Philippine Music bits on Pinoy bands and singers

Naisip ko lang dahil sa reunion concert nila ay baka maraming interesado sa discography ng Eraserheads. Ibig sabihin ng discography ay lahat ng mga records (CD, cassette tape, plaka vinyl) na inilabas kung saan kasama ang isang artista, banda o musikero. Swerte ang BMG Pilipinas sa reunion na ito, sigurado maraming bibili ng back catalog ng Eraserheads, easily 10,000 units sold ito for this year alone lalo na’t ilang beses ipapalabas sa MTV ang first set ng Easerheads reunion concert last August 30, 2008.

Sayang nga at hindi nabuo ang concert, mas tabo sana ang kita ng BMG. Yung producer ng concert ewan kung nakabawi sila, pero dahil sa nakagenerate naman sila ng exclusive content for MTV eh baka sulit at msaya na rin si Francis Lumen.

Mamaya ko na lang i-post yung mga actual info details ng Eheads CDs although eto ang complete list ng mga solo albums of the original Eraserheads lineup:

• PopU!
• UltraElectroMagneticPop
• Circus
• CutterPillow
• Fruitcake
• Banana Type (EP)
• Sticker Happy
• Aloha Milkyway
• Natin99
• Carbon Stereoxide
• Please Transpose (EP)

At get well message pala to ELY BUENDIA, pagaling ka parekoy at pahinga ka muna.

tags: Eraserheads, Eraserheads reunion, Eraserheads concert, Ely Buendia,

By Valerie Tort

If it is not Julian Felipe, it is Noel Cabangon. As the composer of the modern Philippine National Anthems, Noel Cabangon can surpass the nationalistic and patriotic fervor reflected in Julian Felipe’s composition titled Lupang Hinirang.

The spell of Noel Cabangon started to captivate every TV viewer a few years ago as his song Kanlungan became the theme music in the commercial of one of the largest American fast food chains in the country. Every time the commercial was played, teens, yuppies, and adults all over the country sung together with the mysterious voice that hooked their attention.

Noel Cabangon is the mysterious voice behind the well-known song Kanlungan. His much-awaited break in the Philippine music industry suddenly knocked his door. As soon as his song made a break into the mainstream pop alternative music, Noel Cabangon grabbed the opportunity to motivate our Filipino countrymen for a change in the political and social upheaval prevailing in the country.

Noel Cabangon became one of the most popular alternative rock artists in the Philippines for his advocacy campaigns reflecting the hearts and minds of every Filipino.

“It was my intention to bring the song down from the heavens,” Noel Cabangon said in a chat with Cris Ramos.

Entertaining, persuasive, and enlightening—the singer and songwriter used his talent to reflect on the issues that continued to reign in the past decades such as poverty, the need for justice, freedom, and various struggles that confine the Filipinos inside a box. The subjects of his songs are the marginalized sectors of the community like the farmers, fishermen, and others.

Music is the language no one can ignore. As the tune Kanlungan is played back inside our head, it brought a fresh delight and insight on how to improve the Philippines to a better country for a brighter future.

“I attempted to make this song more grounded, to give this song that a lot of people have loved and related to and convert it into something for the people and nation to listen and hopefully derive inspiration from,” Noel Cabangon said.

“For a good deal of time I’ve been writing a lot of socio-political material,” the singer and composer added.

The nationalistic Filipino artist in actions, in words, and in deeds worked with several tunes for the local video documentaries. As a commercial artist, he composed and sung numerous tunes suited for TV and radio advertisements. As a mainstream pop alternative rock artist, he fascinated movie viewers with heartfelt theme songs.

Noel Cabangon continued to dedicate all his songs for the Filipinos as he fulfilled his wish to inspire and promote Filipino empowerment.

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

Many Filipino artists doing well in the international scene serve as encouragement and good example for many aspiring Pinoy performers. One of them is the former child star Billy Crawford.

His fame and fortune in Europe did not, of course, happened in a blink of an eye. The ex “That’s Entertainment’s member worked hard to break through in his chosen field.

“We’re not the most popular race in the world pero when you penetrate it, it’s a relief and it adds that you have to work harder.”

Billy shared that he didn’t initially plan to enter in overseas’ entertainment industry. He left his promising career in the Philippines just to be with his family when he was 11 years old.

