Pilita Corrales

Pilita Corrales (born 22 August 1939 in Cebu City, Philippines) is a famous Filipino folk musical recording artist, who is widely referred to as Asia's Queen of Songs, having produced over 135 albums in her music career spanning over four decades.

Biography:

Pilita Corrales was born in Cebu City, Cebu in 1939, she is a mestiza, (of Spanish and Austronesian) ancestry. After finishing her studies at Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepcion in her native land of Cebu, she went to Spain to enroll in a finishing school in music. In 1958, Pilita began her recording career after arriving with a shipwrecked troupe of performers in Melbourne. She left her mark by becoming the first woman to make the Australian pop charts with a local recording called 'Come Closer to Me'. She became a star of the Melbourne TV circuit and her first hit, Come Closer to Me, became part of a collection on which she’s billed as one of the Grand Dames of Melbourne Radio and Television.

Pilita holds the distinction of being the first female artist to top the Australian pop music charts long before Helen Reddy, Olivia Newton-John and Kylie Minogue. Pilita also recorded at least 3 LPs in the late 1950s-early 1960s: Pilita with Arthur Young :Pilita tells The Story of Love, I'll Take Romance and This is Pilita under Astor Records. Being one of the pioneers of Australia's early television years, a street was named after her outside Melbourne. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) recently featured Pilita and several pioneering female artists in Australia in the 2nd episode of the highly acclaimed TV special, Love is in the Air. Pilita returned to Manila during the mid 1960s to pursue a career in the Philippine music industry. Her Philippine career began when she hosted a radio program La Taverna over DZPI where she sang Spanish songs and played the guitar. She performed regularly in stage shows at the Manila Grand Opera House. Subsequently, her reputation grew and during her international stints, she has performed with internationally acclaimed artists like Sammy Davis Jr. the Beatles, Bob Hope, Pat Boone, Frank Sinatra and Julie Andrews. She also appeared in movies, most of them musicals. Her film debut was a lead role in the 1968 film Miss Wawaw, and was followed by 11 more movies for the next two years. Pilita later recorded numerous albums in Spanish in the early 60s as well as numerous long playing albums in English, Tagalog and Cebuano during the 1970s under Vicor Music Corporation. Her multiawarded TV program at ABS-CBN, An Evening with Pilita (1965-1972), is widely considered as one of the benchmarks in Philippine broadcasting history.

Pilita frequently performed for Seeing Stars with Joe Quirino in IBC-Channel 13 after the martial law years where she demonstrated her range as a gifted performer of Spanish, English, Cebuano and Tagalog music. Aquarius Record Philippines produced a compilation of Pilita's Spanish songs in CDs like Noche de Ronda, Vaya Con Dios. Her signature song A Million Thanks to You was translated in seven languages. She eventually recorded songs composed by Filipino composers like Danny Holmsen, George Canseco, Willy Cruz, Ryan Cayabyab and several others. Under Vicor Records, Pilita interpreted numerous Filipino classics and introduced them to younger audiences.

Pilita first met Canseco in Your Evening with Pilita (aired on pre-Martial Law ABS-CBN) as a guest in the composers' portion of the show". For the show Canseco brought with him You're All I Love. Canseco later wrote Filipino lyrics for the song, which became Kapantay ay Langit, the first song Canseco sold to a record label in 1966. The song was first recorded by Amapola for the movie theme of Kapantay Ay Langit starring Marlene Dauden and Eddie Rodríguez. The song won for George Canseco and Amapola the Manila Film Festival award for best song of the year. The song did not fare well commercially, because Amapola had left (for her U.S. concert tours) and the song was not promoted properly, according to Canseco during an interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer. But when Pilita revived the song, it turned into a classic and defied trends and time. "The song," Pilita said, "was included in my album Philippine Love Songs Vol. 1, which was released in the early 1970s."

Through the personal invitation of Sammy Davis Jr., Pilita became the first Filipino to sing in Caesars Palace. In her concert in Caesars Palace, Las Vegas during the late 70s, Pilita sang Spanish, English, Cebuano and Tagalog songs, all conducted and arranged by Ryan Cayabyab.

After receiving a 1965 Philippine Citizen's Award for TV as Best TV Female Performer, Pilita went on to receive Cecil, Aliw, Tinig and Awit and several other awards for her performances and lifetime achievement. In 1990, she received a Merit Award from the FAMAS Awards. In 1991, she was given a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Philippine Association of the Record Industry (PARI) for bringing Filipino musical artistry to international audience. She also holds the distinction of being the first Filipino to win in an international music festival by bagging the Best Performer Award during the 1st Tokyo Music Festival (1972) where she bested numerous international artists including the highly-regarded Olivia Newton-John.

These days she operates Pilita, a restaurant-bar in Greenhills, one of Manila's prime commercial districts. She is also a highly-acclaimed host and comedy actress on Philippine television. With over 135 albums to her credit and an international profile with many appearances in Asia, the Middle East, Australia and North America, she still enjoys a reputation as “singing icon and living legend.”

In 2006, Pilita Corrales was handpicked by Associated Broadcasting Company (ABC Channel 5) and FremantleMedia to be one of the celebrity-judges for the first-ever nationwide search for the Philippine Idol together with composer Ryan Cayabyab and rapper Francis Magalona.

Personal Life:

Corrales has two children, Lourdes Jacqueline Blanco (commonly known as "Jackielou" Blanco) and Ramón Christopher Gutíerrez. Both her two children are also well known celebrity figures in the Philippine Film Industry. Corrales was married in 1963, to the late executive businessman Gonzalo Blanco and separated soon after, while her daughter "Jackielou" was still a child. Gonzalo later died in 1981.

Corrales had a brief short love affair with actor Eddie Gutíerrez, and later gave birth to her second child, Ramón Christopher, in 1971.

Christian Bautista

Christian Bautista is a Filipino singer, actor and Bench model. He was a finalist of the Philippine reality show Star in a Million shown on ABS-CBN.

Christian Bautista, Asia’s Pop Idol:

Christian Bautista is a multi-awarded recording artist and singing sensation in the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.

2003-2004: Star In A Million and Christian Bautista:

First thrust in the spotlight as ABS-CBN’s Star In A Million’s most popular non-winner, his future was sealed soon after with a recording contract with hit-making label Warner Music Philippines. The partnership produced the phenomenal hit “The Way You Look At Me,” and life was never the same again for the 25-year old Landscape Architecture graduate from the University of the Philippines. Christian’s self-titled album, which carried his first hit song reached Multi-Platinum status in the Philippines, and Indonesia.

Christian’s international success began with “The Way You Look at Me,” getting frequent airplay in Indonesian radio stations. The song became an instant hit among the country’s young music lovers, even if they had yet to see the artist behind the ballad.

The song, penned by American composers Andrew Fromm and Keith Follese, became so popular that record label Warner Indonesia decided to bring Christian there to the great delight of the fans whose support for the Filipino singer has been steadily growing and even spreading to neighboring countries.

2005: Completely:

“Completely,” Christian Bautista’s much awaited second album, received a Platinum Record Award on its first week of release in the Philippines. The album spawned hit songs “Everything You Do,” “Invincible,” and “She Could Be", a song which was later revived by teen idol Corbin Bleu, who is most known for his role in High School Musical, in his debut album, Another Side. Completely has also reached Platinum status in Indonesia.

In the Philippines, "Completely" was released in a different packaging. The first release of the album was on a DigiPack then on a standard version later on.

A special edition of the album “Completely,” which combines Christian’s English songs from his debut and second albums, was recently launched in Singapore. His signature monster-hit single “The Way You Look Me” also hit the no. 1 spot in popular radio stations in the Lion City.

In the first quarter of 2006, Indonesia’s largest TV station, RCTI, aired “Completely: Christian Bautista,” the young balladeer’s first-ever Indonesian TV special. Christian performed with the biggest names in the Indonesian music scene—the famous 40-piece Magenta Orchestra, the young musical genius Andi Rianto, and the country’s two female divas, Krisdayanti and Titi DJ.

Banking on his massive following among young fans in Indonesia, Bautista has been tapped by San Miguel Corporation to endorse its new line of soft beverage products in the Asian region, starting with Indonesia. Christian also endorses a new mobile content provider based in Jakarta called Star SMS, and soon for Oishi food products in the Philippines, and Indonesia.

Locally, he has been the face for Bench clothing and body spray, St. Augustine School of Nursing, Smart telecommunications, Trumpets Musicademy, Bed Head products, Skechers, and Swatch watches.

Bautista debuts as an actor on the big screen in Regal Entertainment’s 2006 Metro Manila Film Festival entry “Mano Po 5: Gua Ai Di.” In this film directed by Joel Lamangan and written by Abi Lam-Parayno, Dode Cruz and Andrew Paredes, Christian plays Timothy a.k.a. Felix Yan, an Asian pop star, providing support to the bankable love team of Angel Locsin and Richard Gutierrez. His ditty from his second album, “My Heart Has A Mind of Its Own,” is used as the film’s theme song.

2006-2007: Just A Love Song...Live! to present:

More recently, Bautista released his third major album “Just A Love Song…Christian Bautista Live! ” also under the Warner Music Philippines label. The album currently occupies higher echelon in retail charts nationwide. The album is mainly composed of covers of different old-time hit love songs and was recorded live in a bar with a small number of audience, majority of female audience.

