Rhap Salazar (born February 3, 1997) is a Filipino singer and former child actor. He is known for his live performances and original songs, including "Barely Breathing" (2022) and "Won't Change" (2023). Fluent in both English and Filipino, Rhap grew up in Pinamalayan, before relocating to Metro Manila to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. He is most recognized for his role of Max in ABS-CBN's Luv U. In his music career, Rhap draws inspiration from Sam Smith, Ben Platt, Beyoncé, and Whitney Houston.^[1]

Career

In 2005, Rhap appeared on Little Big Star, alongside host Sarah Geronimo. Rhap won first place in the Little Division Grand Finalists at the age of 8.

In 2009, Rhap was selected to perform "Galing ng Pinoy" by Western Union, a song dedicated to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).^[2] In the same year, he represented the Philippines at the 13th World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Los Angeles. He led the Philippine delegation at the grand parade of nations and went on to become the third consecutive Filipino to earn the coveted title, Junior Grand Champion Performer of the World.^[1][3] He also won Junior Grand Champion Solo Vocalist of the World.^[4] Apart from taking home top honors, Rhap won five gold medals in World Championships of Performing Arts’ junior division, in the vocal categories of Broadway, gospel, open, pop, and R&B.^[1] He appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show later that year at the age of 12.^[1][5]

In 2010, Rhap received the “Ani ng Dangal” award from President Arroyo in a simple ceremony held at the Malacañang Palace. A total of 41 artists in various fields were recognized with trophies sculpted by national artist Abdul Imam.^[6] That same year, Rhap tied for first place in the 2010 Awit Awards in the category “Best Performance by a New Male Recording Artist" ^[7]

A year later, Rhap was invited to perform at Cebu Institute of Technology - University to serenade contestants in Lakambini 2011.^[8] In the same year, he performed at the Waterfront Cebu Hotel.

In 2012, Rhap performed with Jake Zyrus and Iyaz at the Waterfront Cebu Hotel with Little Big Star alumni Sam Concepcion, Makisig Morales, Kyle Balili, and Gian Barbarona.^[9]

In 2013, Rhap joined his Luv U castmates to celebrate the centennial of Pasig Catholic College.^[10][11] Later that year, Rhap performed at the Tacloban City Convention Center to a sold out venue of 4,500 fans.^[12]

In 2015, Rhap partnered with four other former WCOPA medalists and winners to form the group 5thGen. Aside from Rhap (who competed in 2009), the members include Rose Marielle Mamaclay, Reymond Sajor, Reydan "RJ" Buenagua, and Lady Dayana Onnagan.^[13] Under 5thGen, the group released their hit song, “Contagious”^[14] and performed at EuroPop 2016 Gala Night held in Berlin, Germany.^[15]

In 2017, Rhap performed his single “Now or Never” live at YouTube’s FanFest event in Manila.^[16] Later that same year, a student asked him via Twitter if he would sing at their Science Summit Camp. He surprised the students at City of Mandaluyong Science High School with a live performance during their acoustic night.

In May 2019, Rhap performed Calum Scott's "You Are The Reason" at LoveYourself PH's “Love Gala: Courage Amplified” fundraiser.^[17] Love Gala 2019 was a charity event held in Quezon City, dedicated to supporting HIV awareness and education.^[18] LoveYourself PH, the organization behind the event, is a community of volunteers that provides free HIV testing, counseling, treatment, and life coaching in the Philippines.^[19] Later that year, Rhap became a finalist on It's Showtime's singing competition, Tawag ng Tanghalan Celebrity Champions.^[20]

In 2021, Rhap returned to ABS-CBN's It's Showtime as the hidden celebrity performer on “Hide and Sing!”.^[21][22]

In April 2023, Rhap performed for Sam Smith’s album release party of Gloria on “ALL ACCESS: Sam Smith The Glor-Yacht Party” in Pasay, alongside drag queen Eva Le Queen.^[23] Later that year, Rhap performed at LoveYourself’s Pride Night, where he sang a medley of songs.^[24][25]

In December 2023, Rhap was awarded "Outstanding TikTok LIVE Singer," at TikTok PH's Creators' Night. The event was hosted in Manila with a Black and White Avant-garde theme.

He performed on both the Wish USA bus in Los Angeles, California and its Philippines counterpart, the Wish 107.5 bus (extensions of Wish 107.5 FM).

Filmography

Endorsement/Commercial

• Lucky Me Pancit Canton (2007)

Discography

Personal life

Rhap started singing at the age of 3.^[26] Recognizing his interest, his parents relocated to Metro Manila so he could pursue his singing career. Currently, he enjoys traveling all over the world, and has spent time in Redlands, Bangkok, Maldives,^[27] London,^[26] and Berlin.

Rhap has an older sister, two younger brothers, and a younger sister. As of December 2023, Rhap has 8 tattoos and 8 cats.

While he loves all culinary experiences, his comfort food is Filipino spaghetti.

Official Accounts

• Facebook
• TikTok
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Twitter
• Threads
• Apple Music
• SoundCloud
• Official Website

References