“Umalis ako to see my Dad kasama si Mommy, hindi ko naisip na papasok ulit ako sa showbiz kasi nung nawala ako nahirapan din ako. Maiiwan ko ang mga kaibigan ko sa showbiz and I’ll miss performing.”

Boredom was what pushed the young performer to join in a big competition held in Dallas, Texas. Battling with various individuals ranging from six to 40 years old, Billy didn’t only win the overall champion title but also the heart of a judge who was actually a talent manager in New York.

“I joined to be on stage not to have a record deal, hindi naman ako naghahanap ng manager or anything.”

Since then the 25 year-old-lad’s singing career was reactivated. He had many famous singles but his key hit in Europe was the song “Trackin.” It sold 750,000 copies and was certified platinum. The song was a chart-topper in France, Holland, Belgium, Switzerland and Germany. His other popular danceable ditties are “Bright Lights” and “Steamy Nights”.

“It (Trackin) was surprising because it wasn’t my favorite. The first time kong narinig sa Europe na nasa radio, wow! Okay I’m performing, it was a great experience.”

In 2003, Billy hailed as International Male Artist of the Year of NRJ Music Awards in Cannes France, beating Robbie Williams, Eminem and Will Smith.

Currently, Billy is back in the country to stage his concert at the Big dome on October 6. He is also hosting M.O.V.E, a reality based dancers search show on GMA 7.

“Ginagawa naming iyong TV Show para isama naming iyong six na mananalo sa concert.”

On the other hand, the singer who starred in “Dominion: Prequel to the Exorcist” doesn’t want to give details yet of his upcoming concert as the things is still in progress and to surprise his fans as well.

“I hope you’ll enjoy it. It’s gonna be a lot of fun, that’s one thing.”

Billy is concentrating on his next album “STATUS,” where he collaborated with a new promising artist in America, R&B musician INOJ and Philippines R&B prince Jay-R.

“The album has new songs, more urban with R & B feel and there’s also pop and funk. It’s a high energy album pa rin na full of danceable songs.”

Billy humbly impart that the best trainings he learned came from the Philippines, meaning his excellent dance prowess and singing style.

“If you’re really smart to pursue a career, you’ll take it from the best. Growing up seeing Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Sharon Cuneta, Pops Fernandez, Regine (Velasquez), Jaya and all other performers, you’ll start to learn from them and doon ka matututo.”

“Everybody is on their own in this business so you have to work hard.”

Ecstatic to the his countrymen’s continuous support, Billy feels that despite his long absence the reception of his local audience is getting better and better.

“Every time na bumabalik ako dito, there’s still energy na hindi ko talaga maintindihan pero they’re always there to support me and I really thank God for that.”

With all his success, Billy Crawform never fails to fondly look back at his first home. The former child star who became an international artist is really proud being a Filipino and wants to inspire his kababayan to dream big.

Tags: Billy Crawford, Philippine Music News

By Excel V. Dyquiangco

Not many people are aware of her name but think Moonstar88 and you come up with the name of Acel Bisa Van Ommen, who, together with her band, immortalized the sounds of “Panalangin”, “Sulat,” “Sa Langit,” and of course, “Torete.”

These times, Moonstar88 had ceased to be in the music scene but Acel’s comeback is just getting off the ground. After a long hiatus from the sound stage, Acel is back with a different tune, a different sound and a different melody to her music.

From the edgy and rock music of Moonstar88, Acel has evolved to the type of songs which would soothe and comfort anyone’s heart, owing it to her angelic and soothing voice.

And this time the package is entirely different. The songs, available through Star Records, are individually available in digital format within the year and this is a first for any artist of any kind. Each song is also downloadable and is available for 12 pesos each! Among Acel’s favorite songs in the album are “Pakiusap” and “Laugh and Cry.”

The journey to this stage of her life hasn’t been rosy for Acel. After stepping off the limelight in 2004, Acel has been anxious about several things in her life such as her impending marriage. She was also trying to seek for direction and guidance in her life.

After working temporarily as an administrator at LMP Music, a production company headed by a close friend, the passion in music still fires up within her. She was still able to make songs in those six months she had worked there and whenever she had the time, she would perform for special occasions in front of a live audience.

The heart of music, she claims, is in her audience that cheers for her, and she truly misses performing in front of them. When she realized that she wanted to continue the dream that she left behind, she resigned as administrator and concentrated again on her music.