He launched a 4-city tour in Indonesia on January 26 to February 2, 2007. The tour included visits in Jakarta, Makasarp, Surabaya, and Bandung.

In October 2007, he embarked a concert tour named "Inspired", a one-night show in the Cuneta Astodome with guest appearances by Gary Valenciano, Tricia Amper Jimenez, Joni Villanueva and Sam Milby.

Bautista re-released his latest live album "Just A Love Song...Live" that now includes a CD compilation of different Christmas Songs.

Personal Life:

Christian Bautista studied at the University of the Philippines in Diliman and took up Landscape Architecture, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in the aforementioned course. before that he graduated high school and gradeschool at International Christian Academy which also hailed other philippine actors such as Ryan Eigenmann, Goeffrey Eigenmann, Rico Yan and Billy Joe Crawford. He was also a Table Tennis varsity player during college before focusing on singing and going into showbiz.

Christian Bautista admitted on an entertainment show called 'The Buzz' that he is currently dating fellow musician Rachelle Ann Go. He courted her for about two years and finally made their relationship public in 2006.

On November 11 2007, Christian announced that he and Rachelle are splitting up. Christian said in a full statement: "Both of us are friends now. We are in good terms. There is no third party. We tried to give our best to stay together but there were just misunderstandings and differences that we couldn't work out up to now. That is why we mutually decided to give the relationship a rest." Christian confirms break up with Rachel.
National Anthem Controversy:

In one of the most shameful acts, Christian Bautista who was singing the Philippine National anthem prior to a boxing match reportedly missed several lines in the song. The mistake repeatedly drew a lot of ire from Filipinos in the Philippines and abroad.

Commercial Endoresments:

* Greenwich Pizza
* St. Augustine School of Nursing
* Bench

Trivia:

• He's a Born Again Christian.
• He was guest appearance in "Master Showman" on GMA-7 with "Kuya Germs".
• He joined Trumpets Workshop for stageplays like, "The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe", "Joseph The Dreamer 10th Anniversary Stage Play", and among others.
• Kampanerang Kuba was his first TV show/fantaserye as Lorenzo.
• Anne Curtis was his first love interest (in a show) and first kiss on-screen.
• Mano Po 5: Gua Ai Di (I Love You) of Regal Films was his very first film.

Pepe Smith

Joseph William Smith (drummer-singer-songwriter), known as Joey Smith, and more popularly as Pepe Smith, is the acknowledged founder of original Filipino rock music, or "Pinoy Rock".

Born to an American serviceman father and a Filipina mother at Subic Bay Naval Base, he grew up in the Kamuning district of Quezon City, with his maternal grandmother from the age of three. He formed his first rock 'n' roll band at the age of eleven.

A member of the nationalistic and the seminal Philippine rock group, the Juan dela Cruz Band. Along with fellow legendary musicians, Wally Gonzales and Mike Hanopol. "Juan dela Cruz" is the recognized term for the "everyman" in Philippine society. The Juan dela Cruz Band initiated the rock music revolution in the Philippines, veering away from covers of foreign hit songs and focusing on original songwriting. The trio has always been credited of spearheading the Pinoy Rock genre in the Philippine music industry.

Albums (Juan dela Cruz Band)

• Up In Arms (1972)
• Himig Natin (1973)
• Maskara
• Super Session
• Kahit Anong Mangyari (1981)

Trivia:

• Spent six months in Vietnam during the Vietnam War. His band, the Surfer, was contacted to play for American soldiers.
• Jailed for six month for alleged drug possession in 1993. One of his constant jail visitors in Quezon City Jail was Apa Ongping. After his release for lack of evidence, Smith held a concert inside the jail.
• At 11 he had his first band, composed of his friends and neighbors in Kamuning, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
• Released in 2005 his very first solo album titled Idiosyncrasies, on Alpha Records. The 14-track album was three-years in the making; he started recording the album in 2002. The album was released simultaneously with the Juan Dela Cruz's three-CD collection from rival Vicor Records.
• Despite having an American father, he has never set foot in the USA. It's his dream to visit America. His band, during their peak, only toured United Kingdom and Asi, but never made it in America.
• In 1994, survived a car accident that damaged his signature jaw.
• One of very few Filipino performers who did opening acts during the July 4, 1966 historic and controversial first and only concert of the Beatles in Philippines. His admiration to the Beatles further strengthened his love for music.
• First album with Juan Dela Cruz band is "Up in Arms" which was released in 1972. All songs in the album were in English. It was not until the following year that "Ang Himig Natin" (Our Sound) started the Filipino rock revolution. The band's last hit was "Kahit Anong Mangyari" in 1981.
• He and his band, Juan Dela Cruz, was part of the first open field rock festival in the Philippines which was held in Antipolo in 1970.
• Of Filipino-American descent.
• Born to an American father and Filipina mother in Subic Base (once an American base), he grew up at Kamuning with her maternal grandmother at age 3.
• Acknowleged as the Father of Filipino rock.
• One of his main hobbies is collecting toy planes. His childhood dream is to become a pilot.
• A member of the nationalistic and the seminal Philippine rock band, Juan Dela Cruz. Juan Dela Cruz is often regarded as the most common personal name in the Philippines, an equivalent to John Smith in UK and other English-speaking countries.
• With Wally Gonzales, Mike Hanopol and the late Edmund "Bosyo" Fortuno in Juan Dela Cruz, they came up with seminal Filipino rock hit, "Ang Himig Natin" in 1972. Smith composed the song in 20 minutes while inside a comfort room of Araneta Coliseum where the band was having a concert.

Personal Quotes

If I am not into rock and roll... What I am, executive or executed?

Bayani Fernando

Bayani Fernando
Born July 25, 1946

Secretary of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). He concurrently holds the position of director of the Department of Public Works and Highways for the National Capital Region.

He was born in San Juan, Metro Manila. He ran for public office in 1992, becoming mayor of Marikina City. His administration as mayor is credited with several cleanliness and beautification projects, and his term saw the transformation of Marikina from a 4th class municipality to a model Philippine city. He was re-elected mayor twice, and served as mayor until 2001. In 2002, he was appointed chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

His wife, Ma. Lourdes C. Fernando, is the current mayor of Marikina City.

On December 17, 2007, Alfredo Lim told MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando not to conduct its sidewalk clearing operations in Manila since vendors were allowed to sell on sidewalks for humanitarian reasons. Lim stated: "I jokingly told Chairman Fernando that they are welcome anytime but I cannot guarantee their safety. Their problem is how they will get out."

Fernando on November 8, 2008, was named the GMA-7’s 2008 “Celebrity Duets” 2nd season grand champion. He sang impressive duets with Pilita Corrales and Basil Valdez.

Gwapotel

On September 6, 2007, Chairman Bayani Fernando said that “Gwapotel Inn” (Overnight stay: P20 a night, P5 a bath) run by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority became a big hit with transients due to safe and decent lodgings. 40,000 transients registered in the 4-story “hotel” on Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, Manila, since its May 14, 2007 opening. The 710-bed inn, painted in “BF’s” signature pink and blue, posted an average occupancy rate of 73%, or 519 guests daily. But the overnighters share common sleeping area with double-deck beds.

2nd Gwapotel

On December 23, 2007, Chairman Bayani Fernando of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced the building of a 2nd Gwapotel: 3-story lodging house at Tondo, Manila, in the abandoned 2,800-sq.m. Emmanuel Hospital at Jose Abad Santos St., to be renovated on January, 2008 (5 months to complete for the May 1 inauguration coinciding with Labor Day holiday). 60,000 transients already stayed in the 4-story first Gwapotel, since its May 14, 2007 opening.

The Plan to Run for Presidency

On January 4, 2008, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chair Bayani Fernando officially announced (at the Lani Misalucha concert at his office) that he is running for the presidency in 2010. Fernando formally confirmed and launched on August 26, 2008, his candidacy in the Philippine general election, 2010 (to become the next "no-nonsense president of the country").

With or without the support of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, he stated: "Even if the party doesn't pick me, I will continue with the campaign because I have a lot friends who will help me. They're just floating their names. And I'm the only one of the presidential hopefuls who has declared my intention to run this early."

Gloc 9 [Aristotle Pollisco]

OFFICIAL WEBSITE: http://glocnine.multiply.com/

Gloc-9 (born Aristotle Pollisco) is an Awit Award-winning Filipino rapper. His fast-flowing vocal style has made him one of the most successful hip-hop artists in the Philippines. He has won the award for Best Rap Artist at the Philippine Hip-Hop Music Awards for three consecutive years (2005-2007) and has also been recognized by the MYX and MTV Music Awards.

Gloc-9 has also contributed to the soundtracks of several films, including Star Cinema's "Jologs" and "Trip."

Star Records:

Dubbed as the fastest rapper in the Philippines, GLOC-9 has released his self-titled and highly anticipated debut album under recording giant Star Records. It is no secret to GLOC-9 aficionados that this guy can easily rap up to 200 words per minute. So fast yet so clear, that one can easily understand and relate to the words he is expressing.

