Latest news with #OriginalPilipinoMusic
Filipino Times
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
TJ Monterde's ‘Sarili Nating Mundo' concert sets record, new benchmark for Filipino shows in Dubai
In a city known for world-class performances, it's not every day that a Filipino concert stirs the hearts of thousands and becomes the center of conversation. That's exactly what happened at TJ Monterde's Sarili Nating Mundo concert in Dubai — a night that brought together voices, stories, and emotions in one powerful celebration of Original Pilipino Music (OPM). A record-breaking night for OPM As part of his world tour held at Coca-Cola Arena on July 13, Monterde's first solo concert in the UAE proved to be a game-changer and record-breaker for Filipino music events in the region. On the first day of ticket release alone, the concert shattered expectations — over 4,000 tickets were sold in just 24 hours, making it the highest-selling Filipino concert ever during launch day at the venue. 'It wasn't easy to fill the venue as it is considered to be one of the largest indoor venues in the entire Middle East, but we managed to sell out 100% of tickets weeks before the concert,' said Mr. Rami Hajjar, owner of D&R Events, the organizer of the concert. 'The entire D&R Events is just thankful for all the love and support,' Ms. Donna Hajjar added. This feat did not go unnoticed by the Coca-Cola Arena Management, who awarded the team with a Sold-Out Plaque and described the event as 'one of the most successful concerts ever held' in the arena's history. A show that spoke to every OFW One moment you're laughing, the next you're giddy with excitement, and before you know it, you're wiping away tears. That's the kind of emotional ride Monterde took the audience on, from start to finish, he poured his heart into every performance, captivating fans with his vocals and genuine connection. He even stepped off stage four times to interact directly with the crowd — granting one lucky fan's wish for a hug. Adding more power to the stage was his equally talented wife and special guest, Asia's Soul Supreme KZ Tandingan, whose iconic renditions, jaw-dropping vocal runs, and quick-witted banters had the entire arena on their feet. Interestingly, the show also drew non-Filipino attendees, proving that great music transcends language and culture. The audience said it best — 'We have unimaginably expected a lot, but it exceeded our expectations,' shared Bethoven Filomeno, an educator and photographer. For others, like Marko Caculba, an account manager and a frequent concertgoer, it was 'by far one of the best concerts I have watched. SNM has definitely elevated Filipino concert scene.' 'One of the best concerts ever. Kudos to TJ, KZ, Direk John Prats, and the entire team involved,' said Mary Mayumi Cruz, events host, influencer, and clients service manager. Top-tier production What made the show stand out even more was its world-class production, thoughtfully crafted to elevate the entire experience. With creative direction by actor-director John Prats of Cornerstone Entertainment, the immersive setup and emotional atmosphere left a strong impression. Massive LED screens, synced wristbands, and live camera close-ups ensured that every emotion was captured and the entire audience felt connected no matter where they were seated. 'This is the most successful one I've seen — not just in terms of numbers but also the positive reviews and feedback,' said freelance eventologist and architect Ryan Banks, who has handled multiple concerts in Dubai. 'Iba ang galing nina TJ, KZ, Direk John, and the entire prod team. Cornerstone management and D&R events are really exceptional.' 'I enjoyed it a lot. Grabe, sobrang ganda. It inspired more to do the best in my craft. Ang galing ni TJ and KZ,' film and show director Direk Brilliant Juan said. Love was in the air, literally One of the most unforgettable moments of the night happened during the crowd favorite, Palagi — often dubbed 'every couple's national anthem.' Multiple marriage proposals took place as TJ and KZ performed their emotional duet, turning the night into a shared milestone for many. 'It was an unforgettable experience, filled with heartfelt moments and powerful performances both from TJ and KZ, in every song they told us stories, which made us feel that we're part of it,' Kevin Narvate, a certified accountant said. 'Hindi tinipid ang production.' 'The performance, story, and direction was on point. It was like we were on a roller coaster ride of emotions,' said Dennis Joseph, a marketing manager who also witnessed the concert. Healing and comfort for overseas Filipinos Sarili Nating Mundo became a night of healing for overseas Filipinos. The songs, stories, and emotions shared reminded the audience of home, bringing comfort and joy to a community that often yearns for connection. As fans continue to share snippets and stories online, one thing is clear: TJ Monterde's first solo concert in Dubai is just the beginning. And with calls for a return already echoing across social media, Filipino music lovers in the region are hoping this isn't the last they'll see of TJ and KZ on the big stage. The event truly raised the bar for Filipino concerts in Dubai, showing that OPM, when done with heart and passion, can truly make its mark even globally.