It was in 2006 when the same recording company brought her back, and immediately placed her on the public interest’s eye again. But this time, her sense and style in music became different. She became keen on giving her crowd the music of her life – the mellow and soothing sounds that was a far cry from the Acel everyone used to know.

After everything that has happened to her life, Acel devotes her music to something close to her heart. The lyrics talk about hope, love and the inner fire that keeps on burning despite certain obstacles and fears.

For more information on Acel Bisa Van Ommen and her music, you can check out her website. You can also check out her songs and download them for free via her built-in player to the website, dutifully designed by her husband Danny van Ommen.

Tags: Moonstar 88, Acel Bisa

By Love Dela Cruz

For all you rock aficionados out there, you very well know that rock has no limits, boundaries or social class. Brace yourself and meet the band that’s been unifying the rich and the poor with their tasteful music and original style– Subscapular.

This Indie band has been together since 2001. “We started way back in high school,” lead guitarist Randy Gatbontonshares. This former Christian band got their name from the scapular, which is a religious necklace. “Pag sinuot mo kasi yung scapular nire-represent mo yung paniniwala mo, ganoon din yung gusto naming mangyari.”

Like other bands, the guys of Subscapular wanted to share their amazing music to the rest of the world and like any other band they weren’t able to retain their original lineup, “Nawalan kami ng drummer kinuha namin si Sam,” who also happens to be the brother of their bassist Elias Saludsong.

The band started out in the underground scene, playing in Saguijo, Mayricks and Freedom Bar. According to their band manager Aspen Sanez, the band’s turning point was when they performed in a gig at Music Museum two years ago, “That was the point where we realized that we could make something out of this, period!”

It was also that same night the band met their manager, “Nung nandoon na si Aspen, doon naming naisip na magseryoso na talaga, saka nagging tight kami dahil kay Aspen,” adds Elias who plays bass.

The Subscapular Sound

Their musical style is defined as experimental but their lyrics is emo, and their manager affirms this, “When you listen to their music it’s not really emo. The lyrics is emo pero yung music is experimental.” With influences like pop, metal and progressive rock Rod Tolentino, the bands vocalist, injects they also admire–“Sa guitar, Lenny Kravitz.”

Despite their diverse influences the band managed to cook up a musical style they all agree on. Randy explains that they value each other and tries to help one another, whether it is the technical or lyrical aspect of a song, “Parang anung bang maganda dito (lyrics), tapos mag add na kaming lahat.”

On a different perspective Aspen notes that, “They have their influences and it really shows how these influences all adds up to the rhythm and the credibility of the band.”

The band is releasing their first album called Telefiction under Kerplunk records, “Ok lahat ng kanta namin, magiging ok sila makaka relate sila sa buhay namin.” Elias also adds that through this album, their fans can really see who they really are, no inhibitions or pretensions just pure raw emotions served with great music.

Be sure to watch out for these guys, for more information about Subscapular visit their my space account.

Tags: Subscapular, Filipino Bands, Philippine Music Industry, Philippine Music News

By: Love Dela Cruz

It was a rainy Saturday on June 23, 2007 as one hundred and fifty plus bands played simultaneously for the Fete-De la-Musique event in Malate, Manila. This collision of music genre is an event sponsored by the French consulate.

The Fete-De la-Musique originated from the luscious scenery of France, it started out with bands playing concurrently in different stages and giving the fans the ultimate night of their lives. Soon more and more countries joined in the craze and now the Fete-De la-Musique is the most anticipated music extravaganza that can rock an entire nation.

The roads were blocked, as four separate stages took over the small gimikan place of Malate in Manila. Despite the bad weather that took upon the participants, it was astounding to see that everyone was still having fun.

My first stop was the reggae stage; I caught people dancing with and without any umbrellas proving Mother Nature that the youth of today are even more rebellious than before.

