DECISIONS
2 years ago
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Friday, January 29, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Red Horse Beer Muziklaban Grand Finals 2010
Win Red Horse Beer Grand Finals Tickets!
Red Horse Beer and redhorsebeer.com gives you the chance to win free tickets to the biggest and loudest Rock Competition in the country the Red Horse Beer Muziklaban Grand Finals! Just log-on to www.redhorsebeer.com, register and wait for confirmation of membership and start playing Attack of the Savage.
The top 5 players will win 2 tickets each. Kita-kits sa Metrowalk parking lot sa January 30 simula alas-kwatro ng hapon for the biggest and loudest Rock competition in the country.
http://www.redhorsebeer.com/games-savage.php
Per DOH-BFAD Permit No. 0592. Series of 2009
18 pataas lang. Drink Moderately.
-----------------
Muziklaban Grand Finals na!
When: January 30, 2010 (Saturday) 2pm onwards
Where: Metrowalk Ortigas
Entrance:
100 with 2 RHB (Gen Ad)
500 with 3 RHB and RHB Tshirt (VIP)
Finalists:
- Hatankaru from Bulacan
- Kokumban from Naga
- 2nd Squad from Baguio
- Cambronero from Bacolod
- Hoodswhite from Cagayan De Oro
With:
Slapshock, Greyhoundz, Kjwan, Kapatid, Typacast, Intolerant, Even, Kadangyan, COG, Radioactive Sago Project, Mayonnaise, Gayuma, KAMIKAZEE, HardBoiledEggz and many more! 40++ bands!
For more Details please go to:
http://www.rakista.com
http://www.redhorsebeer.com
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Monday, January 25, 2010
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Strike two for Sinosikat
Since they broke into the music scene some five years ago, you really can’t pinpoint just what the Sinosikat sound is. And they offer no apologies for this. In fact, vocalist Kat Agarrado owns up, “We’re still a little of everything.”
And by a little of everything, that means pop, rock, soul, jazz, funk and others in-between. Case in point: The quintet — Kat, drummer Reli de Vera, guitarist Nick Azarcon, bassist Noel Asistores and keyboardist David Starck — has awards for Best World/Alternative Music, Best Jazz Recording and People’s Choice for Favorite Group from the Awit. It wings to the other end of the spectrum, invading primetime TV with Nung Iniwan Mo Ako, soundtrack of Pinoy Big Brother and Katorse.
Other bands shun this absence of labels. Not Sinosikat. The members wear this all-size-fits-all attitude on its sleeve. They treat it as a badge of honor.
“We are versatile,” proclaims Kat.
Their 2nd Album (Warner Music) shows you the many reasons why.
“I experimented with my voice, tried different feels and styles in every song,” explains Kat. The result, she adds, is that each song in the new album has a different character, a distinct personality.
Turns out character differences is one of the band’s forte. It thrives in diversity. And ironically, diversity is the glue that keeps it intact.
“We respect each other,” adds Kat. “The most important thing for us is unity among ourselves. The music skill is there. But the bigger challenge is keeping your unity as a band.”
So don’t expect any member of the band to bolt from the group anytime soon. They’re too hung up on each other for that.
In the second album for instance, the quintet sat down and talked about how each track will be written, how the recording will go. Each member ‘s voice was heard.
Newest member David Starck, for instance, is also an arranger. So the band brainstormed on his arrangements. Starck, who is French, is also expected to help the band gain a foothold in the international market.
Since they’re eyeing a wider market, Sinosikat is doing things slowly but surely. They don’t want to be called CD factories by coming up with an album one after another.
“Before we signed up with Warner,” recalls Kat, “we made it clear na sana, we don’t release an album every year. This way, we have time to grow as musicians. We have time to go on tour, to write new material, to promote our songs.”
Thus, 2nd Album came two years after the band’s debut CD. So much has happened during the band’s two-year break from the recording scene.
“We have evolved,” remarks Kat. This time, their pop jazz sound has more punch.
The band gives Sonny Nicolas’ 1983 song Mr. Musikero, a new twist. Carrier single Nung Iniwan Mo Ako is jazzy, edgy, rock-a-soul.
“The first album was more organic,” explains Nick. “The second is more organized, more orchestrated.”
Whatever it is, the band will always be itself, musical trends and tastes be damned.
Thus, Nick advises new bands, “Don’t worry about making so much money.”
Music, he goes on, is a way of life. It’s a long-term commitment, not a passing fancy. And like all serious commitments, the music is bound to grow, not only on the members, but on the audience as well.
And by a little of everything, that means pop, rock, soul, jazz, funk and others in-between. Case in point: The quintet — Kat, drummer Reli de Vera, guitarist Nick Azarcon, bassist Noel Asistores and keyboardist David Starck — has awards for Best World/Alternative Music, Best Jazz Recording and People’s Choice for Favorite Group from the Awit. It wings to the other end of the spectrum, invading primetime TV with Nung Iniwan Mo Ako, soundtrack of Pinoy Big Brother and Katorse.
Other bands shun this absence of labels. Not Sinosikat. The members wear this all-size-fits-all attitude on its sleeve. They treat it as a badge of honor.
“We are versatile,” proclaims Kat.
Their 2nd Album (Warner Music) shows you the many reasons why.
“I experimented with my voice, tried different feels and styles in every song,” explains Kat. The result, she adds, is that each song in the new album has a different character, a distinct personality.
Turns out character differences is one of the band’s forte. It thrives in diversity. And ironically, diversity is the glue that keeps it intact.
“We respect each other,” adds Kat. “The most important thing for us is unity among ourselves. The music skill is there. But the bigger challenge is keeping your unity as a band.”
So don’t expect any member of the band to bolt from the group anytime soon. They’re too hung up on each other for that.
In the second album for instance, the quintet sat down and talked about how each track will be written, how the recording will go. Each member ‘s voice was heard.
Newest member David Starck, for instance, is also an arranger. So the band brainstormed on his arrangements. Starck, who is French, is also expected to help the band gain a foothold in the international market.
Since they’re eyeing a wider market, Sinosikat is doing things slowly but surely. They don’t want to be called CD factories by coming up with an album one after another.
“Before we signed up with Warner,” recalls Kat, “we made it clear na sana, we don’t release an album every year. This way, we have time to grow as musicians. We have time to go on tour, to write new material, to promote our songs.”
Thus, 2nd Album came two years after the band’s debut CD. So much has happened during the band’s two-year break from the recording scene.
“We have evolved,” remarks Kat. This time, their pop jazz sound has more punch.
The band gives Sonny Nicolas’ 1983 song Mr. Musikero, a new twist. Carrier single Nung Iniwan Mo Ako is jazzy, edgy, rock-a-soul.
“The first album was more organic,” explains Nick. “The second is more organized, more orchestrated.”
Whatever it is, the band will always be itself, musical trends and tastes be damned.
Thus, Nick advises new bands, “Don’t worry about making so much money.”
Music, he goes on, is a way of life. It’s a long-term commitment, not a passing fancy. And like all serious commitments, the music is bound to grow, not only on the members, but on the audience as well.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
Juday back in a soap (The Philippine Star)
Right in time for the 60 years of Soap Opera celebration of ABS-CBN, Judy Ann Santos makes a huge comeback with Habang May Buhay.
Judy Ann plays Jane Alcantara, a caring and loving friend and daughter. Jane has dreamed of becoming a nurse just like her mother Rose (Gina Alajar) since she was a child. But her world will fall apart when her mother and close friends, Sam (Derek Ramsay) and Nathan (Joem Bascon), face a drastic tragedy. Jane lives in misery and suffering. She vows to rise from her situation and seek justice that was never given to them.