For GLOC-9 (or Aries Pollisco in real life), rap is an expression -- an expression of both his thoughts and emotions. A story of what he went through or is still going through now, especially of what he dreams of becoming in the not so distant future.

“The name Gloc-9 was given to me by a friend, Ronald Solanga of Death Threat,” according to the artist himself. “It was probably associated to me because of the way I rap -- the speed, the clarity of the words,” he added. Gloc-9 went on to share that, “It was when I heard the song Cold Summer Nights of Master Rapper Francis M., that I got inspired and decided to get into rapping.”

All the songs in the album were either written or co-written, arranged and produced by GLOC 9 himself. It includes the massive hits Isang Araw; Jologs; Sayang; Simpleng Tao; Hinahanap Ng Puso; Sikat Na Si Pepe; and the duet Bakit, which he performed with Cookie Chua for the 2002 Himig Handog Love Songs Competition. It also includes Banal Na Aso, the theme from the TV series Nginiiiig.

His song Isang Araw received an award for the BEST RAP RECORDING from Katha and Awit Awards. Incidentally, industry bigwigs once again recognize GLOC-9's talent, creativity and music artistry. He has earned nominations for Favorite Male Recording Artist and Favorite Music Video (for the song Sayang) in the MTV Pilipinas Video Music Awards 2004, as well as for Best Rap Recording in the 17th Awit Awards.

"Being recognized for my craft is an honor enough for me," GLOC-9 reveals. "I live for music. It's an expression of what I am and I'm happy being where I am right now." GLOC-9 is just like his hit single "Simpleng Tao" in real life. He is cool, fun-loving and indeed very simple despite the fact that he has already marked a niche for himself in the music industry. He doesn't have airs and keeps his feet firmly planted on the ground. His friends and co-workers all agree that GLOC-9 hasn't changed a bit even with the fame and fortune he is amassing right now.

With all the achievements he has earned, GLOC-9 cements his reputation as one of the country’s finest and fastest rappers. So come along, join the journey and listen to the numerous cuts in the album, to know what this artist has inside of him.

Sony BMG:

Rapping these words from the title track of his new album "Diploma," GLOC-9 may not have achieved an actual college degree yet, but deep in his heart he knows already has one - his compositions, his songs, his hits - achievements that made him who he is in the music industry today.

Nonetheless, it doesn't mean he is turning his back to a real college diploma. GLOC-9 or Aristotle Pollisco in real life, in fact, is currently a second year nursing student. Indeed, that's why he called his latest album just that. "It can mean two things: one is stated in the song and the other is me going back to school to finish college," the award-winning rapper said.

Now signed with major label Sony BMG Music Entertainment, GLOC-9 couldn't be any prouder with his third album.

"This is very special to me because I never imagined how different my songs will sound from my previous albums. "A lot of effort was put in musicality and arrangements which surprised me. I never thought it could be done in rap music as what most people do with mainstream pop."

"Diploma" marks a 360 degree turn in GLOC-9's songwriting. Part of his mission nowadays is to bring positive influence to his audience.

"Before, I would just get a pen and write songs not really knowing its effect to the listeners. Now I think of its consequences especially with children. Likewise, I learned to enjoy every moment of writing a song."

But still, GLOC-9's lyrics are as real as you can get, yet dishes out a bit of wisdom. Taking him a year to finish the 14-track all-Tagalog album, he culled his songs from various motivations: a good song, a good film, a person or his/other's personal experiences.

One of those borne out of these inspirations is the carrier single "Lando." A song mirroring the reflection of our harsh society, GLOC-9 brings to life a story of a taong-grasa.

"Whenever I see one, I always wonder what led him to a life like that. I thought of a story about two lovers. The boy is poor, the girl is rich but still they fell in love despite the difference in social status. But what they thought was a perfect life suddenly went tragic because of a crime that eventually caused him to become a 'taong grasa'," It was a moving story, very affecting especially after seeing the music video which was helmed by the young and upcoming director Jay Pacena II.

Aside from being his most memorable song to date, GLOC 9 considers the track a blessing for two reasons: "When I wrote 'Lando', it was like someone was already dictating the next line to me. I finished it in three and a half hours." The second is his rare collaboration with two of the most respected names in the industry - master rapper FrancisM and Parokya Ni Edgar vocalist Chito Miranda.

FrancisM, which GLOC-9 considers as his first and his biggest influence, lent his voice to sing the song's refrain written especially for him by Miranda. "I'm so grateful and it was really a big honor to have worked with both of them."

Other guests in "Diploma" include teen singer/actress Lovi ("Lov na Lov"), Czarina Rosales ("Blues Niyang Itim"), Loonie of Stick Figgas and Konflick of Death Threat ("Sila") and Mitchell ("Kayo").

Rock meets rap as Gobas and Reg Rubio of Greyhounds joins GLOC-9 in "The Task Is Done," a track encouraging people to live their dreams and that nothing is impossible. Vic Mercado of Bamboo mans the drums in the interlude "Demo Tape."

Nelly's hit "E.I." was such a personal favorite, GLOC-9 decided to adapt the song to a new single he called "B.I." Likewise an Eraserheads fan, he sampled the band's hit "Torpedo" with JP Cuison of Kiko Machine doing the refrain vocals.

GLOC-9 further expresses who he is as a rapper in "Lapis at Papel" while he enumerates the bad experiences people had to go through and tells the listeners to just dance the problems away in "Sumayaw Ka."

Hailed by critics and respected by his peers, GLOC-9 worked with established names in the industry like FrancisM, Cookie Chua, Bayang Barrios, PKSO and Dice & K9 to name a few.

Kuh Ledesma

Kuh Ledesma (born March 16, 1955) is a popular Filipino pop and jazz singer. Kuh Ledesma has been performing for 25 years in the musical industry which encompasses more than 300 concerts, numerous awards in the Philippines, and 18 albums in the Philippine recording industry. She was the first Filipino singer to become a recipient of the Salem Music Awards in London in March 1989. In 1997 she released her international debut album Precious in collaboration with the best American and Filipino songwriters, arrangers and musicians.

Personal:

Kuh Ledesma was born Maria Socorro Ledesma on March 16, 1955 in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Philippines. She has a daughter named Isabella Gonzalez.

Career:

Philippine and international music industry - Ledesma's career in music began when she joined the Lastiko band (formerly known as Ensalada band) in Bacolod while she was still a Nursing student in college. Ledesma and her bandmates Toto Gentica and Jet Montelibano later went to Manila to form the Music & Magic band which became pivotal for her career. She later received the lead role in the pop ballet Rama Hari by Alice Reyes. She eventually went solo with Dito Ba?, Ledesma's first hit song.

1980's - In the 1980s, Ledesma has performed during solo concerts at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the Araneta Coliseum, PICC and the Philippine Folk Arts Theater.

In 1982, Ledesma launched an all-Filipino concert, Ako ay Pilipino (I am a Filipino) at the Cultural Center of the Philippines that featured a repertoire of ethnic sounds, classic kundimans and beautiful pop songs, tapping into the rich node of indigenous art and contemporary pop music to produce alternative approaches to songs. Her show eventually became a television special followed by two albums. This was immediately followed by another production at the CCP, Inspired Madness in 1983, which was created in collaboration with Philippine film director Peque Gallaga and musical director Ryan Cayabyab.

During the political ambience of the 1980s, Ledesma paid tribute to Ninoy Aquino at the end of one of her shows at the CCP by singing her a cappella rendition of Impossible Dream and You'll Never Walk Alone (Hindi Ka Nagiisa). From 1984 to 1986, Ledesma joined the Apo Hiking Society in Ang Pinoy Nga Naman (1, 2, and 3) at the Folk Arts Theater.

In March 1989, Kuh Ledesma was chosen as the first Philippine singer to be the recipient of the Salem Music Awards after competing against other top singers from Asia at the Royal Albert Hall in London

1990's - In the 1990s, Ledesma had a series of concerts with foreign artists Noel Pointer, Jack Jones, Kenny Rankin, The Platters and Michel Legrand followed by other concerts with popular Philippine song artists such as Regine Velasquez (U.S. tour, 1999), Pops Fernandez and Jaya (Power of Two, 1999). After Ledesma's four-night concert with the jazz violinist, Noel Pointer, she released the album, The Voice, The Violin. In February 1994, Ledesma had the Two of Hearts concert with balladeer Jack Jones. During 1995's Valentine's season, she performed with Kenny Rankin. Ledesma started the new millennium in a Valentine show with The Platters. In 2002, Ledesma had Valentine presentation with Michel Legrand.

Ledesma has her own production company Headline Concepts and built concert venues such as the Music Museum (a combined theater-restaurant built in 1988 at Greenhills, Manila) and the Republic of Malate. The Republic of Malate is a facility located along Mabini Street in Manila, which houses a restaurant, a bar, a watering hole, a game room, a tobacco area a dance club and a theater. However, The Republic of Malate was destroyed by a fire in November 2001. Ledesma has plans of rebuilding the facility.

Kuh Ledesma had a regular monthly television special called Akuhstic Café which is a musical travelogue that presented viewers the urban night life of Metro Manila by visiting clubs, lounges and concerts. Akuhstic Café was a grand finalist in the Asian Television Awards in Singapore for best musical program.

