summed up the collective mood: "Filipino culture portrayed in a way that feels real... not just the visuals or the representation, it's the story about identity, roots, & what it means to grow up between cultures. As a third culture kid, this one feels personal."

Here’s what’s echoing across the feeds:

Liza Soberano (the voice of Raissa) set the tone early, sharing her excitement on Instagram: "So beyond grateful and honored to be a part of this beautiful film... A dream come true to bring a story rooted in Filipino culture to the big screen with DreamWorks!"

The A’tin (SB19’s fandom) have turned the comment sections into a digital rally. One high-profile fan account posted: "DreamWorks, the vision is right there. We need SB19 on this soundtrack. The world needs to hear the P-pop sound on the Forgotten Island!"

Filipino-American creators are getting emotional over the visuals. As one TikTok culture commentator put it: "Seeing a literal jeepney in a high-budget DreamWorks movie feels like a fever dream in the best way possible. This isn't just a movie; it's a 'we were here' moment."

Film enthusiasts are also leaning into the technical pedigree. One popular YouTube film essayist noted: "Januel Mercado coming off 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish' to helm this? Expect the animation to be experimental, vibrant, and absolutely top-tier. Forgotten Island is the one to watch in 2026."

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. 

Filipino American Steve Lacy Moa wins his first Grammy

Steve Lacy Moya performs his hit song "Bad Habit" at the Grammys.

An Asian American musician and singer won his first Grammy Sunday evening. Steve Lacy Moya won a Grammy for Best Progressive R&B Album for his album "Gemini Rights."

The win for Best Progressive R&B Album marked Steve Lacy’s first-ever victory at the Grammy Awards. The Filipino American artist received two past nominations (for his work with his band, Internet) and three additional nominations at the 2023 Grammys. 

STEVE LACY MOA

Lacy was not so lucky in the other three categories he was nominated: Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Solo Performance. However, he did perform his hit song, “Bad Habit,” at the awards show,

Lacy is a 24-year-old, Filipino and Black, bisexual, singer, songwriter, guitarist, and producer born and raised in Compton, south of Los Angeles.

Other Grammy nominees of Asian descent, BTS, H.E.R., Nora Jones and Grayson Villanueva, did not win in their categories. It was the third straight year that the wildly popular K-pop group BTS was nominated for a Grammy but failed to win.

FYI: For a complete list of the Grammy winners and other highlights, click here.

Filipino American Olivia Rodrigo, who won a set of Grammys in 2022, did not have new songs or albums in 2022, but she made an appearance to present the Best New Artist award to Samara Joy.

During his monologue, host Trevor Noah surprised Adele by introducing Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson to her at her table. The British singer had earlier expressed that she's never met the Samoan American action star but he was the one celebrity she'd like to meet.

Later in the evening, Johnson presented Adele with the award for Best Solo Performance for her song "Easy on Me."

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news and views from an AANHPI perspective, follow @DioknoEd on Twitter.

Asian American artists up for Grammy awards

GABRIELLA SARMIENTO WILSON

Asian Americans will have a presence at today's Grammy awards despite the absence of perennial favorite, Filipino American Bruno Mars.

H.E.R., aka Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson, won't repeat last year's  feat when she won four Grammys. This year the Filipino American performer teamed up with Mary J. Blige for their recording "Good Morning Gorgeous," which was nominated for Record of the Year, Best R&B song and Album of the Year. H.E.R was also nominated for taking part in "Intimidated" with the DJ, Kaytranda, which received a nomination for Best Dance/Electronic Recording.

Another Filipino American, Steve Lacy, earned four nominations for his song "Bad Habit," the the categories of Best Progressive R&B Album, Best Pop Solo Performance. He will also go up against H.E.R. and Blige in the Record of the Year and Song of the Year categories.

Lacy will also be one of the performers for the awards show.

Grayson Villanueva's song "Nobody Like U," for the animated film Turning Red. was nominated for Best Song Written For Visual Media.

Indian American artist Nora Jones  had her album, “I Dream of Christmas (Extended),” nominated for Best Pop Album.

The immensely popular South Korean boy band BTS was nominated for the third straight year. This year the K-pop group was nominated in three categories: Album of the Year, Best Music Video and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.

For the past two years, BTS was nominated for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance but failed to win the recording industry's top recognition. It not certain that the seven-member group will attend the award ceremonies in Los Angeles.

Missing from this year's Grammys is Filipino American R&B performer Bruno Mars, who has won a total of 15 Grammys by himself and in partnership with Anderson Paak as Silk Sonic. He and Anderson Paak withdrew their hit album from Grammy consideration even though many thought it would be a top contender.

