Best known as the lead vocalist of the band Guns N’ Roses since 1985, Axl Rose has achieved a legacy that cements his status as one of the most respected and legendary rock icons in the music industry. His powerful, distinct vocals became the hallmark of his career, with successful hits like “Sweet Child O’ Mine.”
Speaking of that song, celebrity performers on “Your Face Sounds Familiar” have transformed into Axl Rose to deliver their own renditions of the hit rock track. Check out some of those standout performances.
Jolina Magdangal (YFSF Season 1, 2015) - “Sweet Child O' Mine”
Everyone in the studio was already hyped the moment Jolina grooved to the beat of “Sweet Child O’ Mine” as Axl Rose. This rockstar transformation was something you wouldn’t expect from her, and true enough, it was a completely different side of Jolina this time.
“Paglabas mo pa lang, ‘yung galaw mo sobrang Axl Rose na Axl Rose na,” said Judge Jed Madela, who admitted he grew up listening to the song. He added that Jolina captured the angst just like the rock icon. Meanwhile, Judge Gary Valenciano praised her performance, saying, “Vocally, it wasn’t Jolina trying to sound like Axl Rose. It was a female version of Axl Rose.”
Impersonating Axl Rose was not something Judge Sharon Cuneta ever imagined. She remarked that she didn’t see Jolina at all, saying, “That was so Axl. It wasn’t OA, you were so good.” The judges even coined the performance as “Axl-lent” (excellent).
Jolina placed 5th at the end of the season.
Xia Vigor (YFSF Kids Season 1, 2017) - “Sweet Child O’ Mine”
From cutesy vibes to full-on rocker mode, Xia Vigor delivered her own take on “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” even nailing Axl’s raspy vocals. This transformation was completely different from the female pop stars Xia had previously impersonated, earning her a standing ovation from the judges after her number.
Judge Sharon Cuneta revealed that Xia didn’t just amaze her---she was utterly surprised by what she pulled off. Following her was Judge Gary Valenciano, who admitted he had some doubts but was proven wrong. “Dalawang salita lang ang maaari kong sabihin sa performance mo: blown away.”
Adding to the praise, Judge Ogie Alcasid had nothing more to say but, “Pagaling ka nang pagaling.” He agreed with the other judges’ comments, emphasizing that Xia delivered a solid performance.
Xia placed 5th at the end of the season.
CJ Navato (YFSF Season 3, 2021) - “Sweet Child O’ Mine”
Turning the stage into a rock concert was CJ Navato, who added his own flavor to the song “Sweet Child O’ Mine.” CJ jumped around and went all out with his energy, channeling Axl Rose himself from the outfit down to the nuances.
Judge Gary Valenciano noted that although CJ struggled to become a rock singer, he admired his commitment to the impersonation. Mentor Jed Madela and Judge Ogie Alcasid had the same sentiment, acknowledging CJ’s effort to let loose and make things happen while performing.
CJ placed 6th at the end of the season.
Akira Morisihita (YFSF Season 4, 2026) - “Sweet Child O’ Mine”
Akira unleashed his inner rockstar in his performance of “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” with everyone in the studio jamming along as he sang. Afterward, Akira showcased more of Axl Rose's signature “snake dance,” even performing it with fellow ka-Familiars onstage.
Axl Rose is probably the most different style Akira has taken on so far in the competition. “Ang layo sa mga dati mong ginaya… good job, man. Ang galing,” Judge Gary Valenciano commended. Proud was an understatement for Judge Sharon Cuneta, who said, “You were so committed. That was so opposite of you, it was fabulous.”
Judge Ogie Alcasid expressed his appreciation for the effort Akira put into delivering a strong stage performance. “Merong parts dun na talaga, Axl Rose. You really put your heart into it, your performance, which is really commendable. Mahirap ‘yun, niri-risk mo pa yung vocal cords mo.” He admired Akira’s passion.
The spotlight doesn't end here! Catch more iconic performances on “Your Face Sounds Familiar" weeknights, 7:15PM on Kapamilya Channel sa ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live (KOL) and iWant.