by Jojo P. Panaligan
Manila Bulletin
Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez showed nothing in her 20th anniversary concert, "Twenty," at the Araneta Coliseum last weekend that her fans have not seen before.
And that's good news.
The songstress, after all, was celebrating a career milestone in terms of tenure. Few last as long as she has in the business. Certainly there's nothing to prove from her end; the numbers, they speak volumes and on her behalf.
As for her fans, all they expected and deserved from Regine in "Twenty" were to be reminded how she lasted, why, and what she has to show for all these times.
So dutifully, she did.
The first, she accomplished easily enough through the repertoire. Two and half hour did Regine sing 80 percent originals including top hits from the 30 plus albums she has done so far. Among these were "Narito Ako," "You've Made Me Stronger," "Please Be Careful with My Heart," "Dadalhin" and "Kailangan Ko'y Ikaw."
egine's treasure trove of smash hits is so gargantuan that she had to resort to doing several medleys to accommodate as many of these as possible. Yet despite "Twenty" running longer than the usual concert, it still wasn't enough to include all of her hits. Noticeably missing from these was "Kung Maibabalik Ko Lang" and "Urong Sulong" which became her first bona fide charters in the '80s.
To compensate, the Songbird had the lesser known "Love Me Again" (her first single, issued when she was still Chona Velasquez) orchestrally rearranged by Gerard Salonga to sound like an OPM classic that it should've been. In lieu of "Urong Sulong," there was the novelty of club remix of ballads "Reason Enough" and "Follow the Sun."
As for Regine lasting this long, the answer lies not in the concert but the current OPM scene. Most of our top-selling new female singers are still and mere parrots of her in terms of vocal acrobatics and predilection to show off high range.
Is that bad? Not really. Is that good? Not really.
But, 'Is it original?' is question that could be answered straightforwardly: No.
For if Regine could only charge 10-cent royalty every time some amateur female singer clones her, then she probably wouldn't need to work.
We bring this up because people heard the same singing style and prowess from Regine in "Twenty." By and of the same voice so powerful to have remained paramount.
Regine's birit way of singing (screaming, detractors call it) has caused waves so big throughout the industry that its ripples have no way to go but redound to her and in "Twenty."
Many like the voice, some don't - it's not the point. What matters is that few could deny they have been touched by it one way or another.
That is power - the same one we heard in "Twenty" in songs as "In Your Eyes," "And I'm Telling You," "You'll Never Walk Alone," "What Kind of Fool Am I" and "I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing."
All covers, yes, but all stylized by Regine in such a manner as to own these.
Two decades of reign is more than enough testament to Regine's talent. Yet Asia's Songbird doesn't rest on her laurels. Despite having done concerts literally hundreds of times, sung the same songs for the nth time, too, she remains hungry to offer people a new perspective into who she is and her music via well-conceptualized productions.
That even if Regine's selling point will always be her voice, it doesn't mean she relies on it wholly.
Hence, the 60-piece orchestra backing her up in "Twenty." Hence, the expense to turn the Big Dome into a Roman Coliseum with a grand staircase to boot. Hence, the "flying" dancers. Hence, she dancing even when it was unnecessary.
Asia's Songbird aims to please people in many ways. Hence, successful returns in many levels, too.
Regine was able to last this long by constantly refueling her career with hit songs of varying genres through out the journey.
Regine has reached "Twenty" years in the business because others, from past to present, could only approximate the power and impact of her voice. If this goes on, then so will she.Regine has earned the clout to make her every project according to how she envisions it to be. And usually it's vision grand as befits her stature. Not everyone could do the same.
Then again, and like what she says in one of her popular T.V. shows, "there could only be one." Regine Velasquez.
Showing posts with label Concert Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Concert Review. Show all posts
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Songbird gets emotional in ‘Twenty’
By Ronald Mangubat
Inquirer
Last updated 00:48am (Mla time) 10/21/2006
Published on page F4 of the October 21, 2006 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer
REGINE Velasquez, arguably the most successful singer in the country today, unabashedly cried twice in her recent concert, “Twenty,” at the Araneta Coliseum. The show celebrates two colorful decades of success in the business. After an operetta-inspired opening, where Velasquez sang about her humble beginnings, and the joys and pains of a performer, she got emotional during her opening spiel. “Marami noon ang nagsabing hindi ako magtatagumpay, kasi hindi daw ako kagandahan, at hindi pa marunong mag-Ingles,” she confessed to a crowd that applauded her honesty and spontaneity. “Akala ko, naubos ko na ang luha ko kagabi (we watched the second night’s show), kaso, hindi ko mapigil, e!”
Outburst
The second emotional outburst happened toward the last part of the show when, prior to singing Didith Reyes’ “Bakit Ako Mahihiya?” (one of her winning pieces when she started joining singing contests), she narrated how her mother pawned an old ring so she and her father would have money for bus fare.
As her parents were shown on the video wall, she tearfully verbalized her gratitude:
“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa Diyos dahil kayo ang naging mga magulang ko. Mahal na mahal ko kayo!”Aside from those soggy moments, the two-hour musical treat was well-conceptualized and highly entertaining, with Velasquez doing what some singers fail to achieve -- establish a strong connection to her audience.
Jokes
Admitting she was not in her element that night, with her speaking voice hoarse (“…kasi itinodo ko ang pagkanta kagabi. Nasobrahan yata”), she made fun of the situation by cracking jokes. “Alam ko, wala akong gaanong boses ngayon, kaya dinadaan ko na lang sa ganda!” And, to a member of the audience who kept shrieking at the top his voice, she retaliated: “Mas mataas pa ang boses mo sa akin, bakla!”Regine compared her 20-year singing career to a love affair. In fact, she said it’s been a series of “love affairs” between her and the people with whom she has shared her musical passion -- composers, arrangers, co-singers, directors, photographers, even wardrobe designers.
Flirtatious looks
Her former musical arrangers/directors -- Louie Ocampo, Tats Faustino and Gerard Salonga -- joined her onstage to either play the piano or conduct the Manila Symphony Orchestra. Asia’s Songbird also sang her hit duets -- this time, with Jed Madela, Eric Santos, Gabby Eigenmann, Dennis Trillo, Mark Bautista and Shyrock’s lead vocalist, Mark Tupas. Of course, to heighten the thrill, Robin Padilla went up the stage to exchange flirtatious looks with Regine.But, it was her trademark songs, made more famous by bravura belting, that elicited the most cheers from the responsive audience. While she mostly spoke in whispers during spiels, her ability to beautifully reach almost-impossible notes never failed to impress. In a country where birit (high pitch) is regarded as a benchmark of good singing, Velasquez reigns supreme.
In fact, three of her old winning pieces, “What Kind of Fool Am I?,” “And I’m Telling You,” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” got much-deserved ovations -- because the Songbird reached those songs’ extremely high notes with relative ease.
Softer versions
Regine is undoubtedly a great chanteuse who, through the years, has deepened her vocal interpretations with the right emotions. We still like her birit, but we like her mellow, softer versions better. A case in point is “The Music of Goodbye,” the theme song from the movie, “Out of Africa,” which she sang while sitting on the stage floor. For us, the first strains of the song were more haunting and moving than the last bars, which she belted out in melodious albeit screaming fashion.
To us, the most touching part of the show was when Velasquez sang a medley of her winning pieces, while footage of her early years as a struggling singer was shown on the big screen: The video showed an awkward, coy singer, but the woman singing onstage has finally grown into a mature, confident and sophisticated artist.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Regine sizzles @ 20
Den Torrecampo
RVML
To prove one's staying power in twenty years, moreover by celebritystandards, is no small feat in today's rapidly changing world, notto mention musical tastes. Yet Regine @ Twenty continues tomesmerize and enthrall us with iconic performances only the likes ofgenuine performers and true artists can muster.
Twenty, the concert, is also a major treat especially for those whomay have missed Regine performing live in one of her previousengagements, or simply yearning to look back at those powerfulsnippets of the Songbird's winning concert moments.
As her story unfolds in a series of songs that in one way or anotherbecame the soundtrack of our lives, suddenly the memories come aliveand the music that came with them given new grit and meaning as onlyone with Regine's musical caliber can convey.
Refreshingly, she did not resort to a lot of theatrical gimmickryand instead opened to a self-reassuring "Narito Ako" as her aptopening. With the changing of the musical directors and therearrangements of songs she has brought to a higher musical andemotional level, surprising twists became the order of the day andthe audiences gasped anew with abated breath and increasingexpectation.
With every note and every sigh, the Songbird delivers with so muchaplomb that the depth of her emotions and the might of her vocalpower unleashed anew the ephemeral mystery in her music that night.In short, the stamps classic and eternal became of her renditionsold and new.
In the end, Twenty left no doubt about the songs and the songbird'sstatus as the force to reckon with in the years to come. This early,we can't help but anticipate the next twenty years ahead which willperhaps prove more challenging as the previous twenty was no easyact to follow--with its unmistakable surge of ground-breaking, chart-busting and best of all original performances.
Still, there remain so many stones left unturned for her, not to saypersonal wishes that hopefully Regine would lend an ear to: a back-to-back with another major musical icon, Gary V (for sure, we'veseen enough of her collaborations with Ogie and Martin), a tributeto some of her idols such as Kuh Ledesma and Sharon Cuneta, amusical theater-inspired homage (she did stage acting before andalmost became one of our beloved Kims in Miss Saigon)…and who knowswhat other original ideas Regine is sure to be cooking up.
