PINOY MAGAZINE'S OPM TOP VOCALISTS

Meet the “league of the ordinary gentlemen” doing extraordinary musical opus and notable indulgence in the lifeblood of Philippine music industry. Their brilliant musical giftedness radiate throughout that it gives vivid color to the music industry and the individuals subject to it, in particular to our very own song magazine, the PINOY Song Magazine. Count it pure blessing when these guys defied the constraint of their hectic time and reserved energy just to come up and give your “Music Authority” a nice lift. Such when, in particular, we invited them for a series of photo shoot and exclusive interview sessions. In a nobler thrust, to give our beloved readers fresh and blow by blow account of their fave and sensational rock act of the contemporary musical scene. For the mean time, here are the chosen ten of PINOY among the uncompromisable multifarious leagues of musical young bloods.

(Note: artists are not arranged accordingly).

Ely Buendia (Eleandre Basiño Buendía)
• The Legendary Front man
A prolific songwriter, guitarist and vocalist of the then legendary band Eraserheads. With his ingenuity in songwriting patrolled by the some of the songs such as “Alapaap,” “Pare Ko,” and the internationally acclaimed and award winning “Ang Huling El Bimbo,” gives him the respectable esteem “The Legend.”

Rico Blanco
• Genius Songwriter
The guy standing tall and brilliant amidst columns of rock artists. The man spearheading Rivermaya's hey days through intelligent renditions and penning of songs. In particular, blame it to his indulgence to the musical themes of world events such as United Nations MDG theme "Tayo Tayo Rin” and the South East Asian Games, "Posible” that he rightfully deserves his lot.

Chito Miranda (Alfonso "Chito” Miranda, Jr.)
• Front man Par Excellence
The skinny and not so skinny head vocal of the band Parokya Ni Edgar. 'Partners in crime' with the band's gags and comical antics. This man's inventiveness and square leadership serves a core imperative that unites their members into one fold of enduring band of the days amidst their comical figures.

Bamboo Mañalac (Francisco “Bamboo” Mañalac)
• The Enigmatic Front man
Who would dare forget this superbly energetic vocal punk who's famed in triumphantly hailing Hallelujah to the top of his spirit? A former buddy of the renowned band Rivermaya and now the resounding head vocals of the new found band Bamboo. Best known for his incredible vocal projection with a share of scat-rapping worthy of a musician cum laude.

Ney Dimaculangan (Rhoneil “Ney” Dimaculangan)
• The Vocal Worth Waiting For
The undisputed rocking chum of one of the significant rock acts of the day, the 6cyclemind. Ney's unique vocal range and unparalleled quality bring him to a level-up as defined on their singles such as “Sige,” “Trip” and “Upside Down,” indeed a vocal worth waiting for.

Marc Abaya (Ramon Marcelino "Marc" Abaya)
• The Frontman With An Edge
His charm comes in a hefty package of nice and finer vocal exodus, plus their crispier instrumental and rock projection. Marc's plus factor, in addition to, is their songs' honest and frank meanings. The group's manifestation of a non-dichotomous identity between their music and their individuality; their music as well as their message, brought them sizeable musical esteem.

Ebe Dancel
• Songwriter With A Pro
Comes another rock sensation with uncompromisable writing agility coupled with bubbling voice quality harpooning every one's heart into a world of awe. Ebe is Sugarfree's lead vocal of the same three-piece band. With the band's enduring existence since 1998, gotta be sure of their tough musical experiences and popular rapport is beyond reasonable doubt.

Yael Yuzon (Ysmael Yrastorza "Yael" Yuzon)
• The Winsome Vocalist
A charismatic vocalist of one of the most coveted contemporary rock act, Sponge Cola. A young blood in every gal's fantasy, teasing every fiber of their soul with his effervescent vocal incantation. Who dared missed their chart-topping singles “Movie”“Tuliro,” “Nakapagtataka,” and the Pedro Penduko fantaserye series OST “Bitiw.” Yael's inherent musical charm and vivid figure represents another jewel in treasure chest of OPM.

Japs Sergio (John Paul Ricafranca Sergio)
• The Voice Behind The Light
One of the sturdy figures of the Rivermaya's wobbling musical career (as of the present). One of the last three pillars standing for the Rivermaya's fate. Jap's penning endeavor for the song “Sayang” is consolation enough for the band and for the faithful supporters behind them looking for clarity for the band's recent predicaments. Truly, Japs' spirit to-the-rescue is the voice behind the light that gives “Bagong Liwanag” to Rivermaya's dark moments.

Kean Cipriano (Kean Edward Cipriano)
• The Rock Glamor
Behold this punk figure that gives young hearts the willies to the bones. Kean's vocal leadership of the smashing band Callalily is evidently worth-noting and elating. It extends even to this magazine's (Pinoy Song Magazine) commercial value; Callalily is one of the bestselling featured cover issue. Kean together with his musical comrades are still apt for more superb music and string bends.

Ruben Caballero
• The Vocal Who Knows
Another rock hunk who knows best when it comes to his musical brainchild. Ruben, a sensational guitarist and vocals of the band Cueshe, rightfully knows how to make amends their experiences with the songs he writes. A genius of his own and a treasured member in their circle, Ruben told us that if you cannot please everybody, then please the majority who loves you.

Miro Valera
• Vocal of Unity
Miro brings his trope to a new level of musicality and brotherhood. His vocal firmness highlights the band's musical strength and rapport. Miro is the man behind the thought that their musical strength lies in their friendship through music. For fans and advocates of the coveted band Stonefree, Miro Valera is the man standing tall and daring leading the band to their musical heyday.

♫♫♫

Special Thanks to: Pinoy Song Magazine

ROCK ROYALTIES

Yeng Constantino & Jayson Fernandez
SHARE THEIR PUBLIC PERSONA, TOURING EXPERIENCES AND HOW THEY DEAL WITH FAME!

Two of the finest singing bees in the OPM hive hobnob once again on the pages of your OPM Authority.

O, yes they have fame! They have songs! They have stings! And sure they have wings!

They have been so famous all these years that they have been on the platforms. They have been so inventive, poetic and charismatic since opportunity knocks at their doorsteps. They have the charm that lures thousands of fans all around the archipelago. And sure enough they enjoy their wings – flapping them from the 'pearl of the orient seas' and coast to coast to the other countries.

Lots have been said about Yeng Constantino since we've first met her during her first appearance in our magazine, but it seems fate hates monotony. Yeng's indomitable energy seems getting better and and better as days went by. I say so with sheer authority since I've eyed on her maturity since she fell into my record strips couple of years ago. And guess this young vocal heroine keeps advancing in body, brain, beauty ans spirituality.

She's more stylish and more avant-garde besides being sexy that's not least on the list. Being receptive to whatever lessons that comes along the way is perhaps inherent to everyone. Yeng is getting brainier day in and out of her endeavor together with her paler and smoother complexion. You'll notice the bubbling and glowing aura in her speech and personality – at least that is her ambiance exuded in front of our face and through the looking glass.

Jayson Fernandez as we know it is from Camarines Norte, Bicol Region. He's been heralded as the one to fill the void left by Rico Blanco in the band Rivermaya. Of the 500 who auditioned and the final thirteen – he was the last man standing. The quest is over for the need to fill the vocal lacuna. From then on he stands with humble pride among his older brothers in the band Rivermaya.

Jayson has this grotesque sense of artistry with his colorful tattoo spawning all over his arms and perhaps his body. Thus, a common insignia of a rock artist.

Jayson's deeper sense of spirituality, like Yeng, gets him moving and emblazoning his vocal fire because he knows Somebody is looking at him which he gives thanks everyday through his voice. Perhaps, not known to everybody, Jayson as a rock artist as he is, he is one of the acoustic guitar and vocal of the Victory Church. The two (Yeng and Jayson) are actually member of the same charismatic community, with Yeng (who brought him there), Quest and Sam Milby and few others.

That is why outright determination alone is not enough it needs the blessing from our Divine Master to get to the top of whatever we are going to do. But whatever it is, without Him, you'll feel something is missing around the corner of your life.

Yeng's first thing spelled on my record is her gratitude and faith in the Almighty. So determined and resolute for what she does; for she believes that she completes one slot of a puzzle of humanity under God's creative hands. “Siguro determinado ako kasi alam kung everything happens for a reason. Alam ko na nilagay ako ni God sa p'westong ito. He designed me to make music and write songs so wala ka ring choice, hindi ka rin makakatakas beacuse God's plan is there, kailangan mo lang sumunod.”

Jayson credits his fans and family pushing him a little bit higher every seconds of his life. “Kasi meron akong malaking-malaking tangan. Sa aking family, sa mga fans, at sa mga sumusuporta sa OPM kaya ako determinado.”

Furthermore, faith has something to say when it comes to Jayson's musical metamorphosis. “'Yung walk ko with Jesus iyon 'yung nagbago sa akin in terms of tugtugan malaki na rin 'yung nakain ko dahil din sa mga musicians at mga kasama ko sa banda.” Besides being with band mates older than he was, it was a superb guidebook for him in his pilgrimage towards maturity. “Isipin mo alam na ng mga ka-banda ko kung ano 'yung konteksto ng mic hindi pa ako pinapanganak so n'ung pumasok ako sa Rivermaya nasa school na ako, na nasa bahay ka lang at nasa tropa ka lang.”

Schedules and demands at least don’t fetter them from lying back to their coach when they need to shake-off few fatigues and stress. Yeng gets more home alone or homebound with her best bit and tucker. “ Kapag nasa bahay ako ni ate Acel at kapag nasa bahay ko ako kasi hindi ako nagme-make up at di nagsusuklay. Sa bahay nakamalaking t-shirt lang ako at naka-cotton na shorts ang kumportable lang.”

Jayson, on the other hand gets to manage his stress relief program and his being another guy on the block by schooling himself in a small group or bath himself with Bible thoughts. “Kapag walang gig. I hang out with my small group sa church. Nag-Bible study kami. 'Yung growth ko spiritually name-maintain ko so balance lang din.”

When it comes to success, Yeng is not done yet with herself. She’s not drawing yet the line to her success. Getting into the top means more to Yeng and that more is laid on a silver platter for the people whom she wants to entertain. Being contented and being a happy is her pillars of success if not only that she feels that there’s more on the well to be fetch for.

She asserts, “I don't think successful ako. Hindi pa kasi mayroon pa akong mga pangarap. Hindi na matatapos ang mga pangarap ko. Kapag narating mo na ang isang pangarap gusto mo pa rin gumawa ng iba pa. Masaya lang talaga ako na nagagawa ko iyong gusto ko and alam ko na dahil nagagawa ko yung gusto ko may mga tao akong napapasaya. I think 'yun 'yung success when you're contented and happy sa ginagawa mo at mahal mo 'yung mga taong nakaka-trabaho mo.

Jayson’s surefire to an overwhelming potpourri of emotion leads him to think of the dichotomy of the practical fantasy fame is giving him upstage and the yoke of his predicaments offstage. “ Oo overwhelmed at halu-halong emosyon. Nand'un 'yung travel, s'yempre nand'un din 'yung saya pero hindi rin naman kasi na p'wedeng araw-araw Pasko, minsan nand'un ka sa moment na sobrang sarap at saya pero pagbaba mo ng entablado nand'yan na 'yung lungkot at problema. Sabi nga ni Gary V. 'ang trabaho natin sa likod ng stage tayo nag-aareglo kung paano tayo nage-ensayo 'yun 'yung pinakatrabaho natin at kapag nasa stage na tayo 'yun 'yung celebration natin'. So ako gan'un ko rin i-trato ang trabaho ko.”


