Bing Austria, Filipino Ska and Soul Stalwart, Dies at 62

Veteran Filipino musician Bing Austria has passed away. He was 62.

Austria’s family confirmed the news through his Facebook page, sharing that the musician had died after battling sepsis in the ICU. His passing marks the loss of one of the Philippine music scene’s most distinctive and deeply rooted figures — an artist whose work moved through reggae, ska, soul, mod, and live band culture with unmistakable style.

For many listeners, Austria’s name is tied to several important chapters in Filipino music. He played keyboards for the reggae band Tropical Depression and became part of the seminal ska group Put3ska, one of the bands that helped bring ska’s sound and energy to a wider local audience in the 1990s.

He later became the frontman of Juan Pablo Dream, a band remembered for its soul, mod, and Motown-inspired sound. Through songs like “Nice Place,” Austria brought warmth, groove, and character to a corner of OPM that felt both nostalgic and freshly alive. He would later continue that soul-driven direction through Flippin’ Soul Stompers.

Beyond those bands, Austria also remained active through projects such as Todo Pasa and High Targets, continuing to perform, collaborate, and stay connected to the community that had long embraced him. His musical life was never limited to one genre or one era. He was a keyboardist, vocalist, songwriter, DJ, performer, and tastemaker — the kind of musician whose presence could be felt not only on recordings, but in gigs, scenes, and shared memories.

Tributes from fellow musicians and listeners have since poured in, reflecting the affection and respect Austria earned across decades in the local music community.

Bing Austria’s legacy lives in the grooves he played, the bands he helped shape, and the scenes he helped keep alive. In Philippine music, some artists are remembered for hits. Others are remembered for the worlds they helped build.

Bing Austria did both.

Rest in peace, Bing Austria.