In April 1997, Ledesma became the featured artist of the ‘’Muling Aawit ang Pasig’’, a benefit concert of former Philippine First Lady Ming Ramos for the restoration of the Pasig River.

In 1998, the centennial year of Philippine Independence, after producing a Valentine concert at Fort Santiago, Manila, Ledesma was commissioned by the National Centennial Commission to stage a three-night centennial concert of the year, Lahi…Kami ang Pilipino which was held the Expo Center at the former Clark Airforce Base.

2000's - Ledesma also owns Bravo Records, a music recording studio. Ledesma is known for building careers of new talented singers.

Ledesma celebrated her 25th year in the music industry by holding a series of shows at the Captain's Bar of the Mandarin Oriental Manila (Kuh Ledesma Presents). Ledesma has a goal of publishing a book of photographs to chronicle her career.

Kuh Ledesma is also a member of the Artista Para Sa Pagbabago (Artists for Change), an organization comprised of artists, environmentalists and businessmen. She was also the president of the Restaurant Owners Association of Malate.

During the 2001 Philippine national elections, Ledesma was chosen by the PINATUBO (Pinag-isang Lakas Tungo sa Pagbabago) Party as a first nominee for congress. The PINATUBO Party has the goal of alleviating poverty in the Philippines through grass-roots development.

Apart from performing and producing concerts and special shows, Ledesma also travels widely in the Philippines and abroad to deliver values formation lectures, and inspirational and motivational talks.

Philippine cinematography - Ledesma has appeared in films such as Oro, Plata, Mata, Tinimbang ang Langit, The Year of Living Dangerously.

Philippine theater - Ledesma performed in Rama Hari and Kapinangan

Philippine television - Ledesma produced several TV specials including the award-winning program, Kuh by Special Arrangement. She was also a co-host in the Sunday variety show A.S.A.P. Mania.

International performances - In March 1990, Ledesma appeared as a guest performer in a Gilbert Becaud's television show in Paris where she sang Bulaklak (The Rose) in three languages (Filipino, English and French). In July 1990, she was the Philippine's representative-performer at the international television special, Earth 90 in Tokyo, Japan. Earth 90 was a show that celebrated the importance of the environment and was aired simultaneously around 80 countries. Ledesma was then on stage with artists such as Olivia Newton-John and John Denver. On the same year, Ledesma also joined the NHK-KAYO parade in Tokyo.

In 1991, Ledesma accepted the invitation to become a member of the panel of judges during the Miss Universe Beauty Pageant in Las Vegas, U.S.A.

In 1984, Ledesma was chosen by international director Peter Weir to play the role of Tiger Lily in the film, The Year of Living Dangerously, to work with actors Mel Gibson and Sigourney Weaver.

After becoming a model for Lux soap in the Philippines from 1984 to 1990, Ledesma also appeared in a series of print ads and television commercials for Lux in Singapore from 1988 to 1989, and in Indonesia in 1992.

Ely Buendia

Eleandre Basiño Buendía, popularly known as Ely Buendia, and also once adopting the stage name, Jesus "Dizzy" Ventura, (born November 2, 1970) is a Filipino writer and musician, who gained fame as guitarist, songwriter, and lead vocalist in the popular Pinoy rock band, The Eraserheads. His gift in songwriting, in which he contributed heavily to the band, has earned him a reputation as one of the most respected icons in the country. He currently performs as guitarist and lead vocalist for the band, Pupil.

The Eraserheads:

In December 1989, Ely Buendia, Raimund Marasigan, Marcus Adoro and Buddy Zabala formed the Eraserheads in their collegiate school, the University of the Philippines, Diliman. The band found that they weren't good at covering other people's hits, so they concentrated on writing their own materials instead. "After all, if we committed a mistake no one would recognize it since they don't know the song, right?," Buendia explained. Performing their original songs live soon earned them a cult following in the University, which gradually spread outside the campus. One of the songs, a pop song entitled, Pare Ko, which Buendia wrote, became very popular, partly because of the lyrics which included a few swear words.

The Eraserheads eventually signed a three-year deal with BMG Pilipinas. Their debut album, "UltraElectroMagneticPop!" featured no less than Pare Ko and a host of other novelty pieces that had people listening and discovering more about the quartet. The album also brought the underground college rock scene into public awareness. 1993 saw the emergence of "Eraserheadsmania" because of successive hit singles, sold-out concerts and thousands of fans.

Buendia continued to write songs for the band, many of which became hit singles and classics. The Eraserheads' lasted for ten years before finally breaking up with Buendia and Adoro's departure. During those 10 years, the band produced eight studio albums along with other EPs and singles. Their gigs took them out of the country, with tours in the U.S. and other countries. One album, "Aloha Milkyway, was released in the Asian region. The Eraserheads were also the first ever Filipino artists to receive the "Moon Man" trophy for winning the 1997 MTV Asia Viewer's Choice Award for the video of their song, "Ang Huling El Bimbo." This hit was also written by Buendia, like many others that the band produced.

The Eraserheads had one of the most influential runs in OPM history. Their prolific contributions to the OPM repertoire backed by remarkable sales led their record company, Sony-BMG to dub them "The Beatles of the Philippines". Buendia had correspondingly been dubbed the John Lennon of OPM. Ely remarked, however ,that he does not relish being a "John Lennon of OPM" as he craves for his own identity and to be known as "Ely Buendia of OPM."

Leaving the Eraserheads:

After weeks of speculation, it was confirmed that Buendia had left the band in mid-March 2002 for "reasons unknown". However, in subsequent interviews, Buendia pointed to business matters as the cause of the band's break-up.

In an interview, Marasigan said he was eating in SM Megamall, a local shopping mall, when he heard of the news (how he heard of it, was not clear). He said he was "semi-surprised" and wondered if Zabala already knew about it. Adoro told of the story now famous among Eraserheads fans about Buendia's cryptic text message. He said Buendia stated in the text message that he had already "graduated." Adoro quipped in the same interview that Buendia being the first to graduate was natural, since he was in batch '87 in their school (UP, Diliman), while they were in Batch '88.

Zabala confesses in an interview that disbanding had not been that far away from the members' minds. He said that there were so many occasions where they could have disbanded but they did not. Adoro expressed the belief of some people that the band was getting too old and that it was "selfish" for the band to continue, likely referring to comments about how it's time for other bands besides the Eraserheads to shine. The band made it clear, though, that Buendia's departure from the band wasn't in any way violent and there was no shouting (sigawan) or any confrontation.

Without giving up, the three remaining original Eraserheads decided to continue on. Within just a few weeks, the "new" Eheads debuted at Hard Rock Cafe in Makati City on April 19 featuring a female singer-guitarist, Kris Gorra-Dancel from the band, Fatal Posporos. However after a few months, Adoro also quit the band. The remaining members of the Eraserheads added Diego Mapa and Ebe Dancel to their lineup and renamed their band, "Cambio."

The Mongols:

After leaving the Eraserheads, Buendia formed the band, The Mongols. It was composed of guitarist J. Astro (also known as Jerome Velasco) (of The Teeth), bassist Yan Yuzon, drummer Bogs "Boga Man" Jugo (of the indie pop band Daydream Cycle), and Buendia on guitars and vocals, under the stage name Jesus "Dizzy" Ventura. The band was managed by Buendia's wife, Diane Ventura.

The Mongols released a self-produced underground EP in CD-R format with factory-printed sleeves in April 2003, "A Fraction of A Second". It contains five tracks, "Case Logic", "No", "Tomorrowland", "KSP" and "Abstraction of A Second". It was released under "Redrum Records".

After a few months, the Mongols decided to have their self-produced album distributed by Neo Records Inc. under the major label VIVA Records. The result is a thirteen-track album called "Buddha's Pest" (tracks are: "Keeper," "Bulakbol," "Bakit Nga Ba?," "Pony," "Teka Muna," "Candy Flip," "Heroine," "Wig Out," "It's Over," "Irish Spring," "Odd Even," "Your Bushido" plus an instrumental album filler). It was produced by "The Genghis Klan" under "Criminal Records".

Pupil:

Shortly after The Mongols' guitarist, J.Astro, left the band, the remaining members renamed their group "Pupil." Buendía chanced upon the band name while reading a medical book. The band is enjoying more mainstream popularity, in contrast to the Mongols.

Solo Acts:

Buendía had a solo project, even before leaving the Eraserheads. He recorded ten tracks in his home studio, "Suite 16 Studios." The album was called "Wanted: Bedspacer," and it comprised of the tracks "Wanted Bedspacer," "Monday Mundane," "Kakaiba," "Santo," "Over 18," "Tapos Na," "Acid Tongue," "Oras," "Shallow Breathing," and "Hotchik".

The cassette version of the album has a bonus track titled "In the Midnight".

In mid-2008, Buendía commenced a series of solo gigs. He mostly sang Eraserheads songs accompanied by indie bands or sessionists, without his band Pupil. First he had a local performance with the Oven Toaster band in the Mag:net Cafe, the Fort. Then he performed an all-Eraserheads number in Manning Bar, Sydney, Australia (dubbed "The closest to an Eraserheads reunion" ). Apparently, most fans have been intrigued by these events as there were no issued press releases or announcements regarding his recent solo performances. He also made a new version of "Ang Huling El Bimbo" with FILharmoniKa orchestra for Kumpas compilation.

