Album Preview of "By Popular Demand"

Willie Nep's Show

On Nov. 21, he’s staging Willie Nep @ the Music Museum starting at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are priced P2,000 each. Reserve good seats now by calling 0918-9054580.

Rock-A-Soul for Raffa II

A Fundraising and birthday celeb

November 5, Thursday
Taboo Lounge (Home Depot Ortigas)
Show starts at 9:00 pm
Entrance is 500php

With performances by:
PUPIL
Parokya Ni Edgar
Spongecola
Itchyworms
Barbie's Cradle (reunion)
and other surprise guests:)

All proceeds will go directly to Raffa's medical treatments.

Pussycat Dolls Hush Hush

Taylor Swift's White Horse

Star Cinema's Ang Tanging Pamilya Official Full Trailer

Marc Logan's Biro Ng Tadhana

Astro Boy Showing October 28, 2009!

Kingston releases sophomore album

Platinum recording artist Sean Kingston returns with his sophomore album, Tomorrow. It is the follow-up to Kingston’s self-titled debut album, was released in 2007, which sold more than one million copies worldwide and generated three back-to-back Top 10 singles including the double-platinum smash Beautiful Girls, which hit No. 1 in 21 countries including the Philippines.

Fire Burning, the singer-songwriter’s first single off the new album, entered into the Top 5 at rhythm and Top 10 at pop radio and was certified platinum by the RIAA in just 10 weeks. In addition to its ascent up the charts, streaming of Fire Burning reached over 13 million in just two months while the video for Fire Burning was the No. 1 most played video on MTV and Fuse for July.

Kingston’s second album reflects the 19-year-old’s growth as a person as well as his evolution as a singer, songwriter, and entertainer. It is a buoyant collection of pop-fueled feel-good anthems and dance-floor clarion calls that bumps everything from electro-pop (the club-banging first single Fire Burning) to rock (Shoulda Let U Go featuring Food Charlotte), to reggae (the breezy Island Queen), to R&B (Wrap U Around Me). It also features the new single Face Drop which is about self-acceptance and shutting down the haters.

“I called it Tomorrow because the album is about everything that’s happened to me over the past two years and how much I’ve grown and changed since my debut came out,” says Kingston. “The songs are about me being hopeful and looking toward the future. We don’t know what tomorrow holds for us.”

The production is courtesy of a host of top-notch producers, including J.R. Rotem (who produced Kingston’s debut), RedOne (Lady Gaga), Wyclef Jean (who also contributes vocals on Ice Cream Girl), Detail (Akon), Lucas Second (Jordin Sparks), and The Smeezingtons (Flo Rida). Through his songs, Kingston lets listeners in on what his life is like through good old-fashioned storytelling.

Tomorrow is out in CDs under Sony Music

Apl De Ap Is Now Tourism Ace

Two sights you rarely get to see — the Black Eyed Peas’ Apl.de.Ap alighting from a jeepney, and Tourism Secretary Ace Durano bobbing his head to a hip-hop video — popped people’s eyes at the Department of Tourism (DOT) launching of its newest campaign, “Biyaheng Pinoy with Apl,” in partnership with MTV Asia.

A refreshing take promoting the country’s top destinations, the campaign is the product of a long-time collaboration between Apl.de.Ap, or Allan Pineda Lindo, and Durano. The campaign gave rise to several projects that utilize Apl.de.Ap and his music as a platform to showcase the country’s sites to the world.

“As a globally successful Filipino artist, Apl is the perfect icon to represent our country and its fascinating destinations. His music infused with Pinoy pride certainly makes this campaign fresh and exciting,” said Durano.

The project includes a music video entitled Take U to the Philippines, Apl’s complimentary offering to the DOT for the campaign.

The DOT held a soft launch of the campaign in Singapore recently, where the Black Eyed Peas also performed at the F1 Rocks concert.

“The sheer magnitude of fans who watched the Black Eyed Peas in Singapore is just a tip of the global market we are reaching through our campaign with MTV,” said Durano.

The video, Take U to the Philippines, was launched Oct. 1 to a worldwide MTV market.

When asked about his inspiration in making the video, Apl remarked, “I wanted to showcase all the beautiful spots in the Philippines. I wanted to help out tourism, to inspire others to visit the Philippines, to create jobs for people and help out the country and the community.”

Directed by Andrew Lo, creative director of MTV Asia, the video utilizes mixed-motion graphics stylized by The Source, a renowned studio in Hollywood.

Apl himself wrote the lyrics, with suggestions from Durano, to highlight the local texture of tourist destinations — warm blue waters, parties in Manila, unique Pinoy culture, heart-stopping adventure rides and an infinite number of activities found only in the Philippines.

Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque Jr. of Tourism Planning and Promotions said, “Although it may seem geared towards the young MTV generation, we are tapping the global traveler and culture connoisseur of all markets. We want the campaign to brand our country as one with an infinite number of exciting activities for adventure and culture lovers.”

