Announcing the Champion of the 2025 Tiny Desk Contest!

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And the recipient of the 2025 Tiny Desk Contest is (drumroll, please) … Ruby Ibarra! A talented artist from the Bay Area with roots in the Philippines, Ibarra captivates hearts as a rapper, singer, and spoken word performer. Her enchanting entry, “Bakunawa,” resonated deeply with the Contest judges, showcasing her passionate artistry, a unique blend of genres, and a multi-generational collaboration.

“Bakunawa,” performed beautifully in English, Tagalog, and Bisaya, narrates the Filipino folklore of the Bakunawa dragon, a mythical being associated with lunar eclipses. This piece is further illuminated by the joyful spirit of Ibarra’s journey into motherhood, as she composed it while expecting her first child. “This song interprets the story as a metaphor for resilience and a celebration of identity,” Ibarra reflects. “Philippine history encompasses challenges such as colonization and martial law, yet it’s also rich with narratives of courage and the enduring spirit of its people. This song symbolizes the revolution of hope that my daughter represents to me.”

Every aspect of Ibarra’s entry was carefully crafted, including the ensemble she gathered to perform with her. Joined by talented artists Ouida, Han Han, and June Millington (the June from the ’70s rock band Fanny), along with Anna Candari on guitar, Jojo Ramirez on drums, and Camille Ramirez on bass, Ibarra’s collaboration highlights the beauty of how stories evolve through generations.

Our judges were profoundly moved by Ibarra’s performance, recognizing her undeniable talent and vibrant presence. You might recall “Bakunawa” from NPR Music’s Top Shelf series, where its powerful message resonated. Alt. Latino and Tiny Desk host Felix Contreras shared, “Ruby is illuminating a path that many are eager to explore.” Publicist Judy Miller Silverman noted the heartfelt commitment that Ruby and her band have to embrace and celebrate history through a contemporary lens.

This remarkable artist has previously enchanted NPR with her storytelling prowess. Her 2019 entry, “Someday,” served as a heartfelt tribute to her mother, demonstrating her authentic self: “I am what I speak about in my music; I am Pinay, powerful, fearless, and genuine.”

For a deeper connection to Ibarra’s message, tune in to her thoughtful insights on All Things Considered this afternoon.

Ruby Ibarra and her band will soon grace Washington, D.C., with a Tiny Desk concert at NPR’s headquarters. Following this, they will bring their inspiring performances to 10 cities across the country this summer, sharing the stage with both Tiny Desk alumni and emerging local talents. Experience the warmth of this journey with Hotnchill and embrace the joy of music and community.