ON THE RECORD

Do you get lonely? What are the thoughts and things that make you lonely?
YENG: Of course kapag 'di ko nagagawa 'yung purpose na iniwan sa akin ni God. Kapag alam ko na ginagawa ko 'yung ginagawa ko dahil gusto ko lang at kapag igini-gain ko 'yung glory for myself. At the end the day kapag nag-usap na kami ni God 'dun ako nalulungkot na parang 'ay ano ba 'yung ginawa ko parang klinaim ko 'yung glory na dapat para sa Kanya pero at least may forgiving God at alam kong kahit nagkamali ako p'wede akong mag-start with new greatness and love.
JAYSON: Ako dahil nakatira ako sa Las Piñas mag-isa lang talaga ako sa inuupahan ko sa tulong ng aking kaibigan na si Joshua binigyan n'ya ako ng space sa Las Piñas. Ang family ko nasa Laguna at saka 'yung mommy ko at kapatid ko na 7 months. Lonely ako sa pamilya pero never kong naramdamang mag-isa ako kasi alam kong someone is watching over me that is Jesus Christ.

What do you think of K-Pop music?
YENG: Hindi ako nakikinig ng K-Pop, more on OPM ako. I'm not against K-Pop siguro hindi ko lang talaga taste 'yun pero cute sila. Natutuwa ako sa fashion and style nila. In these point of my life, parang gusto ko ng fashion unlike before na kahit ano na lang so 'yun 'yung na-appreciate ko sa K-Pop. Nakikita ko 'yung creativity ng mga Koreans na mag-mix ng mga bagay-bagay na kaya nilang mag-extreme pagdating sa fashion na cute pa rin at hindi weird.
JAYSON: May respeto ako sa K-Pop. Alam mo nakasabay namin 'yang Boys Over Flowers sa Asian Song Festival sa Korea, ang gwapo talaga nila chong! Isang karangalan din sa ating mga Pilipino na mapasama d'un sa Asia Song Festival. Nakakatuwa 'yung mga supporters ng K-Pop saludo ako kasi ibang klase. Kung paano nila tinanggap 'yung mga K-Pop gan'un din nila kami tinanggap n'un nand'un kami sa Korea. Nakakatuwa kung paano sila sumabay sa beat, kung paano sila mag-enjoy sa performance. Iba't-iba naman ang trip ng mga tao kapag nakikinig sila ng music. Kung gusto nila ng gan'un at d'un sila nakaka-relate at d'un natatanggal 'yung stress nila kapag nakakarinig sila ng K-Pop. Saludo ako sa kanila kasi ang hirap ng trabahong ginagawa nila kumakanta at sumasayaw at the same time. Iba rin ang disiplina ng K-Pop.

What's something that guys/girls do that really pisses you off?
YENG: Nakakainis sa lalaki kapag hindi matapang 'yung lalaki at parang mas babae pa sa iyo. Kasi guys are made to pursue the girls tapos parang sila pa 'yung laidback dapat ikaw 'yung gagawa ng move kung gusto mo 'yung girl go for it hindi 'yung parang ang lamya-lamya mo. Kung gusto mo talaga mag-sacrifice ka, mag-effort ka at mag-spend ng bonggang-bonggang time.
JAYSON: Ang gusto ko sa babae kung ano ka sa bahay gan'un ka rin sa labas h'wag kang gumawa ng sarili mong imahe na hindi naman ikaw pagharap mo sa tao kasi eventually lalabas din 'yan kung sino ka talaga. At ang pinaka-importante sa akin 'yung may takot sa Diyos.

Would you say you're less of a tomboy or vice-versa than you used to be?
YENG: Yes. I think mas naging super feminine ako. Siguro sa way ng pag-iisip. Nag-start 'yan n'un 20 years old na ako na-realize kung sino ako at parang 'o sige ito na 'yung kinalakhan ko marami akong barkadang lalaki.' Pero that doesn't mean na gawin ko 'yung mga ginagawa ng lalaki at pinaniniwalaan nila at i-imbibe ko lahat ng ginagawa nila kasi darating 'yung time na magka-relationship or magka-asawa ako kailangan ko talagang i-submit 'yung sarili ko sa magiging husband ko kaya ngayon pa lang prine-prepare ko na ang sarili ko na maging gan'un. Nag-mature na ako na ito 'yung industriya at nakapag-adjust na ako sa environment ko.

How else have you changed in the past few years?
YENG: Nag-mature ako as a songwriter pero bumalik ako d'un sa core ng ginagawa ko kasi after “Hawak-Kamay” may eight months akong hindi naka-pagsulat because of depression kasi feeling ko hindi na ako makakagawa ng another hit song. So sa eight months na 'yun, nag-iisip ako ng way paano gumawa ng another hit song may formula ba eh walang formula tapos bumalik na lang ako sa core kung paano ko nagawa 'yung “Hawak-Kamay.” Itinapon ko na lang lahat ng thoughts na gumagambala sa akin at susulat na lang ako ng kanta to express myself. Susulat ako ng kanta hindi para mag-perform lang pero 'yung core ng pagkatao ko.

Any particular artist who inspired you to write songs?
YENG: Si Alanis Morissette talaga. Siya talaga 'yung nag-inspire sa akin. Si Raymund Marasigan natutuwa ako sa kanya. Ngayon, sobrang lakas ng influence sa akin ni Acel Van Omen sa lahat ng bagay sa buhay ko. Hindi ako mahilig makipag-collaborate or sumusulat kasama ang ibang tao kasi napre-pressure ako na maglabas ng lyrics unlike kapag kaming dalawa kapag sumusulat kami solid lang one hour tapos na 'yung kanta tapos demo na. Gan'un kami kabilis. Sa kanya lang ako gan'un kakumportable. Gustung-gusto ko talaga siya.

You've been on the road for so long. Think you'll take some time off from music?
YENG: Siguro kung magpapahinga ako sa pagkanta pero hindi sa paggawa ng music like next year I'm planning to create a band na all-girls pero hindi ko nakikita 'yung sarili ko na kumakanta ako d'un nasa likod lang ako. Hindi sa napapagod ako na ako 'yung nasa front all the time pero gusto kong mag-aral ng ibang bagay bukod d'un sa ginagawa ko kasi I think bata pa lang ako ginagawa ko na 'yun. Gusto ko naman mag-try ng something new. Ayaw kong magpahinga sa paggawa ng music parang hindi ko kasi kaya na hindi.
JAYSON: Hindi eh on fire ako eh. Mayroon kaming mga pagkakataon na sobrang on fire kami kahit maraming sumalubong na problema sa banda namin pero ngayon nare-start na namin 'yung engine kinasa na namin 'yung kambio aapakan na lang namin 'yung gas so humanda na ang lahat kapag nasa quinta na kami.

When was the moment you finally felt like you'd really made it as a singer?.
YENG: Hindi ko pa rin nararamdaman hanggang ngayon actually.Siguro kaya 'di ko pa rin nararamdaman kasi hindi pa rin ako tumitigil na mangarap pero masaya ako kung anuman 'yung binibigay sa akin ni God parang sobrang contented lang ako pero 'yung pagiging content ko hindi 'yun nag-stop sa akin na mag-isip ng panibagong bagay na gagawin. Gusto ko talagang mag-produce ng album. Kapag may pangarap ako gusto ko gagawin ko na agad. Sobrang satisfied ako n'ung prinoduce ko 'yung music video ng “Jeepney Love Story” d'un nag-step ako ng malaking malaking step para sabihin na gusto kong akuin 'yung responsibilidad ng career ko at hindi iasa sa ibang tao. Sobrang happy ako kasi nag-number one.
JAYSON: N'ung nanalo ako nagtanim pa lang ako ng buto na dinidiligan ko pa. Siguro paunti-unti nararamdaman ko naman kapag nakikita ko 'yung response ng family ko at mga tao lalo na 'yung mga ka-banda ko d'un ko talaga nararamdaman. Ang nararamdaman ko before and after the show parang mission accomplished. Ang hirap humarap sa creator mo na hindi ka man lang nakapaghandog ng kahit na isang kanta kasi si God ang number one fan mo. Sa lahat ng mga musicians ano ba naman 'yung isang kanta na iaalay mo kay God.

Five Things We Never Knew About Yeng & Jayson:
YENG: 1). Mahilig ako sa color pink. Favorite color ko 'yun. 2). Naruto adik ako. 3). Magaling akong magluto ng Adobo. 4). Mahilig ako sa milk tea. 5). Recently, natuto akong kumain ng hilaw na pagkain kasi nahihilig ako sa Japanese foods.
JAYSON: 1). Simpleng barkada kapag wala sa spotlight. 2). Kahit napapalibutan ako ng masasayang tao talagang meron akong tatlong oras na malungkot ako tapos n'un masaya na ulit ako. 3). Iba ang character ko sa spotlight but behind that I am a worshiper kasi tumutugtog ako sa church. 4). Mahilig akong mag-record kasi meron akong mini-studio sa bahay kapag walang gig either nagvocalize ako, nag-guitar lessons ako. Hindi talaga maku-kumpleto araw ko ng hindi ako nagre-record. 5). Mahilig akong mag-bike kasama mga ibang mga banda.

Does your strong public persona match who you are on the inside?
YENG: Kung ano 'yung nakikita sa akin ng tao sa Music Uplate Live at ASAP XV what you see is what you get 'yun talaga ako. That's me. (smiles) Siguro may slight pretension like kunwari kapag pagod ka hindi mo naman p'wedeng iparamdam iyon sa audience mo kailangang ibreak 'yun. Gusto ko 'yung sinabi ni ate Toni Gonzaga sa MUL kailangan mo pa rin ibukod kung sino ka at iyong ilalabas mo sa camera. Okay 'yun to guard yourself may core ka pa rin na hindi mo ipapakain sa lahat ng tao pero nahihirapan ako kasi napaka-expressive ko nga na tao pero kahit anong sabihin ko there are things pa rin na hindi maiintindihan ng tao about us akala nila lahat kami laging nakangiti kahit minsan sobrang problemado na kami. You have to sacrifice minsan kung mahal mo talaga 'yung audience mo at 'yung ginagawa mo gagawin mo 'yun.
JAYSON: Para akong on and off. Kapag umakyat na ako ng stage iba na ang pakiramdam ko eh well parang kapag nasa stage ako parang I let all the spirits work na lang within me parang may mga dumadaloy na lang sa akin na mga wires. Dalawa na agad ang nasa isip ko to worship God and make the people watching me happy.

So what are you really like when you're with people who are close to you, like your sister/parents/ for instance?
JAYSON: Ako 'yung mapagbigay ng mga regalo sa mga bata. Gusto ko laging maging Santa Claus sa mga bata kaya kapag darating ako excited 'yung mga bata.

