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Sitti Katrina Baiddin Navarro-Ramirez (born November 29, 1984[1] in Las Piñas), known professionally as Sitti, is a Filipino bossa nova singer.[2] After releasing her first album, Café Bossa, in 2006, other bossa nova acts in the Philippines followed.[3] Navarro was also featured in the segment "A.S.A.P. Sessionistas" of the variety show ASAP.[4]

Early life

[edit]

Sitti Navarro was born to lawyer Rolando Navarro and Lydia Baiddin, in Las Piñas, Philippines. Sitti is of Sama and Tausūg descent. She identifies herself as being Jama Mapun (Sama Kagayan), one of the Sama-Bajau subgroups in Tawi-Tawi.[5] She graduated from the University of the Philippines Diliman in April 2005 with a degree in Business Economics and was a dean's lister at said university.[6] In high school, she was editor-in-chief of the school paper and graduated as valedictorian of her class at Saint Francis of Assisi College, Las Piñas Campus.[1]

In college, she was an active member of the AIESEC Local Committee where she was the Vice President for Outgoing Exchange from 2003 to 2004.[7] She was also a member of the Organization of Business Economics Majors (OBEM) in UP Diliman.[citation needed]

Sitti has won two beauty pageant awards: the title of Miss Visayas 2001 in the Miss Travel Girl Pageant, and the first runner-up in the search for "Miss Silka" where she was also named Miss Friendship and Best in Swimwear.[1]

Musical career

[edit]

Sitti has been performing since the age of 16.[1][8] In 2004, MTV Philippines started MTV Supahstar: D' Super Search, where Sitti was one of the winners.[9] She also appeared in the group's music videos. It led to her recording contract.[citation needed]

Her debut album, Café Bossa, was released in 2006.[3] Four songs have been released': "Tattooed on My Mind", a remake of the D'Sound hit; "Hey Look at the Sun", "I Didn't Know I Was Looking for Love", and "Para sa Akin". A live album, Sitti Live!, was released in late 2006, and Café Bossa was re-released with a VCD in 2007.

Sitti collaborated with Club Myx to release Sitti in the Mix - The Dense Modesto Remixes, a collection of songs from Café Bossa that were made into dance-electronica songs with the help of DJ Dense Modesto, in mid-2007, before the release of her second album My Bossa Nova, which focuses on more recent songs. My Bossa Nova was re-released in mid-2008 with a VCD of Sitti Live! 2 called My Bossa Nova Live! and is now a certified Platinum album at the moment.

In 2008, Sitti released her first Christmas album, Ngayong Pasko. Unlike her past albums, this album is purely a cover versions album with only one original song, the carrier single and title of the album, Ngayong Pasko. This album also has reached the Gold status in less than a month after its release.[citation needed]

Sitti collaborated with singer Christian Bautista for his album Captured for a duet of the song of the same title. They once again collaborated for Sitti's Christmas album on the song "Baby It's Cold Outside".

In 2009, Sitti released her third studio album entitled "Contagious", which contains an original which was also the carrier single, "Is This Love", co-penned by Andrew Fromm, who also penned Christian Bautista's hit song, "The Way You Look at Me".

On March 8, 2012, she released her fifth studio album, Sessions, which spawned two singles; "Sino'ng Mag-aakala" and "Wag Mo Na Munang Sabihin". The album allowed her to experiment with other genres apart from bossa nova.

In the first Tokyo-Manila Jazz and Arts Festival, Sitti announced that her record label's Japanese branch will release one of her albums there, and that the label will decide on its release date.[10] The album, released in May 2012 on iTunes and in October 2012 on stores, entitled Bossa Covers.

In 2013, she participated in the Philippines' highly esteemed Elements National Music Camp, where she was mentored by the likes of Ryan Cayabyab, Joey Ayala, and Gary Granada.

On June 25, 2013, it was announced that she will be entering the second Philippine Popular Music Festival as an interpreter with Julianne Tarroja for the song called "Pansamantagal" written by Jungee Marcelo.[11]

Television work

[edit]

Sitti was also co-host of Pinoy Big Brother Season 2 on Studio 23, alongside Asia Agcaoili, ending with the victory of Beatriz Saw.

She ventured into acting in Judy Ann Santos' primetime teleserye, Ysabella, where she portrayed Tere, an aspiring lounge singer. Sitti was featured in ABS-CBN's Your Song, where her song "Ikaw Lamang" was the single for the episode she acted in with Sam Milby.

She also had a few hosting stints in Studio 23 such as Pinoy Dream Academy and Travel Time.[citation needed]

Sitti is currently a semi-regular on ABS-CBN's top-rating Sunday variety show, ASAP '09. She appears on a segment called ASAP Sessionistas together with MYMP, Aiza Seguerra, Nina, Richard Poon and Duncan Ramos.