To make it more visual here’s the list of performers who were rocking the stages that night, In Nakpil Cor. Ma. Orosa St, we had the World, Blues, Jazz, Funk, Reggae & Ska slash Electronica Stage which was graced by bands like Peryodiko, Taken By Cars, Daydream Cycle, Drip, Makatha, Cosmic Love, Switch, Salindiwa, Milagros Dancehall Collective, The Chongkeys, The Rinka Collective, Bagetsafonik, Paramita, 4mh, Jeepney Joyride, Blue Rats, The Spaceflower Show, Jerome Rico, Sound, Wahijuara, Brass Munky, Bembol Rockers, Coffee Break Island, Swissy, Outerhope, Ang Bandang Shirley, Blazing Bulalakaw, Juan Pablo Dream, Musical Orgasm, Pinikpikan, Spy, Skabeche, Johnny Alegre Affinity and the now making a noise band Sino Sikat?

On the other side of the street where Adriatico St. Cor. Nakpil we find the Hip-Hop and R&B Stage, now this is where I saw how the pinoy hip-hop community was afraid of some rain and wasn’t able to show the fellas on stage the lovin the deserve. The hip-hop artist performing that nigh were Sinag and God’s Will, Nimbusnine, Krazykyle, Slick n Sly Kane with Mista Blaze, Corporate Lo-Fi, Audible, Syke, Pamilia Dimagiba, Chilitees, Out of Body Special, Mobbstarr, Jay Flava, Hi-C, Miscellaneous, Stick Figgaz, The Expansion Team, Urban Outlaws, Artstrong, Dash and Esp, Monique with Metagrove, Ill-J, 2tay, People’s Future, Flipballaz, Aero, Ampon, Los Indios Bravoz, Diwata, Mike’s Apartment, Dcoy+The Franchize and Sunny Blaze, Nathan J, Circulo Pugantes, Mhcrew and Audible.

After moving and grooving to the beat of some gangsta music leds head over to the wet streets of Plaza Rajah Sulayman, Roxas Boulevard where the Universal or the Main Stage is located. Here we saw mainstream acts such as Orange and Lemons, Stonefree, Salamin, Cynthia Alexander, Radioactive Sago Project, Up Dharma Down, Mayonnaise, The Dawn, Alibata, Mojolfy, Wake Up Your Seatmate, Snakecharmer, Lala, Kadangyan, Slapshock, The Bloomfields and Erskin. Talk about big shot names, this stage was THE stage.

But let’s not forget what most of these kids were here for. If you like wearing black shirts, Chuck Taylors, skinny jeans (and you’re a guy) and you love the sound the banging and slamming of the drums, well this stage was meant for you.

Located at the Remedios Circle, Remedios St. Cor. Adriatico, is the Rock Stage. This was the box-office stage in the event, here bands like hicosci, Sin, Badburn, Moyg, Intolerant, Hampaslupa, Boy Elroy, Hilera, Greyhoundz, Cog, Valley of Chrome, Kapatid, Join the Club, Resurrected, Typecast, The Ambassadors, Check, Analog, End of Man, Mortal Fear, El Mercurio, Pin Up Girls, Ducks Entertainment, The Wuds, Vox de Murk, Redd Boy, Eternal Now, Severo, Effinboiche, Reklamo, Dirty Stone Yard, Giniling Festival, April Morning Skies, Subscapular and the band formerly known as Cheese now Queso, was playing like there was no rain and tomorrow.

The fans were bumping and maiking their own small moshpits, awaiting the jump of the lead singers.

Despite the harsh weather the Fete-De La-Musique was a success. This sentiment can be shared by those die hard music lovers out there who would endure anything just to listen to great and free music, let’s not forget cheap booze.

Tags: Manila Fete de la Musique, Philippine Music News, Pinoy Bands

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

A significant event will happen to the Philippines’ favorite pop star Sarah Geronimo as she stages her second major concert. According to Viva Entertainment big boss Vic del Rosario this serves as the defining moment of the premier young artist.

In “Sarah Geronimo in Motion” the singer –actress will perform with Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano, Sam Milby, Jericho Rosales, Mark Bautista, John Prats, and Comedy Concert Queen Ai Ai delas Alas. A concert series will also run in United States particularly in California, New York, Alaska, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas in August and September.

Sarah’s Music

Four years ago, the Celine Dion original “To Love You More” captured the heart of the nation. The song was popularized by the “Star For a Night’s” grand winner Sarah Geronimo in 2003 who used it as her winning piece.

Sarah was 14 years old when she garnered the glory. At such age, she wowed everyone with her powerful voice. It seemed impossible that such vocal prowess would come from a girl her age.