Eraserheads Reunion:

Buendía will join Marasigan, Adoro, and Zabala for a one-night only reunion show on August 30, 2008 at the CCP Open Grounds between Manila and Pasay City.

Newspaper Columnist:

Ely Buendía had a broadsheet column, entitled "CURSOR," published weekly (every Saturday) in the Entertainment Section of the Manila Bulletin. Some entries are “Cloning Music,” “Crude Little Robots,” “Biocast Entry No. 13,” “A Dystopian Holiday,” “Event Horizon,” “The Answer,” “Misguided Tours,” “A Well-Documented Review,” “Parking and Flying,” “Soaking Up the Bar,” “Mental Floss,” and his final article, “A Cause for Elevation.” Due to Buendia's busy musical career, CURSOR had ended and was last published during the first Saturday of September 2006.

Health:

On Sunday, January 7, 2007, Ely Buendia suffered a heart attack or acute myocardial infarction secondary to arterial blockage. It began when Buendia complained about finding it a bit hard to breathe while they were on the way to a gig in Laguna. But he dismissed it as mere heartburn. After some time, Buendia was reportedly in the middle of a song during a gig in Calamba, Laguna when he felt a sudden pain in his chest and left arm. He was rushed to an Intensive Care Unit at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center in Alabang, Muntinlupa. "It turns out that he'd been having a heart attack for the last five hours." according to ex-eheads manager Jessica Zafra. Doctors performed an angiogram on the frontman and it confirmed the heart attack as two of his arteries were blocked. Buendia's condition was confirmed stable after an emergency angioplasty operation headed by Dr. Benjie Luna during the same night. According to Dok Sergio, “Ely is fine, successful yung surgery last night. (Last night's surgery was a success).”

Doctors pointed out that the cause of the heart attack was stress. Buendia's band was booked solid during the holidays. "The first operation addressed only one arterial blockage, There's another one that requires immediate attention." according to Ms. Day Cabuhat. Ely Buendia was transferred to The Philippine Heart Center on the evening of Tuesday, January 9, 2007 for his second angioplasty. "It was Ely's first heart attack and it could have cost him his life, One of his major arteries was 100 percent clogged and the other, 95 percent." says Diane. The doctor said that Ely was genetically predisposed to heart attacks as few of his family members and relatives also suffer from the same ailment. However, when he was transferred to The Philippine Heart Center, Doctors found a third arterial blockage.

The second angioplasty operation conducted on Ely Buendia on January 10, 2007 was successful and is secured from having heart attack recurrence. “The operation was a super success. He is totally out of danger and heart attack recurrence is not expected.” according to Buendia’s attending physician and cardiac surgeon, Dr. Wilfred Dee. Diane, Ely's wife, is a capillary-carcinoma survivor who's now free from cancer cells during the past two years.

On behalf of Pupil, Ms. Day Cabuhat and Diane Ventura gave thanks to everyone who called, visited and expressed their concerns to Ely's condition such us fans, writers, editors, media, sponsors, networks, producers, and most especially to local musicians such as Yael Yuzon, Japs Sergio, Francis Magalona, Parokya ni Edgar, Kamikazee, Kiko Machine, Menaya, Rico Blanco, Urbandub, Buddy Zabala, Marcus Adoro and many others.

Buendia was finally released from the Hospital and was allowed to stay at home and rest by his doctors on the night of January 15, 2007. "I’ve got a bionic heart now," joked by Buendia.

This event prompted rap artist Francis Magalona, a longtime friend of Buendia and the other Eraserheads, to state the following in his personal blogsite: "Fast forward to right now, 9:58 am, Jan. 9, a lot of what ifs scenarios pop in my head. What if the E-heads members are back, like long-lost blood brothers? What if "the most significant OPM band of Pinoy Rock" would be in one room, what would happen?" And in postscript he adds, "Para sa akin panahon na para mag-reunite ang E-heads. Sugod na mga kapatid...rock & roll na hanggang umaga." which roughly translates, "For me, it's time for E-Heads to reunite. Let's go brothers...rock & roll until the morning comes."

Ely’s first on-stage public appearance after his heart attack was on Saturday, February 10, 2007 as his band, Pupil, performed at The Music Hall in SM Mall of Asia, in an Animax event called “Love Is In The Air”. The event featured a Speed-dating event as a welcome celebration for Valentine’s Day and live performances from other local artists such as Callalily, and Amber. Pupil is also part of “Super Proxy Jam”. It is an event that is hoping to spread awareness for the importance of Cardiovascular Health and for the benefit of The Heartist Foundation Inc. Francis Magalona & The Hardware Sydrome, Parokya Ni Edgar, Gloc-9, Dicta License, PiKaSO, and Dice & Mobbstar are also participants in the said event. Heartist Foundation Inc. is another collaborative effort between Ely Buendia and Francis Magalona.

Fund-raising Concert:

Musicians from the OPM industry gathered at Eastwood City on Sunday, January 28, 2007, for "LivELY: A Fundraising Concert for the Benefit of Ely Buendia." The concert, began at 3:00 PM at the Eastwood Central Plaza, and featured Filipino artists including Parokya ni Edgar, Kamikazee, Kitchie Nadal, Rivermaya, Itchyworms, True Faith, Cynthia Alexander, Sponge Cola,Hale,Dicta License, Francis M., Chicosci, Greyhoundz, Up Dharma Down, Paramita, Ciudad, Moonstar 88, Join the Club, Lahi, Oprressed, Makatha, Salindiwa, Rocksteddy, Swissy, and Julianne. The project was organized by local radio station, Magic 89.9, former Eraserheads road manager, Julie Pacañas, director Joyce Bernal, PMX Audio, PhilMusic.com, and friends of Buendia, to raise funds to cover his hospital bills and medical expenses as he recovers from his recent heart attack. The event was open to the public and cash donations were accepted at the event. A huge part of the collected funds was also used to set up Heartist Foundation, Inc.

Notable in the event was the surprise appearance of former Eraserheads lead guitarist, Marcus Adoro who played reggae renditions of classic Eraserheads songs. There were also other special guests, such as Yan Yuzon of Pupil who played guitars for Sponge Cola.

Personal Life:

Ely Buendia is married to Pupil's manager, Diane Ventura. He has two children, Una Aurea (from an early relationship), and Eon Drake (with Diane). Buendia was once romantically connected with She Elgar, who is now married to Mike Elgar of Rivermaya.

In several interviews, such as in the local music magazine, Pinoy, he has expressed a fondness for Stephen King books and history. According to a local television show, Pipol, he wanted to be an architect in his youth. He also loves movies, comics and especially videogames; from classic Nintendo systems up to next-gen consoles as he declared on recent interviews.

Other Works:

* Ely Buendia co-produced Sugar Hiccup’s “Oracle” album with Raimund Marasigan.

* Ely Buendia and his sister, Lally Buendia wrote the songs “Black Whole," “Sucker” and “Marble” for Domino's Fair Tales album. His wife, Diane played Glockenspiel on “In Your Arms and Pedalpitch on “Provocatrice”. Fair Tales was co-produced by Ely (together with his sister), and was mixed by him as well (together with Lazyboy). Domino was fronted by Lally Buendia and the album was released commercially under Viva Records in 2003.

* He composed True Faith’s “Kung ‘Di Rin Lang Ikaw” with Lyrics by J. Bacasmas and arranged by Ron Soriano for OctoArts International. Bacasmas is the vocals behind Ultraelectromagneticpop's “Ganjazz.”

* "Magasin" which he wrote was sampled for the track “Girl On Da Magazin” by Legendary Flip-Hop group, Legit Misfitz.

* He wrote the songs “Mga Babae” and "Something Always Brings Me Back To You" sung by the female funk, R&B, rap, and soul music group, Novia under BMG Pilipinas.

* Buendia wrote a song called "Stone's Throw" for Sponge Cola's debut album "Palabas".

* He also collaborated with Pinoy Rap artists in the song “Private Diane” with Francis Magalona and Death Threat. It was released under Sony Music.

* He used the codename “MH Hesus” when he sung back-up vocals for Parokya Ni Edgar’s “Hosanna Ngayong Pasko” Christmas song in the “Jingle Balls Silent Night Holy Cow” album. MH actually means Maalalahanin, it is the street somewhere in Teachers Village, Quezon City where Ely Buendia used to live.

* Ely played a cameo role in Rufa Mae Quinto’s movie entitled, “Masikip Sa Dibdib” where he was playing and singing “Keeper” by The Mongols in a live stage set with audiences going wild and enjoying the music.

* Buendia also sang "Suntok Sa Buwan", an APO Hiking Society original. It was included in the OST of 2000 Viva Films movie "Kailangan Ko'y Ikaw", starring Regine Velasquez and Robin Padilla.