Stage acting

[edit]

Sitti was part of Katy! The Musical which was staged on December 27, 2008 at Harbor Garden Tent Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila wherein she played as Mary Walter. Alongside her was KC Concepcion, Jericho Rosales, Mitch Valdez, Dulce, Eugene Villaluz, Rachel Alejandro, Bituin Escalante, Jonalyn Viray, Aicelle Santos, Maricris Garcia, Frenchie Dy, Gian Magdangal, Gab Valenciano and Jennylyn Mercado.[6]

In 2009, Sitti played the role of "Martha" in the Philippine staging of the Tony Award-winning, 19th century stage drama Spring Awakening from Atlantis Productions. Spring Awakening was directed by Chari Arespacochaga and features the set design of Tuxqs Rutaquio, choreography by Dexter Santos, costume design by Rajo Laurel, lights design by Voltaire de Jesus and musical direction by Jojo Malferari.[6]

Personal life

[edit]

She is married to Joey Ramirez and has two daughters. She is a practicing Christian. [citation needed]

Discography

[edit]

Albums

[edit]

Studio albums

[edit]
Year Album details Certifications
(sales thresholds)
2006 Café Bossa
2007 My Bossa Nova
  • Released: August 24, 2007
  • Label: Warner Music Philippines
  • Format: CD, digital download, streaming
2008 Ngayong Pasko
  • Released: October 30, 2008
  • Label: Warner Music Philippines
  • Format: CD, digital download, streaming
2009 Contagious
  • Released: June 26, 2009
  • Label: Warner Music Philippines
  • Format: CD, digital download, streaming
2011 Sessions
  • Released: March 4, 2011
  • Label: Warner Music Philippines
  • Format: CD, digital download, streaming
2012 Bossa Covers
  • Released: 2012
  • Label: Warner Music Philippines
  • Format: CD, digital download, streaming
2014 Bossa Love
  • Released: January 18, 2014
  • Label: MCA Music
  • Format: CD, digital download, streaming

Live albums

[edit]
Year Album details Certifications
2006 Sitti Live!
  • Released: September 15, 2006
  • Label: Warner Music Philippines
  • Format: CD, digital download, streaming
2008 My Bossa Nova Live!
  • Released: 2008
  • Label: Warner Music Philippines
  • Format: CD, digital download, streaming

Remix albums

[edit]
Year Album details
2007 Sitti in the Mix: The Dense Modesto Remixes
  • Released: 2007
  • Label: Warner Music Philippines, Club Myx
  • Format: CD, digital download, streaming

Singles

[edit]
  • "Para sa Akin" (2006) (also covered by Jason Dhakal)

Filmography

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2006 ASAP Herself 2006—present
Pinoy Dream Academy (season 1) Herself Studio 23 host
2007 Pinoy Big Brother (season 2) Herself Studio 23 host
Ysabella Tere Recurring role
2009 Squalor Indie film
2010 Showtime Herself Guest judge
2012 Angelito: Ang Bagong Yugto Susan Samaniego Special Guest
2016 Unang Hirit Herself Guest Performer

Awards

[edit]
Year Award Giving Body Category Nominated Work Results
2006 MTV Pilipinas Music Awards Favorite New Artist in a Video "Para Sa Akin" Won[14]
2007 MYX Music Awards Favorite Female Artist — Nominated[15]
2008 GMMSF Box-Office Entertainment Awards Female Recording Artist of the Year — Won[16]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Sitti

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Sitti Katrina Baiddin Navarro-Ramirez (born November 29, 1984), known professionally as Sitti, is a Filipino and singer of Samal and Tausug descent. Based in , she is renowned for her smooth, soothing interpretations of standards and original pop-infused tracks, earning her the title of the ' "Queen of ." Born in Las Piñas, Metro Manila, Sitti graduated with a degree in Business Economics from the University of the Philippines Diliman in 2005. Identifying as Jama Mapun from Tawi-Tawi, she began her public career in pageants, winning Miss Visayas in the 2001 Miss Travel Girl Pageant and Miss Friendship along with Best in Swimwear at the Miss Silka pageant. Her entry into music came in 2004 when she won a spot in MTV Philippines' MTV Supahstar: D' Super Search, which led to a recording contract and marked the start of her professional singing career. Sitti's debut album, Café Bossa (2006), achieved double platinum status in the and established her signature style through covers of hits like "." Signed to and later MCA, she released subsequent albums including My (2007), Sitti & Friends Unplugged (2008), Contagious (2009), Bossa Love (2014), and Electro Sitti (2018), blending traditional with contemporary pop and electronic elements. Throughout her career, she has performed at bars, corporate events, international shows, and television appearances, while also hosting programs such as Season 2, , and Travel Time. In addition to music, Sitti has ventured into , appearing in the 2009 film and various television soap operas. She married Joey Ramirez in May 2015, adopting the hyphenated surname Navarro-Ramirez. Continuing to release music and share her passion for songwriting, Sitti remains a prominent figure in Philippine entertainment, with approximately 442,000 monthly listeners on as of November 2025.