As time passes, Jane will fulfill her dream of being a nurse. She will meet David, heir of the hospital where she works and the man she falls in love with. And Raon, her friend and rescuer.
What connection do the two have with Jane’s past? Will love rule over the search for truth and healing?
The teleserye also stars Rio Locsin, Tetchie Agbayani, Gladys Reyes, Will Devaughn, John Arcilla with the special participation of Sid Lucero. It is directed by Wenn Daramas and premieres Feb. 1 on ABS-CBN’s Primetime Bida.
Judy Ann plays Jane Alcantara, a caring and loving friend and daughter. Jane has dreamed of becoming a nurse just like her mother Rose (Gina Alajar) since she was a child. But her world will fall apart when her mother and close friends, Sam (Derek Ramsay) and Nathan (Joem Bascon), face a drastic tragedy. Jane lives in misery and suffering. She vows to rise from her situation and seek justice that was never given to them.
As time passes, Jane will fulfill her dream of being a nurse. She will meet David, heir of the hospital where she works and the man she falls in love with. And Raon, her friend and rescuer.
What connection do the two have with Jane’s past? Will love rule over the search for truth and healing?
The teleserye also stars Rio Locsin, Tetchie Agbayani, Gladys Reyes, Will Devaughn, John Arcilla with the special participation of Sid Lucero. It is directed by Wenn Daramas and premieres Feb. 1 on ABS-CBN’s Primetime Bida.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Good reviews for Bilog infomercial (The Philippine Star)
Barely a month after it was launched, the election infomercial produced by GMA News and Public Affairs (N&PA) is on its way to becoming a hit. The music video on election automation dubbed Bilog na Hugis Itlog, which features the Sexbomb Dancers, was produced to aid in voters’ education.
A statement from the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) published in newspapers said the video amply instructed the masses about the automated election process using music and dance as medium of instruction.
Bayan Muna representative Neri Colmenares agreed. He said in a statement published in papers that the music video meets the pressing need to educate the common-tao about the computerized poll system. The music video, which airs over GMA Network, was also cited by Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Commissioners Rene Sarmiento and Gregorio Larazabal and PPCRV chairperson ambassador Henriette de Villa, to be very helpful in automation education efforts.
As part of GMA network’s election advocacy program, the Bilog MTV details instructions on how to vote using the new ballot and reminds the public about the need to choose candidates who have integrity, who are honest and will do the country good. The non-traditional approach used in the Bilog MTV is a big departure from the usual instructional modules used for voters’ education.
GMA Network vice president for Regional TV and head of the News and Public Affairs’ Expansion Division, Rikki Escudero said they opted for the use of song and dance as teaching tools for automation due to the Pinoys’ innate love for music. “It’s a good vehicle to turn what is regarded as complicated into something simple, fun, and do-able,” Escudero said.
Escudero added that Bilog na Hugis Itlog is the best simplified representation of ovals found in the new ballots for automated elections. In past elections, voters had to write down the names of their choices, but now no longer. In the 2010 automated polls, they must shade the oval beside the name of their candidate.
Through the music video, GMA network provides valuable information to voters and empowers the electorate to make informed, wise choices.
GMA Network AVP for Alternative Platforms Leogarda Sanchez-Matias helped source the music and oversaw the creation of the music video. Music was composed by Jon Ong, while lyrics were penned by GMA Network head for Program Analysis Jobart Bartolome.
The network has launched the music video nationwide. It enjoys high frequency airplay over DZBB, WLS-FM, all RGMA radio stations and Catholic Media Network radio stations nationwide. The Bilog Na Hugis Itlog MTV has also become a favorite on YouTube. Dance contests on gmanews.tv and in regional areas will be launched to further promote it and bring the message across of how to vote in the coming automated polls.
A statement from the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) published in newspapers said the video amply instructed the masses about the automated election process using music and dance as medium of instruction.
Bayan Muna representative Neri Colmenares agreed. He said in a statement published in papers that the music video meets the pressing need to educate the common-tao about the computerized poll system. The music video, which airs over GMA Network, was also cited by Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Commissioners Rene Sarmiento and Gregorio Larazabal and PPCRV chairperson ambassador Henriette de Villa, to be very helpful in automation education efforts.
As part of GMA network’s election advocacy program, the Bilog MTV details instructions on how to vote using the new ballot and reminds the public about the need to choose candidates who have integrity, who are honest and will do the country good. The non-traditional approach used in the Bilog MTV is a big departure from the usual instructional modules used for voters’ education.
GMA Network vice president for Regional TV and head of the News and Public Affairs’ Expansion Division, Rikki Escudero said they opted for the use of song and dance as teaching tools for automation due to the Pinoys’ innate love for music. “It’s a good vehicle to turn what is regarded as complicated into something simple, fun, and do-able,” Escudero said.
Escudero added that Bilog na Hugis Itlog is the best simplified representation of ovals found in the new ballots for automated elections. In past elections, voters had to write down the names of their choices, but now no longer. In the 2010 automated polls, they must shade the oval beside the name of their candidate.
Through the music video, GMA network provides valuable information to voters and empowers the electorate to make informed, wise choices.
GMA Network AVP for Alternative Platforms Leogarda Sanchez-Matias helped source the music and oversaw the creation of the music video. Music was composed by Jon Ong, while lyrics were penned by GMA Network head for Program Analysis Jobart Bartolome.
The network has launched the music video nationwide. It enjoys high frequency airplay over DZBB, WLS-FM, all RGMA radio stations and Catholic Media Network radio stations nationwide. The Bilog Na Hugis Itlog MTV has also become a favorite on YouTube. Dance contests on gmanews.tv and in regional areas will be launched to further promote it and bring the message across of how to vote in the coming automated polls.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Cheryl Cosim shares her blessings
By Leah C. Salterio (The Philippine Star)
Fourteen years in the broadcast media make Cheryl Cosim truly fortunate in her chosen career. Some would call it “lucky,” but for someone who never imagined herself being on TV, Cheryl feels truly “blessed” in her field of work.
Over at ABS-CBN, where she started her career after returning home from the US when she was only 21, Cheryl has charted impressive and enviable achievements as a broadcaster.
She entered the network at the time when its UHF channel, Studio 23, was scouting for fresh blood as field reporters and newscasters. She remembers auditioning before former ABS-CBN reporter Kata Inocencio, who merely told her, “We’d call you.”
Others would have been easily disheartened upon hearing that line, which never gives any assurance to an applicant. But not Cheryl. She hurdled one rigid audition after another. Within two weeks, she got the job.
Unbelievably enough, even if her resumé stated she didn’t get to finish college, that didn’t prove to be a setback for Cheryl to work for the country’s largest network.
“When my parents separated, my dad petitioned my sisters and I had to be with him in the US,” recalls Cheryl, the second among five children. “So after high school, I went to the States. I started working there and then I would save money to be able to send my other siblings to school and visit my mom who was in Manila.”
After four years, however, Cheryl realized how much she missed her mom, so she decided to return to Manila for good.
Among her batchmates in the Studio 23 auditions were Gidget Alikpala, Daphne Oseña and Jennifer Alejandro. “Today, I’m the only one left at ABS-CBN from our batch,” Cheryl beams.
That’s not whining on her part, though. In fact, Cheryl is proud of the 14 years she has spent working for ABS-CBN, where she has made a name for herself as a broadcast journalist.
“Wherever I am now and whatever I’ve accomplished, I am grateful to ABS-CBN for that,” Cheryl says. “The network has given me the good breaks in broadcasting.”