The campaign is also supported by on-ground components such as a colorful roaming caravan that will bring festivities from destination to destination, as well as an interactive website, www.awesomephilippines.com.

Another highlight of the campaign is Apl’s search for Pinoy talents dubbed “MTV Emerge.” Through the DOT’s partnership with MTV and his own music label, Jeepney Music, MTV Emerge is a platform for unsigned music talents in the Philippines to showcase their work and to be given an opportunity to win a one-year recording contract with Jeepney Music.

Participants can sign up and upload original music on the MTV Emerge site, where the online community can vote for the finalists of the search, which will then be evaluated by a panel of judges including Apl.de.Ap. The artists with the most talent and potential will be announced in November, when Apl plans to hold a benefit concert on his birthday, Nov. 27.

MTV Emerge not only aims to hunt for the hottest unsigned music talent from all genres of music (indie, rock, hip-hop, R&B, metal, solo artists, DJs, etc.), it is also an online music community where new music from the Philippines can be discovered.

Ace and Apl both refined the campaign over time, adding elements to achieve the goal of hauling in more tourists to the country.

Durano will also take Apl to some of the country’s best beaches, heritage sites and adventure trails, as Apl mentioned having been to Boracay, Cebu and his hometown, Pampanga, but said he’s “never been to places like Baguio.”

The CompanY in Basia show

The CompanY, will front act for Basia... Live in Manila concert tonight at 8 p.m., at the Araneta Coliseum. The CompanY will take the audiences to a musical ride with their vocal harmonies, rhythms and stage performances. The CompanY is composed of Annie Quintos, Moy Ortiz, Cecile Bautista, Sweet Plantado and Jay Marquez.

Polish singer-songwriter Basia is the voice behind timeless hits Half a Minute with the group Matt Bianco, Tide and Tide, Cruising for Bruising, New Day for You, Promises, to mention a few. She is famous for her trademark Latin-flavored jazz-pop crossover songs during the late ‘80s and early ‘90s particularly in the US, the United Kingdom, France and Japan.

Basia... Live in Manila is presented by 105.1 Crossover FM in cooperation with ABS-CBN.

The concert is presented by Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Mossimo Music, Discovery Suites and Nissan Patrol Super Safari, Bank of Commerce and Fucoidan, media partners JAM 88.3, Wave 89.1, Magic 89.9, U92, Monster Radio RX 93.1, 99.5 RT, Dream 106.7, NU 107, Philstar.com, Business World, Focus Media and MTV Philippines.
Basia… Live in Manila is a production of XVR Events and Music Management International.

For details, call TicketNet 911-5555 or 105.1 Crossover at 411-1051 or 0917-8381051.

Cartoon Network Halloween treat

Cartoon Network goes to the malls with The Secret Saturdays Pumpkin Party and fun tune-in contest. Kids can finally experience the exciting quests with the Saturday’s family and get the chance to win gadgets, toys and Cartoon Network freebies.

Doc, Drew and Zak Saturday are giving out prizes to kids who can help them solve mysteries by identifying disguised villains trying to sneak into their Halloween party. To join, kids are tasked to tune in to The Secret Saturdays on Cartoon Network at 10 a.m. until Oct. 31 and identify the party-crashing villain. Kids can send their answer, name and contact details by SMS to 4627 for Sun, Smart, Globe, Touch Mobile and Talk N’ Text subscribers.

For more chances of winning, kids can also check The Secret Saturdays’ page on www.cartoonnetwork.com.ph for more clues.

To make the Halloween scarily fun for the five grand winners, the Saturdays are dishing out iPod Shuffles, Ben 10 Alien Force costumes and stickers, and gift certificates from Toy Kingdom. Runner-up prizes with Cartoon Network goodies are also up for grabs. Cartoon Network is treating everyone to The Secret Saturdays’ Pumpkin Party at The Block at SM City North EDSA on Oct. 31. To join, spend P500 or more at select Toy Kingdom outlets from Oct. 12 to 31 and get a ticket for the show. Tickets can be redeemed at the Toy Kingdom branch located at The Block at SM North EDSA. Everyone is invited to a whole day of smashing Secret Saturdays fun with games, booths and prizes.

Groove with Shakira

International superstar Shakira is back with another track that made every person notice her groove once again — She Wolf.

There has been non-stop buzz about the single from her new album of the same title. From her daring black suit to her trademark “Awwooooo” and from her cage scenes to its unique dance techniques from her sexy music video. It’s Shakira-mania all over again!

In the country, the track will be made even hotter as the country’s dance group Sexbomb will teach audiences the steps to this dance tune via television appearances and mall showcases which will kick off today at Robinsons Nova Market. It will be followed by Robinsons Metro East tomorrow, Oct. 17; Robinsons Place Lipa, Oct. 18; Robinsons Place Manila, Oct. 23; Robinsons Sta. Rosa Market, Oct. 24; Robinsons Place Imus, Nov. 7; and Robinsons Starmills, Pampanga, Nov. 8. Shows start at 5 p.m.