Early years

Childhood and family background

Sitti Katrina Baiddin Navarro, known professionally as Sitti, was born on November 29, 1984, in , , , to a family of mixed heritage. Her father was a , while her mother served as a catechist in their local Catholic community. Sitti is of Sama and Tausūg descent and identifies culturally as Jama Mapun, reflecting her family's roots in southern Philippine Muslim communities despite their Christian upbringing. Raised in the urban neighborhood of San Antonio Valley 7 in , Sitti grew up in a traditional Catholic household centered around faith and community involvement, attending Sunday masses and participating in religious events like and salubong processions. The family environment was marked by strong religious ties, with close connections to priests and church friends, and Sitti's mother playing a key role in fostering this devotion through her work. However, the family dynamics were complicated by its broken structure; Sitti has described coming from a blended with two half-siblings on her mother's side and seven on her father's side, though she had not met two of her paternal half-siblings at the time of a 2015 interview. She first met her father in April 2011, shortly before his death in November 2011. During her early years, Sitti's upbringing included early exposure to within the church and school settings, beginning around age six when she joined the chapel choir in , where she sang at weekly masses and learned through group practices. This religious musical environment laid the initial foundation for her vocal interests, which later evolved into a professional career in and . No significant relocations within during her elementary years are documented in available accounts.

Education and early influences

Sitti Navarro attended in , where she excelled academically, achieving status in preschool and second honorable mention in grade school. For secondary education, she enrolled at Saint Francis of Assisi College in , serving as of the school paper and participating in contests, including a first-place win in her second year for performing "You Light Up My Life." She graduated as in 2001, balancing her academic pursuits with performances in school programs and duets. In 2001, Navarro enrolled at the as a DOST scholar, majoring in . She maintained a strong academic record as a dean's lister and graduated in April 2005, having taken 21 units per semester and additional summer courses to complete her degree. During her time at UP, she was involved in campus organizations such as the Junior Marketing Association (JMA), Organization of Business Economics Majors (OBEM), and , where she served as vice president for outgoing exchange in her senior year. Her early exposure to music in childhood, including joining a chapel choir at age six, provided a foundational influence on her artistic development. Navarro's discovery of occurred during her third year of college around 2003–2004, when she shifted her repertoire to the genre while performing with guitarist Brian Soriano and percussionist Ryan Angeles as Sitti and the Cubanos. This period marked her participation in campus gigs and sessions, including brief involvement as a trainee with the UP Singing Ambassadors. Prior to her professional breakthrough, she faced challenges balancing her studies with part-time singing engagements, commuting two hours daily from and performing three to five gigs weekly at lounges and pubs in , often cramming for exams amid late nights. Her mother's support and understanding professors helped her navigate these demands without formal voice training.

Musical career

Debut and rise to fame

Sitti Navarro entered the music industry during her college years at the University of the Philippines Diliman, where she balanced studies in business economics with frequent lounge performances as part of the group "Sitti and the Cubanos," specializing in bossa nova covers. In her senior year, she auditioned for MTV Philippines' Supahstar search in 2004 and emerged as a winner, which paved the way for her signing with Warner Music Philippines in 2005. This breakthrough opportunity led to the recording of her debut album in a single live session in October 2005, marking her transition from campus gigs to professional recording. Her debut album, Café Bossa, was released on January 25, 2006, by and quickly achieved double platinum status in the , selling over 60,000 units. The album featured bossa nova-infused covers of international hits, including "Tattooed on My Mind" (originally by ) and "Superstar" (popularized by and ), alongside originals like "Para sa Akin," blending smooth vocals with acoustic arrangements that revitalized the genre locally. The , "Tattooed on My Mind," became a radio smash and topped Philippine airplay charts in 2006-2007, propelling Sitti to national prominence and earning her the nickname "Queen of " from her label as a marketing moniker that stuck. Building on the album's success, Sitti released the live album Sitti Live! in September 2006, captured from a performance at Ortigas Park, which showcased her stage presence and further solidified her appeal. In 2007, she embarked on early tours, including her first major solo concert, generating significant media attention through nominations at the Music Awards for Favorite Female Artist and contributions to the Original Pilipino (OPM) scene. These milestones established Sitti as a leading figure in Philippine during her launch phase.