That night was an emotional (uplifting in its sincerity), mostconfident (even sexy in those well-crafted threads she wore withmore matured elan) yet reassuringly down-to-earth Regine who knowswhere she is and is more than thankful for the gift of music.
To fly again, to soar once more, to reign anew in the next twentyyears--the excitement only keeps building up over Regine's nextmoves. She's simply got what it takes to win our hearts with hersongs, and we're definitely watching next time around!
RVML
To prove one's staying power in twenty years, moreover by celebritystandards, is no small feat in today's rapidly changing world, notto mention musical tastes. Yet Regine @ Twenty continues tomesmerize and enthrall us with iconic performances only the likes ofgenuine performers and true artists can muster.
Twenty, the concert, is also a major treat especially for those whomay have missed Regine performing live in one of her previousengagements, or simply yearning to look back at those powerfulsnippets of the Songbird's winning concert moments.
As her story unfolds in a series of songs that in one way or anotherbecame the soundtrack of our lives, suddenly the memories come aliveand the music that came with them given new grit and meaning as onlyone with Regine's musical caliber can convey.
Refreshingly, she did not resort to a lot of theatrical gimmickryand instead opened to a self-reassuring "Narito Ako" as her aptopening. With the changing of the musical directors and therearrangements of songs she has brought to a higher musical andemotional level, surprising twists became the order of the day andthe audiences gasped anew with abated breath and increasingexpectation.
With every note and every sigh, the Songbird delivers with so muchaplomb that the depth of her emotions and the might of her vocalpower unleashed anew the ephemeral mystery in her music that night.In short, the stamps classic and eternal became of her renditionsold and new.
In the end, Twenty left no doubt about the songs and the songbird'sstatus as the force to reckon with in the years to come. This early,we can't help but anticipate the next twenty years ahead which willperhaps prove more challenging as the previous twenty was no easyact to follow--with its unmistakable surge of ground-breaking, chart-busting and best of all original performances.
Still, there remain so many stones left unturned for her, not to saypersonal wishes that hopefully Regine would lend an ear to: a back-to-back with another major musical icon, Gary V (for sure, we'veseen enough of her collaborations with Ogie and Martin), a tributeto some of her idols such as Kuh Ledesma and Sharon Cuneta, amusical theater-inspired homage (she did stage acting before andalmost became one of our beloved Kims in Miss Saigon)…and who knowswhat other original ideas Regine is sure to be cooking up.
That night was an emotional (uplifting in its sincerity), mostconfident (even sexy in those well-crafted threads she wore withmore matured elan) yet reassuringly down-to-earth Regine who knowswhere she is and is more than thankful for the gift of music.
To fly again, to soar once more, to reign anew in the next twentyyears--the excitement only keeps building up over Regine's nextmoves. She's simply got what it takes to win our hearts with hersongs, and we're definitely watching next time around!
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Review: TWENTY
by 2net
RVML
According to veteran director Freddie Santos, Regine Velasquez's latestperformance is always her best. I find that true and remarkable since Reginehas been singing for 2 decades and she has maintained that vocal ability.
The show kicked off with "Narito Ako." Three women posed as Regine near theRoman pillars of the huge stage. Regine popped out at the center coming frombelow. She told the audience of her past through song. So "Narito Ako" wasnot sung straight, there were parts of songs from her childhood: "Buhat,""Mr. DJ," "Pangarap na Bituin," "Bakit Ako Mahihiya" and "In Your Eyes." Hervoice was already quivering a bit which signaled to us the emotional natureof the concert. Regine looked like a gift for she had a big bow at her naveland she presented herself like a gift by getting out of her robe throughopening that bow.
In a few seconds, she did "Call Me." The moment I heard that song in the"Covers 2" album, I knew that it would be a great song to start a show sinceit gets the heart racing. In some parts of the song, she sounded husky.After watching so many shows of Regine, I thought to myself: "Oh, my... shemight not have a speaking voice." She confirmed it when she began to talk."Kagabi po medyo tinodo ko, pasensya na po kayo - medyo malat ako ngayonggabi." She drank tea or water from time to time to soothe her throat.
She dwelt on her past that brought out tears. "Akala ko naiyak ko na lahatkagabi, may'ron pa rin pala... kaya nga actress na 'ko ngayon." What she wassaying was painful but she softened it with humor. "Noong nagsisimula palang ako, maraming nagsasabing wala naman daw akong mararating kasi hindinaman daw ako kagandahan.. . pero hindi ko po pinaayos ang mukha ko.
Maramiding nagsabi na hindi raw ako sisikat kasi hindi ako marunong mag-Englishkasi galing akong Bulacan eh. Nag-aral nga ako sa Mababang Paaralan ngBalagtas, Bulacan. But, I'm still here and it has been 20 years." Theaudience was with her in her exultation.
Love Affairs
Regine was quick to acknowledge that her ascent to the top would not havehappened without the help and support of many people. She considers herrelationship with those people as "love affairs." First of was her affairwith photographers: her family, fans and the one responsible for her glamourshots, Jun de Leon. She dedicated the song "Shine" to them for they make hershine through the photos they have taken of her.
Next to be thanked was the producer of Regine's movies - Vic del Rosario."Boss Vic, maraming, maraming salamat kasi ikaw lang ang naniwala na puwedepala akong artista." He saw her playing Maria Clara in the musical, "Noli MeTangere" and at that point, he decided to cast her in "Wanted: PerfectMother" - the movie that launched her career as a lead actress. When herkissing scenes from her movies were being flashed, the girly-girl ("kikay")spirit in her sneaked out. "I like to play different characters. Not tomention, I get to kiss all these cute guys. Actually, 'yon lang naman anginaasam ko. 'Yon lang naman ang habol ko do'n."
Her movie theme songs medleyfollowed: "You Are My Song," "Pangako," "Pangarap Ko ang Ibigin Ka," "Ikaw"and "Kailangan Ko'y Ikaw."
The focus shifted a little to the dancers (Hotlegs). They were with Reginein a production number that had an innovative arrangement combining"Buttons" and "Don't Cha" by the Pussycat Dolls with "Hotstuff" and "ShakeYour Groove Thing." In the latter part of the show, she stressed herappreciation for the dancers' work through the years by letting them takecenter stage in the "Music of Goodbye." I kept waiting for Regine to do thissong in a major concert. I thought its chance had passed when it was notincluded in the "R2K the Concert."
Composers or songwriters play a major role in Regine's success. It isthrough their songs that Regine's music career is defined. The songwriterwhom she has worked with often is Ogie Alcasid. Surprisingly, her 2 favoriteworks of his are not done by her. To express her gratitude to him, she sangthem - "Kailangan Kita" and "Ikaw Lamang."
Upon noticing the crowd's enthusiastic response to her costume changes (shehad 5 - dark pink, lipstick red, royal blue, flesh and white), Regine was sothoughtful in mentioning her fashion designers. The first one to dress herup was Louie Mamengo. When Louie went to the U.S., he entrusted her to RajoLaurel. Now, Regine is also working with Pepsi Herrera and Edwin Tan.
Signature Songs
It was when she paid tribute to her musical directors and musicians that hersignature songs were featured: "On the Wings of Love," "What Kind of Fool AmI," "Dadalhin (acoustic version)," "Sana Maulit Muli" and "I Don't WannaMiss a Thing." By doing these songs, her mastery, intensity as well as,sensitivity were exhibited. I thought her not having a speaking voice woulddeter her from belting but apparently not so. She went full throttle inhitting those high notes. She certainly knew where to get that voice frominside her.
The choir (U.P. Singing Ambassadors) accompanied Regine in "On the Wings ofLove." The arrangement of the song was similar to the one they used in "OneNight with Regine." Regine was given a thunderous applause for herperformance. She was amused by it that she was late in introducing thechoir, they already left the stage. She wittily said, "Ay, wala na sila...ingat kayo."
The audience could not contain their astonishment that they gave her astanding ovation after "What Kind of Fool Am I." Who would not stand up andclap for her when she did that difficult song sitting on the ground? Theaudience's reaction made her speechless while she remained sitting there.
Future
Having done more than 30 duets, Regine did the memorable ones. She hit 2birds with 1 stone here. She did not only honor the male artists shecollaborated with, she also ushered a new batch of male singers she recentlyand would soon work with. Regine sang "Please Be Careful with My Heart," "Forever," "It's Hard to Say Goodbye," "Magkasuyo Buong Gabi," "In Love withYou" and "Hanggang Ngayon" with Dennis Trillo, Jed Maddela, Gabby Eigenmann,Mark Bautista, Mark of Shamrock and Erik Santos respectively. All joined inin the song, "Muli." They were very mindful of each singer's musical abilitythat they were able to match the appropriate song to each of them gettingfavorable results. Dennis was the most popular while Jed gave the bestperformance among them.
In one of Regine's costume changes, they played a club mix of "ReasonEnough," "You've Made Me Stronger" and "Follow the Sun" to which MarkHerras, Migs Eugenio, Marky Cielo and KidsatWork danced to. Any enterprisingrecord company should take note of this segment for they can tap into a newmarket by releasing remixes of Regine's beautiful old songs.
Personal
Songs Regine considered special for they opened doors for her ensued. Shegave sincere and at the same time, powerful renditions of "Love Me Again"(her first single), "In Your Eyes," "And I'm Telling You (I'm Not Going)"and "You'll Never Walk Alone" (her contest pieces).
