Jake Zyrus Breaks Silence on Why He Hasn’t Changed His Legal Name Yet
JAKE ZYRUS – In a candid Q&A with fans, Jake Zyrus opened up about his personal journey, including the meaningful new name he feels truly represents him.
Singer-songwriter and proud transgender man Jake Zyrus recently shared that although he has been using the name Jake Zyrus in public, his official name is still Charice Pempengco. He clarified this by saying, “Jake Zyrus is only my screen name. I have not changed my legal name just yet,” noting that he has not undergone the formal procedure to make the change legally binding.
Jake mentioned that if he does decide to update his name legally, he is leaning toward the name Charles—a choice that resonates with him because it ties back to his identity before transitioning. “Pero kung babaguhin ko siya, I kinda like Charles because it’s closer to my original name, Charice and Charmaine,” he explained. He also said he imagines using Charles as his first name and keeping Jake as a second name, along with retaining his surname: “So yeah, Charles, I feel like it is very me.”
In a question-and-answer segment with supporters on his YouTube vlog, Jake talked about the work that went into re-recording several earlier tracks for his latest EP, Roots, which includes six songs. The collection offers updated versions of “Reset,” “Nobody’s Singing To Me,” “Wherever You Are (feat. Cheesa),” “Yakap,” “Lighthouse,” and the worldwide hit “Pyramid.” Sharing his thoughts on the process, he said, “I was able to take control. I was able to actually do everything myself… you have freedom to do whatever you want, be creative.”
Jake described the experience as both sentimental and empowering, adding, “It was quite a journey. I hope you guys will like it.” He further discussed his adjustment to a lower vocal range, comparing it to reliving puberty as a trans man. Though challenging, he has discovered both familiar and new vocal techniques over time.
Regarding the possibility of releasing another full album, Jake shared that he is moving intentionally and at his own pace: “Let’s go slowly but surely… if you guys receive this well, maybe we’ll have Roots number two.”
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