Major albums and stylistic evolution

Following the success of her debut album Café Bossa, which established Sitti as the Philippines' leading bossa nova artist, her subsequent releases expanded her catalog while introducing original compositions and genre experimentation. Her second studio album, My Bossa Nova (2007), featured a mix of international covers like "With or Without You" and Filipino tracks such as "Kung Di Rin Lang Ikaw," maintaining the smooth bossa nova sound but broadening appeal through accessible pop-infused arrangements; it achieved platinum status in the Philippines for sales exceeding 30,000 units. In 2009, Contagious marked a pivotal shift, blending with soul-jazz and R&B elements across 16 tracks, including the original single "Is This Love," co-written by Sitti to showcase her songwriting growth; covers of artists like Sade and highlighted her evolving vocal phrasing, moving beyond strict bossa interpretations toward more emotive, contemporary pop sensibilities. This album reflected her desire to avoid genre limitations, as she incorporated fresh arrangements to keep performances dynamic. By , Sitti Sessions embraced an acoustic, intimate format with originals like "Wag Mo Na Munang Sabihin" and collaborations featuring and Jek Manuel, fusing , , and subtle Filipino folk influences for a raw, personal sound that emphasized lyrical depth over polished production. The mid-2010s saw Sitti transition to new labels, signing with MCA Music for Bossa Love (2013), a return to covers of pop hits like "Yellow" and "I Want It That Way," but with layered production that hinted at her growing versatility in blending lounge with modern rhythms. After parting ways with major labels, she released the independent digital album Electro Sitti (2018), a bold departure featuring eight electronic tracks that ditched traditional bossa nova instrumentation for synth-driven beats and dance-oriented arrangements, signaling her artistic maturation and willingness to explore club-influenced sounds while retaining her signature melodic warmth. Following Electro Sitti, she continued releasing independent singles, including "Daydream" in 2024 and "Titingin-Tingin" in 2025, blending with contemporary pop. This evolution—from cover-heavy to original works incorporating pop, R&B, , and eventually electronic elements—demonstrated Sitti's adaptation to changing musical landscapes, prioritizing creative freedom over niche confinement.

Live performances and international reach

Sitti Navarro's live performances have been a cornerstone of her career, showcasing her bossa nova style in intimate venues and large arenas alike. Her debut concert, Sitti Live!, recorded in 2006 at Ortigas Park in Pasig, Metro Manila, marked her transition from lounge singer to national artist, featuring acoustic renditions of hits like "Para Sa Akin" and establishing her as the Philippines' Queen of Bossa Nova. Since then, she has maintained a steady schedule of shows, often blending Filipino originals with international standards. Navarro's annual performances, beginning with concerts in 2008 at the Music Museum, have become a tradition, drawing fans for festive sets including covers of "" and "." These events, tied to her 2009 album Ngayong Pasko, emphasize her warm, acoustic delivery during the holiday season. In the , Navarro has headlined major venues, including performances at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. In early 2010, she joined , , and Juris Fernandez for a collaborative show at the arena, highlighting her role in OPM (Original Pilipino Music) events. By 2015, she expanded her presence with additional Araneta appearances amid her evolving repertoire, solidifying her status as a live performer capable of filling large spaces. Her sets often promote album releases, such as tracks from My Bossa Nova, through dynamic on-stage interpretations that engage audiences with and guest collaborations. Navarro's domestic tours and residencies, particularly in lounges like the Mandarin Oriental's Captain's Bar, have further honed her intimate style, where she performs multiple nights of classics. Navarro's international reach began expanding in the early through regional tours in . In 2012, she performed in and as part of promotional events for her music, connecting with Filipino diaspora communities and introducing her sound to broader Asian audiences. Her 2019 appearance at the Kuching Waterfront Jazz Festival in represented the , sharing the stage with artists from , , and the , and performing hits like "Samba Song" to celebrate regional . These outings underscored her growing appeal beyond the , with sets adapted for multicultural crowds emphasizing universal themes in . Performances in the United States have focused on Filipino-American festivals, allowing Navarro to engage fans. In 2014 and 2019, she appeared at cultural events in and other states, delivering acoustic sessions that blend OPM with global influences, as listed in Filipino concert directories. These shows, often at community festivals, highlight her role in preserving and promoting Philippine music abroad, with attendance reflecting strong support. Ticket platforms continue to list her U.S. appearances, indicating ongoing expansion. Key international milestones include her 2015 concert in the , where she performed at the Rock That Love event at du Arena on , , alongside acts like and . This sold-out show, the largest Filipino concert in the region at the time, drew thousands of overseas workers and marked her first major performance. In 2020, amid the , Navarro collaborated virtually with global artists in online events, including jazz sessions streamed worldwide, adapting her live energy to digital formats like . Her virtual appearances during lockdowns, such as "Sounds of Love and Hope," reached international viewers and maintained her visibility. As of 2025, Navarro has embraced post-pandemic recovery with a focus on hybrid events combining live attendance and streaming. In , she announced a series of comeback shows, including intimate gigs at venues like Turning Tides in , which were live-streamed on to global fans. Her 2025 schedule features the Love, Sessionistas The Repeat concert at at Solaire on , reuniting her with , Juris, , and others for a hybrid format accessible via online platforms. These initiatives reflect her adaptation to digital tools, ensuring wider international access while prioritizing safe, engaging live experiences.