A few weeks before the show, I read the repertoire. I could not understandwhy there would be a spot number for "Bakit Ako Mahihiya" when it is not anoriginal song of Regine and it is already at the start. After hearing herspiel, I totally got it. The song was taught to her by her father for acontest when she was a kid so it is of great value to her. She shared to usthe hardships her parents endured when she was still an up-and-coming singerlike her mother pawning her wedding ring just to have money for Regine's andher father's transportation in going to t.v. guestings. Many were touchedwhen she tearfully said, "may'ron man akong konting sinakripisyo, okay lang'yon kasi malaking-malaki naman ang sinakripisyo n'yo para sa 'kin. I wantyou to know that I'm very proud to be your daughter and I thank God na kayoang pinili Niyang maging parents ko." Then she turned sentimental and sultryin singing the song.
In ending the show, she chose inspirational songs - "Greatest Love of All"and "I Believe" - that summed up her thoughts. The encore was "'Til I MetYou" that she sang beside her leading man (Robin Padilla) in the currentmovie of the same title.
Missed
Regine thanked everybody who had a part in her career. Unfortunately, theone who gave her a break in concerts (Gary Valenciano) was not there.Regine's first concert performance was in Gary's show. So Regine reallywished for Gary to be there. In fact, there was a solo spot number for himin the original repertoire. It was quite sad that he could not participatein such a momentous event.
Walking around the Araneta Coliseum after the show, I saw many adolescents exiting the venue. It was like seeing myself for it was in that stage (puberty) that Regine first caught my attention. That was 19 years ago. If Regine continues to give her best in every performance like what she did in the concert, I am pretty sure that she will always have the admiration of not just the people at present but also of future generations.
2net :)
Stage Direction: Regine Velasquez and Ronnie HenaresMusical
Direction: Raul Mitra, Louie Ocampo, Tats Faustino, Gerard Salonga, Mark Lopez and Prof. Arturo Molina
Musicians: Manila Symphony Orchestra II
Band: Bond Samson, Cesar Aguas, Sonny Matias, Tek Faustino, Miong ?
Guests: U.P. Singing Ambassadors conducted by Ed Mangan, Wyeth ProgiftedKids (Joseph Valdes, Paulina Gutierrez, Pocholo Gutierrez and Jacob Sarreal), Dennis Trillo, Jed Maddela, Gabby Eigenmann, Mark Bautista, Markof Shamrock and Erik SantosDancers: Hotlegs, Mark Herras, Migs Eugenio, Marky Cielo and Kids at Work
RVML
According to veteran director Freddie Santos, Regine Velasquez's latestperformance is always her best. I find that true and remarkable since Reginehas been singing for 2 decades and she has maintained that vocal ability.
The show kicked off with "Narito Ako." Three women posed as Regine near theRoman pillars of the huge stage. Regine popped out at the center coming frombelow. She told the audience of her past through song. So "Narito Ako" wasnot sung straight, there were parts of songs from her childhood: "Buhat,""Mr. DJ," "Pangarap na Bituin," "Bakit Ako Mahihiya" and "In Your Eyes." Hervoice was already quivering a bit which signaled to us the emotional natureof the concert. Regine looked like a gift for she had a big bow at her naveland she presented herself like a gift by getting out of her robe throughopening that bow.
In a few seconds, she did "Call Me." The moment I heard that song in the"Covers 2" album, I knew that it would be a great song to start a show sinceit gets the heart racing. In some parts of the song, she sounded husky.After watching so many shows of Regine, I thought to myself: "Oh, my... shemight not have a speaking voice." She confirmed it when she began to talk."Kagabi po medyo tinodo ko, pasensya na po kayo - medyo malat ako ngayonggabi." She drank tea or water from time to time to soothe her throat.
She dwelt on her past that brought out tears. "Akala ko naiyak ko na lahatkagabi, may'ron pa rin pala... kaya nga actress na 'ko ngayon." What she wassaying was painful but she softened it with humor. "Noong nagsisimula palang ako, maraming nagsasabing wala naman daw akong mararating kasi hindinaman daw ako kagandahan.. . pero hindi ko po pinaayos ang mukha ko.
Maramiding nagsabi na hindi raw ako sisikat kasi hindi ako marunong mag-Englishkasi galing akong Bulacan eh. Nag-aral nga ako sa Mababang Paaralan ngBalagtas, Bulacan. But, I'm still here and it has been 20 years." Theaudience was with her in her exultation.
Love Affairs
Regine was quick to acknowledge that her ascent to the top would not havehappened without the help and support of many people. She considers herrelationship with those people as "love affairs." First of was her affairwith photographers: her family, fans and the one responsible for her glamourshots, Jun de Leon. She dedicated the song "Shine" to them for they make hershine through the photos they have taken of her.
Next to be thanked was the producer of Regine's movies - Vic del Rosario."Boss Vic, maraming, maraming salamat kasi ikaw lang ang naniwala na puwedepala akong artista." He saw her playing Maria Clara in the musical, "Noli MeTangere" and at that point, he decided to cast her in "Wanted: PerfectMother" - the movie that launched her career as a lead actress. When herkissing scenes from her movies were being flashed, the girly-girl ("kikay")spirit in her sneaked out. "I like to play different characters. Not tomention, I get to kiss all these cute guys. Actually, 'yon lang naman anginaasam ko. 'Yon lang naman ang habol ko do'n."
Her movie theme songs medleyfollowed: "You Are My Song," "Pangako," "Pangarap Ko ang Ibigin Ka," "Ikaw"and "Kailangan Ko'y Ikaw."
The focus shifted a little to the dancers (Hotlegs). They were with Reginein a production number that had an innovative arrangement combining"Buttons" and "Don't Cha" by the Pussycat Dolls with "Hotstuff" and "ShakeYour Groove Thing." In the latter part of the show, she stressed herappreciation for the dancers' work through the years by letting them takecenter stage in the "Music of Goodbye." I kept waiting for Regine to do thissong in a major concert. I thought its chance had passed when it was notincluded in the "R2K the Concert."
Composers or songwriters play a major role in Regine's success. It isthrough their songs that Regine's music career is defined. The songwriterwhom she has worked with often is Ogie Alcasid. Surprisingly, her 2 favoriteworks of his are not done by her. To express her gratitude to him, she sangthem - "Kailangan Kita" and "Ikaw Lamang."
Upon noticing the crowd's enthusiastic response to her costume changes (shehad 5 - dark pink, lipstick red, royal blue, flesh and white), Regine was sothoughtful in mentioning her fashion designers. The first one to dress herup was Louie Mamengo. When Louie went to the U.S., he entrusted her to RajoLaurel. Now, Regine is also working with Pepsi Herrera and Edwin Tan.
Signature Songs
It was when she paid tribute to her musical directors and musicians that hersignature songs were featured: "On the Wings of Love," "What Kind of Fool AmI," "Dadalhin (acoustic version)," "Sana Maulit Muli" and "I Don't WannaMiss a Thing." By doing these songs, her mastery, intensity as well as,sensitivity were exhibited. I thought her not having a speaking voice woulddeter her from belting but apparently not so. She went full throttle inhitting those high notes. She certainly knew where to get that voice frominside her.
The choir (U.P. Singing Ambassadors) accompanied Regine in "On the Wings ofLove." The arrangement of the song was similar to the one they used in "OneNight with Regine." Regine was given a thunderous applause for herperformance. She was amused by it that she was late in introducing thechoir, they already left the stage. She wittily said, "Ay, wala na sila...ingat kayo."
The audience could not contain their astonishment that they gave her astanding ovation after "What Kind of Fool Am I." Who would not stand up andclap for her when she did that difficult song sitting on the ground? Theaudience's reaction made her speechless while she remained sitting there.
Future
Having done more than 30 duets, Regine did the memorable ones. She hit 2birds with 1 stone here. She did not only honor the male artists shecollaborated with, she also ushered a new batch of male singers she recentlyand would soon work with. Regine sang "Please Be Careful with My Heart," "Forever," "It's Hard to Say Goodbye," "Magkasuyo Buong Gabi," "In Love withYou" and "Hanggang Ngayon" with Dennis Trillo, Jed Maddela, Gabby Eigenmann,Mark Bautista, Mark of Shamrock and Erik Santos respectively. All joined inin the song, "Muli." They were very mindful of each singer's musical abilitythat they were able to match the appropriate song to each of them gettingfavorable results. Dennis was the most popular while Jed gave the bestperformance among them.
In one of Regine's costume changes, they played a club mix of "ReasonEnough," "You've Made Me Stronger" and "Follow the Sun" to which MarkHerras, Migs Eugenio, Marky Cielo and KidsatWork danced to. Any enterprisingrecord company should take note of this segment for they can tap into a newmarket by releasing remixes of Regine's beautiful old songs.
Personal
Songs Regine considered special for they opened doors for her ensued. Shegave sincere and at the same time, powerful renditions of "Love Me Again"(her first single), "In Your Eyes," "And I'm Telling You (I'm Not Going)"and "You'll Never Walk Alone" (her contest pieces).
A few weeks before the show, I read the repertoire. I could not understandwhy there would be a spot number for "Bakit Ako Mahihiya" when it is not anoriginal song of Regine and it is already at the start. After hearing herspiel, I totally got it. The song was taught to her by her father for acontest when she was a kid so it is of great value to her. She shared to usthe hardships her parents endured when she was still an up-and-coming singerlike her mother pawning her wedding ring just to have money for Regine's andher father's transportation in going to t.v. guestings. Many were touchedwhen she tearfully said, "may'ron man akong konting sinakripisyo, okay lang'yon kasi malaking-malaki naman ang sinakripisyo n'yo para sa 'kin. I wantyou to know that I'm very proud to be your daughter and I thank God na kayoang pinili Niyang maging parents ko." Then she turned sentimental and sultryin singing the song.