She Wolf is out on CDs under Sony Music.

Who's leading Sweeney Todd cast?

Audie Gemora, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Robbie Guevarra, Lena McKenzie, and Franco Laurel comprise the lead cast of Repertory Philippines’ (REP) new stage production of Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd. The musical runs from Nov. 13 to Dec. 13 at Onstage 2/F Greenbelt 1, Ayala Center, Makati City.

Sondheim has won seven Tony Awards, and a special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in Theatre. He is also a multiple Grammy Award recipient, and a Pulitzer Prize winner.

The composer’s signature dissonant style in melody, and the chilling and exciting storyline make Sweeney Todd a memorable theater experience. This is REP’s third incarnation of the musical thriller. The company staged Sweeney Todd in 1982 and in the ‘90s.

Audie plays the title role of Sweeney. Touted as the King of Philippine Musical Theater, he has appeared in over 40 plays, ranging from Broadway/West End to original Filipino works — playing major roles in Pippin, Evita, West Side Story, Les Miserables, Man of La Mancha, Fili and Noli for the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Tanghalang Pilipino, Ang Paglalakbay Ni Radiya Managandiri for The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), among others.

Mrs. Lovett, the unfortunate neighbor infatuated with Sweeney, is played by Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo. Two-time Aliw Best Actress, Menchu began her acting career with REP in Fiddler On The Roof in 1978. From there, she played important roles in West Side Story, A Chorus Line, Les Miserables, Camelot, King And I, Evita, Kiss of the Spider Woman.

Robbie Guevarra plays the Beadle. He is another main player in local theater, having appeared in over 70 productions here and abroad. He has directed REP’s Romance, Romance and A Christmas Carol, and Blue Repertory’s Batboy.

Two newcomers to the REP stage are Lena Mckenzie and Franco Laurel playing Johanna and Anthony respectively. Lena is a soprano who has performed in Noli Me Tangere for CCP Tanghalang Pilipino. She is a voice major at the University of the Philippines. Franco, on the other hand, began performing in musicals in 1999 with Rama and Sita, where he played Rama’s younger brother. In 2004, he received the Aliw Award Best Actor for his role as Ugly in Trumpets’ Honk, the Ugly Duckling. And in 2008, he was Jose Rizal in Isang Panaginip Na Fili for Dulaang UP.

Baby Barredo directs with Michael Williams. Other members of the artistic and production staff include Gino Gonzales for set design, John Batalla for lighting design, and Mio Infante for costume design. Gerard Salonga conducts the FILharmoniKA orchestra.

Sweeney Todd has additional matinees on Saturdays and Sundays.

For details, call 887-0710, 888-0887 or 891-9999.

GK concert at Music Museum

The Gawad Kalinga All85 benefit concert All85 Goes GK will be held today, 6 p.m. at Music Museum. The concert will feature Ryan Cayabyab, the Ryan Cayabyab Singers, John Lesaca, Top Suzara and Rani Raymundo. Edu Manzano hosts the pre-show.

The intimate evening of music and inspiration will celebrate the work of the thousands of Gawad Kalinga volunteers across the globe and in particular, the All85 Gawad Kalinga Village.

GK All85 is an initiative of Batch 1985 graduates of different high schools in the Philippines to support GK’s nation-building efforts by establishing its own GK community and inspiring other batches to do the same. GK All 85 is the first united effort of alumni from several schools but of the same batch to work together for the good of the country.

Gawad Kalinga is an integrated, holistic, sustainable program which aims to address poverty by empowering poor communities through its various programs.

Concert proceeds will go to the GK-Ondoy relief efforts at the GK All85 Village in Sitio Pajo, Barangay Baesa, Quezon City.

The GK All85 Village which broke ground last May 23 will have the first 10 of the 26 planned houses completed and turned over today. Other GK programs in child and youth development, health, productivity, community empowerment and environment are being established.

For details, call 391-8653, 891-9999 or 721-0635.

Billy Crawford in Akon concert

Billy Crawford is excited about his forthcoming Freedom Tour ‘09 concert with hip-hop/R&B superstar Akon, slated for Oct. 23 at the Araneta Coliseum.

“There’s that definitive lilt, that buoyant and catchy vibe in almost all his songs,” describes the former child prodigy who carved his own niche as an equally prolific and chart-topping international R&B phenomenon.

“I’m a big fan of his music, and I must admit that I’ve been soaking it all up and dissecting it, trying to get into its very core,” Billy continues.

“What makes it even more organic is how he has successfully fused his West African influences with hiphop grooves. If you listen closely, it’s almost like those ethnic tribal chants, magnified even more by his nasal groans and of course, those catchy killer hooks. He’s found his own sound, that’s for sure. And you know it because you can hear other people now trying to copy that sound,” he elaborates.