Television and media presence

Hosting and judging roles

Sitti Navarro debuted on television as a co-host for the second season of the reality show Pinoy Big Brother on Studio 23 in 2007, sharing duties with Asia Agcaoili and contributing to the coverage that ended with Bea Saw's victory as the big winner. She expanded her TV presence with additional hosting roles on talent competitions and variety programs, including stints on Pinoy Dream Academy during its first season in 2006 and The Travel Show. Navarro transitioned into judging roles on singing competitions, serving as a guest judge for the daily rounds of Tawag ng Tanghalan Season 2 Quarter 2 in 2017, a segment of It's Showtime on ABS-CBN, where she provided feedback to aspiring performers alongside the regular panel. These experiences solidified her reputation as a mentor in the industry, notably guiding emerging talents through constructive critiques on platforms like Tawag ng Tanghalan, fostering the development of artists such as those who advanced in the competition's early seasons.

Guest appearances and endorsements

Sitti Navarro has maintained a prominent presence in Philippine television through regular guest performances on the ASAP, where she debuted in 2007 with her breakthrough single "Tattooed on My Mind." As a key member of the ASAP Sessionistas segment, which began in 2009, she has collaborated with fellow artists like Juris, , and on covers of classic hits, blending her signature style with pop and rock arrangements. These appearances, spanning production numbers and special episodes, have continued into 2025, including reunion performances and anniversary celebrations that highlight her enduring role in the show's musical segments. Her judging roles on talent competitions served as a gateway to broader media engagements, allowing her to transition into more diverse on-air contributions beyond music performances. Navarro has also participated in radio interviews and tours to promote her releases, appearing on stations like those in the FM band during promotional runs in the early . In recent years, she has engaged in , including live sessions and collaborations shared via social platforms, reflecting her adaptation to streaming-era content. Navarro has endorsed several brands, including Fruitas, Buko ni Fruitas, and Lesayang for the Lush Group of Companies, as well as TCL appliances starting in 2023.

Acting endeavors

Stage performances

Sitti Navarro made her stage debut in 2009, portraying in the Philippine production of Spring Awakening, a Tony Award-winning musical adapted from the 19th-century German play by . Produced by Atlantis Productions and directed by Bobby Garcia, the show explored themes of adolescent sexuality and repression in a conservative German setting, running at the Auditorium in City from September 25 to October 18. Navarro's performance as the sexually abused highlighted her versatility beyond music, earning praise for her emotional depth in the ensemble role. In 2013, Navarro took on the role of Pam Lukowski, the ex-wife of the protagonist Jerry, in the Philippine staging of , a musical based on the 1997 about unemployed steelworkers forming a male act. Directed by Jamie Wilson and produced by Viveca Lantin and Atty. , the production featured a mix of humor and heartfelt moments, with Navarro's character providing emotional grounding amid the ensemble's antics. The show ran at the Carlos P. Romulo Theater, showcasing her comedic timing and vocal contributions in songs like "You Walk with Me." Her involvement marked a significant expansion into comedic theater, blending her singing background with acting demands. Navarro's theater work has been limited but impactful, contributing to her reputation as a multifaceted performer in the Philippine arts scene. While primarily known for her recordings, these roles demonstrated her ability to adapt her vocal style to dramatic and musical theater contexts. She has since focused on concert performances.

Film and television roles

Sitti Navarro's acting career in film and television has been relatively sparse, complementing her primary focus on music while showcasing her versatility in supporting and guest roles within Philippine media. She made her film debut in the 2009 independent anthology Astig (also released internationally as ), portraying a doctor in one segment depicting urban struggles in . The film, directed by GB Sampedro, featured interconnected stories of navigating and moral dilemmas, with Navarro's character providing brief medical aid in a gritty narrative. On television, Navarro debuted as an actress in with a guest role in an episode of the ABS-CBN anthology series , where she performed her single "Ikaw Lamang" alongside co-star . This appearance marked her transition from singer to performer on screen, blending with musical elements. In 2007, she took on the role of Tere, an aspiring lounge singer, in the primetime drama , a story centered on family secrets and redemption starring . Her character added a layer of artistic ambition to the . Navarro's next significant TV role came in 2011 as Mrs. Samaniego in the family-oriented series Angelito: Batang Ama, appearing in multiple episodes as a supportive figure in the young protagonist's life. Her filmography remains limited since her last significant role in 2011, though her prior stage work has informed her concise on-screen presence.