In ending the show, she chose inspirational songs - "Greatest Love of All"and "I Believe" - that summed up her thoughts. The encore was "'Til I MetYou" that she sang beside her leading man (Robin Padilla) in the currentmovie of the same title.
Missed
Regine thanked everybody who had a part in her career. Unfortunately, theone who gave her a break in concerts (Gary Valenciano) was not there.Regine's first concert performance was in Gary's show. So Regine reallywished for Gary to be there. In fact, there was a solo spot number for himin the original repertoire. It was quite sad that he could not participatein such a momentous event.
Walking around the Araneta Coliseum after the show, I saw many adolescents exiting the venue. It was like seeing myself for it was in that stage (puberty) that Regine first caught my attention. That was 19 years ago. If Regine continues to give her best in every performance like what she did in the concert, I am pretty sure that she will always have the admiration of not just the people at present but also of future generations.
2net :)
Stage Direction: Regine Velasquez and Ronnie HenaresMusical
Direction: Raul Mitra, Louie Ocampo, Tats Faustino, Gerard Salonga, Mark Lopez and Prof. Arturo Molina
Musicians: Manila Symphony Orchestra II
Band: Bond Samson, Cesar Aguas, Sonny Matias, Tek Faustino, Miong ?
Guests: U.P. Singing Ambassadors conducted by Ed Mangan, Wyeth ProgiftedKids (Joseph Valdes, Paulina Gutierrez, Pocholo Gutierrez and Jacob Sarreal), Dennis Trillo, Jed Maddela, Gabby Eigenmann, Mark Bautista, Markof Shamrock and Erik SantosDancers: Hotlegs, Mark Herras, Migs Eugenio, Marky Cielo and Kids at Work
Saturday, April 23, 2005
Red hot Pops and Regine set Atlantic City ablaze!
by Grethel Bolandrina
Pops and Regine have performed many times before, in Japan and Europe. They even performed early this year in the Philippines (February at the ULTRA), at a pre-valentine offering. This came to be what they took on a US concert Tour: Queens... on Fire. It is not your typical back to back concert where the majority of the show allows both artists to do solo acts. Here, it was really Pops and Regine, together, most of the time. It seemed that they sang 70-percent duets and songs turned into duets. Save for Star In A Million champion Erik Santos, now the Philippines' Prince of Pop. He was the only guest in this show and he held his own. Santos is all praises for both Pops and Regine. It is safe to say that, the entire audience felt the same. Queens... on Fire is indeed a collaboration showing unexpected concepts, new ideas and surprises highlighting the Queens' individual talents.
Pops and Regine are two very different performers. Regine belts out so well, while Pops is more into dance music. A wonder initially, as to how the show would flow. But it is this fact, their very diverse styles that made the show highly interesting. The variety was pleasing to everyone. There was a little bit of everything for everybody. They opened with comedic lines ala Dolphy and Panchito to which Pops was quick to claim she's Dolphy. Onwards to maybe ReyCards duet to which again, Pops maintained she'd have to be Rey! Both settled to some other comparisons like the WEA twins, if the audience could relate or even the Aldeguer sisters. We did see a more dancing-side of Regine, albeit done cornball-style. She was game and a good sport. Both Queens showed genuine onstage rapport. Just like regular friends shooting the breeze or chatting over a cup of tea, they mentioned their similarities: love of shopping, eating and mostly, their availability (that of being loveless at the moment). Both subscribing to the philosophy of constant reinvention, both dared to try new things, in music and clothes. Or the lack thereof, almost like the Kelly sisters (Chicago) in glittery tux complete with hat and a cane, Regine commented on their costumes' lack of pants. They sang "Fever" with grit and passion. Then there was the cabaret style of "Oops I Did It Again" ending with both exposing naked upper bodies a fraction of a second before the lights went out (initially behind heart shaped, high backed chairs).
Regine, as Asia's Songbird effortlessly rendered soaring ballads and show-stopping tunes like Fantasia Barrino’s "I Believe," the Metropop hit "Shine" and South Border’s "Wherever You Are" (rearranged to include a rhythm section). She did justice to "A Little Bit," "Suntok Sa Buwan" and "Wag Na Wag Mong Sasabihin". As for her costumes, one outfit in particular, a tan glittery dress was shorter than Pop's, showed more cleavage and cut lower in the back. One would be apt to ask, this is conservative? Those days must be gone because Regine here is anything but that. She's daring and baring!
Pops, the Concert Queen flawlessly delivered hip-hop hits, the latest dance craze and lavish production numbers. Her Beyonce (Naughty Girl, Lose My Breath and Crazy in Love) and Christina Aguilera/Britney Spears (Dirrty and My Prerogative) medleys makes one want to get up and move to the beat. True to being Concert Queen, Pops did her dance moves so well and looked extremely attractive with her fit and shapely physique emphasized in outfits that almost always showed off cleavage and legs. Her other well applauded numbers were "You take my breath away" and a medley of tunes done originally by male Filipino singers (Hanggang, Di Ko Kaya and Ikaw Nga).
Beyond all the grandeur of Atlantic City's Trump Taj Mahal Arena, the exciting production numbers, fresh musical arrangements, the fabulous gowns and costumes, the lively dancers, brilliant choreography, the entire show encompassed many music genres: rock, pop, dance and OPM. It was the ultimate showdown witnessed by proud Filipino Americans on this side of the US. This was highlighted by their vocal powers displayed when they did "Sana Maulit Muli" and "Kahit Isang Saglit" separately with Erik Santos only to conclude with all three artists and both songs culminating jointly in the end.
Of note, the show was a celebration of music, friendship and womanhood. Featuring songs about love, sentiments, fantasies and passions, the Queens aimed to empower women through music. "Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman" rendered sensual and exotic gives the males in the audience something to ponder. When someone yelled "Marteeeeen!" to Pops, she took it, tongue in cheek. Commented only on the shouter's accent. Said something about moving on. When someone else yelled "I love you" to Regine, she coyly responds "we'll talk later!"
The encore had Pops and Regine, in denims and identical white tank tops with huge red hearts, doing a medley of ’80s favorites "Gloria," "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun," "What Have You Done For Me Lately," "I’m So Excited" and "Telephone". Pops, again was in her element, complete with cute pigtails. All in all, the Queens brought out the best in each other, even with all their personal revelations, no one was cast in bad light, there was no rivalry apparent. Having the audience privy to their shortcomings just made them more endearing. Their entire repertoire lent them most entertaining, hot and most definitely, on fire!
Kudos are in order for the powers that made Queens... on Fire possible in Atlantic City. Congratulations to Ms. Ana Puno, President of Starmedia Entertainment and Drs. Ramon and Ching Legarda of Group Ole Incorporated. Big thanks to Smart Padala, the Law Offices of Michael J. Gurfinkel, Five Star Sea Cargo, Inc., Continental Airlines,and to TFC, Planet Philippines,NY, Perlas ng Silangan, and Diamond Hut Jewelers.
Queens... on Fire, a smash hit in Atlantic City, New Jersey continues on to Washington, DC, Saturday, April 23, 2005 at the DC Armory. Don't get burned, enjoy the must-see concert of the year, Queens... on Fire!
Pops and Regine have performed many times before, in Japan and Europe. They even performed early this year in the Philippines (February at the ULTRA), at a pre-valentine offering. This came to be what they took on a US concert Tour: Queens... on Fire. It is not your typical back to back concert where the majority of the show allows both artists to do solo acts. Here, it was really Pops and Regine, together, most of the time. It seemed that they sang 70-percent duets and songs turned into duets. Save for Star In A Million champion Erik Santos, now the Philippines' Prince of Pop. He was the only guest in this show and he held his own. Santos is all praises for both Pops and Regine. It is safe to say that, the entire audience felt the same. Queens... on Fire is indeed a collaboration showing unexpected concepts, new ideas and surprises highlighting the Queens' individual talents.
Pops and Regine are two very different performers. Regine belts out so well, while Pops is more into dance music. A wonder initially, as to how the show would flow. But it is this fact, their very diverse styles that made the show highly interesting. The variety was pleasing to everyone. There was a little bit of everything for everybody. They opened with comedic lines ala Dolphy and Panchito to which Pops was quick to claim she's Dolphy. Onwards to maybe ReyCards duet to which again, Pops maintained she'd have to be Rey! Both settled to some other comparisons like the WEA twins, if the audience could relate or even the Aldeguer sisters. We did see a more dancing-side of Regine, albeit done cornball-style. She was game and a good sport. Both Queens showed genuine onstage rapport. Just like regular friends shooting the breeze or chatting over a cup of tea, they mentioned their similarities: love of shopping, eating and mostly, their availability (that of being loveless at the moment). Both subscribing to the philosophy of constant reinvention, both dared to try new things, in music and clothes. Or the lack thereof, almost like the Kelly sisters (Chicago) in glittery tux complete with hat and a cane, Regine commented on their costumes' lack of pants. They sang "Fever" with grit and passion. Then there was the cabaret style of "Oops I Did It Again" ending with both exposing naked upper bodies a fraction of a second before the lights went out (initially behind heart shaped, high backed chairs).
Regine, as Asia's Songbird effortlessly rendered soaring ballads and show-stopping tunes like Fantasia Barrino’s "I Believe," the Metropop hit "Shine" and South Border’s "Wherever You Are" (rearranged to include a rhythm section). She did justice to "A Little Bit," "Suntok Sa Buwan" and "Wag Na Wag Mong Sasabihin". As for her costumes, one outfit in particular, a tan glittery dress was shorter than Pop's, showed more cleavage and cut lower in the back. One would be apt to ask, this is conservative? Those days must be gone because Regine here is anything but that. She's daring and baring!