From being a field reporter, Cheryl worked as a weather girl in her first live TV program, Alas Singko Y Media. She also did Alas Singko Y Media Weekends. After that, there was no more stopping her from appearing on other ABS-CBN shows.
She did Magandang Umaga Bayan, followed by Magandang Umaga Pilipinas. There’s also the late-night talk show, Payong Kapatid and her The Filipino Channel (TFC) programs, Kumusta, Kabayan (with Cito Beltran) and Balitang Europe.
On weekends, she hosts the ABS-CBN public service program, Salamat Dok, now on its seventh year. The show has several awards to boot, including a trophy for Cheryl as Best Public Service Show Host from the KBP Golden Dove Awards.
Salamat Dok conducts medical missions for those who cannot afford consultations in the hospitals. Cheryl goes out of her comfort zone to join out-of-town jaunts in Pampanga, Bulacan, Laguna and more recently, Kalinga, Apayao.
Helping others through Salamat Dok is Cheryl’s way of paying it forward. Although she is thankful to the show’s benefactors, Cheryl sometimes gets frustrated when resources get limited and they couldn’t accommodate everyone who came for the medical mission. Hence, she ends up giving from her own pocket.
“Apart from doing hard news, I wanted to do something more fulfilling and public service came my way through Salamat Dok,” she shares. “Often, you cannot help but be affected by people who need money or medicines. Nakaka-iyak at nakaka-awa sila talaga. It makes me realize how blessed I am.”
That’s why Cheryl makes it a point to share her blessings. She extends educational assistance to the daughter of her manang at home, who has been with her for more than 12 years now. The daughter, whom Cheryl started sending to school when the former was only in fourth grade, is now in second year college.
At present, Cheryl also does the ABS-CBN hourly news advisory, starting at two in the afternoon all the way to 10 p.m.
“God has been really good,” Cheryl asserts. “I’ve never ran out of programs. Radio and TV have kept me busy all these years. I consider everything a blessing.”
After a hard day’s work, Cheryl looks forward to ending her tiring day at home with her husband, businessman John Francis Alvarez, an Ilonggo who grew up in the US. The couple met through a common friend, dated for five years and tied the knot in December 2008 at Silicon Valley in Northern California.
“No matter how bad your day was, it feels good to know you have someone to go home to and share everything that happened to you during the day,” Cheryl grants. “John is always very supportive of everything that I do. He understands my job.
“He influenced me to become positive. At times when I wanted to give up because of a problem, he would tell me the problem would be easily solved. I draw strength from him. He’s my anchor. Our first year (of marriage) together is just great. People always tell me that I look good. It’s because I’m happy.”
This year, Cheryl attests that no matter how busy she gets in her network job, she will also work at having a baby.
That’s another personal challenge to this hardworking broadcaster, who deserves every good thing coming her way.
Fourteen years in the broadcast media make Cheryl Cosim truly fortunate in her chosen career. Some would call it “lucky,” but for someone who never imagined herself being on TV, Cheryl feels truly “blessed” in her field of work.
Over at ABS-CBN, where she started her career after returning home from the US when she was only 21, Cheryl has charted impressive and enviable achievements as a broadcaster.
She entered the network at the time when its UHF channel, Studio 23, was scouting for fresh blood as field reporters and newscasters. She remembers auditioning before former ABS-CBN reporter Kata Inocencio, who merely told her, “We’d call you.”
Others would have been easily disheartened upon hearing that line, which never gives any assurance to an applicant. But not Cheryl. She hurdled one rigid audition after another. Within two weeks, she got the job.
Unbelievably enough, even if her resumé stated she didn’t get to finish college, that didn’t prove to be a setback for Cheryl to work for the country’s largest network.
“When my parents separated, my dad petitioned my sisters and I had to be with him in the US,” recalls Cheryl, the second among five children. “So after high school, I went to the States. I started working there and then I would save money to be able to send my other siblings to school and visit my mom who was in Manila.”
After four years, however, Cheryl realized how much she missed her mom, so she decided to return to Manila for good.
Among her batchmates in the Studio 23 auditions were Gidget Alikpala, Daphne Oseña and Jennifer Alejandro. “Today, I’m the only one left at ABS-CBN from our batch,” Cheryl beams.
That’s not whining on her part, though. In fact, Cheryl is proud of the 14 years she has spent working for ABS-CBN, where she has made a name for herself as a broadcast journalist.
“Wherever I am now and whatever I’ve accomplished, I am grateful to ABS-CBN for that,” Cheryl says. “The network has given me the good breaks in broadcasting.”
From being a field reporter, Cheryl worked as a weather girl in her first live TV program, Alas Singko Y Media. She also did Alas Singko Y Media Weekends. After that, there was no more stopping her from appearing on other ABS-CBN shows.
She did Magandang Umaga Bayan, followed by Magandang Umaga Pilipinas. There’s also the late-night talk show, Payong Kapatid and her The Filipino Channel (TFC) programs, Kumusta, Kabayan (with Cito Beltran) and Balitang Europe.
On weekends, she hosts the ABS-CBN public service program, Salamat Dok, now on its seventh year. The show has several awards to boot, including a trophy for Cheryl as Best Public Service Show Host from the KBP Golden Dove Awards.
Salamat Dok conducts medical missions for those who cannot afford consultations in the hospitals. Cheryl goes out of her comfort zone to join out-of-town jaunts in Pampanga, Bulacan, Laguna and more recently, Kalinga, Apayao.
Helping others through Salamat Dok is Cheryl’s way of paying it forward. Although she is thankful to the show’s benefactors, Cheryl sometimes gets frustrated when resources get limited and they couldn’t accommodate everyone who came for the medical mission. Hence, she ends up giving from her own pocket.
“Apart from doing hard news, I wanted to do something more fulfilling and public service came my way through Salamat Dok,” she shares. “Often, you cannot help but be affected by people who need money or medicines. Nakaka-iyak at nakaka-awa sila talaga. It makes me realize how blessed I am.”
That’s why Cheryl makes it a point to share her blessings. She extends educational assistance to the daughter of her manang at home, who has been with her for more than 12 years now. The daughter, whom Cheryl started sending to school when the former was only in fourth grade, is now in second year college.
At present, Cheryl also does the ABS-CBN hourly news advisory, starting at two in the afternoon all the way to 10 p.m.
“God has been really good,” Cheryl asserts. “I’ve never ran out of programs. Radio and TV have kept me busy all these years. I consider everything a blessing.”
After a hard day’s work, Cheryl looks forward to ending her tiring day at home with her husband, businessman John Francis Alvarez, an Ilonggo who grew up in the US. The couple met through a common friend, dated for five years and tied the knot in December 2008 at Silicon Valley in Northern California.
“No matter how bad your day was, it feels good to know you have someone to go home to and share everything that happened to you during the day,” Cheryl grants. “John is always very supportive of everything that I do. He understands my job.
“He influenced me to become positive. At times when I wanted to give up because of a problem, he would tell me the problem would be easily solved. I draw strength from him. He’s my anchor. Our first year (of marriage) together is just great. People always tell me that I look good. It’s because I’m happy.”
This year, Cheryl attests that no matter how busy she gets in her network job, she will also work at having a baby.
That’s another personal challenge to this hardworking broadcaster, who deserves every good thing coming her way.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Monday, January 18, 2010
Sunday, January 17, 2010
APO Hiking Society bidding adieu to music industry
After 4 decades of great music and timeless hits, The APO Hiking Society is bidding farewell to the music scene.
APO’s Jim Paredes, Buboy Garrovillo and Danny Javier, the ageless triumvirate of the ‘70s and ‘80s pop music, announced in a press conference Wednesday that their series of shows from February until the end of May will be their final curtain call.
