Extended Bio

SallieMae (they/them) is a queer Filipinx singer/songwriter with a passion for storytelling through sweet melodies and intentional words. Through contemporary tastes of Pop, R&B/Soul, and Original Pinoy Music (also known as OPM), SallieMae takes on familiar themes of profound love, longing, reflection, and adoration. Their lyrics are crafted to inspire, uplift, and share the experiences of people like them - wanting to be seen, heard, understood, and celebrated. 

In July 2025, SallieMae’s debut EP “SIMULA,” translated from Tagalog meaning “new beginnings,” was released and gave a vulnerable and loving look into the learning, healing, and growth they experienced in their 20s. SallieMae says, “Each song in this EP was written at turning points in my life. Using my songwriting to write about my experience allowed me to process and reflect, hold onto the lessons I learned, let go of whatever emotions weren’t serving me, and move forward with confidence and a growth mindset.” From getting into the groove of figuring out their creative identity in “Rhythm and Rhyme,” to reflecting on the growth in their mental health journey in “Grateful,” SallieMae’s storytelling has the ability to vividly paint a detailed picture.

SallieMae’s music takes inspiration from artists like Raquel Rodriguez, Moorea Masa, Melissa Polinar, Ben&Ben, Rina Sawayama, and Chappell Roan. As they raise their voice by curating meaningful sounds and spaces for self expression, SallieMae lives their truth through their music: loud, proud, unapologetically as they are.