OPM Artists Record "THE PRAYER" for Yolanda Victims

On October 15, 2013, an earthquake with the energy equivalent to "32 Hiroshima bombs" devastated the Visayas, and parts of Mindanao and southern Luzon. Two days later, the Loboc Children's Choir sang, "The Prayer," with the rubble of the hundred year old Loboc Church as their backdrop. Their performance moved so many people here and abroad. Then, tragedy struck agai...

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26th Awit Awards Winners Announced..

The Philippines Association of the Record Industry (PARI) has officially announced and awarded the OPM artists during a simple gathering held in Quezon City, today, December 11, 2013. ...

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FEATURED: Lea Salonga Records New Song "Wished That I Could Call You"

It was surprising and flattering to find out that someone from the other side of the world followed me on Twitter. They tapped me because our very own, the Broadway legend Lea Salonga sang one of their songs - Wished That I Could Call You.. photo credit: Dan and Laura Curtis website ...

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UP CLOSE: Songwriting with the Maestro

With the continuing success of Philippine Popular Music Festival's songwriting competition, Maestro Ryan Cayabyab introduced SONGWRITING WITH THE MAESTRO a year ago. It include lectures on song writing and Filipino music history. The tour is a program of the PhilPop Music Fest Foundation, an organization that aims to enrich Original Pilipino Music (OPM) and educate Pinoys about its importance. ...

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PH Red Cross Benefit Concert for the Victims of Yolanda

Bashed with Yolanda's wrath, several areas in the Visayas are now in help of that much need help and assistance. The Philippine National Red Cross together with Radio Republic will be having a benefit concert this coming November 13 at 19 East. ...

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Yapak Mo Yakap Ko Benefit Concert

CSR World, a department of Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation (BCYF) launches Yapak Mo Yakap Ko Benefit Concert on November 22, 2013 at 5:30pm until 9:30pm and will be held at the Plaza V of De La Salle- College of St. Benilde featuring Up Dharma Down and other uprising OPM bands such as Clover Street, Dagsin, Pathway and Unica, to help build a library in the slum area, particularly in Smokey Mountain, Tondo Manila.  ...

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Gloc-9 Reinvented Himself in Liham at Lihim

Last year, Gloc-9 scored big when he released his single Sirena (featuring Ebe Dancel) became a phenomenal hit and a critics’ favorite. Sirena, which tackles the life of gays in a different and inspiring light, also became the favorite collaboration song among the biggest live concert artists like Regine Velasquez, Ogie Alcasid, Noel Cabangon, among others. The album Mga Kuwento Ng Makata, which scored a Gold Record award for its outstanding sales, also included the hits Bakit Hindi (with Billy Crawford), Hindi Mo Nadinig (with Jay Durias), among others. The said album was named Album of the Year in the recently-concluded Star Awards for Musi...

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Concert Line-ups this November..

Lots of concerts happening this month of November from amazing performers...

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AcapellaGO Won #AkapelaOpen Competition

Nine amazing groups from different parts of the archipelago competed during the first ever contemporary a capella competition last Wednesday, October 30 held at the Meralco Theater. Among the 9, the group from Bulacan emerged as champions - AcapellaGO. ...

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FEATURED: Akapela Open's 9 Finalists..

From the 100 who made it to the live auditions, only nine made it to the final stage. And each one will perform at their best to be the FIRST Akapela Open grand champion. ...

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Martin Nievera One More Time in #3D2 (The Repeat)

Missed the first one? Not to worry coz the Concert King, Martin Nievera will be back on stage for another round of his recently successful anniversary concert, 3D - Tatlong Dekada on November 22, 2013; still at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. ...

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Jed Madela Celebrates 10th Year in a Concert

Photo credit: from Jed Madela's Instagram....