* Ely Buendia was included in a commercial project for San Miguel Beer's Red Horse product line, alongside various Filipino Rock icons: Karl Roy from Kapatid, Marc Abaya from Kjwan, Reg Rubio from Greyhoundz, Basti Artadi from Wolfgang and Pepe Smith from the Juan Dela Cruz Band. He also became a top endorser of the Red Horse Muziklaban. During the 2007 Muziklaban, he performed "Nasaan Ka?" with Kjwan as his ad hoc band.

Text LUK4:

As early as January 2006, there were reports that some of Pupil’s fans have been hearing a new song called “Luk4 Jingle”, as it was played on some radio stations and also during the ending credits video of the original episodes of Studio 23’s Barkada Trip. Although due to lack of indications and confirmations from the band and related organizers that time, it was quite unclear if the song was actually from the band or was an old solo project of Ely or the vocals of the said song just sounded like Ely. Until recently, the song was finally confirmed, heard and witnessed when the band played it (titled "Text LUK4") live during the finale of DPC Yellow Pages' "Luk4 The Million - City Adventure Challenge" held on December 8, 2006 at the Metrowalk. Although Pupil plays it during live performances, the song itself was a side project of Ely's.

Yoyoy Villame

Yoyoy Villame (November 18, 1932 - May 18, 2007) born Roman Tesorio Villame, was a Filipino singer, composer, lyricist, and comedian. Villame was a native of Calape, Bohol and was the father of singer Hannah Villame. He died of cardiac arrest at the Las Piñas Medical Center in Metro Manila on May 18, 2007.

Early Life:

Before getting his break in the music industry, Villame was at one point a jeepney driver and at another, an army draftee who fought in the government’s anti-insurgency campaign in Central Luzon. He went back to Bohol to become a bus driver, and there he formed a rondalla combo with his fellow bus drivers as band mates. The owner of the bus company took notice of Villame’s efforts, setting up a music studio named Kinamay Records just for him. Villame's first recording was in 1972 and entitled Magellan. It was the beginning of a long list of albums and recordings of his politically inspired songs in Sugboanon, Tagalog and English.

Notable Works:

Among his notable works include Butse Kik, a song written from made-up Chinese-sounding words which Villame allegedly came up with by writing down the names of Chinese stores while waiting for a mechanic to fix his broken-down jeepney in Manila's Chinatown. He also wrote Philippine Geography, which lists 77 major islands, provinces, cities, municipalities, and towns in the Philippines from north to south. His long list of hits and his entertaining style of music has earned him the title of "King of Philippine Novelty Songs".

Villame began making movies in the early 1970s, and was noted for his role in the 1974 suspense thriller Biktima. In 2004, Yoyoy played a Visayan troubadour in the critically acclaimed movie, Babae sa Breakwater (Woman of the Breakwater).

Rey Valera

Reynaldo Valera Guardiano (better known as Rey Valera) (born May 4, 1954 in Meycauayan, Bulacan, Philippines) is a singer, songwriter, music director and film scorer from the Philippines. He wrote and produced songs that were recorded by various singers, most notably Sharon Cuneta.

Personal Background:

Reynaldo Valera Guardiano is the second of three siblings, and the surname Valera was derived from his mother's maiden name.

He still lives in Meycauayan, Bulacan with his family. He has a son and three daughters.

Career:

Rey Valera started his recording career in 1977 after becoming a band member from a group called Electric Hair Band for seven years. He waxed his first single as a solo singer - songwriter with the song Ako si Superman, which he created supposedly for Rico Puno. His former boss at Vicor Records gave him the opportunity to sing his song and at the same time hired him as one of Vicor’s in-house producers.


Rey also made songs for other artists such as Rico Puno's Sorry Na, Pwede Ba, Daigdig Ng Ala-ala; Geraldine’s Pangako; Pol Enriquez’ Ayoko na Sa ‘Yo and many more. While he made songs for his peers, he made albums for himself such as Naaalala Ka, Rey Valera Vol. 2, Walang Kapalit, Hello, The Rey Valera Christmas Album, Gabay Mo Ako, Rey Valera’s Greatest Hits Vol. 1,Rey Valera’s Greatest Hits Vol. 2, Pirapirasong Ala-ala, Sa Kabila Ng Lahat, Kung Sakaling Iibig Muli, FM Ka, AM Ako, Home Sweet Home, Ang Mahalaga, etc. Most of these albums made golds and platinums.


In July 2005, Rey Valera released the "Panghabangbuhay" album, with his children's band called "Saling Ket", and they have been performing together ever since.

Recently, Vicor Music Corporation compiled all of Rey Valera's recorded songs in their library in a 4 disc set album entitled, "Walang Kapalit" as part of Vicor's 40 year anniversary.

Mr. Dj and Sharon Cuneta:

One of his initial projects was to make a song for a twelve-year-old mayor’s daughter named Sharon Cuneta (who later became known as the "Mega Star"). It was a daunting challenge, as Rey initially could not figure out what kind song would be fitting for her; she was too young to be taken seriously to be given a love song, and a bit too old to be given a nursery rhyme.

It dawned upon Rey to write a song about the people who were responsible for playing songs on the radio; the DJs. Wherever radio station the song would be submitted in, it was almost always guaranteed that it would be played and continue to play because it is their song. The song happens to be Mr. DJ, followed by Kahit Maputi na ang Buhok Ko. It made remarkable sales on the chart.

Sharon states in a recent interview by Deborah Kan in Star News Asia, that she has been always thankful for and grateful to Rey, for writing her first hit song. "Mr. DJ".


The two have been friends ever since, and in 1992, Sharon paid tribute to her favorite composer when she recorded Sharon Sings Valera.

When Sharon Cuneta and her then husband Gabby Concepcion separated, Rey composed the song, "Kahit Wala Ka Na" (Even When You're Gone). When Sharon and Rey met at Cinema Audio, she asked, why wasn't he writing songs for her anymore. Rey replied that he did wrote one for her, and submitted the song to VIVA for it to be an inspiration or a battleground for Sharon. Both of them found out that the song has been shelved for two years at VIVA. Sharon immediately recorded the song, and used it in her movie, "Single Mother"(former title). It was retitled to "Kahit Wala Ka Na".

Sharon’s biggest blockbuster movies were lifted from popular songs of Rey, thus Sharon singing Valera is an always-tested winning chemistry.

Rey Valera's Impostor:

In 1983, Rey faced one of the worst challenges of both his career, and personal life; an impostor was using his name and was committing crimes, among them were car-napping and rape. The list even extended to marrying numerous women, and even petty crimes like "borrowing" money and personal items, all under Rey Valera's name. Rey made numerous newspaper statements announcing that there is an imposter posing as him. Rey also wrote and released a song entitled, "My Fans Are in Trouble" to warn his fans through the medium of music, with the lyrics depicting his helplessness to stop this impostor. What Rey feared most wasn't the money, but the physical harm people the impostor had fooled might do to him. Ultimately in 1984, Rey decided to quit show business at the peak of his career to protect his fans and also to make up for the time he lost with his family during his fame. When Rey made a comeback in 1988, he wore his hair long so that his impostor (who had kinky hair), would have a harder time posing as him if the impostor ever resurfaced. The impostor has never been heard from ever since.

Theme Songs for Soap Operas:

Valera ‘s songs are also favorite titles and theme songs of soap operas like “Ula, Batang Gubat” (Malayo Pa Ang Umaga), “Te Amo, Maging Sino Ka Man”, “Sa Sandaling Kailangan Mo Ako”, and the two year running soap series, “Pangako Sa'yo”, from ABS-CBN.

Recently, Rey Valera's song's have been revived as theme songs for soap operas with the same title. They are: Maging Sino Ka Man ( which has spawned a second book,Maging Sino Ka Man: Ang Pagbabalik ) and Walang Kapalit from ABS-CBN, and Sinasamba Kita from GMA Network.
Writing Music for Songs and Movies:

Rey was film scoring movies during his singing career, but after the trouble his impostor has caused, Rey focused on his musical directing career. He particularly liked scoring music for action films, giving fight scenes and chase sequences fast paced, rock-themed music, which reflects his roots as a rock band member.

Rey's songs made marks also as theme songs and movie titles. These includes several Sharon Cuneta movies such as Maging Sino Ka Man, Pangako sa 'Yo, Kahit Wala Ka Na', Tayong Dalawa; Vilma Santos’ Sinasamba Kita, Romansa, Hiwalay; Robin Padilla’s Carnap King, Barumbado, and Baby Ama; Romnick Sarmenta’s Pasong Tirad, The Gregorio del Pilar Story, Aleck Bovick's Tampisaw and most of her earliest films.

There are very few people are aware that Rey wrote music for movies, even fewer are aware that he also wrote music for R-18 "Bold" films. He accepted making music for movies and considered it an opportunity, as these projects usually pitted his songwriting skills to follow fresh and often unusual themes and topics, often deviating from pop love songs which he was usually typecasted into.

The Theme song, "Ambon" ( Raindrop ) from the filme, "Tampisaw" emphasizes on the singer's hunger and depravation of love, and that a single "raindrop" of love would be enough for her to live on.

The theme song, "Nagpapanggap" ( Pretending/Deceiving ) from the film, "Kerida" ( The Mistress ), depicts a person's awareness that her lover is only pretending to love her, and yet she has this pragmatic acceptance and is even thankful that she was loved, no matter how false that love may be.