Qatar Tribune
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
OPM royalty reigns supreme in Doha
Darlene Regis Filipino music icons TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan brought love, soul, and unforgettable music to the stage of the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) on July 11, 2025, for their much-anticipated concert, Sarili Nating Mundo (SNM) international tour. The event was produced by Al Marabe Events in partnership with Cornerstone Entertainment, with direction by actor-director John Prats. For a few hours, the Filipino community in Qatar was transported back home, thanks to this power duo who wear their hearts on their sleeves and sing with soul through their Original Pilipino Music (OPM). KZ was excited to finally perform in Qatar alongside her husband after earlier postponements. OPM Power Couple TJ Monterde, the 'King of Hugot,' and KZ Tandingan, 'Asia's Soul Supreme,' captivated a packed audience with their signature blend of heartfelt ballads and genre-defying vocals. The married couple shared the stage for both solo and duet performances, with songs reflecting their love story and musical chemistry. Their duet, especially their viral hit 'Palagi,' drew thunderous applause. As they poured their hearts into the song, another Filipino couple stole the spotlight when a man dropped to one knee and proposed to his partner, turning the performance into a celebration of love on and offstage. KZ catapulted to fame after winning The X Factor Philippines and made history with sold-out shows abroad, while TJ has carved out a niche as a renowned singer-songwriter. Qatar's Filipino Talent in Spotlight As the event's media partner, Sinag Digital Media said, 'It was truly a celebration of Filipino talent and community spirit.' The agency hosted the Online Press Conference at its studios and organised the pre-show segment. The official event hosts, Tasha Betita and Raymond Carasig of Sinag, kept the momentum going onstage, while Felipe Davila Catinoy reported on the long queue of excited fans awaiting entry. Additionally, Sinag's resident trio MYK — Marlon Mercado, YOE Adil, and Kebong Sarmiento—delivered a high-energy 30-minute singing performance as the concert's opening act. This collaboration reflects Sinag's belief: 'We shine brighter together,' as they look forward to more partnerships that celebrate creativity, unity, and cultural pride. Community Event Held at QNCC's Conference Hall, the venue accommodated thousands of fans with high-quality acoustics and elevated seating for an immersive experience. Not only Filipino fans stormed QNCC for the concert, but several expatriates were also spotted. Record-Breaking Concert Qatar concert Media Head Christian Joy 'Ceejay' Dulalia Rombano said the SNM Qatar leg was the first Filipino concert there to synchronize wristbands with the show, creating a visually captivating experience. Ceejay added it was the first event with a dedicated musical and lights director, led by John Prats, enhancing production quality. Notably, the concert featured the first-ever marriage proposal during a Filipino show in Qatar. It also stood out for its emotional storytelling, making it an unforgettable night for all. Show Highlights The night was filled with emotional highs. TJ serenaded fans with his 'Harana' cover and Bisaya song 'Kung Siya Man,' while KZ wowed with genre-bending renditions of classics, including a powerful solo of Adele's 'Rolling in the Deep.' Qatar Leg TJ and KZ arrived in Qatar on July 6, joined by director John Prats and his wife, actress Isabel Oli-Prats. Afterwards, they attended a press meet-and-greet and toured around Qatar. Off-stage, both couples were spotted enjoying some of Qatar's scenic spots, spending quality time together and having memorable date moments in the country's beautiful spots. Ahead of the performance at QNCC, they paid a courtesy visit to the Philippine Embassy in Doha. They were warmly received by Philippine Ambassador to Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Melicor, who expressed gratitude for their contribution in promoting Filipino culture and OPM to both Filipino and non-Filipino communities in Qatar. Global Tour, Local Impact The Qatar leg was part of a world tour that included stops in the U.S., Canada, Australia, Singapore, and the UAE. But this particular show held a special place for the artists and their Filipino fans in the Middle East. 'Sarili Nating Mundo' The tour title, Sarili Nating Mundo (Our Own World), was inspired by a deeply personal song TJ wrote about his early married life with KZ. That song sparked sold-out stadium runs in Manila, including three consecutive nights at Araneta Coliseum, a first for a male Filipino solo artist. An Artist's Take When interviewed by Qatar Tribune, Michael Conjusta shared his thoughts on the TJ Monterde concert. Speaking as an artist, he gave a positive review from his VIP Gold seat. 'Though a bit far, I truly enjoyed it,' he said. 'The view made me feel like I had the whole venue captured.' He praised the venue's international standards, ample parking, and easy public transport access. The show started on time with impressive production. 'The audience loved it, and our front act, MYK Group, was awesome!' TJ and KZ delivered an unforgettable show. 'The production was almost perfect, setting a high standard for future concerts.' A Night to Remember As fans exited QNCC under the warm lights of Doha, many echoed the same sentiment: sulit ang ticket (the ticket was worth it). The SNM Qatar show was more than just a concert—it was a cultural celebration and a tribute to love, music, and the enduring spirit of Filipinos in Qatar and worldwide.