Her debut album, “Popstar, A Dream Come True” brought her sextuple platinum award. Incidentally, her single “Sa’ Yo” was use as campaign jingle by senatoriable and a computer school that Sarah endorsed.

Sarah’s another track “Twin Heart” was the theme song of a GMA soap opera with the same titl, top billed by Dingdong Dantes, Tanya Garcia and Dennis Trillo.

Her sophomore album “Sweet Sixteen” was a gold record in one week. “How Could You Say You Love Me,” “Lumingon Ka Lang” and the revival, “I Want to Know What Love Is” were the pop tracks that helped Sarah to gain the Most Popular Female Recording Artist by Guillermo Mendoza Memorial Award in 2005.

While performing as mainstay of ASAP, Sarah was officially lauched trhough her first major concert, “Sarah: The Other Side.”

That same year Sarah recorded songs for several consumer products including “Tunay Talaga” for top sanitary napkin ad, and“Ang Bango ng Pasko,” the yuletide season ad for a detergent powder. Sarah was slowly becoming hot property.

Also in 2005, Sarah sang the official theme for “Can Be This Love,” the launching flick of Star Circle Quest winners Hero Angeles and Sandara Park. The song attained gold record sales in only one month.

This year, Sarah will release her new album entitled, “Taking Flight.”

Sought After Singer-Actress

Sarah not only conquered the recording industry, she’s also one of the most sought after star on TV and the big screen. It started when she joined the 90s youth oriented show “Click.” When she transferred from GMA to ABS-CBN she starred in her solo program “Sarah: The Teen Princess” where she had three leading men.

Last year, she conquered the primetime with her singing and acting in the TV adaptation of “Bituing Walang Ningning” where she revived the character that Sharon Cuneta immortalized.

After her one month engagement in “Love Spell: Sweet Sixty”, Sarah is set to do one more primetime assignment this time with Jericho Rosales, “Pangarap Na Bituin.”

In movies, Sarah did “Lastikman”, where she played leading lady to Mark Bautista, “Captain Barbell,” “Filipinas,” and “Annie Batungbakal.” Currently, her mother studio is working out to remake “Dear Heart” that will be her major movie opposite John Lloyd Cruz.

Before being known as teen icon, Sarah already had past projects when she was a kid. She was part of “Pen Pen de Sarapen” and “Ang TV” while her first film would be “Sarah, Ang Munting Prinsesa,” where she’s one of the classmates of the lead actress – Camille Prats.

A Major Transformation

“My fans will be seeing a different me. I’ll be dancing. And my costumes will be – how would I describe it – daring and sexy,” Sarah described her July 14 concert that will start 8pm at the Araneta Coliseum.

The show promises an intense, spunky, and buoyant Popstar that will be directed by GB San Pedro with Mark Lopez as musical director. While, the music man Louie Ocampo will have a special participation.

The Anak TV Seal nominee for “Most Popular Household on Philippine Television” has become an inspiration for many aspiring singers. Sarah Geronimo has gone a long way, indeed. And there are more to conquer in Philippine showbiz, no doubt about that.

Tags: Sarah Geronimo, Philippine Music News, Pinoy Albums

by Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

After two years of absence in from the music scene, reigning Pop Sweetheart Yasmien Kurdi comes back with her latest album under GMA Records. Titled Love Is All I Need, Yasmien not only showcased her powerful vocals but her songwriting skills as well.

Her composition, “Love Is All I Need” is the carrier single of the album. She shared that inspiration for the song came during the taping of her fantasy series “Encantadia”, where she spent her free time mostly daydreaming under the trees.

Yasmien is very proud of her new album because she was really involved in the production.

“Ipinagmamalaki ko po talaga ang album na ito. ‘Di ba may demo song pa iyan, doon pa lang humihirit na ako na, “Kuya hindi iyan.”

The young singer-actress said that she even debated for the songs that would be included in the album. There were even spilled over tracks meant for her debut album but because of her age at that time, the songs didn’t fit to her image.

“Iyong ibang songs ko ngayon ay mga tracks sa first album na hindi ko makanta noong time na iyon. Kasi hindi ko pa kaya at hindi pa ako maka-relate.”

The track “Hayaan Mo Na” is a creation of Sandwich band members – Mong Alcaraz and Mike Dizon. The two men also joined Alwyn Cruz and Rene Salta in producing the album.