The theme song, "Sa Gitna ng Buhay Ko" ( In The Middle of My Life ), from the film "Naglalayag" ( Silent Passage ) follows the movie's theme of a middle aged woman falling in love with a man half her age. The song relates to her life as the times of the day, asking questions such as, "why did love arrive at only NOON?"

The Greatest Hitmakers:

In 2002, Rey reunited with his contemporaries Rico J. Puno and Hajji Alejandro in a series of concerts called "Greatest Hits", highlighting the music of their own time. They also launched a VCD recording of their concert. Nonoy Zuñiga and Marco Sison joined the group in the following year. The group continues to perform both locally and internationally

Although they were formally named "The Greatest Hits", the group felt that using the name "The Greatest Hitmakers" was more proper, as the former referred to the 'songs' and not the group members themselves. The group has successfully performed even with the absence of one or two members, usually concentrating on a core trio group ( e.g. Rey, Hajji, Rico / Rey, Hajji, Marco / Rey, Rico, Marco ) and varies between concert to concert, depending on each member's availability. This flexibility of the group's roster combined with miscommunication with the each show's promoter and other reasons has often led to various names for the group such as "The Hitmakers", "The Greatest Hits", "The Great Hitmakers" "GH5", "GH4" and such.

Induction to Bulacan's Walk of Fame:

In November 9, 2006, Rey was inducted to Bulacan's own "Walk of Fame", in the "Hardin ng Mga Bayani at Sining" ( The Garden of the Heroes and Arts/Artists), Malolos City, Bulacan.

Rey was among the few Bulakeños who was given the title of "Alagad ng Sining at Kultura ng Bulacan", loosely translated as "Disciple of the Arts and Culture of Bulacan", or simply put, Great Artist of Bulacan.

An inductee was given a tile with his/her name on it, and a small pile of a then wet cement to leave a hand print. The names on the Walk of Fame embody the Bulakeños who have brought pride to Bulacan in the fields of arts and culture.

Trivia:

* Rey Valera doesn't have any formal music background. When he submitted his song at Vicor in Raon Manila, he was an accounting student at the Far Eastern University.

* it was former Record Producer Adel Ardaza and former Vicor Executive Chito Ilacad was the first to give Rey his chance for his song "Ako Si Superman"(I am Superman), to be recorded. Chito was also the one who decided that Rey be the one to sing his own compositions.

* the song, "Ako Si Superman" was originally composed by Rey in the English Language with the title, "I Will Try To Make You Smile" for his sweetheart.

* the song "Mr. DJ" was composed in a jeepney while Rey was commuting from the office.

* the first song that Rey used in a movie was "Tayong Dalawa" (Both of Us) for the movie "Stepsisters" that Lorna Tolentino and Rio Locsin starred in 1979.

* the song "Kung Kailangan Mo Ako" (If You Need Me) was first used in a movie that was starred by Vilma Santos and Edu Manzano, "Romansa" (Romance)

* the song "Maging Sino Ka Man" (Whoever You May Be) was composed by Rey for women who worked in bars and nightclubs.

Chronology:

1977

Wrote and sung "Ako Si Superman"

November: wrote the song 'Mr. D.J." and 'Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko" for Sharon Cuneta. Both songs received Gold Record Awards.

1978

October:Received his first Gold Record Award for single entitled "Naaalala Ka". He wrote the song "Sorry Na, Puwede Ba" for Rico Puno while doing his first album that same year.

1979

Joined Blackgold Records, a sister company of Vicor Music Corporation, as a record producer. He rose to the position of assistant Vice President for Research and Composition.

That same year he waxed his record album with hits such as Maging Sino Ka Man, Malayo Pa Ang Umaga, etc.

Tried to venture in music directional jobs.

1980

Rey Valera started writing songs for other singers again, this time for Geraldine with the song "Pangako", and Lirio Vital's "Naniniwala Ako Sa Iyo".

1981

February: he was awarded the Gold Record Award for the hit single "Kung Kailangan Mo Ako".

June: he received the Gold Album Award from a compilation of his past hits titled "Rey Valera's Greatest Hits".

October: he represented the Philippines as a songwriter in the first Asean Song Festival held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

he was also awarded the Gold Record Award for the album entitled, "Walang Kapalit".

November: bagged the title "Juke Box King of the Year".

1982

Received "The King Of Tagalog Songs" award.

Tried the movies via Annie Sabungera

1983

March: He sang the song "Gabay Mo Ako", as one of the finalist in the Metro Manila Pop Music Festival. It was in March also when his long playing album "Hello" became another Gold Record.

April: Received the title "Entertainer of the Year".

May: Held the title, "King of Tagalog Songs" for the second time.

December: Rey Valera's Greatest Hits" album became Platinum Record.

This was also the year that an impostor used Rey Valera's name to his disastrous advantage.

1984

Transferred to Wea Records and waxed his last album. He wrote another gold hit song entitled, "Pirapirasong Alaala" for another female singer.

Dropped show business. Went back to his family to make up for lost days.

He joined the movie industry now as a musical director.

1985-1986

The country saw the economic crisis that led to the downfall of the local music industry. During these times, Rey Valera relied heavily on his movie scoring works, devoted his time to his promotion business, while anticipating the comeback for the Golden Era of the Philippine Music Industry.

1988

TV Personality, comedian, and fellow Bulakeño Bert Marcelo persuaded Rey to make a comeback in live performances and join him in a series of concerts called "Hatid Saya" in Europe and Middle East.

1989

Began training and introducing aspiring composers to professional songwriting and studioworks.

1992

Joined Sharon Cuneta in her Mega concert in U.S. and Japan.

1993-1994

Member of the Board of Directors - FILSCAP

1994

Nominee, Best Original Song Category - "Kung Tayo'y Magkakalayo".

2000
Joined forces with Freddie Aguilar, Mike Hanopol, Vehnee Saturno, and formed the group, SAGA (Songs And Generations After). The group recorded one album, and performed one major concert in Canada. It was their first and last concert as SAGA, and the group disbanded months later.
2002

Merged with Rico J. Puno and Hajji Alejandro, in a series of "The Greatest Hits" concerts.

2003

The group "Greatest Hits 5" or "GH5" was formed with Rey Valera, Hajji Alejandro, Rico Puno, Marco Sison and Nonoy Zuñiga which continues to perform locally and internationally.

Recipient, Lifetime Achievement for Music 8th Tinig Awards from The National Press Club

2004

Participant, Travel Advocacy Campaign, Department of Tourism, "Biyahe Tayo", WOW Philippines.

Winner, Best Song Category, "Sa Gitna Ng Buhay Ko" for the movie "Naglalayag", Metro Manila Film festival

2005

July: Released the "Panghabangbuhay" album with his children's band called "Saling Ket".

Awardee, 18th Awit Awards Dangal ng Musikang Pilipino - Lifetime Achievement Award, given by The Philippine Association of Recording Industries

2007

November 9: Inducted to Bulacan's own Walk of Fame, in the "Hardin ng Sining at Bayani", Malolos Bulacan

Lito Camo

Lito Camo is a Filipino songwriter known for his commercially-successful novelty songs, which are mostly made up of catchy melodies interspersed with witty lyricisms. Notable compositions include "Ms Flawless", "Ye Ye Vonnel", "Sumunod Sa Galaw ng Ilaw(Gamo-gamo)", "Spageti Song", "Bulaklak", "In or Out" and "Otso-Otso".

He has received criticism for not taking songwriting seriously and being low-class and uncouth. He claims "Sometimes, my friends would tease me saying that while they put a lot of hard work into their compositions, it’s my ‘nonsense’ songs that become hits".

Career:

Before songwriting, Lito Camo was a family diver and domestic helper.

In 1997, he released his debut album entitled Sino Camo Baduy?, ayos ka ah!, featuring the hit song Kung Ikaw, and the follow-up single "Hey Babe". However, his follow-up album, Ano Camo?,leche ka ah!, sold poorly. Following this, he wrote jingles for commercials and television shows.

He had a breakthrough hit in 2001 with the song Bakit Papa, tawag mo ako?, and was credited for ushering in the novelty genre in the country's music industry. This was followed by the release of the novelty song Otso-Otso.

He has released a solo album titled Ako Naman, Kanina Kapa Eh.

He also wrote songs for Manny Pacquiao.

Discography:

* ADoo Doo Doo Ada dada ahhaahhaa
* Alog Alog
* Bakit Papa, tawag mo ako?
* Boom Tarat Tarat
* Boom Tarat Tarat (Christmas Version, Halloween Version)
* Scent of Borat
* Bulaklak
* Ms. Flawless
* Puppy Mo Ako
* Spaghetti Song
* Sumunod Sa Galaw ng Ilaw
* Totoy Bebot
* Otso-otso
* Wowowee
* Ye Ye Vonnel
* Don't Matter
* Bartender
* Girlfriend
* Elevator
* I Kissed A Girl
* Sulutera
* Buhay ng Gangsta

Yeng Constantino

Josephine "Yeng" Constantino (born December 4, 1988) is a popular reality TV winner of Pinoy Dream Academy—a Philippine edition of Endemol's Star Academy—a reality TV singing search in the Philippines.