Personal life

Marriage and family

Sitti Navarro met her future husband, triathlete Joey Ramirez, in 2013 through a mutual friend who set them up. The couple began dating soon after and married on May 29, 2015, in a private ceremony at the Baguio Country Club in City. Navarro and Ramirez welcomed their first child, daughter Issiah Dañelle Ramirez, on November 4, 2018, via emergency cesarean section at 36 weeks gestation due to complications including low . Their second daughter, Osseah Lucille Ramirez, was born on September 23, 2021, weighing 5 pounds and 8 ounces and described as perfectly healthy. The couple has emphasized hands-on parenting, with Navarro and Ramirez caring for their first daughter themselves for the initial months without external help. Navarro publicly announced both pregnancies, linking them to temporary adjustments in her professional commitments; following the birth of her first child, she indicated plans to take a backseat from her music career to prioritize motherhood. Throughout her second pregnancy, which was challenging amid ongoing health concerns, Navarro continued selective performances while focusing on family.

Health challenges and advocacy

In 2021, Sitti Navarro-Ramirez publicly shared her experience with a cancer scare during her second , describing the intense anxiety it triggered as she navigated medical checkups and fears for her health and unborn child. She detailed how initial test results heightened her worries, leading her to delay further examinations before confirming the all-clear, an ordeal she used to emphasize the importance of proactive health monitoring. Additionally, Navarro-Ramirez has spoken about her diagnoses with (PCOS) and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APAS), which complicated her fertility journey and contributed to emotional strain before her successful pregnancies. Navarro-Ramirez took a brief career hiatus in 2018 to prioritize her and first , stepping back from performances to focus on amid the physical demands of her condition. This period underscored her commitment to maternal well-being, as she later reflected on balancing professional ambitions with personal needs. In early 2022, she and her daughter isolated after contracting , further highlighting the vulnerabilities of her family's during the pandemic. As a mental health advocate, Navarro-Ramirez hosted a 2020 forum on educator organized by the Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA), discussing strategies for managing stress and emotional resilience amid the . She performed at PMHA's Liwanag 2020 awards ceremony, using her platform to raise awareness and support initiatives combating stigma in communities. Her involvement extended to post-pandemic efforts, including virtual sessions and performances promoting accessible resources for families and educators in 2021 and beyond. Navarro-Ramirez has contributed to disaster relief through music, participating in a 2013 national music camp event where original Pilipino music (OPM) artists honored victims of (Yolanda) with benefit performances to aid recovery efforts. Her also reflects ongoing support for vulnerable groups, drawing from personal family experiences during health trials.

Artistic output

Discography

Sitti Navarro's discography primarily consists of and jazz-influenced recordings, beginning with her breakthrough debut under and transitioning to independent digital releases in later years. Her early work established her as a leading figure in Philippine , with covers of international standards alongside original tracks.

Studio albums

TitleRelease dateLabelNotes
Café BossaJanuary 25, 2006Debut album; certified 2x Platinum in the .
My Bossa NovaAugust 24, 2007Features covers of pop and rock songs in style.
ContagiousJune 26, 2009Includes original compositions and collaborations.
Bossa Covers2012Collection of interpretations of contemporary hits.
Sitti: Sessions2012Acoustic session recordings emphasizing live-feel arrangements.
Bossa LoveJanuary 18, 2014MCA MusicFocuses on romantic themes with arrangements.
Electro Sitti2018IndependentBlends with electronic elements.

Live and compilation albums

Sitti's live album Sitti Live! was recorded at the Music Museum in and released on September 13, 2006, by , capturing performances of key tracks from her debut alongside standards like "." A compilation, Singles: Bossa Nova Trio, followed in 2015, highlighting selected singles in a repackaged format.

Singles

Key singles from Sitti's career include "Tattooed on My Mind," a cover from Café Bossa (2006) that became one of her most successful releases, topping charts in the . Other notable releases are "Para Sa Akin" (2007) and "Ligaya" (2008), both achieving significant radio play. In 2012, "" marked a shift toward pop collaborations. Post-2020, Sitti embraced independent digital distribution with singles such as "Tag-araw" (2022), "Pagdating" (2023), "Sakto" (2023), "Daydream" (2024), and "Titingin-Tingin" (2025), often released via platforms like and to maintain her connection with fans amid evolving consumption trends.

Filmography

Sitti Navarro's primarily consists of supporting roles in independent films and guest appearances in Philippine television series, reflecting her transition from to occasional endeavors. In film, Navarro debuted in the 2009 independent drama (also known as Astig), directed by G.B. Sampedro, where she portrayed a doctor in an episodic story exploring urban struggles in . Her television credits began with a role in the anthology series (2006), an musical drama. She followed this with a recurring part as Tere, an aspiring lounge singer, in the Ysabella (2007), directed by Mark Reyes and others. Navarro later appeared as Mrs. Samaniego in the family drama Angelito: Batang Ama (2011), a GMA-7 production focusing on themes of fatherhood and responsibility. No major acting credits in films or series have been reported for Navarro from 2023 to 2025, with her professional focus shifting toward music performances and hosting.