Pops, the Concert Queen flawlessly delivered hip-hop hits, the latest dance craze and lavish production numbers. Her Beyonce (Naughty Girl, Lose My Breath and Crazy in Love) and Christina Aguilera/Britney Spears (Dirrty and My Prerogative) medleys makes one want to get up and move to the beat. True to being Concert Queen, Pops did her dance moves so well and looked extremely attractive with her fit and shapely physique emphasized in outfits that almost always showed off cleavage and legs. Her other well applauded numbers were "You take my breath away" and a medley of tunes done originally by male Filipino singers (Hanggang, Di Ko Kaya and Ikaw Nga).
Beyond all the grandeur of Atlantic City's Trump Taj Mahal Arena, the exciting production numbers, fresh musical arrangements, the fabulous gowns and costumes, the lively dancers, brilliant choreography, the entire show encompassed many music genres: rock, pop, dance and OPM. It was the ultimate showdown witnessed by proud Filipino Americans on this side of the US. This was highlighted by their vocal powers displayed when they did "Sana Maulit Muli" and "Kahit Isang Saglit" separately with Erik Santos only to conclude with all three artists and both songs culminating jointly in the end.
Of note, the show was a celebration of music, friendship and womanhood. Featuring songs about love, sentiments, fantasies and passions, the Queens aimed to empower women through music. "Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman" rendered sensual and exotic gives the males in the audience something to ponder. When someone yelled "Marteeeeen!" to Pops, she took it, tongue in cheek. Commented only on the shouter's accent. Said something about moving on. When someone else yelled "I love you" to Regine, she coyly responds "we'll talk later!"
The encore had Pops and Regine, in denims and identical white tank tops with huge red hearts, doing a medley of ’80s favorites "Gloria," "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun," "What Have You Done For Me Lately," "I’m So Excited" and "Telephone". Pops, again was in her element, complete with cute pigtails. All in all, the Queens brought out the best in each other, even with all their personal revelations, no one was cast in bad light, there was no rivalry apparent. Having the audience privy to their shortcomings just made them more endearing. Their entire repertoire lent them most entertaining, hot and most definitely, on fire!
Kudos are in order for the powers that made Queens... on Fire possible in Atlantic City. Congratulations to Ms. Ana Puno, President of Starmedia Entertainment and Drs. Ramon and Ching Legarda of Group Ole Incorporated. Big thanks to Smart Padala, the Law Offices of Michael J. Gurfinkel, Five Star Sea Cargo, Inc., Continental Airlines,and to TFC, Planet Philippines,NY, Perlas ng Silangan, and Diamond Hut Jewelers.
Queens... on Fire, a smash hit in Atlantic City, New Jersey continues on to Washington, DC, Saturday, April 23, 2005 at the DC Armory. Don't get burned, enjoy the must-see concert of the year, Queens... on Fire!
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
QUEENS … ON FIRE... FIRST "MUST SEE" CONCERT OF 2005
By Nomar Hernandez
It's March. "Spring is nearly here." Winter is almost gone. The classic 1960's ballad "Spring in New York," composed by the British pop group D' Shadows, signals the start of the Filipino concert season. Beginning the concert series, Miss Lea Salonga, our most famous international star, performed in Atlantic City just a few weeks ago. On Sunday April 17, the two reigning Queens of Philippine entertainment, Miss Pops Fernandez and Miss Regine Velasquez will be performing together at the Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort, in the Mark Etess five thousand seat capacity arena, Atlantic City's most prestigious performing center. Judging by the brisk sale of tickets, their dedicated fans are anxiously anticipating the concert. In three weeks, the VIP section sold out!
Pops and Regine are no strangers to the New York/ New Jersey area, having performed many times since the early 1990s, both in solo concerts and with other artists. Pops, together with concert King Martin Nievera, performed a Valentine show in NYC. The most recent snow storm reminded fans of the Valentine show in 1993 at the legendary Roseland Ballroom in Manhattan, where a major snow storm hit the city just two days before the concert. Yet more than 1500 fans showed up to enjoy and spend their Valentine's Day with the concert King and Queen.
Regine's first appearance in New York is a sentimental Cinderella story. Just twenty years old, she had a standing ovation reception at the prestigious Carnegie Hall produced by the Legarda/Martinez group, Lemar International. Henceforth she became known as the Lemar Baby. This was her first solo concert and her first appearance in the United States. Over the succeeding years, she appeared in several concerts with the same group, the most memorable in 1996 at the Beacon Theater with another great actor/singer Ariel Rivera. Her fans observed that Regine was extremely happy and jovial. She almost gave away the secret when they sang the duet composition of Jose Mari Chan and Regine's first big hit, "Please Be careful With My Heart". When they got back to Manila, the entertainment gossip columnists had a field day- the couple admitted they were indeed an "item." And where did all of this start, you guessed it, "Central Park."
It would not be difficult to entice their die hard fans to attend the show. But with the multitude of concerts, how does one choose which concert to attend if one has limited resources? More important, what should concert goers expect from the Queens concert? Certainly half of them must have seen Pops or Regine perform at some time in the past. Will this be another "Shindig" or "R2K"? Well, we do know what to expect from the Queens Concert, since they already had a preview concert at the Ultra, a two night "sold out" show. Excerpts from the show are documented by concert columnists and their fans' postings over the internet. Certainly each performer will display their vintage personalities, favorite and memorable songs, as well as their latest recordings. But bringing them together is not a simple union of two great performers, but more of a "one plus one equals three" formula. For one, the show is scripted and conceptualized for originality. Rowell Santiago, the stage director has scored another successful production and deserves much of the credit. There will be numerous production numbers, meaning Pops and Regine will be performing plenty of duets. With two queens, you need two musical directors. Homer Flores and Raul Mitra have arranged great numbers that incorporate the present trend of Pop and Hip Hop music. Anticipated songs include medleys by Destiny's Child, Beyonce, Christina Aguillera and Britney Spears to name a few. But they will also be paying tribute to Filipino composers during the OPM segments.
Both Pops and Regine together with the production staff have created a show that is foremost "Entertaining," which should be the main reason to attend a concert. In addition to the great music, all the fans were impressed and thrilled with the costumes, for it is a "de facto" fashion show. Pops, even with two children, still stunning, tall, beautiful, maintains her figure with daily workouts in the gym. Who keeps her in shape? I don't know but Martin's physical fitness instructor, Jackie Lou. And Regine, what a beautiful butterfly she has morphed into, classy, poised and charming, with an angel face of innocence. The public will be delighted to see them in different moods, from formal gowns to hip hop outfits, mini skirts and maybe "revealing clothes". One of Manila's favorite and top couturiers Rajo Laurel, has designed additional costumes for the Queens. This will be our Filipino version of "Full frontal fashion."
But this concert is not just two great voices standing idly on central stage and belting. Rather, as part of the total entertainment concept, concert goers can expect to see both performers do multiple dance routines. A special choreographer is accompanying the group and making adjustments for each individual stage and performance. A minimum of ten dancers will be assisting Pops and Regine in their interpretations. Those that attended Regine's concert last year at the Taj Mahal were treated to some great hip hop dancing by a local group of very talented dancers.
This concert will be an opportunity for the fans to get to know their idols more intimately. In a concert such as this, it is unavoidable for Pops and Regine to delve into their personal life. Questions about their love life will certainly be touched upon. Pops, rumored to have had admirers in the past, is now single. Lately, she has been spending much time with her ex-husband Martin Nievera and their two children. All four were seen together at the Barnes and Noble bookstore in Mahattan last November. And Regine, admits to only one real relationship. But who knows, perhaps she will finally reveal if she is still a v….
Great value? Certainly. Considering that comparable concerts now charge a top price of $200, and the Mega tour rumored to be $250, the Queens on Fire tickets are very moderately priced. Two superstars, the very popular young singer Erik Santos as Special Guest, a prestigious venue with top of the line sound and lighting, really a steal. This in line with StarMedia and Group Ole's philosophy of cost control and passing the savings to the fans.
The Queens …. On Fire is produced by StarMedia, the same group that brought "The Songbird and the Songwriter" last year and headed by Mrs. Ana Co Puno, president. On line producers for Atlantic City, Group Ole. Co-presenters are Express Padala, the Law offices of Michael Gurfinkel and Five Star RP Sea Cargo. Major sponsors are Perlas ng Silangan, Diamond Hut, Planet Philippines (New York edition) published by Carousel Pinoy.
It's March. "Spring is nearly here." Winter is almost gone. The classic 1960's ballad "Spring in New York," composed by the British pop group D' Shadows, signals the start of the Filipino concert season. Beginning the concert series, Miss Lea Salonga, our most famous international star, performed in Atlantic City just a few weeks ago. On Sunday April 17, the two reigning Queens of Philippine entertainment, Miss Pops Fernandez and Miss Regine Velasquez will be performing together at the Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort, in the Mark Etess five thousand seat capacity arena, Atlantic City's most prestigious performing center. Judging by the brisk sale of tickets, their dedicated fans are anxiously anticipating the concert. In three weeks, the VIP section sold out!
Pops and Regine are no strangers to the New York/ New Jersey area, having performed many times since the early 1990s, both in solo concerts and with other artists. Pops, together with concert King Martin Nievera, performed a Valentine show in NYC. The most recent snow storm reminded fans of the Valentine show in 1993 at the legendary Roseland Ballroom in Manhattan, where a major snow storm hit the city just two days before the concert. Yet more than 1500 fans showed up to enjoy and spend their Valentine's Day with the concert King and Queen.