"This last stretch, we will really like to see as many as you…. The best shows we've ever done in our career will happen right now in our last stretch. We are coming to an end," Paredes said.
It wasn’t an easy decision. According to them, it took almost a year of rigorous deliberations before they finally agreed that it is time for the group to leave the industry.
"Through the years, parang little by little, pakonti ng pakonti 'yong ginagawa naming creative process. That's how APO was created 40 years ago… Sabi namin, ‘Saan tayo pupunta? Ano ba ang sinimulan ng APO noon?’ Ito nawawala nga ‘yong creative process,” Garrovillo said.
“The performances will always be the same. We still enjoy performing. Kaya lang sabi namin kung uulit ulitin lang natin ito at wala naman tayong ginagawang bago, baka maburyong tayo sa sarili natin. Bago tayo maburyong sa sarili natin, let's put a time table to it," he added.
They also took note of the fact that their last 5 albums were unsuccessful.
“It's knowing when to leave [and] not to overstay your welcome… Forty (years) I think is a very good time," Javier said.
According to Wikipedia, APO has made 27 record albums, hosted several television shows, including their own noontime Sunday show "Sa Linggo nAPO Sila," and launched hugely successful major solo concerts and countless provincial, dinner, and corporate shows.
The group has performed in over 50 cities in the United States, Canada, Singapore, Indonesia, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Japan.
The legendary trio was also behind the all time favorite songs “Batang-bata Ka Pa,” “Kabilugan ng Buwan,” “Di Na Natuto,” “Awit ng Barkada,” “When I Met You,” and “Pumapatak Na Naman ang Ulan.”
Their Valentine concert, dubbed as the “Last Valentine nAPO," on February 13 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City will kick off this “last stretch of performances.”
Actress-comedienne K Brosas will be their special guest.
Tickets are available at all Ticketnet office. Or call 911-5555 or Twenty Plus Inc. hotline at 753-1609 loc 116 or at Star Express PLDT hotline at 334-9272 add 02 for Globe and SMART subscribers.
Life after APO
Garrovillo, however, made this clarification: “Baka akala niyo kapag sinabing magre-retire ang APO, ‘yong mga tao na ng APO [magre-retire din]. Hindi. Ang pangalan ng APO ang magre-retire."
For instance, Paredes said he will continue to write and collaborate with other singers.
For Javier’s part, meanwhile, he will let fate take its course. "Naniniwala ako sa isang kasabihan na life begins after you make your plans. So, hindi na ako nagpa-plano. I'll just let it begin.”
One thing sure though, he said he is taking a break from music.
“I have a son who is very talented and very serious about music. Magandang magpapasintabi muna ako at pagmasdan siya na gawin ang gusto niyang gawin na walang nakalakip na pangalan o imahen ng kanyang ama para magkaroon siya ng sariling name,” he said. -Reyma Buan-Deveza, abs-cbnNEWS.com
APO’s Jim Paredes, Buboy Garrovillo and Danny Javier, the ageless triumvirate of the ‘70s and ‘80s pop music, announced in a press conference Wednesday that their series of shows from February until the end of May will be their final curtain call.
"This last stretch, we will really like to see as many as you…. The best shows we've ever done in our career will happen right now in our last stretch. We are coming to an end," Paredes said.
It wasn’t an easy decision. According to them, it took almost a year of rigorous deliberations before they finally agreed that it is time for the group to leave the industry.
"Through the years, parang little by little, pakonti ng pakonti 'yong ginagawa naming creative process. That's how APO was created 40 years ago… Sabi namin, ‘Saan tayo pupunta? Ano ba ang sinimulan ng APO noon?’ Ito nawawala nga ‘yong creative process,” Garrovillo said.
“The performances will always be the same. We still enjoy performing. Kaya lang sabi namin kung uulit ulitin lang natin ito at wala naman tayong ginagawang bago, baka maburyong tayo sa sarili natin. Bago tayo maburyong sa sarili natin, let's put a time table to it," he added.
They also took note of the fact that their last 5 albums were unsuccessful.
“It's knowing when to leave [and] not to overstay your welcome… Forty (years) I think is a very good time," Javier said.
According to Wikipedia, APO has made 27 record albums, hosted several television shows, including their own noontime Sunday show "Sa Linggo nAPO Sila," and launched hugely successful major solo concerts and countless provincial, dinner, and corporate shows.
The group has performed in over 50 cities in the United States, Canada, Singapore, Indonesia, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Japan.
The legendary trio was also behind the all time favorite songs “Batang-bata Ka Pa,” “Kabilugan ng Buwan,” “Di Na Natuto,” “Awit ng Barkada,” “When I Met You,” and “Pumapatak Na Naman ang Ulan.”
Their Valentine concert, dubbed as the “Last Valentine nAPO," on February 13 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City will kick off this “last stretch of performances.”
Actress-comedienne K Brosas will be their special guest.
Tickets are available at all Ticketnet office. Or call 911-5555 or Twenty Plus Inc. hotline at 753-1609 loc 116 or at Star Express PLDT hotline at 334-9272 add 02 for Globe and SMART subscribers.
Life after APO
Garrovillo, however, made this clarification: “Baka akala niyo kapag sinabing magre-retire ang APO, ‘yong mga tao na ng APO [magre-retire din]. Hindi. Ang pangalan ng APO ang magre-retire."
For instance, Paredes said he will continue to write and collaborate with other singers.
For Javier’s part, meanwhile, he will let fate take its course. "Naniniwala ako sa isang kasabihan na life begins after you make your plans. So, hindi na ako nagpa-plano. I'll just let it begin.”
One thing sure though, he said he is taking a break from music.
“I have a son who is very talented and very serious about music. Magandang magpapasintabi muna ako at pagmasdan siya na gawin ang gusto niyang gawin na walang nakalakip na pangalan o imahen ng kanyang ama para magkaroon siya ng sariling name,” he said. -Reyma Buan-Deveza, abs-cbnNEWS.com
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Boys Like Girls back for Big Innovation
After winning the crowd with their pop-rock grooves last year, Boys Like Girls is back in the country for another rousing performance, this time at the SMX Convention Center on Jan. 27 at 8 p.m.
The show, titled Big Innovation, promises to be one big party full of the band’s energy-driven songs. Presented by Big Fish, it will see the band performing back-to-back with Hed Kandi, featuring DJ Andy Norman, Anton Ramos and Johnboy Lee. Peyton of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy will sing live.
Boys Like Girls recently released its second studio album, Love Drunk.
Love Drunk, the album’s anthemic lead single and title track celebrates love’s intoxicating effects.
Heart Heart Heartbreak ramps the arena-ready sound up another notch. The verse-chorus-guitar solo combo is custom-made for audience participation. Another track, Contagious has rich vocal harmonies, while a string section helps set the tone for the ballad Two Is Better Than One.
The more mid-tempo The First One offers an endearing take on bouncing back from a broken heart.
Voted Spin.com’s Artist of the Year after receiving 68 percent of the total vote in 2007, Boys Like Girls spent three years on the road, touring with Good Charlotte, Avril Lavigne and the Vans Warped Tour and developing one of the most loyal fan bases in modern rock. After selling more than three million digital singles — including 1.5 million copies of The Great Escape, 900,000 copies of Hero/Heroin and 600,000 copies of Thunder, Boys Like Girls chronicled its rise from Ramen Noodles and sleeping on fans’ floors to headlining their hometown arena with the release of the band’s first DVD, readbetweenthelines.
Tickets are available at Ticketnet (tel. no. 911-5555) and Ticketworld (tel. no. 891-9999) outlets.