Recognition and legacy

Awards and nominations

Sitti Navarro's early career was marked by recognition in the Philippine music industry, beginning with a tied win at the 20th Awit Awards in 2007 for Best Performance by a New Female Recording Artist for her rendition of "Para Sa Akin," highlighting her emergence as a fresh talent in and . Subsequent honors included a nomination in 2016 at the 1st Wish 107.5 Music Awards for Best WISHclusive Performance by a Female Artist for "Ligaya," acknowledging her live performance impact. A significant achievement came in when Navarro, in collaboration with Julianne Tarroja, won Best World Music Recording at the 27th Awit Awards for "Pansamantagal," affirming her influence in blending Filipino and international sounds. More recently, in 2024, she earned nominations at the 37th Awit Awards, including for Best Inspirational Recording for "Pagdating," reflecting her continued relevance in contemporary OPM.

Cultural impact and tributes

Sitti Navarro significantly influenced Philippine music by popularizing within Original Pilipino Music (OPM), introducing the genre's relaxed rhythms and melodic harmonies to mainstream audiences through her signature covers of pop standards. Her 2006 debut album Café Bossa marked a turning point, blending Brazilian influences with Filipino sensibilities and expanding the genre's reach beyond niche circles. This innovation helped diversify OPM's soundscape, encouraging experimentation with international styles in local productions. As the "Queen of ," Navarro elevated the visibility of female vocalists in OPM, showcasing a sophisticated, emotive style that contrasted with dominant pop and rock trends. Her smooth, jazzy and innovative arrangements inspired emerging artists, positioning her as a trailblazer for women in genre-blending performances. Her hits, such as "Para Sa Akin," have been widely covered by contestants on platforms like The Voice Teens , demonstrating her enduring appeal among aspiring singers. Navarro's legacy extends to mentorship and genre fusion in the , where she has guided new talents through television appearances and continued releasing tracks that merge with contemporary OPM elements. In her online series Sitti Lite, she has paid homage to global influences like while incorporating modern pop covers, fostering cross-generational appreciation for the genre. Her contributions highlight bossa nova's adaptability amid OPM's shift toward digital and hybrid sounds. In 2025, Navarro's digital footprint underscores her lasting impact, with "Para Sa Akin" surpassing 56 million streams on and maintaining weekly listens in the hundreds of thousands, reflecting renewed interest among younger streaming audiences.

