In the early 2000s, the alternative rock/pop band 6cyclemind gained widespread recognition in the Philippines, quickly achieving success. Nearly a decade into their journey, the band underwent a lineup change, bringing in the already well-known guitarist Herbert Hernandez. Prior to joining 6cyclemind, Hernandez had founded Moonstar88, where he continues to shine as the lead guitarist and songwriter. While performing with two prominent bands is a feat in itself, Hernandez doesn’t stop there—he balances this with an entirely different career. Beyond his music, he co-founded the internationally renowned independent advertising agency GIGIL alongside Badong Abesamis.
Though his evenings are often spent on the road performing with his bands, Hernandez’s days are just as dynamic. His work schedule is packed with meetings, presentations, and client collaborations in the advertising world. A creative powerhouse in both music and visual arts, Hernandez thrives by dedicating his time to ventures that inspire him and fuel his passions.
A Day in the Life of Herbert Hernandez
Hernandez begins his day with prayer and plenty of coffee. From 9 AM to 6 PM, he’s fully immersed in his work at GIGIL, juggling calls and client meetings. His workday includes a lunch break spent with his family, a routine he treasures as a father and husband. Married for 15 years, Hernandez and his wife share three children, and he prioritizes time with them daily. Whenever possible, his children visit his office to witness his professional life firsthand. After work, the evening is often spent enjoying dinner with his family, followed by gigs with either 6cyclemind or Moonstar88. He also carves out time to play Mobile Legends with his wife before calling it a night.
Hernandez strongly values family connections. He schedules one date night with his wife weekly, a dedicated family day each week, and an annual international family vacation. Additionally, family bike rides and a focus on maintaining good health are integral to their lifestyle.
With such a packed schedule, travel is a regular part of his life. If there’s one thing he sacrifices, it’s sleep—many nights see him managing with just four hours of rest. Yet, driven by his passion for music and advertising, Hernandez takes this in stride, energized by the positive feedback from fans and clients alike.
Championing Creative Talent and New Opportunities
Beyond his dual careers, Hernandez dedicates time to supporting creative talents in his industries. In 2018, he founded The Indierectory, a platform that connects advertising freelancers and independents with agencies and companies seeking their skills. His mission is to elevate Filipino independent talent and eventually expand these opportunities on a global scale.
Hernandez also founded Lakihan mo Logo (“Make the Logo Bigger”) in 2010, which he describes as “a commercial break for people making commercials.” This concert series showcases bands formed by Manila-based advertising professionals, providing them with an outlet to decompress. Interestingly, Hernandez nearly gave up music at one point to focus on his advertising career. Through Lakihan mo Logo, he now ensures others in his industry don’t face the same dilemma. Since its inception, the initiative has organized 58 concerts, some of which led to participants being signed as recording artists. Additionally, Hernandez spearheaded 12 “Rockovery” concerts to raise funds for seriously ill advertising professionals.
The Road Ahead
At 40, Hernandez envisions retiring in the next 15 years, though many would find it hard to imagine this tireless performer stepping away. Frequently described as “tireless,” “always switched on,” and “committed to doing great work,” Hernandez exemplifies effective time management and prioritization. Fans can look forward to more exceptional ad campaigns and memorable music from this multi-talented artist in the years to come.
Whether you recognize him as the guitarist of 6cyclemind, the creative force behind Moonstar88, or the visionary co-founder of GIGIL, Herbert Hernandez continues to dedicate himself fully to every role he takes on. With his boundless energy and passion, Hernandez proves that success comes from doing what you love and excelling in it.
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