The show, titled Big Innovation, promises to be one big party full of the band’s energy-driven songs. Presented by Big Fish, it will see the band performing back-to-back with Hed Kandi, featuring DJ Andy Norman, Anton Ramos and Johnboy Lee. Peyton of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy will sing live.
Boys Like Girls recently released its second studio album, Love Drunk.
Love Drunk, the album’s anthemic lead single and title track celebrates love’s intoxicating effects.
Heart Heart Heartbreak ramps the arena-ready sound up another notch. The verse-chorus-guitar solo combo is custom-made for audience participation. Another track, Contagious has rich vocal harmonies, while a string section helps set the tone for the ballad Two Is Better Than One.
The more mid-tempo The First One offers an endearing take on bouncing back from a broken heart.
Voted Spin.com’s Artist of the Year after receiving 68 percent of the total vote in 2007, Boys Like Girls spent three years on the road, touring with Good Charlotte, Avril Lavigne and the Vans Warped Tour and developing one of the most loyal fan bases in modern rock. After selling more than three million digital singles — including 1.5 million copies of The Great Escape, 900,000 copies of Hero/Heroin and 600,000 copies of Thunder, Boys Like Girls chronicled its rise from Ramen Noodles and sleeping on fans’ floors to headlining their hometown arena with the release of the band’s first DVD, readbetweenthelines.
Tickets are available at Ticketnet (tel. no. 911-5555) and Ticketworld (tel. no. 891-9999) outlets.
Friday, January 15, 2010
The Beatles stereo box set released
EMI presents an audio collection comprising the magical journey of the Fab Four with The Beatles Stereo Boxset distributed by PolyEast Records.
For the first time, their entire recorded output has been re-mastered for the 21st century, complete with unique liner notes and special digital packaging to boot. The box set includes a bonus DVD featuring all of these short sequences together. You can also avail The Beatles Stereo Boxset in a limited edition 16G USB Flash Drive housed in a green aluminum apple which contains full contents of the Beatles Stereo Box set; 13 mini-documentaries in MPEG 4 video format; and custom designed Flash Player menu system with full booklet artwork, album cover wallpapers and photo gallery.
What you have here are the original British Beatles albums just like what had been released before; only now, listeners can enjoy the first four albums — Please Please Me. With The Beatles, A Hard Day’s Night, Beatles For Sale — available in true stereo for the first time. Combined with the remaining nine albums recorded by the group between 1965 and 1970, this is a treasure trove of timeless, classic songs that changed the structure of popular music as we know it today.
Each title also comes with a CD booklet containing many unreleased photographs that represent the time when each album was originally released, plus well-written liner notes (including original notes from the first four albums). The Yellow Submarine booklet contains the original UK and US back cover notes together for the first time. Also available is the photo/comic-strip booklet from Magical Mystery Tour initially issued in the American LP in 1967, in an official CD release for the first time. The White Album packaging includes the original poster, in a CD sized reproduction, that features the photo collage on one side and the album’s song-lyrics on the other. This marks the second time that this poster was made available in a White Album CD release, following the 30th anniversary reissue from 1998.
Love Me Do (both versions), P.S. I Love You, Only A Northern Song, She Loves You, I’ll Get You and You Know My Name (Look Up The Number) are presented in their original monaural mixes, whereas the remaining songs are all in true stereo. Even I Am The Walrus still has its original mix of half-stereo/half-duo phonic, just like the first time around.
For the first time, their entire recorded output has been re-mastered for the 21st century, complete with unique liner notes and special digital packaging to boot. The box set includes a bonus DVD featuring all of these short sequences together. You can also avail The Beatles Stereo Boxset in a limited edition 16G USB Flash Drive housed in a green aluminum apple which contains full contents of the Beatles Stereo Box set; 13 mini-documentaries in MPEG 4 video format; and custom designed Flash Player menu system with full booklet artwork, album cover wallpapers and photo gallery.
What you have here are the original British Beatles albums just like what had been released before; only now, listeners can enjoy the first four albums — Please Please Me. With The Beatles, A Hard Day’s Night, Beatles For Sale — available in true stereo for the first time. Combined with the remaining nine albums recorded by the group between 1965 and 1970, this is a treasure trove of timeless, classic songs that changed the structure of popular music as we know it today.
Each title also comes with a CD booklet containing many unreleased photographs that represent the time when each album was originally released, plus well-written liner notes (including original notes from the first four albums). The Yellow Submarine booklet contains the original UK and US back cover notes together for the first time. Also available is the photo/comic-strip booklet from Magical Mystery Tour initially issued in the American LP in 1967, in an official CD release for the first time. The White Album packaging includes the original poster, in a CD sized reproduction, that features the photo collage on one side and the album’s song-lyrics on the other. This marks the second time that this poster was made available in a White Album CD release, following the 30th anniversary reissue from 1998.
Love Me Do (both versions), P.S. I Love You, Only A Northern Song, She Loves You, I’ll Get You and You Know My Name (Look Up The Number) are presented in their original monaural mixes, whereas the remaining songs are all in true stereo. Even I Am The Walrus still has its original mix of half-stereo/half-duo phonic, just like the first time around.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Backstreet Boys back in Manila
Araneta Center and Viva Concerts & Events, in cooperation with Uniprom, bring back the Backstreet Boys in a concert dubbed Backstreet Boys This is Us Tour 2010 on Feb. 27, 8 p.m. at Araneta Coliseum.
The multi-Grammy nominated Backstreet Boys gained worldwide recognition when its first seven albums landed in the Top 10 of the US Billboard charts. In the ’90s, Backstreet Boys popularized such hits as Everybody (Backstreet’s Back), Quit Playing Games (With My Heart), I Want it That Way, Larger Than Life, plus songs that gave them 14 Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 and various nominations from the Grammy Awards. The Backstreet Boys has sold over 130 million albums worldwide. Originally a five-man group, the Manila leg will include band members Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell, and A.J. McLean.
For details, call 911-5555 or log on to www.ticketnet.com.ph.
The multi-Grammy nominated Backstreet Boys gained worldwide recognition when its first seven albums landed in the Top 10 of the US Billboard charts. In the ’90s, Backstreet Boys popularized such hits as Everybody (Backstreet’s Back), Quit Playing Games (With My Heart), I Want it That Way, Larger Than Life, plus songs that gave them 14 Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 and various nominations from the Grammy Awards. The Backstreet Boys has sold over 130 million albums worldwide. Originally a five-man group, the Manila leg will include band members Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell, and A.J. McLean.
For details, call 911-5555 or log on to www.ticketnet.com.ph.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Monday, January 11, 2010
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Friday, January 8, 2010
Rhian rises to the occasion
Not a few predicted when she entered showbiz that Rhian Ramos would easily become one of the best bets of GMA 7 when it comes to female leads. She does not only have the requisite good looks to become a star. She also has the talent to boot.
Her entry into show business was quite abrupt. After she was spotted by GMA 7 executive Annette Gozon-Abrogar in a TV commercial of a fast-food chain, Rhian was immediately signed up to play leading lady to Richard Gutierrez in the action-fantasy series, Captain Barbell.
However, unlike other showbiz newbies who were quite forgettable in their initial TV foray, Rhian readily made a mark in her acting debut. Her Captain Barbell stint earned for her nominations from the 21st Star Awards for Television as Best New Female TV Personality and Golden Screen Awards for Breakthrough Performance in 2007.
Not surprisingly, other assignments subsequently followed as Rhian became an exclusive talent of GMA 7 under the network’s Artist Center led by now VP for Talent Development and Management Ida Ramos Henares. Rhian starred with Richard again in Lupin. This was succeeded by Zorro.
