For many, music is a passion. For Dessa Salazar, it became her lifeline — a thread that wove her story from humble beginnings in the Philippines to international stages, and eventually to a fulfilling life in the United States.
Born the youngest in a family that frequently moved from one rented home to another, Dessa learned early what resilience meant. “We never had our own house,” she said, recalling her father’s work as a government employee and her mother’s dedication as a homemaker. Despite the uncertainty, there was always room for music — and a little girl who loved to sing.
Even as a child, she carried a sense of responsibility far beyond her years. “At a young age, I was able to help my family by joining singing contests,” she recalled. “I would always win—but lose sometimes too.”
Music wasn’t her only passion then. “Dancing was my first love,” she shared, “but I also loved singing and performing in front of people.” Even as a child, she would represent her school at programs and sing the national anthem during flag ceremonies. Little did she know that those small stages would prepare her for some of the biggest in the world.
From Barangay Contests to Global Competitions
Dessa’s early years were filled with countless singing contests — local, regional, even provincial. “Me and my mom would always look for contests in all of the barangays or villages — even provinces,” she said with a laugh. “Mang-uutang pa kami ng mommy ko para may pamasahe at pambili ng biscuits at inumin baon namin.”
Those journeys with her mother were more than competitions; they were acts of faith. And that faith paid off.
What began as a local dream eventually took flight. Dessa represented the Philippines in several international competitions, including The Voice of Asia in Russia in 1993, where she received the highest award. From there, doors opened—TV guestings, concerts, and opportunities to share the stage as a front act for international stars such as Patti Austin, Bryan Adams, and Lisa Stansfield.
Love, Loss, and the Songs That Stay
Dessa shares that the songs she’s recorded carry deep meaning. “Saan Ka Man Naroroon” from her Respect album holds a special place in her heart — it was played during her father’s funeral. Another favorite, “Lipad Ng Pangarap,” speaks about chasing dreams and the bittersweet struggle of being away from loved ones — a sentiment many overseas Filipinos know too well.
Through her songs, Dessa has always sung her truth — one of strength, loss, and the unending pursuit of hope.
New Beginnings in the U.S.
Dessa’s move to the United States wasn’t planned. “Nothing really inspired me to move,” she admitted with a laugh. “I had a lot going on career-wise in the Philippines.” But life had other plans.
Pregnant with her second child, she decided to give birth in America. The move, initially meant to be temporary, became permanent. She filed her residency papers, petitioned her daughter to join her, and eventually became a U.S. citizen. “I sacrificed my career in the Philippines and stayed here for good,” she said. “I still go back and forth, but I’m not really active in show business there anymore.”
Though she’s no longer active in Philippine show business, Dessa remains a sought-after performer for concerts and community events across the U.S. She continues to share her voice while juggling roles as a mother, entrepreneur, and wife. “Before, it was hard balancing everything,” she said. “But now my kids are grown—my eldest is an ER nurse, and my youngest is an aspiring musician. So it’s easier to focus on music again.”
Faith and family remain the anchors of her life. “My kids and I went through a lot of hardships, but my husband helped me get through it. We don’t have a perfect marriage, but we always try to work things out with the help of God. That’s very important.”
Asked about her biggest challenge, Dessa didn’t hesitate: becoming a single mother before finding love again. “Prayers and faith in God helped me overcome everything,” she said.
Proudly Pinoy, Wherever She Sings
Despite her success abroad, Dessa’s heart never left home. She continues to perform for Filipino communities and fundraising events that support causes in the Philippines. “I always try to sing OPM songs in every show,” she shared. “Just to show that my heart is still Pinoy. Hindi kailangang kalimutan kung saan ka nanggaling.”
Her story reminds us that success isn’t just measured in awards or fame—it’s in surviving the hardships and emerging stronger. When asked about her most meaningful moment, Dessa’s answer was simple yet profound: “Surviving the hardships in life.”
Faith, Dreams, and the Road Ahead
With more concerts lined up and a renewed passion for performing, Dessa says she’s simply grateful. “I’m thankful to have my God-given talent, which I get to share with people worldwide,” she said.
To aspiring artists, especially those carving their paths abroad, her message is full of hope: “Never stop dreaming. Always have faith in God. Believe in your dreams. Be kind, be determined, and be strong always—ignore the haters and bashers,” she said with a laugh. “Sometimes I patol though!”
If she could speak to her younger self, Dessa would offer a reminder that has guided her through every triumph and trial:
“Be tough and give your best always.”
And that’s exactly what she’s done—proving that true artistry isn’t just about having a beautiful voice, but having the strength, heart, and faith to keep singing no matter where life takes you.