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Richard Poon’s Legends Turns Gold

Richard Poon’s first album under Universal Records Legends was recently awarded a Gold Record Award for its outstanding sales. Legends, which includes the hits Truly and Crazy, continues to top music sales charts since it was released four months ago. In Legends, Richard traces his pop roots by singing some of the biggest pop artists in the international music industry - classics by Lionel Richie (Truly), Whitney Houston (All At Once), Barbra Streisand (Evergreen), Madonna (Borderline), Barry Manilow (Ready To Take A Chance Again), Kenny Rogers (Crazy), among others. Photo credit: FROM RICHARD'S FACEBOOK FANPAG...

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'KPub' Party with The CompanY

The country’s premiere vocal group The CompanY has a lot to celebrate these days – a sold-out Rewind. Play. Fast Forward show at the Music Museum last month, various nominations and wins at various award giving bodies, a soon-to-be-released album and a forthcoming US tour. ...

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Bands across the Philippines “Get Loud”

After an exhaustive nationwide search that involved scouring hundreds of performance venues, visiting thousands of band sites and YouTube channels and immersing into the alternative music scene, five bands have been chosen from key regions of the country to battle it out for Converse Philippines’ “Get Loud.” ...

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Winning Moments of #VoicePHFinale

Since people are still in hype of the recent The Voice of the Philippines Finale, I've gathered photos online of some of the memorable moments of the final showdown. First, let me give credit to YahooPH and Resorts World for these photos.. Arnel Pineda and Jed Madel...

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Powerful Performances on the #VoicePHFinale

After a breathtaking flashback video of the four finalists, #VoicePHFinale opened the show with a "BANG" with a performance with Arnel Pineda and Jed Madela together with the previous TVOP artirts.....

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The Road to the #VoicePH Grand Finals..

From 123 aspiring artists that auditioned during the blinds.. To the exciting battles.. Then the nerve wracking live shows.. It is now down to 4 artists, one from each team; vying to be the FIRST VOICE OF THE PHILIPPINES GRAND WINNER.. ...

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Patti Austin and Lea Salonga in One Stage at the #VoicePH

It was an exciting day for #TeamPatti last Sunday, September 8.. Patti Austin will be performing live with Lea Salonga and some of the #VoicePH artists. This was a once in a lifetime experience for everyone. one of my teaser photos....

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My #VoicePH Rehearsal Photo Went Viral..

It was September 8 during the live broadcast of #VoicePHLive. I was currently preparing to have a good spot in the audience, waiting for Patti Austin and Lea Salonga's performance. ...

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#VoicePH Live Shows Opened with Great Performances..

After the heart-pounding Battle Rounds, here comes the Live Shows; and it's definitely live! Held at the Newport Performing Art Theater, Resorts World Manila, VoicePH Live Shows started with an awesome opening number from the coaches together with the 24 VoicePH artists....

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Team Lea: Saving the Best for Last..

A much awaited Voice PH battle happened last Saturday as Marissa Saroca and Radha Cuadrado gave a standing ovation performance. I must say, it was really a battle.. With R-E-S-P-E-C-T! If you're looking for a battle royale, this is the one. Both of them gave it all on stage. Marissa sang it clean and nice while Radha still has that soulful vocal quality I once heard during the Kulay days. Love it! Bravo to both of them. As Coach Sarah said, my highest respect!  Congratulations to Radha and to Marissa, keep that music coming.....

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Philpop 2013 Concert Series..

After the announcement of winners during the finals night, PHILPOP celebration doesn't end there.. PhilPop organizers together with Universal Records, recently held its Concert Series tour held at the Eastwood Plaza. The purpose of the event is not only to promote the album but to have the artists (interpreters) perform the songs included in the album. I was there not as a blogger but as an avid supporter for OPM. I sang along with the songs performed. It's as simple as jamming with your favorite music.. Maestro Ryan Cayabyab giving some remarks before the show started.. Performances that night include by Kean Cipriano and Banda ni Kleggy (SPACE), Ace Libre (SOMETIMES THAT HAPPENS), Six Part Invention (TIME MACHINE), Tippy dos...

