NU107: The Home of New Rock in the 90s

NU107: The Home of New Rock in the 90s

If you were growing up in the Philippines in the 90s and you had a deep love for rock music, then you probably know about NU107 — the iconic radio station that became the home of rock during that unforgettable era. It wasn’t just a radio station; it was a cultural landmark that shaped the soundscape of a generation, providing a platform for both Filipino and international rock bands.

As a 90s kid, turning the dial to NU107 was almost a ritual. It was where we heard the best rock tracks, discovered new bands, and felt connected to a community of people who lived and breathed rock 'n' roll. Let’s take a closer look at why NU107 became the “Home of Rock” in the 90s and how it left an indelible mark on Filipino music.

The 90s was a golden era for Filipino rock music, and NU107 was at the center of it all. Local bands were making waves with their new sound, and NU107 was there, playing their music and helping them build a loyal fanbase. The station not only played mainstream rock acts but also championed underground, indie, and alternative bands, giving them the exposure they needed to reach wider audiences.

One of the key moments for NU107 was the launch of the NU107 Rock Awards in 1994, which became the Filipino equivalent of the Grammy Awards for rock bands. It was a defining moment for the rock scene, as it recognized and celebrated the achievements of local rock musicians. The awards gave Filipino bands a sense of validation and pride, showing the world that Filipino rock was something to be taken seriously.

Performance by:

Sanwich - Butterfly Carnival

Greyhoundz - Mr. P.I.G.

Slaphocks - Agent Orange

Cheese - 10x Karma

Wolgang - Weighless

Razorback - Payaso

Yano - Cono Ka Pre

Eraserhead - Alapaap

The Influence of NU107 on Filipino Youth Culture

For many Filipino youth in the 90s, NU107 wasn’t just a radio station. It was a cultural hub. It gave young people a sense of identity, especially for those who didn’t quite fit into the mainstream pop culture at the time. NU107 was the voice of the counterculture — the ones who were drawn to rebellious sounds and lyrics that expressed frustration, freedom, and individuality.

Listening to NU107 was more than just tuning in to hear your favorite song; it was about being part of a movement. You were part of a community that loved rock music — and that’s exactly what NU107 fostered: a sense of belonging. Fans would tune in every day, discuss their favorite bands, and share their passion for the genre on fan forums or during rock gigs, many of which were promoted by the station.

Performance by:
Teeth - Laklak
The Youth - Porcelana
Eletrikoolaid - Bahala Ka Na 
Orphanlily - Paikot-ikot
Color It Red - Hand Painted Sky
Sugar Hiccup - Monde De
Siakol - Lakas Tama
Parokya Ni Edgar - Halaga

The Legacy of NU107

Unfortunately, like many great things, NU107 came to an end in 2010, after over two decades of changing the music scene. The station had seen its fair share of transformations, but by the time it signed off, its place in Philippine rock history was solidified. It was the station that created the foundation for the Filipino rock movement of the 90s and beyond, and its influence is still felt today.

Even after its closure, NU107 continues to live on in the hearts and minds of rock fans who remember it as the home where they discovered their favorite music, witnessed the rise of Filipino rock, and shared unforgettable moments with like-minded individuals. It was more than just a station; it was a symbol of a vibrant, passionate, and ever-evolving music scene.

Listen to "Songs From NU107's In The Raw" a compilation of Various Artist from 1999.