For the Akon concert, get ready to be dazzled anew with Billy’s fancy footwork and groove-inducing songs. “We’re doing live music, with backup dancers and all, so it’s definitely smoking!,” he shares excitedly. “I’m doing most of the newer stuff from my ‘Groove’ album, but I’m working on throwing in a few more from my earlier albums.”

Fresh from a recent Guam trip, and last month’s highly-successful Jabbawockeez stint, Billy is elated with the promising turnout of his current album sales. “For that, I have my Universal Records family to thank – for going all-out with their marketing and promo efforts,” he says. “Of course, it also helped that the songs, which are remakes of very popular hits, easily ring a bell.”

For details, call TicketNet (911-55-55). Exclusive VIP tickets are also available at ALV Events International (633-98-25 to 27).

“Come to think of it, this Akon concert has been in the works since early this year,” Billy recalls. “I sure hope that it finally pushes through this time. We’ve all been reeling from the devastation from the past typhoons the past weeks. With a lot of compassion and camaraderie, we’re slowly getting back on our feet.

Meanwhile, on October 23, let’s get together and have a great time with Akon at the Big Dome.”

Presented by ALV Events International, OctoArts Entertainment, Tiffany Chocolates and Regal Multimedia Inc.,

Akon’s “Freedom Tour ‘09” is also supported by media partners Magic 89.9, Wave 89.1, RX 93.1, 103.5 MaxFM, ABS-CBN and MYX Music Channel.

For ticket inquiries, call TicketNet (911-55-55). Exclusive VIP tickets are also available at ALV Events International (633-98-25 to 27).

KENYO performing the PESO theme

KENYO wrote and recorded the song KAYOD which serves as the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) official theme. The band launched and performed the song live at the 2009 National PESO Congress held at Clark Air Base in Pampanga.

Mabuhay ang mga Manggagawang Pilipino!

BANGON! (Unofficial Video) - Rico Blanco

LYRICS:

pinaluhod tayo,
sa isang hagupit
niragasa, sinalanta,
pinaluha

humupa ang unos, isang bahaghari!
dala ng bukang liwayway-
pag-ibig
pagkakaisa


BANGON
pilipinas kong mahal
akay ang pananampalataya sa may kapal
AHON
buhay sa yong dugo
ang tibay na tatak ng tunay na Pilipino


at nagising ang bayanihan
milyon milyon naging isa
walang kami
walang kayo
walang sila
tanging ligaya
ay pag alay ng sarili sa iba


BANGON
pilipinas kong mahal
akay ng pananampalataya sa may kapal
AHON
taglay ng yong dugo
ang tibay na tatak ng tunay na Pilipino

bridge:
hindi ka namin iiwan
hindi tayo susuko!
lulusong tayo't magtatagumpay
magtatagumpay!

BANGON
pilipinas kong mahal
akay ang pananampalataya sa may kapal
AHON
buhay sa yong dugo
ang tibay na tatak ng tunay na Pilipino

coda:
lahat nitong mga pagsubok
ay ating kayang lagpasan
lahat nitong mga pagsubok
ay ating kayang lagpasan

British all-boys choir Libera to perform in Manila and Cebu

The boys from Libera will perform on Oct. 25, 8 p.m., at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), and in a concert presented by the Arts Council of Cebu Foundation Inc. at the Waterfront Hotel in Cebu on Oct. 28.

The Philippine concerts follow the successful worldwide release of the choir’s two hit recordings, the DVD Angel Voices-Libera in Concert from the memorable live performance in St. Pieterskerk, Netherlands, and Eternal-The Best of Libera which is a two-CD package containing the choir’s most-requested hits. Both are released by EMI Records.

The group had a successful 2008 US Tour where the boys showcased astonishing performances notably in their stint at the Kennedy Center Honors in Washington DC and in the Concert of Hope offered by Pope Benedict XVI in New York. The choir likewise staged highly-acclaimed concerts in Japan and Korea and had performed with international artists like Bjork, Elton John and Luciano Pavarotti.

The members — whose ages range from 7 to 16 years old — purvey angelic harmonies when they perform classical pieces by Beethoven, Debussy, Pachelbel, and other masters, as well as Gregorian chants and Latin rite liturgies. Libera has also covered contemporary music by Enya and Brian Wilson.

The group’s most popular songs include Always With You, Far Away, Going Home, How Can I Keep from Singing, Sing Forever, Ave Maria, Sanctus and Adoramus, among others.
The concert will be held in celebration of the RP-UK Friendship Week and will be for the benefit of the British Alumni Association’s (BAA) Foundation for Disadvantaged Children and Children’s Hour. It is sponsored by BAA, in cooperation with The British Embassy Manila, The British Council, and British Chamber of Commerce Philippines.