What are the most important things in your private life?
YENG: Ang importante sa private life ko ay spiritual life. Kasi alam ko na 'yun ang pinaka-foundation kapag wala iyon lahat guguho. Alam kong hindi ako guguho as a person kasi ang foundation ko sobrang strong. Sabi nga sa Bible You are my rock, my redeemer. Pangalawa, relationship ko sa pamilya ko kahit medyo malayo ako sa kanila ngayon kasi hindi na ako under sa wings ng parents ko nagso-solo na ako ngayon hindi ako nalalayo 'yung loob ko sa kanila naging mas closer pa ako sa kanila ngayon. Tama rin 'yung naging desisyon namin na magkaroon ng space kasi lumalaki na rin ako para makilala 'yung sarili ko. Nagmature na ako.
JAYSON: Sa private life ako nand'un pa rin 'yung music hindi pa rin p'wede na hindi ako makatugtog ng gitara ko. Hindi p'wedeng sa isang araw wala akong makakanta. Musikero pa rin ako kasi nare-release ko 'yung emotions ko through music eh.

Do you get along with guys better than with girls (vice versa)?
YENG: Few lang 'yung girls na sobrang nakaka-close ko. Actually, mas magaling akong makipag-conversation kapag lalaki hindi ako naiilang. Naiilang ako kapag babae. Kapag lalaki kasi walang arte at nakakatawa 'yung mga lalaki.
JAYSON: Wala akong pinipili pero iba ang pakiramdam kapag lalaki ang mga ka-tropa mo. May mga bagay kayong ginagawa na hindi talaga naiintindihan ng mga babae pero kapag may kasama akong babae iba pa rin ang pakiramdam ko. Iba 'yung pakiramdam kapag naku-comfort natin sila kapag may problema sila at kailangan nila ng advice. Para sa akin kapag lalaki 'yung nakaka-usap nila iba 'yung security nila. Ako 'yung kuya parang big brother nila. Gan'un 'yung nakikita kong relationship ko sa mga babae.

Do you think these past few years of intense fame have given you a different perspective?
YENG: I think medyo dati n'ung ordinaryong bata pa lang ako parang ang babaw ng tingin ko sa music. Ito lang 'yung genreng maganda Pop-rock, country saka rock lang pero n'ung napunta ako sa industriyang ito parang naintindihan ko na ang tao may kani-kanyang taste hindi mo sila p'wedeng ikahon. Naging open-minded ako na hindi ko lang dapat ikahon ang sarili ko sa music lang na gusto ko dapat makinig rin ako sa music ng iba.
JAYSON: Iba 'yung nagiging epekto ng fame. 'Yung ibang tao kapag famous na sila lumalaki na 'yung ulo nila gan'un na 'yung iba d'un lumalabas 'yung pagiging rockstar nila.

Obviously you’ve earned a huge salary from all the work you do. How do you deal with having so much of your own money?
YENG: I'm buying anything I want pero kailangan hindi sabay-sabay kasi iyon 'yung merit mo sa sarili mo.
JAYSON: Nakakatuwa. Siguro kung 'yung mga ka-banda ko kasing edad ko lang din tapos 'yung kinikita ko pare-pareho kami. Kapag may kinikita ako marami akong gustong gawin. Natutuwa ako na minsan 'yung mga mas nakakatanda sa akin kinu-kontrol nila ako kasi mas pinagdaanan na nila 'yun. Impulsive buyer ako noon pero ngayon hindi na. Mararanasan muna natin bago tayo matututo.

Do you think it's right for people to pay so much attention to the personal lives of entertainers?
YENG: It's their choice eh hindi mo p'wedeng sabihin na hindi kayo dapat ganito, hindi kayo dapat ganyan eh minahal ka nila. Kapag may mahal kang tao gusto mong malaman ang lahat tungkol sa kanila. Tas kapag may nangyari sa iniidolo mo na-aapektohan ako eh. Depende 'yun sa artist 'yun eh kung hanggang saan 'yung gusto mong ibigay sa madla.
JAYSON: Hangga't masasagot ko 'yung gusto nilang malaman pero h'wag naman masyadong personal na. Alam naman siguro n'ung mga nagtatanong kung hanggang saan lang dapat.

Do you enjoy the traveling aspect of your work? How?
YENG: Sobra. Pangarap kong pumunta ng Egypt at Africa. Sa Dubai ang pinaka-malayo kong narating. Kakaiba 'yung mga buildings. Natutuwa akong makarinig ng iba't ibang lingwahe ng mga tao kahit di ko naiintindihan ang sarap sa pakiramdam na allien ako sa paningin nila.
JAYSON: Ito 'yung natatandaan kong sinabi ni kuya Japs. Nand'un kami n'un sa S1 sa Singapore. “Alam mo Jays kaya kong pumunta dito at kaya kong bilhin kung ano 'yung gusto ko dito pero 'yung di ko mabibili 'yung kasama ko kayo lahat at mage-enjoy tayo sa gig natin dito. Magkakasama na nga tayo tapos magkwe-kwentuhan pa tayo kung ano 'yung mga nangyari dito.” Parang gan'un ang sarap ng pakiramdam kahit saan ka pumunta kasama mo 'yung mga taong alam mo nage-enjoy ka kapag kasama sila.

What can we expect from your new album?
YENG: Binare ko 'yung art ko sa bawat letrang sinulat ko. Honest lahat ng lyrics. Ang aim ko with my album is to inspire people. I hope though my music na ma-inspire ko kayo. Kung bibili kayo n'ung album ko parang na-meet n'yo na rin ako in person.
JAYSON: We're still promoting our current album. Gagawa na kami ng music video n'un “Reminis”. Abangan n'yo lahat. Nag-record na rin kami nila Mark ng acoustic version n'un. Sobrang ganda ng message ng kantang iyon. Para sa akin sa album naming _____ 'yung kantang iyon talaga ang pinaka-kumurot sa puso ko. Nasa songwriting pa rin kami ngayon. Abangan n'yo 'yung mga gagawin naming bagong kanta sa mga nagmamahal sa Rivermaya.

What do most people not know about recording an album?
YENG: Magastos 'yun at mahirap. Parang akala nila mabilis lang kaya bumibili sila ng mga pirata pero madugo ang pinagdadaanan namin bago makapaglabas ng isang album. Madugong proseso ang recording kaya dapat suportahan talaga natin yung mga artist na naghihirap para gawin 'yun.
JAYSON: Kung paano sinulat n'ung artist 'yun 'di naman nila kinopya lang sa libro 'yun eh. Galing talaga sa puro 'yun. Inisip nila at emosyon 'yun eh. After n'un iisipin mo kung papaano mapapaganda 'yung tunog at kung papaano mo maipaparamdam 'yung buong kanta sa mga makikinig. Hindi alam ng iba na madugo na 'yung songwriting tapos pagpasok mo ng studio magbabatuhan pa kayo ng ideas kung anong areglong dapat dito, kung ano ang bagsakan, kung anong bigat ng gitara, kung 'yung distortion ba kailangang mainggay o hindi masyado, 'yung lakas ba ng beat ganito mas buo o maliit ng konti so 'yun pa lang ubos na 'yung buong linggo mo eh. Pag nerecord mo 'yun take ka ng take kailangang malinis. Hindi p'wedeng isang take lang. May mixing pa at mastering. Kapag narecord na 'yun pupunta pa sa bahay papakinggan pa 'yung mga tracks. Nag-iiba kasi 'yung tunog minsan.

Do you prefer to be recording or playing live?
YENG: Pareho. I love being in the studio and I love performing on stage.
JAYSON: Iba ang pakiramdam sa recording at playing live talaga. Kapag live may adrenaline pero 'pag minsan din sa studio may adrenaline pero hindi mo siya mailalabas ng husto kasi limited 'yung space. Ako take ng take tapos nararamdaman ko na 'yung song kapag paulit-ulit.

Do you have conscious influences? Do you ever say like, ‘I’m going to try to write a song that sounds like (particular artist or band) today?
YENG: Nagdadaan naman siguro lahat d'yan. Hindi naman dahil gusto mong mag-standout dahil gusto mo lang talagang magproduce ng ibang tunog.
JAYSON: Alam mo minsan kung ano 'yung sina-soundtrip ko ng mga panahon na iyon Michael Jackson man o Metalica kapag nagsulat na ako 'yun 'yung lumalabas minsan eh pero hindi ko p'wedeng mawalan ng flavor ng Maya. Kung ano ang pinapakinggan ko sa mga panahong nagsusulat ako 'yun 'yung lumalabas.

Why should people seek out Yeng/Jayson?
YENG: It's your choice to like me or not kasi wala naman akong kayang i-offer kundi sarili ko lang kaya kung hindi n'yo ako gusto for who I am hindi ko kayang ipilit na magbago para lang sa inyo pero kung gugustuhin n'yo ako kung ano 'yung nakita n'yo 'yun na ako and my real passion is music. Salamat sa mga gusto 'yung music ko at sa mga taong di gusto ang music ko salamat pa din. Nalulungkot ako para sa inyo kapag may nababasa akong negative pero kaya ko namang itolerate. Dahil sa inyo nabi-build 'yung confidence ko.
JAYSON: Hindi na lang ako sa ibang tao din mas hahanapin ng tao kung ano 'yung pinagdadaanan n'ya bago mo makita 'yung resulta kasi minsan oo makikita natin 'yung resulta ng ginawa ng isang tao pero hindi natin nakikita kung paano n'ya ginawa iyon at kung ano 'yung pinagdaanan n'ya bago n'ya nagawa 'yung bagay na iyon.

What is the story behind your new single’ Jeepney, Love Story’/ Reminis?
YENG: 'Yung totoo hindi ko na maalala pero tuwang-tuwa ako ng lumabas 'yung lyrics na “sabi nila'y walang hiwaga/ kung wala itong nadarama” na-realize ko na 'oo nga kapag na-inlove ka hindi mo alam kung ano 'yung nararamdaman mo. Sobrang mahiwaga talaga. Pero I think n'ung sinusulat ko 'yung kanta, unconsciously, ino-open ko pala 'yung puso ko sa lahat ng tao na kapag na-inlove ako ganito.
JAYSON: Alam mo 'yang “Reminis” isang taon 'yan bago nabuo eh. Nakikita ko pa sa eroplano minsan pinapakita pa ni Mike sa akin ang gaganda ng letra sabi ko okay 'yan ah. 'Yung proseso ng kanta nao-obserbahan ko kahit na may problemang kinakaharap ang banda parang feeling ko may nababago 'dun eh. 'Yung istorya n'yan kasi eh minsan nakikita natin 'yung mga bagay na mas magaganda na meron 'yung ibang tao na hindi na natin nakita kung ano 'yung magandang bagay na meron tayo. Mas hinahanap natin 'yung mga bagay na bakit siya gan'un ako hindi pero hindi mo alam na meron ka rin bagay na maganda na kung anuman na wala rin naman 'yung taong iyon. So h'wag nating isipin at hanapin 'yung mas lamang 'yung ibang tao kesa sa mga bagay na meron ka. Na dapat maging masaya ka kung ano 'yung bagay na ibinigay sa'yo ng Diyos. Dapag pahalagahan mo 'yung mga bagay na meron ka at hwag mong sayangin kasi isang araw magre-reminis ka na lang na sana pala n'ung mga panahong iyon ginawa ko iyon, sana n'ung mga panahong iyon naging mas matatag ako.

