Argel MDR
Filipino-Canadian singer/songwriter
Argel MDR (born Argel Monte de Ramos) is a Filipino-Canadian singer-songwriter and musical theatre performer based in Surrey, Canada. Known for his soulful voice and emotional depth, Argel’s music blends heartfelt storytelling with influences from artists like Sam Smith, One Republic, and Original Pinoy Music (OPM). His single Sail Away was featured on several Spotify editorial playlists, including Fresh Finds Philippines, and earned him recognition as a rising artist. In 2021, he was nominated for Pop Artist of the Year and received the Excellence Award by a BIPOC Artist at the Fraser Valley Music Awards.
A versatile performer, Argel has also made his mark in musical theatre. He played Horton the Elephant in Seussical (Align Entertainment), where his vocal ability and stage presence shone. In Elf! The Musical (Arts Club), he performed as Manager/Ensemble, earning an Ovation Award for Outstanding Performance for his standout work in the production. His theatre experience enhances his music, infusing it with a theatrical, emotionally charged energy that captivates live audiences.
Argel’s upcoming role as Joseph in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Metro Theatre is another exciting chapter in his theatre career, showcasing his versatility as both a singer and actor. Beyond his artistry, Argel is a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism, using his platform to uplift the voices of immigrants and marginalized communities. With a powerful combination of music, theatre, and advocacy, Argel MDR continues to inspire and entertain, creating art that resonates with people from all walks of life.
​
"With his emotive voice, dynamic performances, and commitment to meaningful social change, Argel MDR is a rising star in both the Filipino-Canadian music scene and the broader music landscape."