“Libera Live In Manila” is presented by Shell; co-presented by Globe, British Gas, STRADCOM, Thunderbird Resorts and also by Alaska, SGV Foundation, Equipment Engineering Inc (EEI), and Zest Air. Special thanks to EMI, United Overseas Bank, SR Metals, Liwayway Marketing. Among the media partners are ETC, 2nd Avenue, Jack TV, Philippine Star, Philstar.com, 92.3xFM, Dream 106.7, and 105.1 Crossover. Official music channel is MTV Araw-Araw while official residences are AIM Conference Center Manila (ACCM) and Shangri-La Mactan Resort & Spa.

Tickets (priced at P3,850, P3,000, P2500, P2,000, P1500, P800, and P500) are available at Ticketworld. For inquiries, call 891-9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph. VIP tickets are available at the BAA Secretariat. Call 568-0638 for details.

For tickets to the Cebu performance, call the Arts Council office at 233-0452 and SMS 0917-3287917 or e-mail \t “_blank” artscouncilcebu@yahoo.com.

Libera Philippine Tour is produced by Concertus.

NU looks back on a year of 'High Definition'

This article is taken from the Philippine Star

The theme of this year’s Rock Awards is “High Definition” — the most basic reason
being radio’s shift into high-definition broadcasting. High-definition technology is a system used by radio stations to digitally transmit audio and data in conjunction with their analog signals. HD Radio is fast becoming the norm worldwide, and soon enough every station in the Philippines will have this technology.
Of course, that bit of information is too boring and scientific for the Rock Awards. What is interesting is that along with the arrival of high-definition technology, there is also a shift in the culture of music. Whereas three years ago the Rock Awards would have a separate category for indie artists, these days indie is the norm. Past favorites such as Taken by Cars and Up dharma Down are all independent, and there are a slew of indie releases this year that shake up not only the industry but the definition of rock as well.

You have the roots-ish Corporate Lo-Fi, one of the most exciting new artists this year, who combine hip-hop with a distinct Motown big band flavor. There are also Zach Lucero’s solo album, “Fall Crash Infect” — a combination of ’90s alternative and 2000s indie rock; Peryodiko, which feels like an edgier version of The Dawn; and Duster, the superstar all-girl dance-punk band that combines Lourd de Veyra’s twisted lyrics with ironic Riot Grrrl sensibilities.

This is where things get exciting, then: rock music is currently redefining itself so greatly that it is becoming less of a genre and more of an attitude. The Chillitees and The Out of Body Special sound similar to many R&B artists today, but their DIY aesthetic and fiery performances make them rock. Likewise, Corporate Lo-Fi is for all intents and purposes a hip-hop band, but the focus on doing things live and organic makes them rock. There are already as many sub-genres as there are bands, and right now things are just paving the way for what looks like an exciting 2010. Expect a lot from The Techy Romantics’ Dub Pop, Sleepwalk Circus’s Post-Rock, Kate Torralba’s piano-driven alternative music, Turbogoth’s Electroclash, The Bernadette’s Garage Rock and Us-2 Evil-0’s Indiepop.

Noticeably absent the past year are new albums by the more established, and commercially successful but adventurous bands such as Sandwich and Chicosci but they were far from inactive, playing countless gigs here and in neighboring Asian countries. These bands, aided by sponsors, spent the past year playing many concerts, and fortunately, composing new material and new albums that may see a lot of action in the year between Rock Awards ‘09 and ‘10. The Pinoy Rock industry, on the surface, seems to have calmed down the past year, with friendlier new songs from new bands, and the more established bands cranking out their past hits but the coming year will see everybody pushing the envelope. A highlight from the past year is obviously the second record-breaking Eraserheads reunion concert, and if there is any band in Pinoy music history that has proven to be both ground-breaking and commercially successful, it is definitely the ‘Heads. The reunion concerts may have pushed other local rock acts, new and vets, to pursue the standard established by the Eraserheads, and quite possibly encouraged them to take things to the next level of creatively.

The past year in modern Pinoy Rock feels like the calm before the proverbial storm. Expect rock music’s definition to no longer be explained, just felt. Expect a higher definition.

This year’s Rock Awards will feature fantastic live performances from Chicosci, The Dawn, Franco, Greyhoundz, Itchyworms, Juan Pablo Dream, Kamikazee, Kjwan, Pupil, Rico Blanco, Sandwich, Sugarfree, Up Dharma Down and Urbandub. There will also be performances from Duster, Turbo Goth & The Lowtechs in the pre-show. Tickets are available at all SM Ticketnet outlets and at the Araneta Coliseum box office.

For information, visit nu107fm.com

Katy Perry show reset for Nov. 14

Due to the unfortunate circumstances brought about by Typhoon Ondoy, the Katy Perry concert scheduled last Saturday, Oct. 3, was postponed to Nov. 14 still at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Concert Grounds. The concert is said to be the biggest fund-raiser for the typhoon victims as foreign and local artists will be supporting Perry’s cause.