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Anne Curtis and Martin Nievera Collaboration Went Viral on YouTube..

We all know that the Concert King Martin Nievera will definitely have the voice to owe us. But with this YouTube video shared by one of the best musical directors, Marvin Querido; hear a different and improved Anne Curtis. And she definitely really sounded well singing 'Without You'. Anne did that rap part impressively.. ...

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Madz in a Once in a Lifetime Reunion Concert

As a tribute to the late Andrea O. Veneracion, the Philippine Madrigal Singers will have a reunion concert on August 3 and 4 at the Abelardo Hall Auditorium, U.P. Diliman. ...

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1st VoicePH Battle Rounds Turned Controversial

"Let the battle begin!" These are the words you'll be hearing for the upcoming weeks as The Voice of the Philippines Battle Rounds initially started last Sunday. Coaches, together with their respective guest advisers are ready to see what has become of those hours and days of coaching.. Battle rounds initiated with the following pairs -- #TeamApl #TeamBamboo #KampKawayan #TeamSarah #TeamLea They all performed well and gave their respective coaches quite a challenge choosing who has to go and who has to stay.. I was "wowed" by Tristhan's stage performance. You can really see that he was enjoying his parts and those hitting the high notes, "Whew! Ang sarap pakinggan.." As for the Lorenzana siblings, I would agree...

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"Let the Battles Begin!" - Voice PH Battle Rounds

Competition is getting tighter.. Judges are even more aggressive.. Each team are almost complete.. photo credits: The Voice PH website And this coming weekend, the real battle will begin - THE BATTLE ROUNDS! Here's how it goes? Each coach will pair the members of their respective teams and will compete one another, performing one song, in a boxing ring (literally!). Take note that it will be the coach to choose which song to perform. After each performance, the other coaches will then provide feedback as well as the guest adviser of that team. Final verdict will still come from the team's coach - who stays, who goes! BUT! Here's a hanging question.. With the turnaround of the blind auditions, it seems that each...

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The Voice of the Philippines Gets Even More Exciting..

The recent blind auditions are getting more exciting with those amazing talents and coaches really battling it out with other to convince an artist (this is in the case of multiple chair turns). Lea Salonga even came up with an idea of her Twitter follows to ask questions during commercial breaks with the hashtag #AskCoachLea.. Other coaches are also Here are some of the highlights for the past 2 weeks of blind auditions -- The 16-yr old with a powerful voice - JESSICA REYNOSO Part of the Pangilinan clan who wants to make it in his own way - RJ DELA FUENTE Will this be her time - KLARISSE DE GUZMAN Total performer - JANICE JAVIER Soulful acoustic singer - MJ PODOLIG All the way from Australia - MARISSA SAROCA Certified Kundiman singer - JUVIE PELOS Grooving...

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July 21st is Lea Salonga Day

Fans of Broadway diva Lea Salonga indeed went gaga when she confirmed of the several guest appearances happening tomorrow. Lea Salonga will be performing with international singing sensation Charice and rockstar Bamboo in ASAP 2013. Next to that is another guesting on The Buzz. And let's end the day full of laughter as she is guesting on Gandang Gabi Vice. In line with this awesome day, new-found twitter friends came with an idea of an hash tag for tomorrow. ...

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Invitation to Join the 1st Akapela Open

With all the songwriting and vocal competitions ongoing. Vocal groups will now get the chance to show their talent as the first ever contemporary a cappella ensemble singing competition is about to open. Akapela Open is a project spearheaded by The Music School of Ryan Cayabyab.  Akapela Open aims (1) to promote the love for contemporary a cappella singing and appreciation for vocal harmony performance; (2) to provide a venue for new arrangements of Philippine and International contemporary vocal music; (3) to provide growth experiences for singers and arrangers; (4) to cultivate a community of contemporary a cappella singers. Starting August 1, online registrations and submissions of entries will begin until September 7...