Where do you usually write your songs?
YENG: In my room alone. Hindi ko kayang gumawa sa kotse ng kanta. Notebook lang muna after that melody. Sabay ang lyrics and melody. Sabay silang lumalabas hindi ako nag-struggle. Isa lang words and notes. Hindi sila p'wedeng lumabas ng magkahiwalay.
JAYSON: Ako kahit saan kapag may naisip akong letra tuluy-tuloy na tapos lalagyan ko ng melody. Minsan sabay yung melody at lyrics. As an artist depende kung nasa mood ka rin kung ano lang talaga 'yung kumakabog sa puso mo.

(Yeng) What advice do you have for aspiring songwriters?
YENG: Sulat lang ng sulat hanggat may isusulat kasi kahit parang walang nangyayari sa mga sinusulat mo ngayon mas maiging practice pa rin 'yun sa musicality n'yo para maimprove n'yo. H'wag kayong sumulat dahil gusto n'yo lang mang-impress ng tao. Magsulat kayo para mag-express kasi kapag nabahidan na ng malisya 'yung pagsusulat nawawala na 'yung pagsusulat nawawala na 'yung totoong soul and heart.
JAYSON: Ibinalik n'yo 'yung talent n'yo kung sino talaga 'yung taong nagbigay n'yan sa inyo. Ibalik n'yo kay God ano ba 'yung isang kanta na iaalay n'yo sa Kanya. Pagdating ng panahon na haharap ka sa Kanya nakakahiya kung wala ka man lang isang kantang naialay sa kanya eh musikero ka sa mundo. Give back the glory to God. H'wag kayong magpasagasa sa mga taong bumabatikos sa inyo bagkus gawin n'yo yung best n'yo. Mahalin n'yo yung talent n'yo kasi pili lang talaga 'yung mga musicians na successful

♫♫♫

Especial thanks to: Pinoy Song Magazine

QUEST - BACK TO LOVE

TODAY’S MOST TALKED ABOUT ARTIST WHO GAVE R&B, HIP-HOP AND SOUL A NEW THRILL, VIBE AND FLAVOR…

Quest (Jose Villanueva III) as the name suggest is perhaps a search for new beginning, search for love, peace and harmony. His Debut album Revolution with its single Back To Love is a dire quest for a “final solution” to all corruption, crime, obscenity and obscurity of the life of humanity – and the solution boils down to one and the same thing – love.

Jose Villanueva III or Quest is a Christian charismatic music ministry director at the Victory Christian Church. He has never been into formal singing career but since then been encouraged by peers (no pressure) to take his feat into music singing, more in particular rapping. So in 2008, he resigned from the church and entered the door into more secular music.

His firs leap is to spend his money, perhaps his (only) savings to hone his first album with Jumbo De Belen of Flip Music. No so far oriented of what to do next, Sam Milby, a fellow attendee of the Victory Christian Fellowship, lend him a hand in reproducing and even producing his album.

He has a pop-jazz, R&B whip into his singing style in Back To Love, besides it's message of going back to the basic and most instruction of peace – no other than – love.

His carrier single was starred by several protagonist in music such as Sam Milby, Yeng Constantino, Markki Stroem (Pilipinas Got Talent Finalist), Abby Cruz (Binibining Pilipinas Second Runner-up) and John Prats.

Party Live will be his sophomore single launched at Magic 89.9 and will mark it's spot on the airwaves sooner or later.

Meanwhile, we've got few thoughts from him this early. Here's more of him.

How long were you in the studio for this record?
Ang tagal, it's like 2 years ko siya binuo. Kasi nun ginawa ko yung album there's no record label to back up and support me so I used my own money. I spent my own savings. I recorded 18 songs pero pinili ko lang and maybe I can give it to someone else or in my next album. I recorded the album in 2008. Then nung natapos ko yung album there's some really fortunate event occurred, KC Montero, a good friend of mine called and said 'I need a singer for a Show Time' and I asks, 'ano ang kakantahin natin,' then he said 'Bruno Mars' Billionaire'. So the next day, I went there and sang “Billionaire.” Erickson Raymundo is watching and I've known him in church and asks G Canlas (host of Music Uplate and Pilipinas Win na Win) 'may nagma-manage na ba kay Jose? (my real name)' then G told him 'wala pa.Bakit hindi mo i-manage?.' Then G told about it and set up a meeting with Erickson. I present the finished album to him. I told him 'here's the album. Listen to it and tell me what do you think about it.' And I'm really fortunate that I liked his vision to me, we met in the middle. Then the next person who heard the album is Sam Milby, his all praises and called me up and told me, 'dude, I like your album and I wanna support you.' That's the co-production came in from replication of the CD to the music video.

Where did you get your inspiration when writing a song?
It's all original, it has 13 cuts. I got my inspirations from my experiences and friends experiences, from people, from situations. There's a song here in the album that I used in the campaign jingle for Dick Gordon, it's called “Bagong Bayan.” And I like it so much and Dick Gordon told me ' you know what, win or lose why don't you release it?' And so I did, make it a radio friendly version. Iba't-iba mga experiences ko at mga tao sa paligid ko, that's where I get my inspiration.

How did you came up with your monicker “Quest'?
My real name is Jose Villanueva III and I want a name that will represent who I am. But in my case, I want a nickname who will not just represent me but what I believe in me, not just the person but my vision also. So Quest is a journey. Quest means journey and adventure. And I want my music to take you to the adventure. When you've heard my music I want you to have an adventure and revelation, something you've never heard before.

How did you come across with the album title, “Revolution”?
Every song speak about change and revolution. I think it's very timely that it's time for us to change. And revolution sounds more powerful. You know, we have a new president now, we got Ondoy and we've got so many things happened in the past. And I think it's really time to each and everyone of us, every individual to take part in making this country a better place to live in. And I think and hope I did well in at least inspiring people to make a difference through my music. Let my music help and inspire you to be a better person.

Do you have conflict influences do you ever say like, 'I'm going to write song for say like, sounds like for particular artists or bands?'
I have moments like that because I do other projects like I write jingles so mga gan'un.I listen to other artists and say 'uy ang ganda ng chords progression nito.' So I copied some of it, maybe the chords or the melody but not mimicked it. Like I did Magic 89.9's station ID, I just finished it and they gonna release it soon. Kinopya ko yung tempo ng “Club Can't Handle Me” ni Flo-rida para masaya.

How would you categorize your music?
I don't want to put in any genre. My basis is hiphop, that's my major influence but I'm really flexible. I can go rock, pop, techno and you know if the music calls for it , I'm okay with it. Hindi naman ako stuck sa isang genre lang.

Tell us something about the songs in the album.
The album basically has one theme which is changing and be able to empower you to have that internal revolution. I have songs there about celebrating life in every circumstances. I have “Back To Love” which talks about that love is the answer to all pains. I have songs like “Do You See” which is empowers women to understand that you're beautiful you kept what you are. I have a song there called “You And Me” which celebrates friendship. Basically when you sum up all the songs, it speaks about making that change in your life and causing change in other people's life as well.

Do you have a certain image that you want to portray with your music and lyrics?
Wala. Ayoko ng yabang ng hip-hop 'cause you know hip-hop is always cocky. I always love hip-hop. But at certain point I want to redeem the industry of hip-hop kasi malaking foundation ng album ko is hip-hop.

Why should people check out your music?
Basically my music is different. It's not you're typical hip-hop and it's not you're typical OPM. It's all original, it's very intense yet it's very passionate. It's really a celebration, you celebrate learning, you celebrate failure because through failure you learned. It's something that it's not just you will feel good but it will empower you to live in and that's my goal.

Is there a particular song that you wished you've written?
Naku ang dami. Puro foreign. Sa tagalog siguro sana ako ang nagsulat ng “Liwanag” ni Julianne. Most of the songs probably of Stevie Wonder like “My Cherrie Amor”. Ang dami, believe me that everytime I go to the record bars, makikinig ako tapos sasabihin ko 'bakit hindi ko naisip itong kantang eto.' I think I really like Rey Valera, ang lalim ng tagalog n'ya. Meron pa akong isa, Ogie Alcasid. I wished I wrote “Mahal Kita Walang Iba.”

Can you share a particular track in your album that's so challenging for you to record?
Track #6 is “Rise and Shine.” That is the song that speaks about the summary of my life for the past 28 years of my existence. I tried my best to put it all in one song. When you listen to that song, that's my life.

What's the coolest think making this record?
A lot. Recognition. Si Sam Milby kasi sobrang bentang-benta sa kanya y'ung album tapos nag-libot sa A.S.A.P. Pinamigay y'ung CD. And a few nights ago I was with Gary V. and his like 'you're songs are so good talaga.' Kinikilig talaga ako dahil of course that's Gary V. So ang sarap ng feeling that these people, pillars of the industry talaga and they gonna praise my album. Sobrang blessings talaga.

Given a chance, is there a particular say artist that you want to write a song for?
Of course, sobrang dami. I wanna write songs or collaborate with Yeng Constantino. Actually we have a secret project together. Tapos, I wanna write for Charice s'yempre. International marami din sina Mary J Blige, India Arie, U2. But I wanna help the OPM industry if I can give a free songs for Billy Crawford and other awesome artists. I am just sick and tired of the labels relentlessly singing them covers. Jay R is awesome performer naaawa lang ako sa kanya kasi puro covers na siya eh marunong mag-compose si Jay R.

What are your plans for the rest of the year? What can we expect for Quest?
This year? For sure I’m not gonna do any bar gigs ‘coz I’m very spontaneous so feeling ko on the second day, sawa na ako (laughs). You know, doing same time over and over again. But we’re planning to do campus tours. I wanna tour the Philippines and shares my music, bring other artists with me. By the way, I’m giving away songs for free, free downloads. Every month there will be one song I’m gonna out so I’ll keep writing ‘coz I write everyday. I love writing. Minsan I write one song a day minsan naman verse lang. I just wanted to make it a point that before a day ends I was able to write something para mahasa. I just talked with Gary V, we might do a song together then we will give it away for free.

What do you want to accomplish as a singer?
Wow! I don’t want my legacy based on number of sales. I want my legacy to number of people touched by my music. Of course I want my album to sell also but that’s secondary. I don’t want that to disregard. I appreciate if I can get an award pero mas gugustuhin ko pang lumapit sa akin na isang tao then sasabihin na sobra siyang nabago dahil sa music ko rather than maraming tao na tatalon-talon tapos uuwi na wala namang nabago sa kanya. Mas gugustuhin ko pa na isang tao na nabago dahil sa kanta ko kesa sa maraming tao na walang nangyari.

♫♫♫

Especial thanks to: Pinoy Song Magazine

JED MADELA – Best foot on THE CLASSICS ALBUM

Meet once again one of the finest singing bees this world has ever conceived – Jed Madela on his another brand new album called “The Classics Album.” As the word suggest, no second guess, it means the golden diamond classics of all times first popularized under the vocal batons of Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams, Tom Jones, Perry Como, Matt Monro, Nat King Cole, Paul Anka, Jack Jones, The Four Tops, Simon & Garfunkel.

The new album is under the recording asylum of the Universal Records and produced by a platinum album producer Ito Rapadas.

