Signing with Epic/Columbia Records in 1972, Dakila became one of the first Filipino-American rock bands to sign a recording contract with a major label. Rooted in San Francisco’s Mission district, the Latin-rock band has performed at countless venues and festivals throughout the region and beyond, including Bill Graham’s Winterland and Fillmore West. The band also became well-known for their support of the United Farm Workers efforts, donating free concerts for the workers’ cause. Through the 1970s Dakila shared the stage with acclaimed acts such as Tower of Power, Malo, Cheech and Chong, Buddy Miles and many more. The band was resurrected in 2013 by remaining original member David Bustamante, a recipient of the 2018 Arts for a Better Bay Area award for Music and Culture. 2022 marked the 50th anniversary and re-release of their history-making debut album. The documentary film, Searchin’ For My Soul: The Dakila Story, is planned for release in 2024, sharing the unique experiences of this trailblazing band.

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