Regine's first appearance in New York is a sentimental Cinderella story. Just twenty years old, she had a standing ovation reception at the prestigious Carnegie Hall produced by the Legarda/Martinez group, Lemar International. Henceforth she became known as the Lemar Baby. This was her first solo concert and her first appearance in the United States. Over the succeeding years, she appeared in several concerts with the same group, the most memorable in 1996 at the Beacon Theater with another great actor/singer Ariel Rivera. Her fans observed that Regine was extremely happy and jovial. She almost gave away the secret when they sang the duet composition of Jose Mari Chan and Regine's first big hit, "Please Be careful With My Heart". When they got back to Manila, the entertainment gossip columnists had a field day- the couple admitted they were indeed an "item." And where did all of this start, you guessed it, "Central Park."
It would not be difficult to entice their die hard fans to attend the show. But with the multitude of concerts, how does one choose which concert to attend if one has limited resources? More important, what should concert goers expect from the Queens concert? Certainly half of them must have seen Pops or Regine perform at some time in the past. Will this be another "Shindig" or "R2K"? Well, we do know what to expect from the Queens Concert, since they already had a preview concert at the Ultra, a two night "sold out" show. Excerpts from the show are documented by concert columnists and their fans' postings over the internet. Certainly each performer will display their vintage personalities, favorite and memorable songs, as well as their latest recordings. But bringing them together is not a simple union of two great performers, but more of a "one plus one equals three" formula. For one, the show is scripted and conceptualized for originality. Rowell Santiago, the stage director has scored another successful production and deserves much of the credit. There will be numerous production numbers, meaning Pops and Regine will be performing plenty of duets. With two queens, you need two musical directors. Homer Flores and Raul Mitra have arranged great numbers that incorporate the present trend of Pop and Hip Hop music. Anticipated songs include medleys by Destiny's Child, Beyonce, Christina Aguillera and Britney Spears to name a few. But they will also be paying tribute to Filipino composers during the OPM segments.
Both Pops and Regine together with the production staff have created a show that is foremost "Entertaining," which should be the main reason to attend a concert. In addition to the great music, all the fans were impressed and thrilled with the costumes, for it is a "de facto" fashion show. Pops, even with two children, still stunning, tall, beautiful, maintains her figure with daily workouts in the gym. Who keeps her in shape? I don't know but Martin's physical fitness instructor, Jackie Lou. And Regine, what a beautiful butterfly she has morphed into, classy, poised and charming, with an angel face of innocence. The public will be delighted to see them in different moods, from formal gowns to hip hop outfits, mini skirts and maybe "revealing clothes". One of Manila's favorite and top couturiers Rajo Laurel, has designed additional costumes for the Queens. This will be our Filipino version of "Full frontal fashion."
But this concert is not just two great voices standing idly on central stage and belting. Rather, as part of the total entertainment concept, concert goers can expect to see both performers do multiple dance routines. A special choreographer is accompanying the group and making adjustments for each individual stage and performance. A minimum of ten dancers will be assisting Pops and Regine in their interpretations. Those that attended Regine's concert last year at the Taj Mahal were treated to some great hip hop dancing by a local group of very talented dancers.
This concert will be an opportunity for the fans to get to know their idols more intimately. In a concert such as this, it is unavoidable for Pops and Regine to delve into their personal life. Questions about their love life will certainly be touched upon. Pops, rumored to have had admirers in the past, is now single. Lately, she has been spending much time with her ex-husband Martin Nievera and their two children. All four were seen together at the Barnes and Noble bookstore in Mahattan last November. And Regine, admits to only one real relationship. But who knows, perhaps she will finally reveal if she is still a v….
Great value? Certainly. Considering that comparable concerts now charge a top price of $200, and the Mega tour rumored to be $250, the Queens on Fire tickets are very moderately priced. Two superstars, the very popular young singer Erik Santos as Special Guest, a prestigious venue with top of the line sound and lighting, really a steal. This in line with StarMedia and Group Ole's philosophy of cost control and passing the savings to the fans.
The Queens …. On Fire is produced by StarMedia, the same group that brought "The Songbird and the Songwriter" last year and headed by Mrs. Ana Co Puno, president. On line producers for Atlantic City, Group Ole. Co-presenters are Express Padala, the Law offices of Michael Gurfinkel and Five Star RP Sea Cargo. Major sponsors are Perlas ng Silangan, Diamond Hut, Planet Philippines (New York edition) published by Carousel Pinoy.
Sunday, February 13, 2005
Two reviews of Pops & Regine "Queens... On Fire" at the Ultra
1. From BASTA by Nitz Miralles
People's Tonight, Feb. 13, 2005
Puno ang Ultra last Friday, sa unang gabi ng Queens...On Fire concert nina Pops Fernandez at Regine Velasquez kahit mahal ang tiket. Nagdagdag ng chairs sa may ringside to accommodate the fans.
Hindi lang sa performance nagpatalbugan sina Pops at Regine, pati na sa costumes at gowns na isinuot. Para rin kaming nanood ng fashion show dahil tuwing lalabas ang dalawa'y, suot agad nila ang mapapansin. It was a daring concert mula sa kanilang suot at spiel. May costume si Pops na kita ang black thong na suot at si Regine naman, halos makita ang buong boobs sa white gown na suot na ang hati ay hanggang pusod na yata. Mabuti't hindi na sakop ng MTRCB ang concert circuit.
Pinag-usapan nila ang sex at paulit-ulit na tinanong ni Pops si Regine kung naka-experience nang makipag-sex, kaloka! Negative ang sagot ni Regine at ilang beses ding sinabing virgin pa siya. Gamit na gamit din sina Martin Nievera at Brad Turvey at nabanggit din si Ariel Rivera.
Comic relief din si Regine sa concert. Ang galing nitong mag-deliver ng punchline at para siyang hindi Asia's Songbird 'pag nagko-comedy. Kaya nitong maging comedienne. Paging GMA-7.
Gusto namin ang OPM medley ng dalawa at pati ang Martin Nievera medley ni Erik Santos. Ang ganda rin ng arrangement ng medley ng Sana Maulit Muli at Kahit Isang Saglit na kinanta nilang tatlo. Kuwela naman ang medley nila ng Tina Turner hits. Kahit mahirap pumasok at umuwi sa kapal ng tao, nag-enjoy pa rin kami sa concert.
2. Timeline posted by "2net" on a Yahoo Regine fan group
9:00 p.m. We were having a hard time finding our seats because there were lots of people. It was the first time I saw the whole stage, it was big with a backdrop of white squares. Pops Fernandez and Regine Velasquez stepped out when two white squares slid open. They began to sing "Fighter" (by Christina Aguilera) in pink one-piece suits. They both had hair extensions so they looked alike from a far. This number had balance (vocally).
9:15 p.m. Pops and Regine greeted the audience. Their background differences were highlighted with Regine translating into Tagalog what Pops was saying. Pops noticed that they were doing a Dolphy-Panchito routine and was quick to say her preference, "ako si Dolphy!" They told the crowd what to expect, that the show was not just for couples and they would set them up on "fire" especially with the next songs.
9:18 p.m. The two went off the stage and "Jumpin' Jumpin'" (by Destiny's Child) started playing. In every white square at the back, there was someone dancing and the back-up artists went along with the song. Whoever conceptualized this number should be congratulated because it was so cool.
9:20 p.m. Pops came out in a skin-colored short dress to do a Beyonce medley ("Naughty Girl," "Baby Boy," "Lose My Breath" and "Crazy in Love"). This was a beautifully arranged medley. Pops may have lacked thevocal power needed but she moved very well and for this, she was applauded. Her sincere rendition of "You Take My Breath Away" (her current single) followed.
9:33 p.m. Because of her ballad, Pops started talking about love. It usually begins when someone is looking for it like the next one to sing - Regine. Regine appeared onstage looking like a bride. She wore a long white gown that had a hood and an opening up to her belly button. She sang "Wherever You Are" (by South Border). Her voice was in excellent form. She was effortless in reaching those high notes.
9:39 p.m. Regine said that sometimes you get lucky and your search ends because you find someone "who brings out the best in you and who makes you...." "Shine" came next. They used a different arrangement. It was the highest version I have ever heard. The people loved it. It was astonishing that her boobs did not pop out because the song was really lung-busting. Her gown was sewn pretty good!
9:46 p.m. The skirt and train of Regine's gown were taken off. She was in a pair of pants that has slits from her hips to her ankles. She began the Kylie Minogue medley with "Can't Get You Out of My Head." So the hood was for that! Pops came out in a similar outfit and joined her in the medley.
9:51 p.m. The 2 informed the public that this was not their first time in a show together. They had shows abroad and it was during those times that they discovered what they have in common - their love for shopping. This got sidetracked with the talk on sex. Pops was explaining that the things girls buy (shoes and bags) can be used by guys in wooing the girls after a fight. However, Regine butted in with "sex" in the "kiss and make up" part. She said, "I heard it is very interesting and it sometimes can be enjoyable." Pops looked at her, dumbfounded: "you mean you have never had sex?... You have never tried it?" Regine could not speak and pretended to walk out. It was hilarious.
9:56 p.m. Since the show had "queens," there must be a king or a prince as well. Then Pops introduced the only guest, Erik Santos. Erik did fine in a Martin Nievera medley but he started out weak. His voice was soft in "Say That You Love Me."