In no time, Rhian became the toast of the small screen and local showbiz. Her TV programs easily gained her a following, especially among teenage audiences who adore her Barbie doll features.
Rhian was also given an afternoon drama series, My Only Love, where she got to reprise with much excitement the role earlier played on the big screen by Sharon Cuneta. Rhian had Mark Herras as leading man in the Sinenovela feature. Recently, Rhian was also featured in a show for the international cable channel AXN.
Last year, Rhian got her biggest break when she was given the lead in La Lola, the Argentine TV series of the same name. She was paired opposite JC de Vera in the gender-bender romantic-comedy that catapulted her to greater fame and made her a household name.
Big screen projects did not prove to be elusive for Rhian. Debuting in The Promise, she later did memorable portrayals in Ouija, My Monster Mom, Italy and Sundo. Rhian is also part of Ang Panday.
Rhian invaded even recording. She recently launched her NMI project Audition Dance Battle debut album under Bellhaus Entertainment with the carrier single, You. In 2007, Rhian was voted by FHM as No. 20 in the list of 100 Sexiest Women in the World (Philippines).
Tackling young-adult roles proves Rhian’s versatility in the acting arena. She played Jodi in the Philippine version of Stairway to Heaven with Dingdong Dantes.
“I am thankful when people take notice of the hard work I put into my craft,” she says reacting to observations that she can be very realistic in her portrayals of pain, love and happiness even at such a young age.
In the growing stable of stars under GMA Artists Center, Rhian tops among the female talents. Rhian also endorses Belo, Carefree, B Club, Sabella, Hang Ten, Fusion Excel and Clear.
Her entry into show business was quite abrupt. After she was spotted by GMA 7 executive Annette Gozon-Abrogar in a TV commercial of a fast-food chain, Rhian was immediately signed up to play leading lady to Richard Gutierrez in the action-fantasy series, Captain Barbell.
However, unlike other showbiz newbies who were quite forgettable in their initial TV foray, Rhian readily made a mark in her acting debut. Her Captain Barbell stint earned for her nominations from the 21st Star Awards for Television as Best New Female TV Personality and Golden Screen Awards for Breakthrough Performance in 2007.
Not surprisingly, other assignments subsequently followed as Rhian became an exclusive talent of GMA 7 under the network’s Artist Center led by now VP for Talent Development and Management Ida Ramos Henares. Rhian starred with Richard again in Lupin. This was succeeded by Zorro.
In no time, Rhian became the toast of the small screen and local showbiz. Her TV programs easily gained her a following, especially among teenage audiences who adore her Barbie doll features.
Rhian was also given an afternoon drama series, My Only Love, where she got to reprise with much excitement the role earlier played on the big screen by Sharon Cuneta. Rhian had Mark Herras as leading man in the Sinenovela feature. Recently, Rhian was also featured in a show for the international cable channel AXN.
Last year, Rhian got her biggest break when she was given the lead in La Lola, the Argentine TV series of the same name. She was paired opposite JC de Vera in the gender-bender romantic-comedy that catapulted her to greater fame and made her a household name.
Big screen projects did not prove to be elusive for Rhian. Debuting in The Promise, she later did memorable portrayals in Ouija, My Monster Mom, Italy and Sundo. Rhian is also part of Ang Panday.
Rhian invaded even recording. She recently launched her NMI project Audition Dance Battle debut album under Bellhaus Entertainment with the carrier single, You. In 2007, Rhian was voted by FHM as No. 20 in the list of 100 Sexiest Women in the World (Philippines).
Tackling young-adult roles proves Rhian’s versatility in the acting arena. She played Jodi in the Philippine version of Stairway to Heaven with Dingdong Dantes.
“I am thankful when people take notice of the hard work I put into my craft,” she says reacting to observations that she can be very realistic in her portrayals of pain, love and happiness even at such a young age.
In the growing stable of stars under GMA Artists Center, Rhian tops among the female talents. Rhian also endorses Belo, Carefree, B Club, Sabella, Hang Ten, Fusion Excel and Clear.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Flashback: Reliving the bittersweet good old days with the APO
By Nenet Galang-Pereña (The Philippine Star)
Kaya pApo Nila, the Apolinario Mabini Hiking Society’s latest caper at the SkyDome, was the superkalifragilistic way to relive the bitter-sweet years of high school, which for our generation, was definitely in the distant past — two scores and so many moons ago.
After the voice-over cited traffic as cause of delay, the show (deferred, as it was first scheduled on the Apo-calyptic day Ondoy struck) finally started. Danny Javier, Jim Paredes and Buboy Garrovillo bounced on stage, a vision that seems to have defied the ravages of time. Garbed in the tricolors of the Philippine flag, they sang their hit makers from 27 albums of their discography, complete with signature moves and inimitable banter for three solid gold hours.
Imagine Kabilugan ng B’wan reinvented by the unflappable triumvirate. First was Buboy, cavorting in marching band tempo, complete with a whistle and baton, uniformed like the Ateneo Blue Babble cheering squad for the UAAP. Then came Danny, dressed like a samba queen for a Latin mardi gras, sashaying to the mambo and cha-cha beat, complete with fruit laden hat and ruffled sleeves. Last was Jim, caped like the King, gyrating to the rock and roll pandemonium that scandalized the puritan ethic of America in the late ’60s .
Di na Natuto, Tuyo na ang Damdamin, Ewan, When I Met You brought back dimming memories when we were simply youth quarreling over our bakya idols. The three-generation audience raised their cellphones, the backlights swaying to the familiar melodies of love lost and found when the faces of Guy and Pip and Vi and Bot were silk screened on terrycloth T-shirts.
They have patented their old trick of changing the lyrics of balitaws and kundimans, prefaced with the Pinoy pasintabi: Bato-bato sa Langit, kung tamaan, buti nga. They updated old favorites like Mahirap Magmahal, changing 30 sentimos with call card so that the generation who calls their syota (our eldest son Nomer considers this slang offensive), “babe” can relate to it.
Maginoo pero medyo bastos, Apo is not above a green joke or two. Buboy was complaining about his inability to make his hair stand like the bagets who gave him mud (our youngest, Tim keeps a tin of this in his survival kit), when what he knew was po-mud-a and Danny commented: Sa edad natin, hindi lang buhok ang di na tumatayo. The audience loved them all the more for their irreverence, in particular the older generation trying hard not to succumb to Apo-plexy while laughing their guts out.
But no Apo concert is complete without the three’s political commentary. Fault the Atenista for his arreneo accent but not for fence sitting during what our middle son, Noel, learned in law school as “times that try men’s souls.” Adapting strophes from Mr. Swabe, they wedged their victims between a rock and a hard place. Taking a pot shot at the beleaguered president, they sang OK lang magbyahe, wag na lang siyang uuwi. Taking a pitch for their kandidatong walang pera, they tweaked at his desperate need for a make-over: Buhok nya’y di mahati, then segued to the inevitable Noy-noynoy Noy-noynoy refrain. Of course, the trio wears their hearts in their sleeves for the Noynoy-Mar team — fellow Atenistas.
What is outstanding with Apo is their genius for making the Filipino proud of his culture — warts and all, the unique confluence of the east and west. They earned international recognition for Jim Paredes’ anthem on the bloodless Philippine revolution in 1986, Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo, which was recorded by 15 Filipino artists in April 1986. A few months later, the English version A New and Better Way was launched in Australia. The lyrics of the song are inscribed on a wall of Our Lady of Edsa Shrine, where the first People Power erected a citadel for this third world country in the global village.