The Music Management International (MMI) and All Youth Channels Inc (AYC) promise to make the concert much bigger, much better and more relevant.

According to Ronald Esguerra, AYC’s Marketing and Communications Director, “We are currently working on foreign and local artists to join the cause. We feel that through the universal language of music, we will be able to unite and move everyone to help.”

The fund-raiser’s net proceeds will be awarded to an agency that has actively and efficiently been deploying donations and aid to the typhoon victims. Name of agency is yet to be announced.

The concert will also be an avenue for people to drop off their donations for the Ondoy victims as it houses booths specifically intended for it. Donations in kind like food, water, clothes, blankets and medicines are welcome.

Read More: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=511281&publicationSubCategoryId=70

Christian Bautista - Tell Me Your Name

Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Christian Bautista, with
his rendition of the classic Jose Mari Chan ballad. "Tell Me Your Name" is the carrier single from Christian's much-awaited brand new album "Romance Revisited: The Love Songs of Jose Mari Chan."

Music video features Thai celebrity-actress Ms. Paula Taylor.

Princess “Single Ladies”

27 Questions With Eugene Domingo: Lights, Camera, Laughter!

By Ching M. Alano of Philippine Star

MANILA, Philippines - Not long after the killer typhoon Ondoy left, leaving behind a trail of untold destruction, of shattered hopes and battered dreams, people were lining up at the cinema. One movie where the queue seemed endless was Kimmy Dora (Kambal sa Kiyeme), a maiden venture of Spring Films put up by four friends with a dream: actor Piolo Pascual, director Joyce Bernal, cinematographer Shayne Sarte, businessman and talent manager Erickson Raymundo. A movie outfit is born. A star is also born: It’s the first starring role for the 38-year-old Eugene Domingo who started as a stage actress.

A low-budget movie (P25 million), Kimmy Dora, now in its third week in the theaters, has raked in a cool P80M (and counting). Piolo and company must be laughing all the way to the bank. Piolo was so happy she sent Eugene a very long text message.
Yes, Kimmy Dora is doctor-prescribed. In these dreary times when there’s not much to smile about, we all can use a dose of laughter or some comic relief to forget our troubles even just for one hour and 40 minutes. The hilarious, guaranteed-to-tickle-your-funny bone Kimmy Dora does not disappoint.

But Eugene confesses, “With all the tragedies brought about by Ondoy, I was ashamed to post pictures of Kimmy Dora on my Facebook. You might say we’re in a crisis, people are going hungry and dying and I’m still promoting my movie. I wanted to say maybe you’d like to relax and see a movie?”

FYI, in case you haven’t seen the movie yet, Eugene doubles as Kimmy (the mean, witty one) and Dora (the dim-witted but sweet one) with impeccable Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde flair. Imagine two Eugenes for the price of one movie!

Judging from the mile-long queues to Kimmy Dora in movie theaters where it is still showing, Eugene doesn’t really have to cajole us to go out and watch her movie. I just did, and the line was so long a lot of us missed 1/4 of the movie. But you know what? I never heard a movie audience laugh so hard, all at the same time as if on cue. And I don’t think I heard a stir or anyone ripping open a bag of chips as everyone seemed seriously glued to the screen savoring each comical moment.

And now, meet the real person behind reel characters Kimmy and Dora. Up close and quite personal, Eugene Domingo talks about life, love, and laughter, and her debut starrer Kimmy Dora.

We really love Mikky (the four-legged star of Kimmy Dora). Where did you get him?

Mikky is a local dog who was saved — he’s an aspin (asong Pinoy), as the politically correct term goes. In showbiz (TV or movies), we contact this person who trains animals; these popular dogs we use in fantasy movies like Wansapanataym. We call him Kuya Jun. His famous dog Saver is dead. Now, he’s found a substitute for Saver. I think he got Mikky from a far-flung province. It was in the bundocks where Mikky was rescued and then he was trained.

I and Mikky had some bonding time.

You love dogs, don’t you?

I’m really fond of dogs. I have three dogs — two shih tzus and a golden retriever named Shakespeare, but my golden retriever died two months ago during the shoot of Kimmy Dora. Shakespeare died in Baguio, I relocated him there because the skin of the golden retriever is better in a cool climate. I was planning to visit him after the shooting, but it was too late. I felt so bad, ang bigat-bigat ng pakiramdam ko. While I had a dog in the film, my own dog died. I haven’t really recovered. I feel sad when I see his pictures because I really wanted to see him.

I really love dogs so I didn’t have a hard time bonding with Mikky although it’s really hard to bond with an animal. Jun gave him that name so it would be easy to train him. He would give us time to bond, but my schedule with Mikky was erratic so everytime we would see each other, he wouldn’t recognize me. So we would have to go through the routine exercise again — “Come here, Mikky!” — and I’d give him treats. And Mikky gets startled easily. So, when you do a scene with him, you shouldn’t be rowdy. He gets nervous so everybody should be quiet on the set. Nobody should be impatient or hot-headed, everybody understands that we have to wait for the dog to be ready. It’s like having a baby on the set.