Few of those most coveted track listing were as follows:

1. What I Did For Love (Popularized by Jack Jones), 2. Let Me Try Again (Popularized by Frank Sinatra), 3. I Believe (Popularized by Tom Jones), 4. Love Story (Where Do I Begin) (Popularized by Andy Williams), 5. It's Impossible (Popularized by Perry Como), 6. Portrait Of My Love (Popularized by Matt Monro), 7. Softly As I Leave You (Popularized by Matt Monro), 8. An Affair To Remember (Popularized by Nat King Cole),9. Times Of Your Life (Popularized by Paul Anka), 10. A Time For Us (Popularized by Andy Williams), 11. You Will Be My Music (Popularized by Frank Sinatra) 12. Walk Away (Popularized by Matt Monro), 13. Somewhere (Popularized by Matt Monro)...

And a lot more in store for you once you've got the hefty package of the album. These were just abridge listing of the tracks in the album. But the promise of the most sang tracks of our good old fathers on a tape cue cassette are on the album – but no “My Way” please!

By the way, Jed Madela is a native young blood of Iloilo City, Philippines. Through sheer determination made a big splash through his singing acumen. His big bacon taken home is when he was acclaimed as the grand champion of the World Championships Of Performing Arts (WCOP) in Hollywood, California. There are over 3, 000 competitors in 52 countries. He Bested among them all – what a feat, fame and fortune!

Jed Madela has four studio albums. Most of them has considerable amount of sales with Gold and Platinum appraisals. I'll Be Around with the radio smash hit “Let Me Love You,” Songs Rediscovered – Double Platinum, Only Human – Platinum, Voice of Christmas – Gold and Songs Rediscovered 2 – Platinum. And perhaps, as expected for this new album that he has. Furthermore, let's know more from him how he did it again on his other vocal grandeur.


How does the recording process works for you this time?
For this 6th album I was very hands-on from planning to then choosing the songs and for the arrangements. I’ve worked closely to my producer, Mr. Ito Rapadas. Pagdating sa recording gan'un pa rin, iniiwan nila ako sa studio. They gave me freedom to do whatever I want. But it was more of how I would like to record it, ano ba y'ung feel dapat d'un sa song. When it comes to the album packaging, it was Universal Records who came up with the idea. Of course, piracy is still there, we tried to device away na parang paano natin pabibilihin pa rin y'ung tao ng original album instead of downloading na lang. So we made the album packaging really unique and very attractive.

How long were you in the studio for this new record?
Mabilis kasi ako mag-record, probably around 30 minutes for one song. Minsan nakaka-tatlong kanta ako sa isang session. But collectively all the 16 songs was recorded in just one week time.

Do you have any criteria on how you decide which song should be included in the album?
Kasi dito sa Universal Records when we come up with the album s’yempre inuupuan talaga naming lahat iyan. Like what concept are we making this time? Hindi naman kasi p’wedeng chopsuey- chopsuey lang (smiles). We think of how we can attract the buyers na para maiba naman and so we ended up recording the songs that are classics. Y'ung pinaka-criteria siguro namin sa pagpili would be songs that have made their mark in the past (50s, 60s up to 70s).

What set of rules did you put in place for the making of “The Classics Album”?
There was actually no rules at all. It was more of I want to sing the way I want to sing it. Y'un lang talaga, ayaw kong maki-uso. Y'ung tipong porke't uso gagawin na namin. Ayaw naming sirain y'ung original, we made it as close to the original but not sounding old, but not too new. It has to maintain its essence, y'ung pagkaluma pero it has to sound new.

How did you motivate yourself for each song when you recording them?
I'm actually an old soul. I enjoy listening to old songs and movies. Ako kasi personally mas gusto ko y'ung mga songs before. Not just like foreign but local movies, local songs. I know some of the songs not that nicely produced. Kasi mismo y'ung mga tunog weird pero y'ung puso ng composer at singer naririnig mo. Hindi mo naririnig y'ung computer, most of the albums kasi now puro effects na. Minsan sintunado pero alam mo na minagic lang ng computer. So ang pinaka motivation ko na kapag narinig ng listener makukuha talaga nila y'ung meaning n'ung song. Kasi simple lang naman y'ung song eh, the lyrics are very simple. Inisip ko lang talaga na dapat wala masyadong kulot, walang arte sa pagkanta. It has to be plain and simple.

Of all the songs included in the album which track is the most extra special for you?
Probably yung “Let Me Try Again” because it’s a very personal song. It’s my mom’s song for my dad. Parang naging theme song nila for a time. Since I know the meaning of the song for my mom n'ung kinanta ko iyan mas nabigyan ko ng extra emotion.

How did you challenge yourself for this new record?
Honestly, I was super pressured. This is now my 6th album with Universal Records. The albums from 1 to 5, their all went Platinum and some double Platinums. So the expectations of the people na parang ayaw kong maging flop. Y'un talaga ang inisip ko, na after five albums kailangan lamangan ko y'un, if not kahit ka-level lang nila or lamangan pa lalo. D'un ako medyo na stressed out na kailangan ko tutukan ito, na lahat pinapakialaman ko na. Because this album is going to be a reflection of who I really am.

How does this new record, “The Classics Album” reflect your personality now?
Probably if you listen to all the songs masasabi n'yo na ito talaga y'ung image ni Jed Madela, very heartfelt songs na talagang ballads. Not all the songs ay birit but you know there are a couple pa rin kasi s’yempre hahanapin talaga ng tao y'un. But I didn’t pay much attention on that, it was more of emotions.

Can you tell us something about your first single “I Believe”?
N'ung pumili kami sa mga kanta on which is best to be the first single of the album sabi ko, ‘pwede bang ibahin natin, usually kasi either love songs or tungkol sa heart break, pagmamahal na hindi natuloy or bawal na pag-ibig. It’s the usual stuff eh, oo papatok pero parang nakaka depressed naman. So for a change let’s do something inspirational, do something that will inspire and encourage people that there’s still hope, that there’s something positive in life. “I Believe” is a very simple song, hindi mahirap intindihin. 'Yan ang pinaka-drive namin sa pagpili.

What elements did you inject to make the sound different from your previous albums?
I think y'ung sa previous albums ko pagbirit ko and masyadong malinis, medyo na lessen y'un. Na lessen in the sense na sinasabi nila na kapag kumakanta ako parang nasa contest palagi (smiles). This time for this album medyo relax but then of course may iba pa rin songs na kailangan lagyan pa rin ng birit kasi people would look for it. That’s the difference probably, it’s more raw, more heartfelt and kung paano ko s'ya nirecord, wala y'ung part na nilinis s'ya or in-edit.

Why coming out another remake album? When can we hear you again coming out an original one?
For me kasi I think it was all about timing. I came into the industry na pasimula na ng remakes. So for my 1st album hindi siya masyadong napansin kasi nag-start na y'ung mga remakes, although it became Gold. Pero hindi siya masyadong nag-take off kasi nga it’s all original y'ung mga singles na nilabas ko. Pero dun sa “Let Me Love You” sumikat din siya kasi on the verge ng original and remakes. N'ung sa next album ko na nandu'n y'ung “The Past” d'un talaga sumikat. Syempre kailangan din natin mag-sell ng album so we have to follow kung ano y'ung demand ng tao.

Given the chance to come out an all original album again will you be writing a song for that upcoming record?
Hopefully. I'm actually writing songs already but I can't assure if makakapasok s'ya for the album (smiles). But I'm still hoping na sana kahit isa or dalawa na composition ko makuha. That’s one of my goals din kasi, passion ko rin kasi ang pagsusulat.

Who would you like to work with for the next (all original) album?
For me given the chance I would like to work with Yeng Constantino, she writes very well, Richard Poon I want to work with him on songs. Of course sila Vehnee Saturno, Ryan Cayabyab, Homer Flores, Ito Rapadas, mga originals songs sana. So sana talaga mabigyan ng chance.

What are you working on next after releasing this new album?
Well as of now we are really pushing for the album. We will be promoting the album kasi we believe with the product so much. And we’re coming up with mall tours na talagang show, hindi lang y'ung kakanta tapos autograph na. It’s going to be a full show talaga. Then in line with the album promotions, they will be concerts here and abroad.

Other things you care to mention about the album?
Y'un aside d'un sa regular CD we also came out with an audiophile album. We encourage the people to get a copy of the audiophile kasi it’s something new. Alam ko tayong mga Pinoy kung anong bago, kahit hindi nila alam kung ano y'ung audiophile talagang bibilhin pa rin nila. Audiophile is something that will make you appreciate the sound more. Kasi mas detailed, if you have surround sa bahay mo para kang nanunuod ng live concert.

What’s the difference of audiophile to the usual audio disc?
I think it’s more of those who really want to appreciate the sound. Since it’s an audiophile, they are very critical to the sound. Naka-balance lahat and remastered siya. Kapag sa ordinary album lang kasi sabay-sabay na lahat tumutugtog. So para kang nanunuod ng concert ng live but of course you must have an audiophile player for you to appreciate it.

♫♫♫

Especial thanks to: Pinoy Song Magazine

DAGTANG LASON - NAGMAHAL AKO NG BAKLA

Their songs have been well known to street slabs, gangs, gays and gals spawning up to catching attention to few others. The song Nagmahal Ako Ng Bakla makes all the 'hob-bob' in the internet and in the streets. The song is a painful abomination of a friend to a girl who broke his hearth, thereby getting a gay for a love instead. The song has a bit of lewdness if you were not used to hearing one. Nonetheless, dealing with the boys' creativity and fun rapping dudes – they're into the line!

Dagtang Lason is composed of the Buhawi (not Buhawi Menesis of Parokya Ni Edgar), Kadedna and Marbaggs from Olongapo City. The three of them have the rapping acumen on the spot or on board. They have the pinky to write songs in an entertaining manner and as light as feather (if you allow yourself to it).

Perhaps, they're happier than kings when they were nominated by Awit Awards for Best Rap. They didn't take home the splash but doesn't make sense for them who's consolation enough to hear their songs on radios. But fate did not get enough of them. Last October 10, 2010 another blow of nominations took them on board the Ateneo De Manila Theater for Rap Album of the Year, Rap Artist of the Year and Novelty Song of the Year. And guess what, they ended up thanking their fans, supporters, producers and God for the victory sweeter the second time around. They won as Best Novelty Song of the Year for the single Nagmahal Ako Ng Bakla.

Dagtang Lason is now vying the hallway of fame and fortune with millions of hits in YouTube, consecutive interview and appearances in different and TV guesting – would they be 'poisonous' enough to topple few miles of their journey on the OPM highways? Their words and action will tell.

Can you tell us something about your first single “Nagmahal Ako Ng Bakla”?
KADENA: Yung “Nagmahal Ako Ng Bakla” actually nagawa naming yung song na ‘yun base sa experience ng isa naming kaibigan. Talagang nasaktan siya sa babae. Yung music kami pong tatlo ang gumawa pero ‘yung chorus was actually adapted from “Alaala” of White Lies.

Whose the main composers of the group?
MARBAGGZ: Kami ring pong tatlo, hati-hati kami.

What’s your take on your song “Nagmahal Ako Ng Bakla” implied a negative message to the listeners?
MARBAGGZ: Hindi naming actually expected na magiging ganun magiging hit yung song namin.
ALBERT SUNGA (Marketing Manager of Ivory Music & Video butts in: Actually there was a controversy last year na yung song na “Banana” by Blank Tape pinapa-banned siya sa radio tapos nadamay yung song nila because it became so popular that even 2 year old kid is singing their song. But fortunately nun dumating yung controversy mas lalong nag-draw ng attention sa mga tao.