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HIGHLIGHTS: The Voice of the Philippines Week 2 and 3 Blind Auditions

Week 2 and 3 of the blind auditions just got even more exciting. The coaches are now aggressive in convincing talents to choose their respective team. Among the coaches, I really like the way Lea Salonga gives out her own thoughts -- techniques such as breathing, vibrato etc -- now that's Music 101. Here are some of the talents that made me say "WOW" -- An amazing acoustic performer - LEE GRANE.. "Hello Sarah! I'm gonna fight for this one.."  - Coach Bamboo "That would have made me turn.. " - Coach Lea "Parang ung unang kanta, Anak.. Ako'y nagsisisi ngayon.." - Coach Apl "I need prime seats for this fight.. I need popcorn for this.. (while watching Sarah & Bamboo convince Lee Grane to be her coach) - Coach Lea "Kailangan kita.. Ngayon at kailan man.. (singing)"...

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Silent Sanctuary's 'MONODRAMATIC' Album Out Now!

“Gusto namin maramdaman ng listeners yung kung ano din ang mga naramdaman namin sa mga kanta.” Composed of Sarkie Sarangay on vocals and guitars, Chino David on violin, Anjo Inacay on cello, Jason Rondero on bass and Allen Calixto on drums, Silent Sanctuary spices up their signature “classical music meets rock music” sound with the release of their new album called “Monodramatic”. The group’s previous studio albums, Fuschiang Pag-ibig and Mistaken for Granted, proved to be a success as it both spawned hits, which dominated radio, TV, online and various music charts. For this album, Silent Sanctuary delivers a more flavorful spice without deviating much from the distinct, classic sound which was loved by many, “Marami kaming ginamit...

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HIGHLIGHTS: The Voice of the Philippines Day 1 and 2 Blind Auditions

The Voice of the Philippines blind auditions has officially started last Saturday, June 15 and I must say Filipinos have that amazing singing talent. And while watching the blind auditions, there were some I must say have exceptional talent.. I also liked the comments given by the 4 coaches.. Here are some of the clips that made it passed the blind auditions and have made a certain mark to the coaches and viewers -- The very first 4-chair turn - THOR DULAY.. Talk about original filipino music - CORAZON DELA CRUZ.. "may libog ang boses mo.." - Coach Lea The hot-looking 31-year old CHIEN BERBANA,, "i've been waiting for somebody to blow me away.. you blew me away.." - Coach Lea "i gotta say, ca-ching! ca-ching!...

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OPM Reigns Again as Awit Awards 2013 Nominees were Announced

Pinoy music artists are again recognized with their craft as PARI (Philippines Association of the Recording Industry, Inc.) released the official list of nominees for the upcoming 26th Awit Awards. One of Awit Awards objective is to promotes the Philippine music industry, artistry and legacy as well as showcase talents in an vent dedicated to music. The nominees are as follows -- Best Performance by a Female Recording Artist I’ll Be There – Julie Anne San Jose On My Own – Lea Salonga With A Smile – Aiza Seguerra Saan Darating Ang Umaga – Angeline Quinto Tao – Sarah Geronimo Best Performance by a Male Recording Artist Piso – Joey Ayala Kontrabida – Sam Concepcion Ipadarama – Martin Nievera Hanggang Sa Dulo Ng Walang Hanggan...

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Philpop 2013 Star Studded Interpreters Revealed

After Philpop announced the 12 finalists last April 30th, recording of each song began. And finally, the interpreters were revealed today in front of sponsors, media and bloggers. The interpreters were chosen hand in hand with Universal Records and the finalists. What's cool about this year's album production is that not only Universal Records who had some of their artists be part of it but also other record labels like MCA, PolyEast and Warner Music also lend their own line-up of artists. Talk about unifying for one cause -- and that is to uplift and strengthen our own music. Starting June 5, Philpop has open its text voting to the public for the Smart People's Choice Award. It's open to all Smart, Talk and Text and Sun subscribers...

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