When they made their encore, my husband and I saw our mirror images — hair streaked with silver, feet leaden with fatigue, and eyes hazy with the years of pursuing a profession while raising a family. We uttered a prayer for the heroes of our youth who sympathized with our teen-age confusions with Blue Jeans, chastised us for our colonial mentality with American Junk, and simply made us smile with Do Beedoo. They have come a long way from the Katipunan Canteen where they first jammed, to the Carnegie Hall which they jampacked in a tour of the east coast. May they continue to make ExApo-lidacious music together.
Kaya pApo Nila, the Apolinario Mabini Hiking Society’s latest caper at the SkyDome, was the superkalifragilistic way to relive the bitter-sweet years of high school, which for our generation, was definitely in the distant past — two scores and so many moons ago.
After the voice-over cited traffic as cause of delay, the show (deferred, as it was first scheduled on the Apo-calyptic day Ondoy struck) finally started. Danny Javier, Jim Paredes and Buboy Garrovillo bounced on stage, a vision that seems to have defied the ravages of time. Garbed in the tricolors of the Philippine flag, they sang their hit makers from 27 albums of their discography, complete with signature moves and inimitable banter for three solid gold hours.
Imagine Kabilugan ng B’wan reinvented by the unflappable triumvirate. First was Buboy, cavorting in marching band tempo, complete with a whistle and baton, uniformed like the Ateneo Blue Babble cheering squad for the UAAP. Then came Danny, dressed like a samba queen for a Latin mardi gras, sashaying to the mambo and cha-cha beat, complete with fruit laden hat and ruffled sleeves. Last was Jim, caped like the King, gyrating to the rock and roll pandemonium that scandalized the puritan ethic of America in the late ’60s .
Di na Natuto, Tuyo na ang Damdamin, Ewan, When I Met You brought back dimming memories when we were simply youth quarreling over our bakya idols. The three-generation audience raised their cellphones, the backlights swaying to the familiar melodies of love lost and found when the faces of Guy and Pip and Vi and Bot were silk screened on terrycloth T-shirts.
They have patented their old trick of changing the lyrics of balitaws and kundimans, prefaced with the Pinoy pasintabi: Bato-bato sa Langit, kung tamaan, buti nga. They updated old favorites like Mahirap Magmahal, changing 30 sentimos with call card so that the generation who calls their syota (our eldest son Nomer considers this slang offensive), “babe” can relate to it.
Maginoo pero medyo bastos, Apo is not above a green joke or two. Buboy was complaining about his inability to make his hair stand like the bagets who gave him mud (our youngest, Tim keeps a tin of this in his survival kit), when what he knew was po-mud-a and Danny commented: Sa edad natin, hindi lang buhok ang di na tumatayo. The audience loved them all the more for their irreverence, in particular the older generation trying hard not to succumb to Apo-plexy while laughing their guts out.
But no Apo concert is complete without the three’s political commentary. Fault the Atenista for his arreneo accent but not for fence sitting during what our middle son, Noel, learned in law school as “times that try men’s souls.” Adapting strophes from Mr. Swabe, they wedged their victims between a rock and a hard place. Taking a pot shot at the beleaguered president, they sang OK lang magbyahe, wag na lang siyang uuwi. Taking a pitch for their kandidatong walang pera, they tweaked at his desperate need for a make-over: Buhok nya’y di mahati, then segued to the inevitable Noy-noynoy Noy-noynoy refrain. Of course, the trio wears their hearts in their sleeves for the Noynoy-Mar team — fellow Atenistas.
What is outstanding with Apo is their genius for making the Filipino proud of his culture — warts and all, the unique confluence of the east and west. They earned international recognition for Jim Paredes’ anthem on the bloodless Philippine revolution in 1986, Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo, which was recorded by 15 Filipino artists in April 1986. A few months later, the English version A New and Better Way was launched in Australia. The lyrics of the song are inscribed on a wall of Our Lady of Edsa Shrine, where the first People Power erected a citadel for this third world country in the global village.
When they made their encore, my husband and I saw our mirror images — hair streaked with silver, feet leaden with fatigue, and eyes hazy with the years of pursuing a profession while raising a family. We uttered a prayer for the heroes of our youth who sympathized with our teen-age confusions with Blue Jeans, chastised us for our colonial mentality with American Junk, and simply made us smile with Do Beedoo. They have come a long way from the Katipunan Canteen where they first jammed, to the Carnegie Hall which they jampacked in a tour of the east coast. May they continue to make ExApo-lidacious music together.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Sitti's three wishes
DIRECTLINE By Boy Abunda (The Philippine Star)
She is the Philippines‘ undisputed Queen of Bossa Nova. But Sitti is still not quite comfortable with her title. She never desired to be a “queen,” because to her the real “queen” is Brazilian Astrud Gilberto, and no one can really compare with her music.
In the local music front it is Sitti who reigns supreme in the bossa nova genre. Sitti’s latest album Contagious is definitely one of the best. It contains 16 cuts including the classic Chega de Saudade and So Em Teus Braços from bossa nova great Antonio Carlos Jobim and A Certain Sadness, by Astrud.
1. If there is one song that best describes you, what is it and why?
Here’s To Life. I just recently discovered the lyrics to this and I really marveled at it, I was like “I finally found the song that perfectly captures me and how I am!” The song speaks about having no complaints and no regrets, about chasing dreams and just really living life fully, even if there are failures. I believe this is how I live my life right now… and how I intend to live it till I perish. I’m giving it all I’ve got, no holds barred and all pistons firing hahaha.
2. Are you a generous lover?
Yes, I believe I am….I am willing to sacrifice my happiness and feelings for my loved one to be happy. Ganung level hahaha.
3. If you have the chance to sing for one famous world figure, who would it be and why?
I would love to sing for the Dalai Lama….and hopefully get to imbibe some of his peaceful ways and wisdom.
4. How often do you lie?
Well, I tell a lot of white lies….generally about my whereabouts when I do not wish to divulge them hehehe.
5. What did you want to be as a child?
I wanted to be a nun! Hahaha.
6. What makes you cry?
When my feelings get hurt. When I see suffering.
7. Name 10 best albums (local and foreign) of all time?
Oh my… I always do not get to answer questions like these because I’m just really, really forgetful when it comes to titles, or when I’m asked on the spot. These are what I can think of for the moment… the Astrud Gilberto Silver Collection is a super beautiful one for me… also Great Original Pilipino Music by Ryan Cayabyab as performed by the San Miguel Chorale and Orchestra… Coldplay’s Viva La Vida is also spectacular for me… Regina Spektor’s Begin to Hope, Norah Jones’ Come Away With Me… Rico Blanco’s Your Universe, Alanis Morisette’s Jagged Little Pill… Bees, Things, Flowers album of Incognito… the Dawson’s Creek soundtrack… Insomnia and Other Lullabyes by Cynthia Alexander.
8. What is your ultimate dream as an entertainer?
To perform a full-length show with an orchestra and a percussions group creating magical music and getting a standing ovation after!
9. Three things you would like to do before you die?
Have my own foundation/school granting scholarships for the poor, do a collaboration with Mr. Gary V and Mr. Ryan C, and throw a huge party for my family and friends where we’ll just celebrate life, love and music!
10. What do you like most about your job? What don’t you like about it?
I love it when people tell me that my music helps ease their day… that’s what I most like about it. The travel perks are also tremendous. I’ve been blessed to go to so many other countries and places. There are a few instances when I’m tired or not really feeling like working but I have to because I have to honor my commitment. That’s what I don’t like about it.
11. How do you handle fame?
I honestly believe there’s not much to handle. People don’t go crazy when they see me naman hahaha.