Yasmien revived “Kisapmata” of Rivermaya, which is already penetrating the airwaves. Her version is not so far from Bamboo’s interpretation except of course, she has own singing style. Her another remake is the song “Goodbye.”

“Medyo naiiba siya, I mean ibang sound naman for Yasmien, it’s technologically advanced,” Yasmien now describing her song, “Candlelight Romance.”

The song is a danceable tune powered by electronical tricks that made the song more enchanting, just like what foreign artists like Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears and Christina Aguillera like to dish out.

“Give Me A Sign,” “Wishing Well”, and “One Day” are songs that revealed this star’s deepest thoughts and aspirations.

The sweet and youthful Yasmien is noticeable in the two cuts “Even If” and “Take Or Leave It.” The latter is similar to her signature ditty, “I Know.” “I Know” was the theme song of Korean series “Sweet 18” aired by GMA 7 before.

“Gusto kong ma-spread out iyong music ko. Sana iyong essence noong mga songs sa album ay ma-enjoy ng mga listeners.”

Yasmien is the lead star of afternoon soap opera, “Pati Ba Pintig ng Puso,” opposite new actor JC de Vera. Apart from it, she’s a regular performer on the Sunday musical program SOP. She was able to record her album in between these regular gigs and other TV guestings.

“Kunwari kapag taping pull –out. Kapag break time, aalis muna ako to record. Alis-balik ganoon.”

“Love Is All I Need ”, Yasmien Kurdi’s second album is released by GMA Records and distributed by Paragon Music Corporation and Universal Records.

Tags: Yasmien Kurdi, Starstruck, GMA Artists, Philippine Entertainment News

By Valerie Tort

From a hopeful musician to a successful recording artist—stepping out of the Pinoy Dream Academy opened a new door for Chad Peralta in the Philippine music industry.

After several weeks of romping each day and night inside the academy, Nugen Music decided to record and release an album for Chad Peralta.

Pop alternative and pop rock patrons will surely enjoy Chad Peralta’s new songs that will touch your heart while feeling a little bit reflective and at the same time reminiscent of their “puppy love” or “one true love.” The 21-year-old singer and songwriter brought back our memories of romantic love songs that touched even our soul with an upbeat rhythm of the pop alternative genre full of emotions.

Chad Peralta graduated from the reality-based music academy armed with the cultivated talent and the enhanced voice brought by the training and the experience inside the televised school. Pinoy Dream Academy trained numerous scholars from around the globe to fulfill their dream of becoming one of the most sought-after singers in the Philippine music scene. Chad is one of the dreamers who finally made it to the top six scholars with Panky Trinidad, Irish Fullerton, Jay-R Siaboc, Ronnie Liang, and the Grand Star Dreamer Yeng Constantino.

Chad’s self-titled debut album was released this month under Nugen Music. His inclination for pop alternative genre helped him to release this debut album featuring 11 songs: Promise, Song For You, Time Machine, My Eyes Adored You, Kasalanan, Where Do I Begin?, Realist, I’ll Do Anything For You, Kung Pwede Lang Sana, I Don’t Know, and the acoustic version of Song For You.

The Australian-born Chad was able to showcase his pop rock and pop alternative genre while preserving the mood of the songs. Hearing his songs made me remind of Evanescence—the gothic rock style that kept haunting your emotions each time and the beat and the sorrow, nostalgic feeling in every word sung.

Fans of Chad can hear his unexpected performance and outstanding talent that can compete with other established and long-time performers. The energetic and powerful voice will drown devout fans with emotions.

The carrier single “Song For You” is dedicated for heartbroken people who still loved his special someone even if they ended up separated. The love will still remain just like before, with the longing and sadness endured through time.

“My Eyes Adored You” reminisced the times he spent with his special someone. The kindergarten romance continued to creep in his mind even if the endless years passed. No matter what their distance is, his only love will remain in his heart—so near yet so far.

His tremendous efforts and hard work inside the academy paid off when his debut album was released. A true blue romantic Pinoy at heart, Chad Peralta is a world-class performer that will serenade us in a peculiar way as the contemporary pop music sets in his songs.

Tags: Chad Peralta, Pinoy Dream Academy, Philippine Music News

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

The Star Dreamer 2nd runner up of Pinoy Dream Academy (PDA) Ronnie Liang, didn’t get this far that easy. Before his big break from the 24/7 reality talent search, he was once disqualified from a prestigious singing contest on television.