References

  1. https://www.discogs.com/artist/4810299-Sitti
  2. https://awards.wish1075.com/7-things-to-know-about-sitti/
  3. https://www.bossagurl.com/about
  4. https://open.spotify.com/artist/0t7vWPRBcVv4xBEHPZHSWA
  5. https://www.bossagurl.com/blog/bwy7i3gur4b6t3h0mdlb9xasqujb96
  6. https://www.pep.ph/news/53034/singer-sitti-navarro-ties-the-knot-with-joey-ramirez-in-baguio-wedding
  7. https://www.bossagurl.com/blog/2016/4/27/when-i-was-a-geek-the-early-singing-years
  8. https://www.philstar.com/cebu-entertainment/2006/08/17/353399/sitti-spreads-bossa-love
  9. https://www.abs-cbn.com/2017/4/17/fresh-scoops/iskolar-stars-ng-bayan-18-celebrities-who-graduate-62996
  10. https://www.bossagurl.com/blog/2016/5/6/up-life-lounge-singer-life
  11. https://www.facebook.com/THEUPSINGINGAMBASSADORS/posts/fun-fact-sitti-used-to-be-an-upsa-trainee-she-attended-a-couple-rehearsals-as-a-/2904487253198531/
  12. https://www.tumblr.com/bossagirl/149592859422/my-lifes-blessings
  13. https://bossagirl.tumblr.com/page/3
  14. https://www.pep.ph/news/local/52/sitti-still-soars-with-39cafe-bossa39
  15. https://www.bossagurl.com/blog/of-dreams-forgotten-and-set-aside-yet-unexpectedly-fulfilled
  16. https://www.pep.ph/news/local/1151/sitti-navarro-brings-bossa-nova-to-a-wider-market-
  17. https://www.pep.ph/news/local/4418/sitti-shares-her-unique-bossa-nova-charm-through-contagious
  18. https://www.pep.ph/news/22692/Bossa-nova-singer-Sitti-feels-limited-by-her-musical-genre
  19. https://www.bossagurl.com/music
  20. https://www.bossagurl.com/blog/the-courage-to-try-something-new
  21. https://music.youtube.com/channel/UClJrgegN3ae7UMyPn7-NF-Q
  22. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJW801iRgCU
  23. https://www.philstar.com/cebu-entertainment/2008/11/22/417115/sitti-exploring-new-grounds-christmas-album
  24. https://tv-philippines.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_entertainment_events_at_the_Araneta_Center
  25. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ikxl9azZYw
  26. https://orangemagazine.ph/2019/sitti-live-in-malaysia-this-september/
  27. https://filtix.com/event/filtix-filipino-concerts-shows-cultural-events/
  28. https://seatgeek.com/sitti-navarro-tickets
  29. https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/rock-that-love-concert-to-hit-yas-island
  30. https://www.facebook.com/sjbparishtondomanila/videos/watch-our-bossa-nova-diva-sitti-navarro-invites-us-to-chill-out-with-her-tonight/623404975254553/
  31. https://www.instagram.com/p/DMzXHuUBmCR/
  32. https://www.inlifemagazine.com/2020/07/ge-to-know-philippines-very-own-queen-of-bossa-nova-sitti-navarro/
  33. https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2009/01/05/428935/sitti-wants-bring-ethnic-music-world
  34. https://www.abs-cbn.com/video/entertainment/06/23/17/mangingisda-ng-davao-occidental-bagong-kampeon-ng-tawag
  35. https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/studios/tv/2025/3/11/sessionistas-reminisce-on-their-fondest-memories-first-time-appearances-on-asap-0836
  36. https://www.bossagurl.com/blog/2015/10/28/senti-sessionista
  37. https://www.facebook.com/SittiNavarro/photos/catch-sitti-on-the-following-stationtomorrow-december12-for-a-radio-tour-pinas-9/10151763298131135/
  38. https://www.tiktok.com/@megabites.com.ph/video/7244948468618300677
  39. https://www.pep.ph/news/local/28198/spring-awakening-rouses-sexually-repressed-teenagers
  40. https://www.broadwayworld.com/philippines/article/SPRING-AWAKENING-Manila-opens-925-20090920
  41. https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/sunday-life/2009/09/20/506384/what-best-way-show-gratitude-your-parents
  42. https://www.rappler.com/life-and-style/27300-mark-bautista-the-full-monty-musical/
  43. https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2013/04/26/934945/vats-full-monty-proudly-pinoy
  44. https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/101599/the-full-monty-the-bare-bodies-are-just-the-icing-on-the-cake/
  45. https://www.philstar.com/arts-and-culture/2013/05/13/941329/full-monty-bares-it-all
  46. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1424044/
  47. https://www.allmovie.com/movie/squalor-am314921/cast-crew
  48. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1797097/
  49. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1058599/
  50. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2111619/
  51. https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/94718-bossa-nova-singer-sitti-navarro-marries-joey-ramirez-baguio-city/
  52. https://www.femalenetwork.com/bridalbook/articles/sitti-and-joey
  53. https://www.pep.ph/lifestyle/parenting/38433/sitti-navarro-gives-birth-to-daughter-issiah-daelle
  54. https://entertainment.inquirer.net/302777/sitti-goes-under-emergency-c-section-as-babys-heart-rate-slows
  55. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/lifestyle/familyandrelationships/804501/sitti-gives-birth-to-baby-girl/story/
  56. https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/celebrities/sitti-navarro-welcomes-second-child/
  57. https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/entertainment/with-baby-sitti-coming-soon-would-bossa-nova-diva-leave-showbiz
  58. https://www.abs-cbn.com/2021/7/2/fresh-scoops/read-sitti-navarro-ramirez-opens-up-about-her-can-194355
  59. https://www.facebook.com/usanaaaa/posts/sitti-navarro-was-diagnosed-with-pcos-thats-why-it-is-hard-for-her-to-get-pregna/1147940245359309/
  60. https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/showbiznews/sitti-navarro-is-pregnant-with-baby-number-2/76158/
  61. https://www.bossagurl.com/blog/on-seasons-and-transitions
  62. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/showbiz/chikaminute/818255/sitti-isolates-with-youngest-daughter-as-she-contracts-covid-19/story/
  63. https://business.inquirer.net/303232/educators-on-managing-their-mental-health-at-startanewday-forum
  64. https://balikkalipay.org/2021/01/bkc-among-pmhas-liwanag-2020-awardees/
  65. https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2013/11/18/1258152/opm-artists-honor-typhoon-victims-natl-music-camp-commences
  66. https://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2007/08/13/2859771.htm
  67. https://www.pep.ph/news/local/15198/27th-awit-awards-winners-unveiled-gloc-9-regine-velasquez-kz-tandingan--daniel-padilla-honored
  68. https://billboardphilippines.com/music/news/sb19-bini-lola-amour-and-more-lead-awit-awards-2024-nominations-full-list/
  69. https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2009/11/09/521347/erik-sitti-extraordinary-songs
  70. https://www.gigwise.com/female-filipino-singers-you-need-to-listen-to-now/
  71. https://www.abs-cbn.com/thevoiceteens2024/videos/blind-auditions-koleenes-flawless-rendition-of-sitti-navarros-para-sa-akin-360872
  72. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AL-oPdtCtI
  73. https://www.viberate.com/artist/sitti/
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