10:06 p.m. Pops and Regine entered the stage in black, sequined coats, panty shorts and high heels with hats and canes. There was a blunder, a strip of tissue paper got stuck in one of Regine's heels so they had to stop for a while. Pops told Regine, "ano naman kasi ang pinaggagagawa mo?" They were dancing and Regine could not do it. She blurted, "I'm kinda shy because we are not wearing pants... Mang Gerry is watching..." Pops reminded her that people paid big bucks to see them perform then she would not do her best. Regine answered, "hindi magrereklamo ang mga 'yan... wala nga tayong mga pantalon eh!" Pops was teaching her how to dance. She said that it was just like falling in love, you just go with the flow. Regine said, "ah parang Martin and Pops!" Pops retorted, "kaya hindi ka matuto-tuto eh... para maintindihan mo, it's like Regine and Ariel." Regine gave herself away with her answer: "kaya nga hanggang ngayon virgin pa 'ko eh!"
10:10 p.m. Regine was sport, she knew she would be made a laughing stock in this segment and she did it to entertain the audience. Pops continued to teach her but she still could not get it. She uttered, "oops, I did it again..." which was the beginning of the song (by Britney Spears) that they were to sing. They sang it cabaret-style.
10:12 p.m. Two chairs with heart-shaped backs were brought to the stage. Pops and Regine sat on them and sang "Fever." They were stripping while singing. What shook me was they really took off their tops at the end of the song. They covered their front with their hats when they stood up and walked off the stage.
10:17 p.m. Pops in a bright apple-green outfit went to the stage with the dancers and did a low-pitched "Dirrty" (by Christina Aguilera) and "My Prerogative" (by Britney Spears). She was urging the audience to participate. Too bad, it was a lazy crowd.
10:23 p.m. After taking a short break, Pops talked about the realities of love - that it is not always happy. "A heart... usually breaks so that we will find the right heart or the right love... I should know." The theme songs medley was soon played. It started and ended with "Hanggang" (by Wency Cornejo).
10:32 p.m. Pops tipped the guys to listen carefully to the song that was about to be sung for them to be able to understand women and make them love them. Regine came out in a printed pink dress and began "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?" (by Bryan Adams). Pops did the 2nd part in a printed green dress. I have heard Regine sing this song in the "Drawn" concert. No doubt about it, she muted herself this time around.
10:43 p.m. Pops asked Regine if she has been on a real date. Regine was taking a long time to answer so Pops guessed that she has not yet been on one. She asked Regine what is her type of guy. Regine gave the usual answer, "not that tall, cute, sings well." Pops shouted "si Ogie 'yan ano!" Regine threw one of her shoes to Pops. They both stressed to the people, "the good things you read in the papers are true, the bad ones are not." Regine asked the same question to Pops.
While Pops was answering, Regine said "si Martin na naman 'yan o si Brad. Ayaw mo si Brad? Type ko si Brad. Akin na lang... Parang damit, yung hand-me-down." The crowd was in stitches. Pops could only mutter, "ang sama mo!"
10:47 p.m. There was a Filipino actor (Sir Lord Anthony) in the audience who is currently doing a film with Sean Connery under Miramax. Pops and Regine acknowledged his presence. Pops was even teasing him to Regine. He went to the foot of the stage and Pops prodded Regine to kiss him. Instead of kissing him, Regine placed his hand on her forehead ("mano") so a lot of people laughed. But, the guy was still able to kiss Regine - only on the side of her head though.
10:49 p.m. The topic went back to dating and Pops asked a favor to Regine ("ihanap mo 'ko"). Regine's reaction was so natural, "p_tcha, kung ako nga hindi makahanap tapos ihahanap pa kita!?! Tingnan mo ang pag-uugali nito. Hinihingi ko na nga lang yung pinaglumaan eh." Even if they had no dates, they still had a "prince" with them. They called Erik back. Pops and Erik did "Kahit Isang Saglit" (by Martin Nievera). Then Erik and Regine sang "Sana Maulit Muli." They experienced a technical problem. Regine's microphone was cut-off in a split-second a couple of times.
10:59 p.m. Pops and Erik left Regine onstage. Regine spoke about her admiration over new singer-songwriters of today and she wanted to pay tribute to them so she decided to do a medley: "A Little Bit," "'Wag na 'Wag Mong Sasabihin" (by Kitchie Nadal) and "Suntok sa Buwan" (by Session Road). I was so glad that she was the one who did this number because the energy she gives suits these songs. The medley was very much appreciated by the crowd.
11:08 p.m. Regine agreed with Pops that she is looking for love and she has faith that she will find the right guy. "I believe that one day, that perfect guy will come along and I will finally be... [in a hush tone] not a virgin anymore, thank you!" "I Believe" (by Fantasia Barrino) also had a new and higher arrangement. Regine pulled no stops. She belted as high as she could and for as long as she wanted. She definitely was happy with her voice that night. She thrilled the audience with this one.
11:13 p.m. After commenting on how high she went ("dumugo yung ilong ko 'ron"), she shifted to a party mode. Right after doing a stanza of "Addicted to Love" (by Robert Palmer), Regine went backstage to change into a bronze, sequined short dress while Pops took over. Regine came back with "Proud Mary'" (by Tina Turner). Both of them did the song complete with the dance steps.
11:19 p.m. The members of the band were introduced one by one. Regine and Pops thanked them as well as the producer and the audience for giving them the opportunity to be together. They truly enjoy not just performing but also talking and being with each other. They are basically good friends.
11:25 p.m. "Power of Love" (by Laura Brannigan) was the last song with Regine taking the high key obviously. Silver confetti and fireworks brightened the venue. The two were given flowers then they went out but immediately returned onstage. Regine told the people, "55 pa... hindi kayo makakaalis sa parking, traffic." Correct!
11:32 p.m. The encore kicked off with "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" (by Cyndi Lauper). I thought they would do a Gloria Estefan medley since that was a staple in Pops' shows. Luckily, they chose other '80s songs - "What Have You Done for Me Lately," "I Wanna Dance with Somebody," "Holiday," "Telephone," etc.. The two along with the dancers were having funonstage. There were times when the dancers were the ones singing because they gave the microphones to them. Up to the end, Regine made the people laugh. The dancers decided to lift her up, she was taken aback because she was in a short dress. She kept saying, "ayyy, ayyy, ayyy..."
11:55 p.m. As I look back at the concert, I realized that I had more fun than I expected. The production numbers were well-thought out. The choice of songs and the arrangements were great. They focused more on the strengths of each performer. In addition to that, Regine and Pops were able to try new things and succeed in doing so. The show had a theme that was disrupted from time to time because of side/personal comments. I did not mind them since they were humorous. I just do not know if they were okay for those who wanted a straight concert. The show was worth watching for one could see that they worked hard to give to the audience what they deserve.
2net : )
_____
stage direction: Rowell Santiago
musical direction: Raul Mitra and Homer Flores
Bass guitar: Bobby Rasco
Drums: Tek Faustino
Percussion: Niño Regalado
Keyboards: Bond Samson and Sony Matias
guitar: Ric Mercado
1st guitar: Cesar Aguas
back-up vocals: Sylvia, Babsie, ?, ?
dancers: Hotlegs
People's Tonight, Feb. 13, 2005
Puno ang Ultra last Friday, sa unang gabi ng Queens...On Fire concert nina Pops Fernandez at Regine Velasquez kahit mahal ang tiket. Nagdagdag ng chairs sa may ringside to accommodate the fans.
Hindi lang sa performance nagpatalbugan sina Pops at Regine, pati na sa costumes at gowns na isinuot. Para rin kaming nanood ng fashion show dahil tuwing lalabas ang dalawa'y, suot agad nila ang mapapansin. It was a daring concert mula sa kanilang suot at spiel. May costume si Pops na kita ang black thong na suot at si Regine naman, halos makita ang buong boobs sa white gown na suot na ang hati ay hanggang pusod na yata. Mabuti't hindi na sakop ng MTRCB ang concert circuit.
Pinag-usapan nila ang sex at paulit-ulit na tinanong ni Pops si Regine kung naka-experience nang makipag-sex, kaloka! Negative ang sagot ni Regine at ilang beses ding sinabing virgin pa siya. Gamit na gamit din sina Martin Nievera at Brad Turvey at nabanggit din si Ariel Rivera.
Comic relief din si Regine sa concert. Ang galing nitong mag-deliver ng punchline at para siyang hindi Asia's Songbird 'pag nagko-comedy. Kaya nitong maging comedienne. Paging GMA-7.
Gusto namin ang OPM medley ng dalawa at pati ang Martin Nievera medley ni Erik Santos. Ang ganda rin ng arrangement ng medley ng Sana Maulit Muli at Kahit Isang Saglit na kinanta nilang tatlo. Kuwela naman ang medley nila ng Tina Turner hits. Kahit mahirap pumasok at umuwi sa kapal ng tao, nag-enjoy pa rin kami sa concert.
2. Timeline posted by "2net" on a Yahoo Regine fan group
9:00 p.m. We were having a hard time finding our seats because there were lots of people. It was the first time I saw the whole stage, it was big with a backdrop of white squares. Pops Fernandez and Regine Velasquez stepped out when two white squares slid open. They began to sing "Fighter" (by Christina Aguilera) in pink one-piece suits. They both had hair extensions so they looked alike from a far. This number had balance (vocally).
9:15 p.m. Pops and Regine greeted the audience. Their background differences were highlighted with Regine translating into Tagalog what Pops was saying. Pops noticed that they were doing a Dolphy-Panchito routine and was quick to say her preference, "ako si Dolphy!" They told the crowd what to expect, that the show was not just for couples and they would set them up on "fire" especially with the next songs.