Ronnie was one of the strong contenders in the second season of GMA’s “Pinoy Pop Superstar.” His followers was surprised when the show’s host, Regine Velasquez, suddenly announced that he was being kicked off the show because the management found out he violated a vital rule of the contest — having his own manager.

Many were dismayed but the event served as motivation for the now “Prince of Balladeers.” Ronnie was able to move on and focus on his singing career.

“May plano si God sa lahat ng nangyayar. Things woked out for the better,” Ronnie shared.

Fresh from his triumph at PDA, the young singer beams with the debut of his 13-track album, “Ang Aking Awitin” under Universal records.

“Hindi ako makapaniwala na nag-recording ako para sa solo album ko. Nagpa-flash lagi sa mind ko iyong pinagawa sa amin ni headmaster (Jim Paredes) about sa collage of dreams. Isa sa dinikit ko doon ay iyong picture ng album at si Christian Bautista. Sabi ko, dream ko na maging katulad ni Christian na maging ‘Asian Heartthrob’ at magkaroon ng solo album,” the balladeer remembered.

The album’s carrier single, “Ngiti” is one of the most requested songs today. Its catchy lyrics and melody topped numerous music charts. It seems he brings a different spice into the genre popularized by Ric Segreto, Ariel Rivera, Gary Valenciano and Martin Nievera.

Ryan Cayabyab’s composition, “Nais Ko” is also a cut in his debut album. The song happened to be his winning piece in PDA’s Grand Dream Night held at Araneta Coliseum last December 16.

“Ang message ng song ay talagang nangungusap sa akin, Nais Kong matupad ang mga pangarap ko. May isang line sa kanta na gusting-gusto ko ito ay ang: “Nais Kong Malibot Ang Mundo sa kanyang Kasuluksulukan.” Pangarap ko makapunta sa iba’t - ibang lugar at makapag-perform,” he said “

Natupad iyon at nakapunta ako sa Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro, Oriental, Mindoro, Coronadal and Boracay. Higit sa lahat nakapunta ako sa Japan, Los Angeles, San Diego and Las Vegas para mag-concert and pasayahin ang mga kababayan natin. Hindi ko akalain na makakarating ako sa mga lugar na iyon. Nag-umpisa lang talaga ang lahat sa pangarap na ngayon ay natupad na.”

In preparation for his album, he maintained his usual discipline and applied the lessons he learned from PDA. He vocalized, exercised, slept early and avoided cold and sweet foods.

“Dumadating ang mga time na kapag pagod ang boses ko and kakanta or magre-recording ako, hindi talaga ako nagsasalita. Pinagpapahinga ko ang boses ko. Iyon din ang advice ng mga voice teacher namin noong nasa academy pa ako.”

The mainstay of ASAP ’07 had the privilege to collaborate with respected individuals in music industry. RnB man Keith Martin penned the song “Ikaw”, Ito Rapadas for the track inspired by OFWs, “Kung Ako’y Uuwi,” and Vehnee Saturno who created and produced the track, “Nag-iisang Ikaw.”

Other songs in the album are “Kaibigan Mo” penned by Pett Del Rosario, “Sa ‘Yo Lang” and “Walang Iba” composed by John Barnard Borja, “Saan Darating ang Umaga” by George Canseco, and “Gusto Kita” popularized by Gino Padilla.

Ronnie performed “Ang Aking Awitin” with Nikki Gil. The guy from Angeles, Pampanga personally requested the singer and MYX VJ to be his singing partner for the said song.

“It’s an honor talaga na makatrabaho ko sila and makanta ko ang mga kanta nila. Advice nila sa akin na kumanta ako using my own style. Kahit ‘di na raw ako birit ng birit sa pagkanta Kumanta lang daw ako ng suave.”

Ronnie is a neophyte in music industry and yet he already went through many challenges in his singing career. He values what he has learned from his experiences and the people he met, and he never stopped dreaming.

Ronnie Liang’s “Ang Aking Awitin” album is exclusively marketed & distributed by Universal Records Inc.

Special thanks to Universal Records and Mr. George Roca

Tags: Ronnie Liang, Pinoy Dream Academy, Pinoy Pop Superstar