Olivia Rodrigo, the Filipino American songwriter and singer, who won three Grammys in 2022 including Best New Artist, will be among the presenters. Dwayne Johnson, one of Hollywood's most popular actors, will also be a presenter.

FYI: The 65th annual Grammy Awards will air exclusively on CBS on Sunday, beginning at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET. If you have cable (or an HDTV antenna), simply check your local listings for channel information to watch the show. The ceremony can also be streamed live by signing into CBS.com.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news and views from an AANHPI perspective, follow @DioknoEd on Twitter.

Filipino father and daughter to be featured in Beauty and the Beast television special

H.E.R. and Jon Jon Briones will be father and daughter in Beauty and the Beast.

When it was announced that H.E.R. would play Belle in the 30th anniversary of Beauty and the Beast, speculation began whether the singer's racial background would be part of the revamping of the children's classic. Would she be Black? Would she be Filipino? Would her race be buried in ambiguity?

We need wonder no more. The question was answered with the casting of Filipino American Broadway veteran Jon Jon Briones as Belle's father, Maurice.

“I love that this announcement came out during Filipino American History Month," said Briones. 

"A Filipina and a Filipino representing. And what an amazing and diverse cast! Plus my kids think I’m really cool to be playing @hermusicofficial‘s father!”

H.E.R., also known as Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson, takes on the lead role as Belle for the celebration. This will be the singer's first major acting role. However, she has been a known name in the music business for a while. She's already an accomplished performer with five Grammy awards, and also earned her first Oscar at the 2021 Academy Awards. It was Best Original Song for “Fight for You” from Judas and the Black Messiah.

In the Broadway musical version of Beauty and the Beast, Maurice became a major character and given a solo number as well as a duet with Belle.

Briones, whose main introduction to American audiences was in dramatic roles, is no stranger to musicals. He is one the original London cast member of Miss Saigon that first opened in 1989 at London's West End. The 57-year old actor started as part of the ensemble until he was able to play the lead role of the Engineer. He was nominated for the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 2014.

Briones is better known for his roles on various TV series such as The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, American Horror Story: Apocalypse, Ratched, Star Trek: Picard, Transformers: EarthSpark, and The Last Voyage of Demeter. He was also the voice of Hank/Xa-mul in Netflix’s Trese.

The 30th Anniversary of Beauty and the Beast  special was originally announced in July. Alongside a screening of the 1992 film, it will include never-before-seen live musical performances and features brand-new sets and costumes inspired by the classic story. Each live performance is created to pay homage while also adding to the iconic story.

Songs from the original animated classic will be performed in front of a live audience at Disney Studios, though the special itself will not be shot live. The special will air on ABC on Dec. 15 at 8 p.m. ET and will be available to stream the following day on Disney+.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news and views from an AANHPI perspective, follow @DioknoEd on Twitter.

The 25-year-old five-time Grammy winner H.E.R. (Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson in real life) couldn't believe she will be the first Afro-American-Filipino Belle. “I can’t believe I get to be a part of the Beauty and the Beast legacy. The world will see a Black and Filipino Belle! I have always wanted to be a Disney princess, and I get to work with two wonderful directors Hamish Hamilton and my favorite, Jon M. Chu. It is very surreal and I couldn’t be more grateful.” 

Ernesto Cloma Briones Jr., known as Jon Jon Briones, is one the original London cast member of Miss Saigon that first opened in 1989 at London's West End. The 57-year old actor started as part of the ensemble until he was able to play the lead role of the Engineer. He was nominated for the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 2014.

Briones is now known for his roles on various TV series such as The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, American Horror Story: Apocalypse, Ratched, Star Trek: Picard, Transformers: EarthSpark, and The Last Voyage of Demeter. He was also the voice of Hank/Xa-mul in Netflix’s Trese.

Jon Jon Briones, for his part, said: “I love that this announcement came out during Filipino American History Month. A Filipina and a Filipino representing. And what an amazing and diverse cast! Plus my kids think I’m really cool to be playing @hermusicofficial ‘s father!”

Grammy award show was one for the history books for Filipino Americans

Olivia Rodrigo won three Grammys in her first recording hits and album

UPDATED, April 5, 1 p.m. PDT to include Grammy winner Arooj Aftab.

It was a historic moment not lost by Filipino Americans. It may never happen again: two Filipino American acts opening a major awards show, but that's what happened when Bruno Mars and Olivia Rodrigo were the first two performances at the 64th Grammy Awards.

Asian American artists, especially Filipino Americans, made their presence felt at the Grammys, the music industry's major awards show.

In the first performance to get the show off to a lively start, Mars teamed up with Anderson Paak as Silk Sonic to do a raucous funky performance of "777" from their album giving the show an instant shot of energy and excitement. 

Even before the first award was announced, right after Silk Sonic's performance, Rodrigo followed, singing her highly emotive hit of teenage love and loss, "drivers license."