Wasn’t he so cute especially towards the end of the movie where he was bobbing his head like the dog figurines on the dashboard of your car?

Yes, in the end, he realized he was an artista already. Everybody treated him with respect, nobody disregarded him, and he’s there even in the poster. He’s included even in our special promos for our social networking.

Would you consider adopting an aspin?

I already have two dogs and I just live in a condo. But if my house is in an hacienda, like the land of Barry (the gorgeous farmer played by Zanjoe Marudo) in the movie, oh yes!

How did you feel when the twin role in Kimmy Dora was offered to you?

I was part of the conceptualization of the movie. When they offered me the solo starrer, they gave me the freedom to choose the writer and I suggested my best friend Chris Martinez who directed Cine Malaya’s 100. We’ve been friends since college, we’re of the same age. We go back to our UP Rep days, he’s directed me in commercials and plays. I thought if I were to finally do a solo starrer film, I wanted to be given a role that would utilize what I studied in college, which is theater arts at the University of the Philippines. It was supposed to be a four-year course, but it was like I took it in seven years.

How did you prepare for your role(s) in Kimmy Dora?

Director Joyce Bernal was very inspired. We had the look test for both Kimmy and Dora. We had to look even for the right wig. We got the clothes from all over — the tiangge, malls, etc. My creative team was really good. After Joyce Bernal and Chris Martinez, I owe to the team the character look of Kimmy and Dora. Because if they didn’t do the look of Kimmy and Dora right, the film would be a failure. Kimmy and Dora should look totally different even if they’re twins. Not just how they dress, but also how they accessorize.

What would you consider your most difficult scene in the movie?

When I was running through the fields and the rice paddies. Then I had to swim in the swamp.

Didn’t you have a double?

Yes, I had, but only to show me what to do. My stand-in, so I was facing somebody during confrontations between Kimmy and Dora, was Geraldine Malacaman, a very good stage actress. She played a very important role.

What was your reaction when you found out you’d have a kissing scene with showbiz heartthrob Dingdong Dantes?

I couldn’t stop laughing. Ang ganda ko naman! When Direk Joyce (Bernal) saw the rushes, she could only say, “Eugene, ang kapal ng mukha mo!”
Before the take, I brushed my teeth and chewed gum.

And what was Dingdong’s reaction when he found out he had a kissing scene with you?

He didn’t react violently naman. We were both laughing. This is a fun movie!

How did you start in show business?

I started getting exposed and acting before the camera in 1994. I did the movie Divided by 2 by Ishmael Bernal. I needed to cry in the movie, but I didn’t know how to cry. So Ishmael Bernal lighted a cigarette, took a puff, and blew the smoke right into my eyes. I cried!

When did you find out you can act?

When I was studying, I was really fond of subjects that had to do with the stage, drama. But when it came to math and science, I couldn’t hack it. Di kaya ng utak ko kahit anong gawin ko! Hindi talaga. It was a good thing my classmates in high school (name of school withheld upon Eugene’s request) let me copy during exams. Maybe they pitied me because even if I nearly failed in math and science, I always won for my class the first prize whenever I joined acting contests. They must have said, “Talaga sigurong di kaya ng utak nya ang math, bigyan mo na nga ng isang sagot.”

Did your parents stop you from studying acting?

My parents (Rey and Celia Domingo) didn’t understand what theater arts is. “Anong course yon?” It’s easier to say Mass Communications, it’s more popular. But definitely, they like where I am now.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up everywhere in Manila. My childhood was spent in Project 2, Project 3, Kamias, Quezon City talaga.

Kimmy Dora is your first big break. In real life, are you Kimmy or Dora?

When I’m about to have my period, I’m Kimmy. And for the rest of the month, I am Dora.

What do your parents say about your being famous?

My mother told me, “Magaling ka pala no?” My father said, “God bless you always. I’m proud to have a daughter like you.”

How are you taking all this fame?

Graciously.

Would you say you have no privacy anymore?

I do have privacy. I don’t really walk like I’m some big star. If somebody notices me, I acknowledge it, “Hello po, salamat po.” Then if they ask for a picture with me, “Okay, go!” That’s normally me. But if I do a mall show, medyo mag-aartista-artistahan ako.

How does a typical day go for you?

When I wake up, I drink water, I open my laptop, I surf, feed my dogs. Then magcha-chat na ko.
In the evening, if I’m not tired, I watch DVD, read a book.

Do you like eating out? Where do you go?

Yes, I love food. I go just anywhere, where the food is good. Basta masarap!

What do you splurge on?

I’m saving up for a trip abroad. I want to go back to New York in December.

What makes you laugh?