Biography:

Yeng Constantino is the youngest child of Susan Constantino and Joselito Constantino and was born in Rodriguez, Rizal.

Josephine Constantino a.k.a Yeng is the first Grand Star Dreamer from ABS-CBN's Talent Reality Show, PINOY DREAM ACADEMY (PDA) or FAME Academy in other countries. At Age of 18, Yeng showed the filipino viewers her versatility in singing, Rockista Appeal and love for Writing and Composing her original songs. One of her very own composition "HAWAK KAMAY" topped most of the radio station's both in manila and provinces. and won the Best Theme Song at the MMFF as it was use by Star Cinema's "KASAL KASALI KASALO" as its official theme. After Winning at PDA, Dream Big Production launched her debut album called "SALAMAT" with its carrier single "SALAMAT", the album reached GOLD from its 1st week and later was reached 3x Platinum. Most of the tracks from the album such as Pangarap Lang, Cool Off, Time IN, Salamat topped most of the radio station's. Yeng also done a successful series of Concert Tours Worldwide and was debuted her very 1st and overwhelming concert in the philippines, entitled "ROCK ENROLL- Yeng Constantino's Rock to School Concert". Now, yeng was a mainstay at ABS-CBN's no.1 Variety Show "ASAP'07"

Grand Star Dreamer:

As the "Grand Star Dreamer", Constantino received a brand-new Suzuki Swift, a condominium unit at G.A. Towers, a 60-inch SXRD Sony Bravia TV, a Touch music video unit, a Belgian Waffle dine-in franchise, a recording contract with Star Records, and 1 million pesos from Fitrum.

Career:

Constantino won the competition becoming the first "Grand Star Dreamer" of Pinoy Dream Academy, garnering a total of 697,648 votes (37.32%); followed by Jay-R Siaboc (first runner-up) with 612,767 votes (32.77%). Her career continuously booms in radio and TV airwaves.

After Winning as the Grand Star Dreamer, Star Records/ Dream Music launched Yeng's debut albut titled "salamat" which was overwhelmingly accepted by public as it reached 3x platinum reords or sold over 90,000 copies.

Other than having a concert tour worlwide, Yeng is doin some Print add modelling for such products as Persi and Globe. Yeng being new to the showbizness receives ton's of awards such as "Best new Artist", "Pop Album Awards", "Best Movie Theme song for Kasal Kasali Kasalo", Yeng also has been choosen to sing theme songs from Judy Ann Santo's Teleserye "ysabella" and Movie " Sakal Sakali Saklol".

And On February 15, Her Musch awaited sophomore Album title "Journey" will be launch on ASAP 08. The Album contains 12 tracks, and most of it are all written by Yeng here self. The carrier single of the said album is calle "Di Na Ganun".

Rico J. Puno

Rico J. Puno (born as Enrico de Jesus Puno on February 13, 1953) is a popular Filipino pop singing artist who is credited as a pioneer-promoter of original Filipino music. He started the trend of incorporating Tagalog lyrics in his rendition of the American song The Way We Were and other foreign songs. Also known as Rico J. and as The Total Entertainer, Puno is a singer who regularly infused his on-stage performance with comedy and jokes.

Personal:

Puno was born in Manila to parents, Felipe Puno Sr. and Corazon J. Puno. Although he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the Philippine School of Business Administration, Puno dreamed of becoming a singer.

Singing Career:

Puno introduced himself and his talent to the entertainment business by performing at folk houses and small clubs in Metro Manila. In 1975, while singing at the Palazzi, Puno met and performed with the American Motown group, The Temptations. Puno’s talent was later noticed by the executive producers from Vicor Records. His first record was Love Won't Let Me Wait, while his first big hit was the Tagalog-infused The Way We Were.

In 1976, Puno won the Aliw Award for Most Promising Entertainer. Two years later, he became Aliw's Entertainer of the Year. His Rico in Concert show at the Cultural Center of the Philippines launched him as one of the foremost Philippine pop stars. In 1978, Puno’s popularity and his regular concerts at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City and his performance tours in the United States broke records in terms of audience attendance. His fame also made him into a sought-after product endorser including advertisements for San Miguel Beer Corporation in the 1970s.

In 1979, Puno represented the Philippines at the Tokyo Music Festival in 1979, with Lupa (Dirt), a song that imparted messages on how an individual could strive to change for the better, on how to gain humility and other human values, on how not to judge others, and on how to struggle against one’s own weaknesses.

Hit Songs:

Puno’s hit songs included Kapalaran (Fate), Buhat (Ever Since), Macho Guwapito (Good-looking Young Gigolo), Lupa (Dirt), Damdamin (Feelings), May Bukas Pa (There's Still Tomorrow), Ang Tao'y Marupok (People are Weak), Magkasuyo Buong Gabi (Together Through the Night) - a duet with Elsa Chan - and his Filipino rendition of You Don't Have to Be a Star (to Be in My Show).

One of Puno’s recent album is Aliw by BMG Records. Its carrier single was Kay Hirap Mong Limutin (It is Difficult to Forget You) by Lito Camo.

Popularity:

Among his contemporaries in the original Filipino music industry, Puno is one of the still consistently-active performers since he launched his career in 1975. The duration of his career as a Philippine singer now spans three decades. He became a favorite of the Philippine Amusement and Games Corporation (PAGCOR) and other casinos around Metro Manila and the provinces. His performances included tours in the United States, Canada, Dubai, Hong Kong, Japan, Australia and European countries.

The Big Five Concerts:

From 2001, the Greatest Hits series in Manila, produced by Viva Concerts helped maintain Puno’s popularity. These Greatest Hits concerts brought him together with other Greatest Hitmakers in the Philippine music scene during the 1980s, namely Philippine pop icons: Hajji Alejandro, Rey Valera, Nonoy Zuñiga and Marco Sison.

Beyond Showbusiness Boundaries:

From 1986 to 1987, Puno had a noontime variety show, "Lunch Date" over GMA-7. In 1994-1995 he headlined Chibugan Na (It's Eating Time), aired on weekdays at 12 noon on RPN 9, with Hajji Alejandro.

Puno is also the owner of the karaoke bar, Corix, at Vito Cruz Extension, Manila. He also manages a trucking business. In 1998, he became a Makati City councilor.

Passing The Torch:

During Puno’s recent performances, he is often joined on stage by his oldest daughter, Tosca.

Jonalyn Viray

Jonalyn Viray (born November 15, 1989 in San Mateo, Rizal, Philippines) is a Filipina singer from noted for her vocal ability. She is also known as "The Soul Princess."

Biography:

Jonalyn is the eldest of four children. She started joining singing contests in her early age, winning first runner-up on IBC's "Birit Bulilit" as a child and on "MTV Teen Pop Star." Her winning piece was Mariah Carey’s "Never Too Far." Growing up, Jonalyn, much like any aspiring singer, admired Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Regine Velasquez and later, Kelly Clarkson. She joined GMA Network's talent search Pinoy Pop Superstar and won with her rendition of Reflection by Lea Salonga. On its second week, she won again with her rendition of it might be you and make her a fix finalist when she sung Get Here on its following week. At the finals night, she first sang "It Might Be You." From the eight finalists, four were chosen: Jonalyn along with Charmaine Piamonte, Michael Garcia and the crowd’s favorite, Brenan Espartinez.

In the second bout involving four of them, Jonalyn sang Whitney Houston’s "Run to You." She was chosen to be one of the final two contenders, the other being Brenan who sang George Michael’s "Careless Whisper." In their face off, they both sang "My Miracle" and it was Jonalyn who emerged as the champ. Among her prize winnings was a P100,000 gift certificate from Belo Medical Group which she notoriously availed by undergoing rhinoplasty and other cosmetic enhancements at a young age to improve her marketability.

Present, On My Own:

Finally, the time has come for Pinoy Pop Superstar Jonalyn Viray to shine on her own as GMA Records releases her debut album “On My Own”. Jonalyn's first album is in fact a dream come true – from the little girl who aimed for a goal to reach her destiny, the young diva has now achieved that goal and made her dream a reality.

The petite belter now proves to everyone that she has made it as a singer with an album like “On My Own”. Now a GMA Artist Center talent, Jonalyn rightfully claimed the title of being the ultimate Pinoy Pop Superstar, besting aspiring singers from all over the Philippines. The amateur singing contest paved the way for the young lass and she is now reaping the fruits of her hard work. And with her first solo album, her talent sparkles even brighter with the ten tracks that highlight her vocal prowess. “Close to Where You Are”, Jonalyn's carrier single can effortlessly turn any listener to a fan. Composed by ace composer Danny Tan, this is the first song Jonalyn sang as a Pinoy Pop Superstar grand winner.

Jonalyn's renditions of “It Might Be You”, “Get Here”, and “Run To You” are for the young and old. She will aims to mesmerize listeners with her rendition of the Darna theme song “Di Na Mag-iisa”.

Jonalyn's soulful voice is in full force with “On My Own”. Pinoy Pop Superstar's “Soul Sister” sheds off the shyness of a former dreamer to wear the cloak of a certified diva.

Jonalyn also competed at the prestigious World Championships of Performing Arts in Hollywood and was awarded the Industry Award Female Vocal Solo for winning five gold medals.