Written by Joseph Cesar
Photos by Eunick Nobe
The “Prince of Pop” Erik Santos celebrated his 15th year in the Philippine music industry with some of his closest friends—those who have helped him in their own ways, whether it be through guidance, advice, or simply friendship. Of course, he thanked his fans for their never-ending support, too, throughout his career. Through thick and thin, his friends, family, and fans have all supported him and he couldn’t have thanked them better.
“Singing is about telling a story”
-Erik Santos
 
WATCH: Video of ‘Star in a Million’ 2003 Finalist Singing at the Mall Goes Viral
Erik Santos opened his heart and shared with this fans the struggles he faced along the way through a sing-and-tell. Through it, he talked about his natural yet one-sided attraction for singing at a young age, using the pandesal his mother buys as a mic while perched on a table. Despite his love for singing, it didn’t seem to love him back as he would lose in the contests he joined. But at the age of nine, he finally placed 3rd and got his very first 500 pesos through singing.
The way he serenaded the crowd while explaining his journey from failure to success was truly endearing, garnering laughter and applause from the audience.
Some of Santos’ closest friends in the music industry showed support by performing for him, and with him. The first was a blast from the past as his former competitors, and now friends, performed with him. Erik Santos, Christian Bautista, and the contestants of former ABS-CBN singing contest Star in a Million sang the hit song from the movie The Greatest Showman—A Million Dreams.
The audience was kept on their toes with an endless stream of amazing singers. Moira, Kayla, Yeng, and Angeline Quinto all joined voices to sing “Kulang Ako Kung Wala Ka” by Erik Santos himself.
Vina Morales also entered, singing “Maging Sino ka Man”, shortly followed by Ogie Alcasid serenading Erik and the audience with “May Bukas Pa”.
Indeed, the concert was filled with surprises. Even Martin Nievera put on a show. But perhaps the biggest surprise is the return of all-around performer Gary Valenciano who recently underwent a bypass surgery due to cancer. With a smile as energetic as ever, he stood from his seat and, once again, sang.
Entrancing, spectacular, and simply amazing…these are the words that can describe Erik Santos’ 15th year concert. Backed by friends, family, and fans, he shared this very important milestone in his career.
What is your all-time favorite Erik Santos song? Tell us in the comments!
