December Avenue members: the story that built their loyal fanbase
The journey of December Avenue has captured the hearts of many music lovers in the Philippines and beyond. Known for emotional ballads and relatable lyrics, the members have built a loyal fanbase through years of consistent music releases and powerful live performances. Their story reflects how talent, authenticity, and connection with listeners helped them rise in the local music scene.
Source: UGC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- Who are the December Avenue members?
- The story that built their loyal fanbase
- The formation of December Avenue
- Songs that captured the hearts of fans
- Continued Growth and Influence
- How many members are in December Avenue?
- Who are the original members of December Avenue?
- Why did Don Gregorio leave December Avenue?
- Why is it called Eroplanong papel?
- Who is Carissa Ramos to December Avenue?
- December Avenue album and songs
- December Avenue (2016)
- Singles and other releases
Key takeaways
- December Avenue built a loyal fanbase through heartfelt lyrics, emotional ballads, and consistent music releases.
- The group members include Zel Bautista (lead singer/guitarist), Gelo Cruz (drummer), Donn Gregorio (keyboardist), Jet Danao (bassist), and Carissa Ramos (new bassist as of 2026).
- The examples of the band’s songs are: “Sa Ngalan ng Pag-ibig” and “Kung ‘Di Rin Lang Ikaw”
- They have also collaborated with artists like Morissette and Belle Mariano.
Who are the December Avenue members?
The December Avenue members include several talented musicians who each contribute to the band’s unique sound. The group is led by vocalist and guitarist Zel Bautista, whose distinctive voice plays a key role in the band’s identity. Alongside him are guitarist Don Gregorio, bassist Jet Danao, drummer Gelo Cruz, and keyboardist Donn Gregorio.
Together, the December Avenue members blend pop, alternative rock, and heartfelt lyricism to create songs that resonate with audiences.
The story that built their loyal fanbase
December Avenue has grown into one of the most recognisable bands in the Philippine music industry. Known for their emotional ballads and relatable lyrics, the December Avenue members have built a loyal fanbase that continues to support their music across generations.
Their songs often revolve around themes of love, heartbreak, and nostalgia—topics that resonate deeply with listeners. Over the years, the band’s sincerity and musical style have helped them stand out in the competitive OPM (Original Pilipino Music) scene.
The formation of December Avenue
The story of the December Avenue members began when a group of talented musicians came together with a shared passion for songwriting and performing. The band was formed in Manila and initially gained attention through small gigs, school events, and local performances.
Their breakthrough came when they started releasing original songs that quickly spread through online platforms and word of mouth. Fans were drawn to the emotional depth of their music and the authenticity of their performances.
Songs that captured the hearts of fans
Much of the band’s loyal following can be attributed to their memorable songs. Hits like Sa Ngalan ng Pag-ibig, Kung 'Di Rin Lang Ikaw, and Huling Sandali became anthems for many listeners navigating relationships and emotional moments in life.
These songs gained millions of streams online and frequently trended on music charts. The heartfelt lyrics and melodic arrangements helped the December Avenue members connect deeply with fans.
Continued Growth and Influence
As the band’s popularity grew, the members began performing at major concerts, festivals, and music events across the Philippines and abroad. Their influence in OPM has also inspired new artists and bands to pursue heartfelt storytelling through music.
How many members are in December Avenue?
While the band has not publicly disclosed all of the members’ ages, they are widely known for having a mix of experienced musicians who have been performing together for over a decade, contributing to their cohesive sound and loyal fanbase.
Real name | Zodiac sign | Band position |
Zel Bautista (Ronzel Benedict Bautista) | Cancer | Vocalist, Acoustic Guitarist |
Jem Manuel (Jem S. Manuel) | Cancer | Lead Guitarist |
Don Gregorio | Taurus | Bass Guitarist |
Jet Danao | Capricorn | Drummer, Percussionist, Backup Vocalist |
Gelo Cruz | Pisces | Keyboardist, Backup Vocalist |
1. Zel Bautista
Source: UGC
- Real name: Ronzel Benedict Bautista
- Birthday: June 25 (year not posted)
- Zodiac sign: Cancer
- Band position: Vocalist, acoustic guitarist
December Avenue is fronted by Zel Bautista, who serves as the band’s lead singer and primary songwriter. He is also responsible for penning many of the band’s hit songs. Under his leadership, the band has released multiple chart-topping singles like “Sa Ngalan ng Pag-ibig” and “Kung 'Di Rin Lang Ikaw”, gaining millions of streams online and performing at sold-out concerts.
2. Jem Manuel
- Real name: Jem S. Manuel
- Birthday: July 12 (year not posted)
- Zodiac sign: Cancer
- Band position: Lead guitarist
Jem Manuel is a Filipino musician best known as the lead guitarist of December Avenue. His guitar work plays a major role in shaping the band’s signature alternative pop sound, adding melodic riffs and emotional depth to many of their songs.