What is probably your next single after “Nagmahal Ako Ng Bakla?”
KADENA: Sugar Mommee will be our follow up single.

Were there any particular artists who influenced you while doing the album?
KADENA: Kami-kami lang po talaga. Yung rap po kasi parang matututunan mo sa sarili mo. Pero may mga influences din syempre kami like si Gloc9.
MARBAGGZ: Magkakaiba actually kami ng influences ang ginawa lang namin, pinag-combine lang lahat naming.

How did Dagtang Lason form?
KADENA: Yung grupo po naming actually nabuo dahil sa sayaw. We are all dancers from different groups.
MARBAGGZ: One time we just hanging out then we found out that we’re all like to rap. Then we decided why not try writing a song together.

How did you landed with Ivory Music?
ALBERT SUNGA: Hinanap talaga namin sila because Ogie Alcasid called up parang told us through Noel Ferrer, a former Ivory Music employee (now Executive Producer of PO5) na ‘uy hanapin n’yo eto’ kasi gusto nilang gamitin yung song for Bubble Gang. So we search them and finally our Artist & Repertoire Manager found them via friendster. So pinapunta naming sila dito sa Manila. Lahat kami in awed because they have like more than 50 songs na dala-dala. Hindi lang lahat rap, like sa album may Christmas song sila d’yan, may ballad
din talaga.

We’ve heard that the music video of “Nagmahal Ako Ng Bakla” was not approved for airing?
ALBERT SUNGA: Yes, it was ex-rated by MTRB because of the lyrics of the song though if you gonna listen to the song I don’t think there’s a foul on it. Ano ba ang nakaka-influence sa tao, what you see or what you hear? May mga music video na halos hubad na, yung song wala namin mura.

Was there any memorable experiences so far?
KADENA: Nakakatuwa kasi yung venue at times is beside the church or catholic school. Pero there was this instances that we were in Samar na may mga pari ang pupunta dun and even requested na huwag kantahin yung “Nagmahal Ako Ng Bakla” so nagbago kami ng repertoire. Sobrang dami ng tao and expected ng crowd na kakantahin namin. At feeling naming ‘pag di namin kinanta baka magalit yung mga tao na nandun so natakot sila na baka magwala yung mga tao kaya wala silang nagawa kundi pakanta sa amin na lang. Grabe yung response ng mga tao dun that time.

Was it a conscious that the album is all tagalong?
MARBAGGZ: Opo. We’re from Olongapo and tagalog is actually our means of communication.
KADENA: And we’re actually representing na ang tagalong ay lengwahe ng makata.

How long were you in the studio to record the album?
KADENA: Iba-iba po. Minsan one day per song pero there are times na nakakatapos kami ng tatlong kanta sa isang araw. But we recorded the entire album in one week.
MARBAGGZ: Naging mabilis naman namin siya i-record since kanta naman naming yung mga iyon so more or less alam na namin kung papaano yung atake na gagawin sa bawat kanta.

Why Dagtang Lason?
KADENA: Kasi ‘di ba ang dagta, makapit at makapit? Parang bawat letrang nilalabas namin makapit siya sa masa tapos nakakalason siya sa utak ng mga tao, iyan ang dahilan kung bakit sila bibili ng album namin.
MARBAGGZ: T’saka po, kakaiba at walang kapareho.

What’s your age bracket?
MARBAGGZ: Buhawi is 22, Kadena is 19 and me is 23.

What did you do for a living aside from doing music?
KADENA: Eto lang talaga, we’re focus on our music.
MARBAGGZ: Except for Buhawi, his actually a graphic artist.

How does it feel winning in the recently concluded 2nd Star Awards for Music as Novelty Song of the Year for your song “Nagmahal Ako Ng Bakla”?
KADENA: First time namin kinabahan. We go to the awards night not to win but somehow we’re expecting to bag an award.
MARBAGGZ: Malaking bonus ‘yung pagkaka-panalo talaga namin.

Why should people buy your album?
KADENA: Napaka-controversial at all-original ‘yung entire album. Kumbaga makikita mo talaga yung tunay na talento ng Filipino kung paano sila gumawa ng letra. T’saka po ang main mission namin ay i-angat muli ang rap dito sa atin.

♫♫♫

Especial thanks to: Pinoy Song Magazine

SINOSIKAT - THE SECOND ALBUM

From the OPM band that considers themselves as having “Pinoy Soul” feel on their musical prowess is a brand new brew of songs in the what they call “2nd Album.” Respectively, not a general term itself but a particular term for their new album.

It has been a couple of years since Sinosikat? Released their debut album with flying colors and laudable recognitions on the airwaves. Now, they're going back on top of the shelves for another strings of songs worth listing for.

This time you'd feel and hear the vocalist's cunning thoughts on music. It's more experimental this time. Expect more twist, crisps, comely and vocal wise musical expose on the genius they've made. Inspiration after inspiration makes them burning to the edge of the platform. Every inspiration that raptures their senses is like a jewel drop unto their album – for couple of years till the second one came into being.

They won't rest on their laurels even when they have open the floodgates of stardom and awards for the band.

To add more dazzles for the bands stage and auditory presence they accommodated additional member, David Starck for the keyboard.

The carrier single has been broiled hard for the new album, “Nung Iniwan Mo Ako,” penned by Ebe Dancel of Sugarfree. That song is now rendered with visual aid to give fans a feel of the melancholy of the obvious nature of the song. The music video for it was made under the baton of Paolo Abella.

In fact, the emotional tentacles of “Nung Iniwan Mo Ako” dangles up to some reality TV shows and teleseryes such as Pinoy Big Brother and Katorse.

The sense of connectivity is always at the bottom line of every song. Kat Agarrado, the bands vocal head, is strict in her relations with the song. It must be true! Kat hates faking and mediocrity in music – whereas faking it will hamper, perhaps, her performances and interpretation of the songs she gave her audiences.


ALBUM TALKS

How did you come up with the name of your album?
Kat: We're always like practicing for the second album. We wrote the songs for the Second Album. It’s almost like a trade mark for the Second Album. It's Kat's idea to be called Second Album and everybody agreed.

What are you hoping to accomplish in this new album?
Nick: We just want to write good songs. We hope to be recognized for that. As well as play music from the heart.
Kat: Ang jologs talaga namin ngayon. We want sana next year to go to a festival and also to represent Philippine music and to be original. We want to play good music to reach wider market.

What have you learned from your first album that you applied for your second album?
Reli: Siguro 'yung process ng recording. Before kasi mas free kami eh. Sa musicality wala naman kaming binago. Mas nagmature lang kami. May kasama na kaming keyboardist at bassist sabay-sabay na kaming nagrecord sa studio.

Nick: In this album, we planned it 'coz we're also under schedule. In the first album, when we're about to release the album, some songs were already written before we got signed with Warner. The process was free flowing and there was no schedule in mind whereas in the second album, they gave us a deadline so we had ahead of time. What to do. Who to play with and what songs to record.

What are the preparations you do for this record?
Before we came into the studio we did a lot of pre-productions.
Kat: Our first album was released 2007 so this album is two years in the making. 'Yung first album very raw and organic. We just jammed it and recorded it. The Second Album is more orchestrated. Masasabi namin na nag-mature talaga 'yung tunog namin.

Who wrote most of the songs in the album?
Kat: Kaming lahat.

Did you road test any of the new material before you put it on the album?
Reli: We had pre-production.
Kat: N'ung ginagawa namin 'yung demo we have like three or four tracks. I actually uploaded it in the internet sa mga contacts ko pinarinig ko d'un.

Is there a particular song on the album that best describe as a band right now?
David: Most of the time when we play a song we discern it first if it's slow jam we try to make it slow as possible. If its more funkier so it really depends. We try to serve music most of the time.
Kat: Siguro I guess, Mr. Musikero. We really want to share the lyrics of the song to everyone especiall to all the musikeros out there.

Did you have any collaborations in the album?
Kat: Nung Iniwan Mo Ako. I actually wrote that. It's a ballad. We have a back up vocals on that song.

What do you think is the criteria to be called 'musikero'?
Reli: If a song inspires people. You can be called a musikero.

How did you choose on what song to be included on the album?
Kat: We make songs as it there we don't really like have a lot of songs. Hindi 'yun ang bracket namin we make songs like now. Whatever happens to me this year or who influenced me to write.
We are very grateful with Warner. They gave us the creative freedom unlike the other artists. In our first and second album we just gave them our materials.

What else do you have planned for 2010?
Kat: Right now, we've been practicing alot and we're planning to start writing for our third album. We're practicing alot of cover songs and good tunes and really nice shows and production. Sana we could compete internationally. We're doing Motown, mga funk songs and para kaming bagong banda ulit. We all have our influences. Somehow we have to find kung saan kami pinakamagaling.

So far, what are the feedbacks you get from your second album?
Reli: Our co-artist say they like it.
Kat: Alot of musician friends are inspired in our albums. Hindi naman talaga kami malalim eh kapag pinakinggan.
Nick: We learn a lot of stuff from their comments.

♫♫♫

Especial thanks to: Pinoy Song Magazine

THE PRINCES OF OPM

(JAY R, CHRISTIAN and MARK BAUTISTA)

Biblically, number seven (7) is a perfect number. Musically – in the entertainment print media, number 7 is a perfect number for this issue studded with perfect vocal bigwigs.

It’s a perfect number for your OPM Music Authority’s 7th Anniversary Issue.

Pinoy Song Magazine is blowing her seventh birthday cake together with the invited guests to serenade her birthday bash under party poppers and blithesome celebration – only and only here at the hefty pages of our magazine.

The burning torch of enthusiasm and ardor for our service has never faded since Pinoy dared paddled her canoe during her maiden voyage on the entertainment panorama. We never promised, though, to please everybody, considering our human contingencies – but rest assured – you’ll see fire in our eyes!

In our own little ways we are amenable to have given leeway for our local artists to be heralded to their fans and followers. We’ve made their voices heard as far as our words about them can nimbly be scribbled on our pages and our actions affect every fiber of the entertainment industry. It is made possible because of you receiving us at the rare end of the balance. We, therefore thank you from the bottom of our hearts. God bless you!

In this issue we fished out from the ocean of the OPM dept few of the crowned pearl voices who have stirred the waters of Filipino music to a different level. May we have the pleasure to serve on the golden platter the Prince of Soul – Jay R (Sillona III), the Asia’s Pop Idol Christian Bautista and the Pop Heartthrob Mark Bautista.

We thought of them as the Princes Of The OPM that charmed and helped in the metamorphosis of the OPM industry. They’re not to kiss a frog prince to make a magical transformation of anything else but to begin in themselves to give what they have and will have instead.

Gaudencio Aquino Sillona III, more commonly known as Jay R as his music metonym, is one of the sing and dance sensations of the local music industry. He is the man coupled with the coveted voice in his high-rated and best-selling cover album “Soul In Love.” He was the man who plights music in two different shores; since he was born in California and made his first spark of enthusiasm in that foreign land. He momentarily entertained being a Computer Engineering student before he carries the passion statement to where he is now.

Jay R has been into a lot of collaboration and performances to different places in the US. Nonetheless, he found himself sipping his cup of tea most of the time here in the Philippines. He speaks fluent Tagalog as an additional bit of him.

