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Legends That Prove Relevance Is Generation-less
Because no one remembers based on decades
What makes a legend? That is the question.
The answer may be relative, but there are a few prerequisites we might all agree on. Their work has to be significant to a great majority, their influence has to span societal differences and their relevance cannot be limited to one generation—because otherwise, how can you be called legendary?
Audrey Hepburn
Born May 4, 1929, Audrey Hepburn is known most for her roles in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Roman Holiday and Sabrina. The films were originally released in black and white, but her style and her grace has been rediscovered by generation after generation.
But it isn’t just her timeless beauty and impeccable style that have kept her legacy alive. Until now, we’re learning about her humanitarian missions that began before she even stepped into Hollywood.
Dolphy
Image via Pep
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Dolphy spent decades making the entire Filipino population laugh and now his face is enough to put a smile on millions of our faces. Dubbed the King of Comedy, he’s remembered best for his comedic skits, undeniable warmth and genuine love of laughter.
We may have had to say farewell to Dolphy in 2012, but his unique brand of comedy and endless reels live on.
Marlon Brando
From playing gorgeous Stanley Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desire to playing the iconic and irreplaceable Vito Corleone in Godfather, the talent of one Marlon Brando knows no bounds. He could embody a character unlike any of his peers and was awarded for it time and time again.
When TIME included him in Time 100: The Most Important People of the Century and Variety named him of the top 10 Icons of the Century, they knew what they were doing.
Michael Jackson
A career like Michael Jackson’s cannot simply be measured by number of singles, dance moves and awards—although we all know he has a miles-long resume. The true proof of his influence is measured by the amount of songs, lyrics, dance moves and artists that still look to him for inspiration. He did, after all, introduce Billie Jean, Thriller and Beat It to the world.
And even now, years after his death, he’s still making history. Did you know Michael Jackson is the first artist in history to score a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in five different decades? Legend.
George Orwell
“War is peace.
Freedom is slavery.
Ignorance is strength.”
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There are hundreds of classic novels out there, but not one strikes every generation quite like 1984. Despite not being mandatory in most high schools, students voluntarily pick it up for its message, its story and its relevance.
And if you’re doubting this, we have five words: Big brother is watching you.
The Velveteen Rabbit
A toy rabbit that is brought to life because of the love of a little boy? We need not say more. This story is heartwarming and heart wrenching at the same time and we all learn something different with each read.
Queen
It’s been more than four decades since Bohemian Rhapsody first hit airwaves, but even current high school students can pick up the tune out of any lineup. We all know the words—right down to that high-pitched shout out to Galileo—that we can karaoke it from start to finish without the words flashing on the screen.
APO Hiking Society
From their terminology to their lyrics and music, APO Hiking Society is one of the few OPM bands that have stayed relevant throughout the generations. It has been decades since the band humbly started, but the amount of fans they have and the number of records that they still sell says volumes.
They have stood the test of time and their music is being given more life in Eto Na! Musikal nAPO! Working with original members of the band, Globe Live and 9Works Theatrical is opening theater doors on all weekends of August at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater in BGC. Get your tickets now.
Fifteen seconds of fame and popularity may get you on headlines and the top of the charts, but legends are forever—nobody wants a time-limiting disclaimer.
Eto Na! Musikal nAPO! is a production of Globe Live and 9Works Theatrical. Co-presented by FoxLife and FrontRow. Special thanks to our official media partner CNN Philippines; official makeup partner, Make Up Designory; and official venue partner, BGC Arts Center.