Stupidity does not make me laugh. What does is the initial reaction of people who are caught in the act. And just talking to my gay friends makes me laugh.

What makes you cry?

Excellence makes me cry. I’m overwhelmed, I get goose bumps all over when I see something that’s so good, sobrang husay, sobrang galing. My tears just flow.

Do you love as hard as you laugh?

I don’t have a love life eh. At wala akong makita. I don’t know if he’s still coming, but I also want to be surprised. I don’t want to look for him.

What is your ideal man?

Wala na rin. Pag nagkakaedad ka pala, nawawala na rin.
He’ll have to be somebody who’ll be brave enough to love me. I’m not easy to love. It’s like going to war (chuckles).

Do you have comedian idols?

I just had a shooting with Dolphy. Since I was a child, I’ve been watching Dolphy in his black and white films. In my heart, he’s the comedy king. He can act, sing, dance, do drama, do live show.
Finally, Direk Eric Quizon called me and asked me to play a special role in the movie entitled Juan. It’s a Dolphy movie and I instantly said, “Yes, yes, I want!” I was so excited to see him and be with him on the set. You know, all these years, I wasn’t wrong about my impression of him. The way I’ve always pictured him is so accurate. At his age, when the director says “Action!” para syang nakukuryente sa galing! When the camera focuses on him, you can see his smiling eyes, his mouth that he transforms into different shapes, his big nose. He gives it his all — he’s a very generous actor. And he remembers his lines, his timing is impeccable.

How would you like to be remembered by the movie industry?

We all know that when we’re gone, all that’s left is our creative work. I just watched a musicale, ang matitira lang ay children and the art. If ever I don’t have children, ang dami-dami kong art, I have so many films. One way or the other, I hope they’d be part of our tradition — if it’s Christmas, I have a Christmas movie; if it’s Holy Week, I have a lenten movie; if it’s summer, meron akong pang-summer. My movies will be shown again and again long after I’m gone. Just as I was inspired by Dolphy’s black-and-white films, I hope they will be inspired by my movies.

Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=510835&publicationSubCategoryId=86

G-Force Opens Today!!!

Apl.De.Ap - Take Me To The Philippines

Gloc 9 - Upuan

“Kayo po na nakaupo. Subukan niyo namang tumayo!”

These powerful yet catchy lyrics sung by Jeazell Grutas of Zelle and made more impact with Gloc9’s rapping continues to move Filipinos as Upuan peaks at No. 1 on 102.7 Star FM (now on its sixth week) and WRR 101.9. It has also reached the charts of 91.5 Energy FM as and MYX. Upuan is also a favorite on 90.7 Love Radio and 101.1 YES FM.

Upuan is included in Gloc9’s second major label album Matrikula under Sony Music. The track is one of the songs he wrote during a hospital duty as nursing student. It talks about issues and realities experienced by most Filipinos.

“I used simple words for the hook of the song but it delivers a strong message,” Gloc9 said.

Upuan can be felt more with its music video by director J Pacena which evolves around a chair that symbolizes power.

To download the ringback tone of Upuan text SD181 (P15/15 days) and text RC763 (P30/30 days) and send to 2332 (for Globe subscribers).

Matrikula is out in stores for P285.

Pinoy Big Brother: Double Up Starts Today!

It's double the fun, double the excitement, double the intriga in Kuya's house this Season of Pinoy Big Brother Double Up!

Get to be an insider and be updated 24/7 though the livestreaming service and all Pinoy Big Brother Double Up contents.

Subscribe now! Go to www.pinoybigbrother.com for more infos!

Katy Perry "Hot N Cold"

Rachelle Ann Go & Jed Madela in Concert

Watch out for the first team-up of Rachelle Ann Go and Jed Madela in True Champions, Best of the Best slated for Oct. 24 at the Sky Dome of SM North EDSA, also presented by Viva Concerts & Events like the continuing series of weekend shows in that venue.

Rachelle and Jed rose to prominence on the strength of their flawless vocals. Rachelle was first-prize winner in the Search For a Star singing contest. She later won a Silver in the Shanghai Asia Music Festival. She’s known for such “platinum” hits as Don’t Cry Out Loud; You And Me (We Wanted It All), her winning song in Shanghai; From The Start; Love Of My Life (which won her the MTV Favorite Female Artist Award); Bakit; I Care; Honestly; Alam Ng Ating Mga Puso; and The Search Is Over.

Jed won the grand prize at the World Championship of The Performing Arts in Los Angeles where he defeated 3,000 entries from 52 countries. Among his hits are How Can I Fall, The Past, Love Always Finds a Way, Let Me Love You and Narito (a duet with Rachelle).

(Note: Tickets to True Champions are priced at P1,500 for Gold and P1,200 for Silver. Call Ticketnet at 911-5555 or Viva Concerts & Events at 687-6181 locals 627 and 620.)

Ely Buendia & FrancisM “Higante”