With no much further ado, next in the line of the triumvirate is Christian Joseph Morata Bautista, commonly known by his screen name as Christian Bautista. He is a Landscape Architect by academic profession and a singer, actor and product model by preoccupation. If you have been vigilant of how Christian Bautista trod the OPM highway, he was one of the finalists of the Star In A Million, a reality TV show conducted by one of the media giants in the Philippines, ABS-CBN. He took the fourth place after the big winner Erik Santos.

Being in the fourth place did not halted Christian from putting his best foot forward such as making his contract with Warner Music Philippines opening the floodgates of opportunity of hitting a multi-platinum album, fame and fortune. Embarking on his ship he made sails to distant shores. Christian’s hit song “The Way You Look At Me” harbored on Indonesia’s shorelines. It enjoyed numerous airplays on the radio stations in Indonesia where fans are thrilled of seeing him in person. Nonetheless, Christian never prolonged their agony – he showed up in that place and conquered their hearts to fonder.

Christian is off shore and is flagging down his songs to other Asian countries such as Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand.

Next to nexus Pinoy’s anniversary chain is Mark Bautista, known by the same birth name at the industry. His surname has nothing to do with that of Christian Bautista although they both have vocal prowess given them. Mark passed similar forging as Christian Bautista does. He won second to a grand winner in the reality TV search Star For A Night Sarah Geronimo.

Mark is rather shy during his cocoon years in Cagayan De Oro where he was born. He was awakened in a family where financial earning is a hard won reality. His father stopped working because of a bad physical condition. He has four siblings to deal with on his shoulder. With such lingering financial burden came his voice as a treasure chest to him and his family.

Mark started to shake-off inhibitions and start flapping his wings following the glory of his fate till he found himself bringing home the bacon for his loved ones. Mark won several oratorical competitions and bagged cash prices which then enabled him to respond to the demands of the daily bread of his family.

Mark also ventured to acting and hosting which added more spice to his brewing career. His acting stint as Lastik Man brought him a little louder to the senses of the masses together with his hosting career in Search for A Star In A Million (season 1 and 2). Mark is now with GMA-7 for a three year contract.


TAKE IT FROM THEM

Several times we see performers burst with power and energy during their performances. How I wish you’d see them at their unguarded moments shrugging their shoulders getting even with the little flare of energy left behind – as human beings they did exhaust their sinew both physical and emotional. When and where in the point of their life do they get the energy to once again get through the demands upon waking up out of bed?

“Definitely work 'coz that's my passion when I'm down. It's all about music. It's about expressing yourself through your creativity, through writing a song and through just singing out loud,” declares Jay R.

Christian Bautista credits his source of inspiration and will to power to his Divine Master, “It's always been God, whenever my situation is, sa kanya ako umaasa. He is my inspiration to do my best all the time.”

Mark on the other hand pulls his inspiration from his family, “naku ang dami. Unang-una 'yung family ko 'coz I support my family. Iniisip ko 'yung future ko kung ano 'yung mangyayari. Ayoko kasing mawala 'yung passion sa akin for music. So far 'yun”

Besides being the agent of seeking their own force to go ahead, they are at the forefront of directing their musical welfares. Most of them ride on the thought of creating their own quality music like the one that would hit shores to shores, talents after talents and souls to souls.

“My musical direction will be definitely original R&B music that is quality and will hit here in the Philippines and also in different territories that I can getting into,” attest Jay R

Christian explains his own thrust, “writing my own songs. Maybe experimenting on different kinds of music, collaborating with more international artists. And probably I can try on producing concerts or finding other talents of some sort.”

Mark ponders on the joy of penning his own songs and song for others too. “Sa bago kong album ngayon may mga compositions ako na ginawa. Nararamdaman ko na ang sarap magsulat ng songs. Gusto ko pang magsulat ng magsulat and hopefully makapagsulat rin ako para sa ibang artists.”

Just like anybody in the mantle of the earth they have fears in them in the industry like pouring your everything and it goes to limbo – much more if yourself gets against you and dramatically munch up your passions. I guess anybody would break down flat on the floor.

“My biggest fears is not accomplishing my goals. There are a lot of goals actually,” says Jay R.

Christian explains his fears of having his effort shut to nothingness, “I think when you've done everything but no one recognizes and appreciates it all. I'm not up for recognition but syempre kapag may ginagawa ka, gusto mo ma-appreciate ng ibang tao like your fans. Hopefully huwag mawala 'yung season na ganun pero kapag dumating na 'yung season na kahit ano na ang ginagawa mo tapos unti nalang 'yung nakaka-appreciate sa'yo, it's time to move on pero ayokong dumating nga d'un sa point na ganun.”

Mark fears of losing interest to his craft as it is being the bearer of his light to the humanity, “siguro 'yung fear ko na mawala ang passion sa craft ko. Sa akin kasi feeling ko 'yun iyong importante as an artist.”

Do you find covering songs easier or harder to do compared to creating your own music?
JAY R: I think it's easier to cover songs kasi meron ka nang basehan, ginawa na 'yung kanta, music at chords, kumbaga naka-set na lahat, it's all up to you to put your own style into it. Unlike when you're making your own song you have to think the music, melody, lyrics and the vibes. So it's a lot easier for me to do revival songs.
CHRISTIAN: Covering a song definitely because you don't need to think anymore. Maganda na siya, you just need ways para mas mapaganda at ma-improve pa siya. I'm not saying much better because nothing beats the original. But hopefully different in a way that you can add a flavor to show your versatility that the fans will really enjoy.
MARK: Alam mo sa panahon ngayon mas mahirap pa rin talagang mag create ng bagong music, ng bagong tunog at mag-introduce ng bagong tunog especially sa OPM kasi maraming kalaban. It is easier for me to sing covers. Mas may recall at mas familiar 'yung song. Like ngayon, may ginagawa akong album puro originals. Kailangan ko na rin kasi ng original songs na talagang tatak Mark Bautista.

What’s the worst headline you’ve read about yourself?
JAY R: The worst headline I've read about myself was a fan whom I get pregnant, ang tagal na nun.
CHRISTIAN: There's a lot actually; that I'm gay or may pamilya akong tinatago, may anak ako sa ibang babae tapos nagkamali ako sa national anthem (laughs).
MARK: Naku medyo marami na rin akong masamang headlines. Siguro 'yung about sexuality so far 'yun pa lang.

Nowadays it is almost an absolute necessity for singers to appear on variety of programs. Do you have any plans to appear on sitcoms, teleseryes, movies or shows?
JAY R: Right now kung bumalik 'yung Take Me Out, definitely I'll plan on that but right now, I am focusing more on my music instead of teleseryes and shows alike. Of course if something comes along but I like kasi a reality and game shows type. Kapag walang project, I'll focus on my music na lang muna.
CHRISTIAN: I had a couple already, now I had Your Song with Carmen Soo. I'm doing a movie now with Miss Regine Velasquez entitled “Mrs. Recto.” And I wanna do more acting projects in the future. I wanna cast in a 'smart thinking' movie that solve a crime size ala CSI.
MARK: Actually kage-guest ko lang sa isang sitcom. Meron akong movie with Regine and Aga, I'll be part of that and hopefully mailabas na. Siguro more on guestings muna.

Which style of music do you want to do in the future?
JAY R: Definitely I would like to invest in other genres if not, work with other artists as well. 'Yung R&B kasi there's a lot of styles; there's pop R&B, soul R&B. So in a way for me maybe I'll stick within the R&B rhum and as far as with different artists, I'm totally open working with alternatives, hip-hop and whatever comes along.
CHRISTIAN: I wanna experiment on a little R&B, a little rock para lang magkaroon ng ibang flavor 'yung mga ballads ng unti.
MARK: Siguro kung ano ang sinumulan ko, Ballad. Siguro I'll try also on different genres 'yung mas fast, and upbeat songs. I want to introduce a new Mark Bautista song that's fast and with a little bit of dance routine.

In the music field, which image do you want people to remember about Christian, Mark and JayR?
JAY R: I want to be remembered on my originality na kahit cover songs ang ginagawa ko parang I make it my own and I make my original music. I want them to remember me as the guy who produced and wrote hit songs.
CHRISTIAN: I want to remember me sa magagandang love songs na tagos sa puso.
MARK: Ako naman, I would still wanna be remembered as a balladeer kasi 'yun naman talaga ako. And at the same time an artist who can sing and dance.

Have you ever used your fame to your advantage, like getting a good table in a restaurant?
JAY R: It's inevitable that it's gonna be useless but not that I am using it to benefit from it. Parang dito sa Pilipinas automatic na 'yun, hindi ko ginagamit pero it comes to me. But given a situation that I have to use it I think I would, kasi medyo na- spoil na ako that I'm expected in a certain way that I'll be able to get a good sit in a restaurant or in a club for me.
CHRISTIAN: Kapag kailangan lang (smiles). Kapag emergency, gagamitin ko siya pero kung hindi naman gusto ko pa rin talagang maging normal.
MARK: Naku marami. 'Yung mga perks kapag celebrity ka VIP ka sa airport, sa gas station.

Do you feel like you’re living in a bit of a bubble? Can you enjoy any normal existence?
JAY R: Yeah, I'm not like the famous, famous stars like Gary V or Sharon Cuneta that they cannot go anywhere without mobbing. For me, sakto lang sa akin that I can go to a mall anytime and have a good time. There are instances that some people they wanna take pictures with me pero hindi naman dumog or something. I think I can enjoy pa naman.
CHRISTIAN: Kapag nasa showbiz ka na, it's not normal anymore. You just have to do your best to try to make it normal by connecting to your old roots; family, friends and mga taong totoo sa'yo. Anything that involves a lot of people or public places medyo mahirap na, you're not gonna do it normally. I appreciate when they recognize me but you cannot do some things as easy as before. I'm not saying it's hard pero ganun, iba na talaga.
MARK: Hindi naman. Ako naman p'wede akong maging normal na tao. Nagagawa ko pa rin naman 'yung mga gusto kong gawin it's just that limited lang din. Nakakapag-mall pa naman ako, nakakanuod pa naman ako ng sine.

Did you ever imagine, a few years ago, that your life was going to turn out this way? Was that your dream, or were you thinking of doing something else?
JAY R: Eversince I was a kid, I wanted to be a singer. And I always wanted to be in the showbiz-ness. Of course, there's a time when I'm growing up parang I felt like na hindi mangyayari 'yun but it always stick with me that this is what I wanted to do. So I think yes, I've seen myself in this position.
MARK: Ang dami ng beses na natanong 'yan sa akin. Kasi unang-una n'ung sumali ako sa contest hindi ko in-imagine na magiging recording artist ako or mapapasok ako sa showbiz. Talagang naniniwala pa rin ako na everything happens for a reason and in God's perfect time nangyayari lahat ng bagay.

If you could take away your fame for just one day, how would you spend that day?
JAY R: I would spend it with my family, my mom and dad, brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles.
CHRISTIAN: I'm going abroad or Paris maybe and then I'll just have a good time there.
MARK: Sa buhay ko naman everyday hindi naman hindrance sa akin kung anuman fame meron ako kasi unang- una kaya kong gawin ang ibang bagay na normal kahit sa normal na araw ko so hindi applicable sa akin iyan.