Host Trevor Noah didn't point out the Filipino American angle to the two opening acts, but every Filipino and Filipino American watching the show, and a good number of AANHPI viewers knew what just happened and the significance of having the Asian American artists open a show honoring musicians and singers.

The second Grammy award was presented to Olivia Rodrigo who won the highly coveted  Best New Artist category. Upon receiving the award, she said "This is my biggest dream come true," thanking her collaborators for their help in launching her recording career.

BTS, whose hit "Butter" was nominated in Best Pop Group or Duo Performance, was the third musical act, further stamping an Asian impact on the awards show.  The K-pop group wowed the audience with their choreography and singing and drew gasps from fans and a Twitter explosion when V, who began the BTS performance in the audience, playfully flirted with  Rodrigo.

What was BTS member V whispering to Olivia Rodrigo?

Another milestone was achieved when H.E.R., aka Gabrielle Sarmiento Wilson, was the third Filipino American act to perform at the Grammy's highlighted by a scintillating rocking guitar duet with Lenny Kravitz.

Mars and Paak, as Silk Sonic won the first night's Grammy for Record of the Year for their hit "Leave the Door Open," which also won three more  Grammys for Song of the Year, Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song.

When Silk Sonic won their fourth Grammy for the night, .Paak couldn't contain himself. “We are really trying our hardest to remain humble at this point,” .Paak effused. “But in the industry, we call that a clean sweep.”

Nineteen-year old Rodrigo, as many predicted, won the prestigious Best New Artist Grammy after breaking into the recording business in January of 2021 with her chart-topper "drivers license," the first of her several Top 10 hits.

Rodrigo, who prefers to be known for her song writing, also won Best Pop Solo Performance and her debut album, "Sour" won Best Pop Vocal Album. 

Filipino Americans won Grammys Sunday. From left, Olivia Rodrigo, Bruno Mars and H.E.R.

"I really wanna dedicate this award to my parents," Olivia said while accepting the  Best Pop Vocal Album Grammy. "When I was 9 years old, I told my mom I wanted to be a gymnast even though I could barely do a cartwheel. She thought I was joking, but I was super defensive. So the next week when I told her I was going to win a Grammy, she was very supportive even though she probably thought it was just a little kid pipe dream. But I want to thank my mom for being supportive of my dreams no matter how crazy. And I want to thank my mom and dad for being equally as proud of me for winning a Grammy as they were when I learned how to do a back walkover."

In an interview prior to the Grammy broadcast, H.E.R.,who earlier was awarded the Grammy for Best R&B Performance for her song "Fight For You," gave a shoutout to "fellow Filipino" Rodrigo.

"She's one of those authentic artist who writes what she feels," said H.E.R. about Rodrigo, "I love that about her."

Besides the Filipino American winners, other AANHPI Grammy winners include:

• The Best Regional Roots Music Album Grammy went to Native Hawaiian artist Kalani Pe'a for "Kau Ka Pe'a."

• Pakistani American vocalist Arooj Aftab scored a Grammy, for her song "Mohabbat" in the Best Global Performance category.

The TV cameras kept drifting to the artists sitting in the front row and the viewers got a heavy dose of Rodrigo, H.E.R. and Silk Sonic reacting to their awards and the performances of other artists. They were sitting near each other, perhaps a table apart and could be seen in the background cheering as the others were being interviewed or when the cameras zoomed in on a winner.

Filipino American rapper Saweetie was interviewed on the Red Carpet by E's Laverne Cox. Saweetie, 28, reflected on the whirlwind success she's had in recent months and got emotional as Cox reminded her that in 2020, Saweetie said her career goal was to make it to music's biggest night.

"Girl, don't make me cry," Saweetie, who was nominated for Best New Artist and Best Rap Song, a collaboration with Doja Cat. "Don't make me cry! Yes [I imagined I'd find success] but I didn't know it would happen this quick."

BTS, Saweetie, Nora Jones, Elle King and Japanese Breakfast were the other AANHPI artists nominated in various Grammy categories.

Filipinos, perhaps the most plugged-in ethnic group in the world, were all atwitter for the Grammys:

Mars' four Grammys give him 15 trophies that he has won making him the winningest Filipino American recording artist. The Hawaii-raised Mars tied Paul Simon as the only artist to win record of the year three times. Mars won with his own “24K Magic” in 2018 and in duet with Mark Ronson on “Uptown Funk” in 2016.

The first Filipino American to win a Grammy was Larry Ramos, who was one of the leaders of the folk group, the New Christy Minstrels in 1962.

The big winner for the night was Jon Batiste, walking away with five Grammys. He  for Album of the Year for "We Are."  

Click here for a complete list of Grammy winners.

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