12. If you have the power to solve all the problems in the country, what will you solve first?
Poverty. I believe it’s the root of all the other problems. If all Filipinos have the privilege of a decent meal, income and access to education, would there be crime at all?
13. What makes you laugh?
Silly jokes, silly thoughts — perhaps all silly-ness. Hahaha.
14. The person who makes you laugh?
I always have a great laugh with my best friend Marj. Even her laugh makes me laugh.
15. How do you say goodbye to a loved one?
Kiss, hug, and “I love you.”
16. If you had an extra P100-M, how will you spend it?
I would secure a business for my family’s future, buy another car, get a huge lot and have a relatively small house built in it, and put up my own foundation catering to quality education for poor kids and enterprising livelihood for poor parents.
17. What is your motto?
To give all of myself in all things I do, and to offer it all to Him.
18. How would you like to be remembered?
A simple, fun-loving girl with a voice that can put you to sleep, hahahaha.
19. What is your security blanket?
My family…our house. My music.
20. What do you do when you are lonely?
Jog or walk, and listen to music, or read a book.
21. If you were to come back as a person or thing, what do you think you would be?
Either a bird or a dog. I wanna fly free or be extremely loyal to someone.
22. Do you believe in heaven? If yes, how do you get there? If no, why?
Yes. We must do things pleasing to God so we can get there… to follow His commandments, to love and serve others as Jesus did… this is so hard to do though…
23. If you go to hell, who do you want to be with you?
My golly, no one hahaha. I wouldn’t want my loved ones or friends to suffer in there, too.
24. A genie is in front of you and you are to make three wishes. What would they be and why?
To have vocals as great as Sarah Vaughan’s and Dianne Reeves and Lea Salonga.
25. The most expensive item you bought for yourself?
A set of beautiful gold jewelry.
26. What is your favorite expression?
Nice or keri or ayuz!
27. How do you spoil yourself?
I spend a lot traveling and I don’t scrimp on that, hahaha.
28. What other talents would you like to have? Why?
I would like to have the ultimate songwriting skills ala Rico Blanco. Napakabilis at napakaganda gumawa ng kanta. I would also direly want to be blessed with insane culinary skills.
29. What is love?
Hahaha, this is ironic. I just posted this on Facebook the other day hahaha… love is always about giving and setting free. But ultimately for me, love is a choice.
She is the Philippines‘ undisputed Queen of Bossa Nova. But Sitti is still not quite comfortable with her title. She never desired to be a “queen,” because to her the real “queen” is Brazilian Astrud Gilberto, and no one can really compare with her music.
In the local music front it is Sitti who reigns supreme in the bossa nova genre. Sitti’s latest album Contagious is definitely one of the best. It contains 16 cuts including the classic Chega de Saudade and So Em Teus Braços from bossa nova great Antonio Carlos Jobim and A Certain Sadness, by Astrud.
1. If there is one song that best describes you, what is it and why?
Here’s To Life. I just recently discovered the lyrics to this and I really marveled at it, I was like “I finally found the song that perfectly captures me and how I am!” The song speaks about having no complaints and no regrets, about chasing dreams and just really living life fully, even if there are failures. I believe this is how I live my life right now… and how I intend to live it till I perish. I’m giving it all I’ve got, no holds barred and all pistons firing hahaha.
2. Are you a generous lover?
Yes, I believe I am….I am willing to sacrifice my happiness and feelings for my loved one to be happy. Ganung level hahaha.
3. If you have the chance to sing for one famous world figure, who would it be and why?
I would love to sing for the Dalai Lama….and hopefully get to imbibe some of his peaceful ways and wisdom.
4. How often do you lie?
Well, I tell a lot of white lies….generally about my whereabouts when I do not wish to divulge them hehehe.
5. What did you want to be as a child?
I wanted to be a nun! Hahaha.
6. What makes you cry?
When my feelings get hurt. When I see suffering.
7. Name 10 best albums (local and foreign) of all time?
Oh my… I always do not get to answer questions like these because I’m just really, really forgetful when it comes to titles, or when I’m asked on the spot. These are what I can think of for the moment… the Astrud Gilberto Silver Collection is a super beautiful one for me… also Great Original Pilipino Music by Ryan Cayabyab as performed by the San Miguel Chorale and Orchestra… Coldplay’s Viva La Vida is also spectacular for me… Regina Spektor’s Begin to Hope, Norah Jones’ Come Away With Me… Rico Blanco’s Your Universe, Alanis Morisette’s Jagged Little Pill… Bees, Things, Flowers album of Incognito… the Dawson’s Creek soundtrack… Insomnia and Other Lullabyes by Cynthia Alexander.
8. What is your ultimate dream as an entertainer?
To perform a full-length show with an orchestra and a percussions group creating magical music and getting a standing ovation after!
9. Three things you would like to do before you die?
Have my own foundation/school granting scholarships for the poor, do a collaboration with Mr. Gary V and Mr. Ryan C, and throw a huge party for my family and friends where we’ll just celebrate life, love and music!
10. What do you like most about your job? What don’t you like about it?
I love it when people tell me that my music helps ease their day… that’s what I most like about it. The travel perks are also tremendous. I’ve been blessed to go to so many other countries and places. There are a few instances when I’m tired or not really feeling like working but I have to because I have to honor my commitment. That’s what I don’t like about it.
11. How do you handle fame?
I honestly believe there’s not much to handle. People don’t go crazy when they see me naman hahaha.
12. If you have the power to solve all the problems in the country, what will you solve first?
Poverty. I believe it’s the root of all the other problems. If all Filipinos have the privilege of a decent meal, income and access to education, would there be crime at all?
13. What makes you laugh?
Silly jokes, silly thoughts — perhaps all silly-ness. Hahaha.
14. The person who makes you laugh?
I always have a great laugh with my best friend Marj. Even her laugh makes me laugh.
15. How do you say goodbye to a loved one?
Kiss, hug, and “I love you.”
16. If you had an extra P100-M, how will you spend it?
I would secure a business for my family’s future, buy another car, get a huge lot and have a relatively small house built in it, and put up my own foundation catering to quality education for poor kids and enterprising livelihood for poor parents.
17. What is your motto?
To give all of myself in all things I do, and to offer it all to Him.
18. How would you like to be remembered?
A simple, fun-loving girl with a voice that can put you to sleep, hahahaha.
19. What is your security blanket?
My family…our house. My music.
20. What do you do when you are lonely?
Jog or walk, and listen to music, or read a book.
21. If you were to come back as a person or thing, what do you think you would be?
Either a bird or a dog. I wanna fly free or be extremely loyal to someone.
22. Do you believe in heaven? If yes, how do you get there? If no, why?
Yes. We must do things pleasing to God so we can get there… to follow His commandments, to love and serve others as Jesus did… this is so hard to do though…
23. If you go to hell, who do you want to be with you?
My golly, no one hahaha. I wouldn’t want my loved ones or friends to suffer in there, too.
24. A genie is in front of you and you are to make three wishes. What would they be and why?
To have vocals as great as Sarah Vaughan’s and Dianne Reeves and Lea Salonga.
25. The most expensive item you bought for yourself?
A set of beautiful gold jewelry.
26. What is your favorite expression?
Nice or keri or ayuz!
27. How do you spoil yourself?
I spend a lot traveling and I don’t scrimp on that, hahaha.
28. What other talents would you like to have? Why?
I would like to have the ultimate songwriting skills ala Rico Blanco. Napakabilis at napakaganda gumawa ng kanta. I would also direly want to be blessed with insane culinary skills.
29. What is love?
Hahaha, this is ironic. I just posted this on Facebook the other day hahaha… love is always about giving and setting free. But ultimately for me, love is a choice.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
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