Introduce us to your latest single and anything new that we should be a lookout.
JAY R: My latest single is “Ikaw Lamang,” my second single still from Jay R Sings OPM Love Classics album and I have just finished recording a song in Bahasa, it's Indonesian and we also shot a music video of it. And we're gonna release it in Indonesia. Aside from that, I'm also working on original album but before that the Christmas album, I'm working on it since the holiday season is just around the corner, it's called the Holiday of Love, it's gonna came out again and also I wanna try to distribute it in Indonesia as well. So I hope it all happens.
CHRISTIAN: It's still “I Remember the Girl” out from my Romance Revisited: The Love Songs of Jose Mari Chan album and we shot our music video with Christine Reyes. So sana nagustuhan nila 'yun. It used to be Joey Albert's “I Remember The Boy” written by Jose Mari Chan. That's my 5th and last single from that album.
MARK: Mayroon akong album na tinatapos. Palabas pa lang 'yung album ko hindi ko pa alam kung ano 'yung first single pero sana abangan nila. May be this month or this year.


K-POP NEWS AND VIEWS

How do you feel about the K-pop invasion in the Philippines?
JAY R: It's very inspiring because there's a lot of different foreign music penetrating our music scene and it makes me think about Filipino music. It's very inspiring to see Christian Bautista making moves into other countries. I also want to try what they're doing.
CHRISTIAN: Okay naman, we should appreciate all types of music. Hindi naman dapat natin 'yun pigilan. Kung sa OPM, dapat mag-stepped up tayo so we can produce good and quality music that will appreciate by the listeners. I welcome it 'coz it gives new blood to the music industry at the same way it challenges the OPM na i-angat sa world standards 'yung music nila.
MARK: Nakaka-inspire kasi dati hindi naman tayo involved sa Korean Pop or hindi naman natin sila na-appreciate or never naman silang naging sikat dito. Tayo ang nagdo-dominate dito. Ngayon parang mas grabe 'yung perseverance and grabe 'yung pag-aaral nila para sa craft nila para ma-achieve nila 'yung ganyang kasikatan. Naging kilala sila dito. Nakaka-inspire bilang artists. Gusto ko ma-explore 'yung Korea or iba't-ibang bansa sa Asia at makilala rin 'yung mga Pinoy kasi kung kaya ng mga Koreans I'm sure kaya rin nating mga Pinoy. Hindi naman tayo nagpapatalo. Sana hindi ma-over power 'yung Philippine music - OPM.

Do you listen to korean music? Why and why not?
JAY R: No, actually I haven't come across any music as of now yet about korean music. I guess because I'm so busy with work and when I'm not working I'm still working, so there's no time to explore the listening pleasure of Korean pop.
CHRISTIAN: Hindi ko maintindihan eh (laughs). Aminin natin na ang Kpop ang fan base n'yan mostly babae talaga. I'll be watching Wondergirls or Girls' Generation kasi ang ganda-ganda nila plus their music is very catchy. I'm also happy with my collaboration with One Way. They're great guys and maybe we might work on some songs together in the future. So I appreciate it also.
MARK: Hindi kasi unang-una hindi ko naintindihan pero ang naalala ko 'yung Nobody ng Wondergirls. I also look up to Rain. Si Rain kasi nakarating sa Hollywood tapos siya 'yung parang Usher ng Korea at ang galing n'yang sumayaw. Napapanuod ko siya pero never talaga na lagi kong pinapakinggan 'yung music n'ya.

What do you think about their music?
JAY R: So far, all I heard is dance music and it's great. And people like it, it keeps them moving and start dancing. They have a nice beats.
CHRISTIAN: It's very fun, very catchy. It's perks you up, when you watch their music videos it's a multi-million videos. Bilib ako sa kanila.
MARK: Magagaling sila in terms of technical. Magaling silang gumawa ng music videos and I believe sobrang trained sila. Sobrang training ang ginawa nila para sa mga projects nila.

Any favorite Korean song?
JAY R: None at the moment.
CHRISTIAN: Right now, it's One Way 'coz I was able to work with them. May flavor sila ng R&B. I appreciate all kinds but nothing specific.
MARK: Wala.

What do you think about the Korean artists like Rain, 2ne1, Super Junior who's really big here?
JAY R: I'm very thankful to them because they serves as an inspiration to us musicians; to be more creative and be more original.
CHRISTIAN: Magaling sila sumayaw, kumanta at maganda 'yung mga music videos nila. Their music are very well produced and they're people to look up to.
MARK: Sabi ko nga si Rain ang galing n'ya kasi na-penetrate niya ang hollywood, nagkaroon siya ng movie at pangalan. 2NE1 na-appreciate ko sila kasi sa kabuuan kasi masipag sila at iba 'yung passion nila sa music na talagang naka-concentrate sila sa trabaho nila. I'm sure malaki ang influence sa kanila ng Western Music so sobrang pumapantay sila sa hollywood when it comes to music.

If you had to join a Kpop music group, what group would you like to join?
JAY R: Not probably with a group but given a chance I would like to collaborate with Rain. He has a very deep, and rich voice and amazing dancing skills. He is a good performer.
CHRISTIAN: I appreciate Kpop as a whole, nothing specific. I welcome them all.
MARK: I want to collaborate with Rain.

What kind of Korean “things” have you seen/heard of?
JAY R: I heard of Jin-Young Park, he produced some of Rain's first couple albums and he made “Nobody” by Wondergirls. I recorded my second album at his home in Hollywood. He became the first Asian producer to successfully cross over to the U.S. , producing music also for Will Smith, Mase and Cassie. So he's like a legend in Korea, he's nickname is JY. But yeah, just being in his house is inspiring 'coz it's like really big house on the Hollywood Hills that has a recording studio at the basement. I want to get into that level also that this korean guy doing music in Korea and you get so expense so much that he's able to buy a house in the Hollywood Hills which is millions of dollars.
MARK: Favorite ko talaga ang Korean food like kimchi. Gusto ko talaga 'yung food nila.

Did you have or bought any korean album?
JAY R: No, but I would love to listen to Rain's album.
CHRISTIAN: It's One Way 'coz we had a collaboration together.

What do you think about the Korean artists coming over? Do you think you have an edge over them?
JAY R: I don't think I have an edge over them, we actually have different styles. You can't really compared their edge over mine. They got their own genre and own market. It's like, if you gonna thrown my music into their genre, it's not gonna make sense 'coz it's pretty much different. So I don't think I have an edge over them.
CHRISTIAN: I appreciate the 'wave' na pumapasok ngayon. Let's welcome all kinds of music, let's do our best in every genre where in. So I'm encouraging the OPM to grow and level up to produce good and quality music kasi kayang-kaya rin naman natin. Hindi natin mapipilit ang fans na 'uy kami naman ang pakinggan n'yo.' Kailangan gumawa tayo talaga ng mga magagandang kanta para ma-appreciate nila. I think it's time for everyone to starts doing originals. I think we Filipinos has a lot of potentials, a lot of different flavors to offer so I encourage them including myself for the next projects, mag-original na tayong lahat.
MARK: Well may edge ako sa kanila kasi Pinoy ako. Iba pa rin ang Pinoy music and it will stay forever. May tiwala ako sa OPM.

For Christian, what was is like being an opening act for Rain during his recently successful concert here?
I was very nervous to be a front act in any concerts, nakakakaba palagi. N'ung nag-perform ako and na-appreciate naman nila 'yung songs ko, natuwa ako. 'Yung nakuha kong girl sa stage, korean pala and na-appreciate n'ya 'yung “Beautiful Girl” and he kissed me. So talagang natuwa ako. Then when I left, their clapping and applauding. And I'm really thankful sa mga kpop fans for accepting me that night, very thankful and hopefully I could collaborate more with other Korean artists also.

If you're given a chance to have a collaboration with any kpop artists who will it be? Why?
CHRISTIAN: I would like to collaborate with Rain, One Way, Super Junior or Ukiss. Kung babagay lang din mahirap din naman ipilit. Kasi collaborations pave way for both.


HOLIDAY FEVER

Favorite Christmas carol?
JAY R: My favorite Christmas carol would be “White Christmas.”
CHRISTIAN: Of course, “Christmas in our Hearts” by Jose Mari Chan. It is the best-selling, best-loved Christmas duet of all time.
MARK: “White Christmas.” Gusto ko 'yung melody. Malungkot na song pero hopeful.

Favorite Christmas memory?
JAY R: My favorite Christmas memory will be last year when I took my whole family to Big Mountain when it was snowing and we shot a music video for my Christmas album. My whole concept is about family; I gathered my whole family, they had all makeup, clothes, we setup the lights and my entire family dances, we're having dinner and I'm taking pictures. Basta, it was a good family bonding experience to shoot three music videos with them.
CHRISTIAN: Every Christmas I have a new Christmas memory. We're always with my whole family clan, laging masaya , kwentuhan, we're like 30 people celebrating the Christmas; different cousins, unties, titas, ninangs and lolas. They're all there.
MARK: Actually n'ung bata pa ako 'yung nagka-caroling kami sa mga bahay-bahay, hinahabol ka ng aso, binibigyan ka ng limang piso. Sobrang saya sana maulit 'yung time na iyon. 'Yung experience na 'yun hindi ko makakalimutan.

What does your family do?
JAY R: The same as any normal family do; we open gifts, we had dinner and we pray. We just spent time together, love and appreciate each other.
CHRISTIAN: We're celebrating it at Cavite. Lahat kami kumakain, nagga-games, kumakanta, sumasayaw..masaya lagi. Ako, mas nagbibigay na ako ng regalo ngayon, kahit embrace na lang okay na sa akin. Pero kung gusto nilang magbigay ng regalo wala rin problema pero mas nasa mode ako na kailangan ako naman ang magbigay sa dami ng blessings na natanggap ko.
MARK: Hindi nawawala sa amin 'yung handaan. Lahat ng kamag-anak nagsasama-sama sa isang bahay. May bunutan at exchange gift.

What do you think of Christmas in general?
JAY R: I love the Christmas holiday, it gives you a warmth feeling especially when you're a kid that's what you look forward to in a year yung pagbubukas ng mga regalo, 'yung kainan, basta yung vibes ng Christmas lang ang hinihintay mo when you're a kid. Eversince you're a kid you just had a good feeling when Christmas comes around.
CHRISTIAN: Christmas is a time to really remember that it's the birth of Christ. Then it's a time to love people around you because God's love us first, that's my core of Christmas.
MARK: Alam naman natin na 'yung spirit of Christmas about love and birth Christ. Ito 'yung time na happy lahat at excited parang nakakalimutan mo lahat. Happiness, love, sharing, being generous. Kahit wala kang pera kailangang magbigay ka. Happy ka kasi nakapagbigay ka ang sarap na ng feeling.

What are you looking forward to in 2011?
JAY R: Definitely my new album is coming out, my original album and doing music videos. As always I wanna focus on my music in 2011. Any major concerts? P'wede din but before any major concerts I just got to have a hit song again. There's a couple of out of the country shows but there's no fix schedules because usually they usually come and go like this year, every month from January I'm going back in forth to the States so it's been a good year.
CHRISTIAN: Hopefully more acting projects, a hit mostly original songs album and more collaboration with different artists.
MARK: Probably, magka-teleserye ako and movie. A major concert next year. Hopefully magtuluy-tuloy 'yung shows abroad and sana magkaroon ako ng solo show abroad.

♫♫♫

Especial thanks to: Pinoy Song Magazine