Kris Lawrence is riding high on a wave of pride and gratitude after receiving one of the most meaningful recognitions of his career.
The "Prince of R&B" was recently named one of the Top 100 Most Influential Filipinos, a distinction that celebrates his impact on the entertainment scene.
Read: Kris Lawrence on how Katie inspired him to overcome creative slump
The award was presented during the 15th edition of The Outstanding Filipino Awards (TOFA), held on October 17, 2025, at the Orleans Showroom in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Founded in 2010 by journalist and community leader Elton Lugay, TOFA honors Filipinos who have made significant contributions across various industries—ranging from public service and education to fashion, science, and entertainment.
"Honestly, kinilig ako. Haha!" Kris shared candidly when asked by PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) how he felt upon hearing the news.
"It’s one thing to be recognized for your craft, but to be named among the Top 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the World—that’s a different kind of honor.
"I felt humbled, grateful, and emotional.
"It reminded me that every song, every show, every story I’ve shared has somehow touched lives beyond what I could see."
KRIS LAWRENCE ON INFLUENCE
Kris joins an impressive roster of honorees this year, including his close friend and fellow R&B royalty, Jay-R.
Other notable awardees include boxing legend Nonito Donaire, internationally acclaimed actress Dolly de Leon, Queen of Soul Jaya, singer-actress Rachel Alejandro, and Concert Queen Pops Fernandez, among many other trailblazing Filipinos.
Reflecting on being recognized alongside such esteemed names, Kris shared: "It feels amazing. Although Jay-R didn’t make it out this year... These are people I grew up admiring and later had the honor to share the stage with.
"To be recognized alongside them makes it even more meaningful—ang saya saya, it’s like a family celebration of Filipino soul and artistry."
For Kris, being a musician and performer goes far beyond simply entertaining an audience—it’s about creating meaningful connections and leaving a lasting influence.
He said: "For me, it’s more than that—it’s about using entertainment as a bridge. Music connects people; it heals, inspires, and reminds us of who we are.
"So while it’s in the Entertainment category, I see it as recognition for being part of that mission."
When asked about the criteria behind his inclusion in the esteemed list, Kris expounded: "From what I understand, it’s a combination of overall influence, achievements, consistency, and contribution to culture—both locally and internationally."
He added, "I think it’s less about numbers and more about the impact behind them."
Kris admits that being recognized as a person of influence has made him more conscious of his values and moral compass—especially now that he’s a father.
"Influence, for me, is about inspiring people to dream bigger, to believe in themselves, and to walk in purpose," he shared.
He continued, "The older I get, the more I realize that influence is responsibility. Now that I am a father, I want my kids to see that success isn’t just about fame or trophies—it’s about character, integrity, and how you make others feel.
"This recognition motivates me to keep growing, not just as an artist, but as a man and a dad."
KRIS LAWRENCE: FILIPINO PRIDE
Since TOFA is a US-based award-giving body, Kris shared that the recognition made him feel even prouder to be Filipino.
"Definitely. Being born and raised in L.A. but choosing to build my career in the Philippines gave me the best of both worlds," he said.
"Receiving this kind of recognition from a US-based organization makes me proud to represent what it means to be Filipino—our talent, resilience, and heart. Wherever I go, I carry that flag with me.”
Kris also observed how Filipinos tend to feel an extra sense of pride when achievements are recognized on an international stage.
But for him, it’s not just about the prestige—it’s about perspective.
"Haha yes, napansin ko din 'yan. When you’re abroad, you start to realize how special being Filipino really is. You see how our warmth, creativity, and sense of community stand out. Distance has a way of magnifying appreciation. Sometimes it takes being away to truly feel how deeply rooted you are."
Apart from receiving the award, another proud Pinoy moment for Kris was sharing the stage with fellow Filipino performers during the event—an experience he considers one of the night’s most memorable highlights.
For Kris, it wasn’t just about being honored; it was about celebrating Filipino talent in unity.
He said: "It was such a vibe! The energy there was like a big reunion—artists celebrating each other’s wins.
"The highlight for me was just feeling the unity in the room.
"Everyone was showing love, cheering for one another, having a good time and reminding the world that Filipino talent is world-class."
KRIS LAWRENCE: GETTING BUSY
Currently, Kris has been actively promoting his latest single, “Nobody,” a heartfelt track inspired by his daughter, Katie.
He shared that the song has been warmly received by listeners so far, resonating with many for its emotional depth and sincerity.
Kris said, "The feedback has been incredible. My latest single 'Nobody' has been getting so much love, especially because it’s inspired by my daughter, Katie.
"It’s personal, heartfelt, and people feel that authenticity.
"I’ve been doing promo runs, and I’m also planning shows both in the Philippines and the U.S.—so it’s an exciting time.
"I do need all the help I can get promoting though since I am doing it all on my own."
What's next for Kris?
"I have upcoming shows in the Auckland, New Zealand... Cebu on Dececember 5, Dubai on December 13, and all the fun Christmas Corporate Parties this December.
"But beyond that, I’m focused on creating more music that uplifts, connects, and represents who I am today.
"I want to keep growing—creatively, spiritually, and personally. The journey continues, and I’m just grateful to still be doing what I love to do."
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