The number 50 is the common denominator of original Pilipino music (OPM) icons: Philippine’s Premiere Balladeer Basil Valdez, Asia’s Nightingale Lani Misalucha, and National Artist for Music, maestro Ryan Cayabyab. Ryan and Basil started their musical careers 50 years ago or the birth year of Lani, who is now 50 years old. However, the tie that really binds them is of course the love of music, especially OPM. They shared that and their journey in life at their two-day concert “And The Story Begins” on February 28 and 29 at Newport Performing Arts Theater of Resorts World Manila.
It will be the first time for these three OPM greats to perform together in a concert
The concert was truly a casting coup and delivered a number of firsts for both the artists and the audience. First off, it was the first time for them to perform together. During the press conference for the concert held at El Calle Music Hall at Newport Mall, Ryan and Basil reminisced about their earlier collaborations.
“I started my career in 1970 as a folk singer and then later joined the Circus Band. I met Ryan in 1977 and he helped produce my first album, Ngayon at Kailanman,” says Basil. He also shares that he is planning to record an all-original album after an album of cover songs due to be released this year.
Basil sang songs composed by Ryan, George Canseco, and Jimmy Paraiso at the concert, including all-time favorite OPM hits Nais Ko, Paraisong Parisukat, Kahit Ika’y Panaginip Lang, Hanggang sa Dulo Ng Walang Hanggan, You, Ngayon at Kailanman, and Lead Me Lord. The concert marks his 50th year as a singer, thus he promised to sing his life out. This was something I really looked forward to since we do not really hear much about his private life (he is known for his almost reclusive lifestyle). He also reveals that he doesn’t have any social media presence and does not really keep track of events.
Duets of Asia’s Nightingale and the Philippine’s Premiere Balladeer is a much-awaited highlight of “And The Story Begins” concert
Lani Misalucha, who has staged stints at prestigious clubs and music lounges in Las Vegas that earned her the moniker ‘Siren of The Strip’, sang her latest single live for the first time during the press conference. From the sound of it, “I Can’t Give Anymore” is going to be a surefire hit. I expect it to dominate the airwaves soon and become the latest “hugot” song of the ladies.
Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, fondly called Mr. C in the local entertainment circuit, is looking forward to doing OPM classics with Basil and newer songs with Lani. The concert was a welcome break from heavy performances in full-length ballets, theater musicals, orchestral pieces, film scores, and television specials that keep him busy. He also celebrates his 50th year in the music industry.
“And The Story Begins” was organized by CCC Productions and directed by Marvin Caldito. It also featured the Manila Symphony Orchestra String Ensemble. Visit www.rwmanila.com or download the RWM Mobile App for more upcoming entertainment events at the country’s premier entertainment and lifestyle destination, Resorts World Manila.
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