We recently had the opportunity to connect with Herbert Hernandez, a man whose remarkable journey bridges the worlds of music and advertising. With a foot in both industries, Hernandez’s work as a musician and a co-founder of the successful advertising agency, GIGIL, has redefined how creativity and business can thrive together.

Herbert Hernandez’s story is about talent, risk-taking, and vision. Here’s a closer look at the journey of this multifaceted creator, the impact he’s had, and the values that continue to guide him.

Herbert Hernandez: A Man of Many Talents

Herbert Hernandez is a true “SLASHER,” meaning someone who seamlessly juggles multiple roles. By day, he is a powerhouse in the advertising industry with over 19 years of experience. He has garnered recognition at top international competitions such as Cannes, the Clios, and the APAC Effies. By night, he transforms into a guitarist for two of the most iconic Filipino bands, 6cyclemind and Moonstar88.

Herbert Hernandez, GIGIL co-founder is proud of the success of his agency, which has won accolades like the Philippines Independent Agency of the Year and a gold in the 2020 APAC Effies. From the perspective of Herbert Hernandez, GIGIL stands as a testament to how creativity and effectiveness can go hand-in-hand, challenging the dominance of multinational agencies in the Philippines.

In music, Herbert is not just another band member. He is the composer of “Migraine,” a hit song that has earned over 90 million streams on Spotify. His dual careers, both demanding and distinct, highlight his ability to thrive in multiple spheres without sacrificing his passion for either.

Beyond these accomplishments, Herbert Hernandez has also been recognized for his leadership, making it onto the coveted “40 Under 40” list by Campaign. This honor only confirmed his influence in the world of advertising.

 The Role of Mentorship in His Success

When we asked Herbert about the importance of mentorship, he described it as a cornerstone of his career. “Mentorship has been a guiding force throughout my journey,” he said. “As a mentee, learning from my seniors has given me strategies that shaped my professional development. As a mentor, I strive to pass on that same wisdom to the next generation of leaders in both advertising and music.”

For Herbert Hernandez, mentorship isn’t just about imparting knowledge; it’s about fostering a mindset that allows for continuous learning. “I’ve been leading since my student council days,” he shared. “And every experience, whether as a mentor or mentee, helps me grow.”

Creativity: The Lifeblood of His Career

With both advertising and music constantly evolving, staying creative can be a challenge. So, how does Herbert Hernandez maintain his edge? “Being a lifelong learner is key,” he emphasized.

“I soak in creativity from various sources, and playing in a band allows me to see different cultures and art forms.” He’s always on the lookout for new inspiration, whether it’s from a beautiful piece of art, a performance, or a cultural moment. This commitment to continuous learning fuels his work at GIGIL and in his music career.

According to Herbert Hernandez, GIGIL is known for disrupting conventional advertising norms. When asked how he nurtures creativity in his team, he revealed that fostering an open environment is crucial. “It’s essential for the team to share the same goals. When everyone is on the same page, creativity flows freely. It’s all about expressing ideas without hesitation.”

The Courage to Take Risks

Risk-taking is a significant part of Herbert’s success. “You don’t need to be born creative,” he explained. “Creativity is about courage & choosing the right ideas from a sea of possibilities, even when they seem unconventional.” In both music and advertising, he’s learned that pushing boundaries often leads to breakthrough moments.

One such risk was his decision to become a songwriter. “Writing music wasn’t in my comfort zone initially,” he admitted. “But I took it seriously, and soon enough, I became the chief writer for Moonstar88. That leap of faith solidified my role as a songwriter and helped me gain confidence in my creative abilities.”

This same risk-taking mindset applies to his work at GIGIL, where bold ideas and unconventional campaigns have catapulted the agency to the top.

Balancing Passion with Professional Demands

Balancing a career in advertising with a love for music would be a challenge for anyone, but Herbert Hernandez has found a way to manage both successfully. “I believe time is managed not just by us but also by a higher power,” he said. “I prioritize my responsibilities, but I also trust that everything aligns according to God’s plan.”

This balance between personal passion and professional duties is what allows Herbert to excel in both fields. Whether he’s on stage or in the boardroom, his commitment to his craft remains unwavering.

Collaboration: The Key to Success

Herbert Hernandez thrives on collaboration, whether with his bandmates or his advertising team. “Collaboration allows me to achieve things beyond my own capabilities,” he said. “The best ideas come from teamwork. I foster an open environment where my team feels free to express their ideas without fear of judgment.”

In the world of advertising, collaboration is essential for creating authentic, impactful campaigns. For Herbert, understanding a brand’s core values is the key to maintaining authenticity while pushing creative boundaries.

Looking to the Future

When asked about his future aspirations, Herbert Hernandez’s goals are clear. Professionally, he hopes to see GIGIL recognized globally, and he envisions continued growth for the agency. “I want GIGIL to be known not just in the Philippines, but on a global scale.”

Personally, Herbert hopes to continue inspiring others through his work in both music and advertising. “I want to age gracefully and continue to create and inspire,” he said.

And if given the chance, there are brands he’d love to work with. “Brands like Apple, Samsung, and Nike have creativity ingrained in their DNA. Partnering with them would be a dream come true.”

A Legacy of Creativity and Leadership

Herbert Hernandez’s journey, from composing hit songs to co-founding GIGIL, serves as an inspiring example of how passion, creativity, and the willingness to take risks can lead to extraordinary success. Herbert Hernandez and GIGIL are a testament to the power of collaboration, authenticity, and continuous learning in today’s fast-paced industries of music and advertising. His ability to bridge these two worlds sets him apart, making Herbert Hernandez a creative force to be reckoned with.

As Herbert Hernandez continues to push boundaries, both on stage and in the advertising world, there’s no doubt that his influence will only continue to grow. His story reminds us that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about courage, collaboration, and staying true to your values.