Jem has been part of December Avenue since its early years, contributing to the band’s rise in the OPM scene through studio recordings, live performances, and music production.
3. Don Gregorio
- Real name: Don Gregorio
- Birthday: April 26 (year not posted)
- Zodiac sign: Taurus
- Band position: Bass guitarist
Founding member and bassist of December Avenue, Don played a crucial role in shaping the band’s early sound. He contributed to studio recordings and live performances for nearly 17 years. Helped establish December Avenue as one of the most respected OPM bands, with hit albums and consistent chart presence. Don left the band in April 2025.
4. Jet Danao
- Real name: Jet Danao
- Birth date: January 14 (year not posted)
- Zodiac sign: Capricorn
- Band position: Drummer, percussionist, backup vocalist
Jet replaced Don Gregorio as the bassist and has been integral in maintaining the band’s rhythm section. He also participates in the arrangement and production of their music. Contributed to the band’s continuing success in live shows and new recordings, helping them reach both local and international audiences.
5. Gelo Cruz
Source: UGC
- Real name: Gelo Cruz
- Birth date: February 26 (year not posted)
- Zodiac sign: Pisces
- Band position: Keyboardist, backup vocalist
Gelo is the drummer of December Avenue, providing the backbone of their sound. He has been part of the band since its early years and participates in arranging songs for recording and live shows. Known for tight, emotive drumming that complements the band’s emotional style. Has performed at major music festivals and concert venues in the Philippines
Who are the original members of December Avenue?
The original members of the Filipino indie rock band December Avenue are Zel Bautista (vocals/guitar), Jem Manuel (lead guitar), Don Gregorio (bass), and Jet Danao (drums). Formed in 2007–2008 at the University of Santo Tomas, they were initially known as "Sense of Sound" before rebranding to December Avenue.
Why did Don Gregorio leave December Avenue?
Following the departure of longtime member Don Gregorio, December Avenue has yet to officially announce a new bassist. Don Gregorio left December Avenue in April 2025 mainly to focus on his family life.
After spending 17 years with the band as a founding member and bassist, he announced that he wanted to step away from touring and music commitments to be more present for his wife and children.
"After 17 years of being the bassist of December Avenue, I've decided to step away from the band to focus on my growing family," he said. "It wasn't an easy decision, but I know it's time for me to be fully present for my wife and our kids."
Why is it called Eroplanong papel?
The song Eroplanong Papel by December Avenue means “paper airplane” in English because it uses the image of a paper aeroplane as a metaphor for fragile hopes and emotions in a relationship.
Who is Carissa Ramos to December Avenue?
As of early 2026, Carissa Ramos is the girl who joined December Avenue as the new member and serves as the band’s bassist. She replaced longtime bassist Don Gregorio, who left in April 2025 to focus on family. Carissa has impressed fans with her energetic performances, seamlessly integrating into the band’s sound while supporting their collaborations with artists like Morissette and Belle Mariano.
December Avenue album and songs
When it comes to writing music, Zel explains that they give a lot of attention to their lyrics. Whenever they write the content for their tracks, they make sure to think about their listeners.
As the songwriter and lead vocalist of the group, Zel places himself in other people's shoes when composing songs. He strongly wants to relay the feelings in certain situations, whether love or heartbreak, which is why a lot of people relate to their songs.
Here is a list of their albums where you can find December Avenue's best songs:
Time to Go EP (2010)
- Candles
- World On My Shoulder
- I Don't Wanna Wait (Cover)
- Time To Go
Sleep Tonight TD (2011)
- Sleep Tonight
- I'll Be Watching You
- City Lights
December Avenue (2016)
- City Lights
- Sleep Tonight
- Fallin' (Feat. Clara Benin)
- Ears and Rhymes
- I'll Be Watching You
- Back to Love
- Eroplanong Papel
- Dive
- Forever
- Breathe Again
- Time To Go
Singles and other releases
- Paskong Alaala (2017)
- Bulong (2018)
- Summary Song (collab with Gracenote and Autotelic)
- Kung Di Rin Lang Ikaw (2018)
- Magkunwari ('Di Man Tayo- 2019) ('TODA One I Love' official soundtrack)
- Dahan (2019)
- Huling Sandali (2019) ('Tayo sa Huling Buwan ng Taon' official soundtrack)
Today, the December Avenue members continue to strengthen their place in the Philippine music industry. Their ability to tell heartfelt stories through music keeps fans engaged and supportive of their journey. As their popularity grows, the December Avenue members remain a symbol of how passion and dedication can turn a band into a beloved musical group.
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Source: KAMI.com.gh