9:18 p.m. The two went off the stage and "Jumpin' Jumpin'" (by Destiny's Child) started playing. In every white square at the back, there was someone dancing and the back-up artists went along with the song. Whoever conceptualized this number should be congratulated because it was so cool.
9:20 p.m. Pops came out in a skin-colored short dress to do a Beyonce medley ("Naughty Girl," "Baby Boy," "Lose My Breath" and "Crazy in Love"). This was a beautifully arranged medley. Pops may have lacked thevocal power needed but she moved very well and for this, she was applauded. Her sincere rendition of "You Take My Breath Away" (her current single) followed.
9:33 p.m. Because of her ballad, Pops started talking about love. It usually begins when someone is looking for it like the next one to sing - Regine. Regine appeared onstage looking like a bride. She wore a long white gown that had a hood and an opening up to her belly button. She sang "Wherever You Are" (by South Border). Her voice was in excellent form. She was effortless in reaching those high notes.
9:39 p.m. Regine said that sometimes you get lucky and your search ends because you find someone "who brings out the best in you and who makes you...." "Shine" came next. They used a different arrangement. It was the highest version I have ever heard. The people loved it. It was astonishing that her boobs did not pop out because the song was really lung-busting. Her gown was sewn pretty good!
9:46 p.m. The skirt and train of Regine's gown were taken off. She was in a pair of pants that has slits from her hips to her ankles. She began the Kylie Minogue medley with "Can't Get You Out of My Head." So the hood was for that! Pops came out in a similar outfit and joined her in the medley.
9:51 p.m. The 2 informed the public that this was not their first time in a show together. They had shows abroad and it was during those times that they discovered what they have in common - their love for shopping. This got sidetracked with the talk on sex. Pops was explaining that the things girls buy (shoes and bags) can be used by guys in wooing the girls after a fight. However, Regine butted in with "sex" in the "kiss and make up" part. She said, "I heard it is very interesting and it sometimes can be enjoyable." Pops looked at her, dumbfounded: "you mean you have never had sex?... You have never tried it?" Regine could not speak and pretended to walk out. It was hilarious.
9:56 p.m. Since the show had "queens," there must be a king or a prince as well. Then Pops introduced the only guest, Erik Santos. Erik did fine in a Martin Nievera medley but he started out weak. His voice was soft in "Say That You Love Me."
10:06 p.m. Pops and Regine entered the stage in black, sequined coats, panty shorts and high heels with hats and canes. There was a blunder, a strip of tissue paper got stuck in one of Regine's heels so they had to stop for a while. Pops told Regine, "ano naman kasi ang pinaggagagawa mo?" They were dancing and Regine could not do it. She blurted, "I'm kinda shy because we are not wearing pants... Mang Gerry is watching..." Pops reminded her that people paid big bucks to see them perform then she would not do her best. Regine answered, "hindi magrereklamo ang mga 'yan... wala nga tayong mga pantalon eh!" Pops was teaching her how to dance. She said that it was just like falling in love, you just go with the flow. Regine said, "ah parang Martin and Pops!" Pops retorted, "kaya hindi ka matuto-tuto eh... para maintindihan mo, it's like Regine and Ariel." Regine gave herself away with her answer: "kaya nga hanggang ngayon virgin pa 'ko eh!"
10:10 p.m. Regine was sport, she knew she would be made a laughing stock in this segment and she did it to entertain the audience. Pops continued to teach her but she still could not get it. She uttered, "oops, I did it again..." which was the beginning of the song (by Britney Spears) that they were to sing. They sang it cabaret-style.
10:12 p.m. Two chairs with heart-shaped backs were brought to the stage. Pops and Regine sat on them and sang "Fever." They were stripping while singing. What shook me was they really took off their tops at the end of the song. They covered their front with their hats when they stood up and walked off the stage.
10:17 p.m. Pops in a bright apple-green outfit went to the stage with the dancers and did a low-pitched "Dirrty" (by Christina Aguilera) and "My Prerogative" (by Britney Spears). She was urging the audience to participate. Too bad, it was a lazy crowd.
10:23 p.m. After taking a short break, Pops talked about the realities of love - that it is not always happy. "A heart... usually breaks so that we will find the right heart or the right love... I should know." The theme songs medley was soon played. It started and ended with "Hanggang" (by Wency Cornejo).
10:32 p.m. Pops tipped the guys to listen carefully to the song that was about to be sung for them to be able to understand women and make them love them. Regine came out in a printed pink dress and began "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?" (by Bryan Adams). Pops did the 2nd part in a printed green dress. I have heard Regine sing this song in the "Drawn" concert. No doubt about it, she muted herself this time around.
10:43 p.m. Pops asked Regine if she has been on a real date. Regine was taking a long time to answer so Pops guessed that she has not yet been on one. She asked Regine what is her type of guy. Regine gave the usual answer, "not that tall, cute, sings well." Pops shouted "si Ogie 'yan ano!" Regine threw one of her shoes to Pops. They both stressed to the people, "the good things you read in the papers are true, the bad ones are not." Regine asked the same question to Pops.
While Pops was answering, Regine said "si Martin na naman 'yan o si Brad. Ayaw mo si Brad? Type ko si Brad. Akin na lang... Parang damit, yung hand-me-down." The crowd was in stitches. Pops could only mutter, "ang sama mo!"
10:47 p.m. There was a Filipino actor (Sir Lord Anthony) in the audience who is currently doing a film with Sean Connery under Miramax. Pops and Regine acknowledged his presence. Pops was even teasing him to Regine. He went to the foot of the stage and Pops prodded Regine to kiss him. Instead of kissing him, Regine placed his hand on her forehead ("mano") so a lot of people laughed. But, the guy was still able to kiss Regine - only on the side of her head though.
10:49 p.m. The topic went back to dating and Pops asked a favor to Regine ("ihanap mo 'ko"). Regine's reaction was so natural, "p_tcha, kung ako nga hindi makahanap tapos ihahanap pa kita!?! Tingnan mo ang pag-uugali nito. Hinihingi ko na nga lang yung pinaglumaan eh." Even if they had no dates, they still had a "prince" with them. They called Erik back. Pops and Erik did "Kahit Isang Saglit" (by Martin Nievera). Then Erik and Regine sang "Sana Maulit Muli." They experienced a technical problem. Regine's microphone was cut-off in a split-second a couple of times.
10:59 p.m. Pops and Erik left Regine onstage. Regine spoke about her admiration over new singer-songwriters of today and she wanted to pay tribute to them so she decided to do a medley: "A Little Bit," "'Wag na 'Wag Mong Sasabihin" (by Kitchie Nadal) and "Suntok sa Buwan" (by Session Road). I was so glad that she was the one who did this number because the energy she gives suits these songs. The medley was very much appreciated by the crowd.
11:08 p.m. Regine agreed with Pops that she is looking for love and she has faith that she will find the right guy. "I believe that one day, that perfect guy will come along and I will finally be... [in a hush tone] not a virgin anymore, thank you!" "I Believe" (by Fantasia Barrino) also had a new and higher arrangement. Regine pulled no stops. She belted as high as she could and for as long as she wanted. She definitely was happy with her voice that night. She thrilled the audience with this one.
11:13 p.m. After commenting on how high she went ("dumugo yung ilong ko 'ron"), she shifted to a party mode. Right after doing a stanza of "Addicted to Love" (by Robert Palmer), Regine went backstage to change into a bronze, sequined short dress while Pops took over. Regine came back with "Proud Mary'" (by Tina Turner). Both of them did the song complete with the dance steps.
11:19 p.m. The members of the band were introduced one by one. Regine and Pops thanked them as well as the producer and the audience for giving them the opportunity to be together. They truly enjoy not just performing but also talking and being with each other. They are basically good friends.
11:25 p.m. "Power of Love" (by Laura Brannigan) was the last song with Regine taking the high key obviously. Silver confetti and fireworks brightened the venue. The two were given flowers then they went out but immediately returned onstage. Regine told the people, "55 pa... hindi kayo makakaalis sa parking, traffic." Correct!
11:32 p.m. The encore kicked off with "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" (by Cyndi Lauper). I thought they would do a Gloria Estefan medley since that was a staple in Pops' shows. Luckily, they chose other '80s songs - "What Have You Done for Me Lately," "I Wanna Dance with Somebody," "Holiday," "Telephone," etc.. The two along with the dancers were having funonstage. There were times when the dancers were the ones singing because they gave the microphones to them. Up to the end, Regine made the people laugh. The dancers decided to lift her up, she was taken aback because she was in a short dress. She kept saying, "ayyy, ayyy, ayyy..."
11:55 p.m. As I look back at the concert, I realized that I had more fun than I expected. The production numbers were well-thought out. The choice of songs and the arrangements were great. They focused more on the strengths of each performer. In addition to that, Regine and Pops were able to try new things and succeed in doing so. The show had a theme that was disrupted from time to time because of side/personal comments. I did not mind them since they were humorous. I just do not know if they were okay for those who wanted a straight concert. The show was worth watching for one could see that they worked hard to give to the audience what they deserve.
2net : )
_____
stage direction: Rowell Santiago
musical direction: Raul Mitra and Homer Flores
Bass guitar: Bobby Rasco
Drums: Tek Faustino
Percussion: Niño Regalado
Keyboards: Bond Samson and Sony Matias
guitar: Ric Mercado
1st guitar: Cesar Aguas
back-up vocals: Sylvia, Babsie, ?, ?
dancers: Hotlegs
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