Filipino Times
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan visit Philippine Embassy in Doha ahead of concert
Philippine Ambassador to Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo Melicor, warmly received Filipino music artists TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan during a courtesy visit at the Philippine Embassy in Doha. The music power couple visited the Embassy on July 8, ahead of Monterde's concert, 'Sarili Nating Mundo,' scheduled on July 11 at the Qatar National Convention Center, with KZ Tandingan as his special guest. Also joining the visit was actor and concerts and events director John Prats, with his wife Isabel Oli. Ambassador Melicor thanked the artists for promoting Filipino culture through music and for helping introduce Original Pilipino Music (OPM) to both Filipino and non-Filipino audiences in Qatar. The concert is part of Monterde's ongoing world tour, which will continue in the United Arab Emirates on July 13 at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai.
Qatar Tribune
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
Filipino power duo Monterde & Tandingan all set to charm Qatar fans on July 11
Darlene Regis Two powerhouse voices, one unforgettable night—The 'King of Hugot' songs TJ Monterde and 'Asia's Soul Supreme' KZ Tandingan—the ultimate real-life power couple of the Original Pilipino Music (OPM), are set to captivate Qatar in a one-night-only concert this July 11, bringing their signature blend of soulful ballads and explosive duets to the heart of Doha. Landmark Concert in Doha TJ headlines the upcoming show, 'Sarili Nating Mundo' Live in Qatar, with his wife KZ as his special guest. Directed by John Prats and produced by Almarabe Events, this highly anticipated concert is shaping up to be a landmark event in Doha's music scene. The concert will take place at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) Conference Hall, which boasts an elevated flooring design to ensure all 4,000 attendees have a clear, unobstructed view of the stage – unlike the previously held Filipino concerts. This ensures that every fan, no matter where they are seated, will enjoy an immersive concert experience. OPM Royalty TJ's heartfelt hits like 'Ikaw At Ako' and 'Tulad Mo' have become anthems of love and introspection. KZ, on the other hand, is a vocal powerhouse whose fierce and genre-defying performances have won her international recognition—from making waves on Singer 2018 in China to collaborating with global artists. She made history as the first Filipino artist to stage a sold-out solo concert in Dubai World Trade Center Arena. Their duet song 'Palagi' has topped the Billboard Philippines Hot 100 Year-End Charts in 2024 and continues to go viral on social media to date. With their unmatched chemistry on and off stage, the duo has carved a distinct mark in the OPM music industry—amassing millions of fans worldwide, topping charts, and consistently performing at sold-out concerts across the Philippines and beyond. Ticketing and Event Details Tickets are selling fast, and with the strong demand, fans are encouraged to purchase early. Group promotions and discounted ticket bundles are available for a limited time. For those looking to upgrade their concert experience, VIP Platinum ticket holders will enjoy an exclusive Meet & Greet session with TJ and KZ—offering the rare chance to connect with their favorite artists up close. While VVIP ticket holders currently do not include merchandise or meet and greet. Physical tickets can be purchased only at Virgin Megastore. Tickets are also available online via QTickets. Doors open at 4:30 PM and the show starts at 8:00 PM. Attendees must be at least 14 years old to enter the venue. The Power of Two With TJ and KZ headlining the stage, audiences can expect a night filled with powerful solo hits and heartfelt duets. From raw, emotional ballads to show-stopping vocal displays, this concert will be more than just a musical performance—it will be a celebration of love, talent, and the rich musical heritage of the Philippines. The event is expected to draw a large crowd of OPM fans not just from the Filipino community but also from music lovers across Doha seeking an unforgettable concert experience.
The Star
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
‘Anak' singer Freddie Aguilar dies aged 72
Filipino singer-songwriter Freddie Aguilar, best known for his chart-topping international hit Anak, died in Manila aged 72, local media reported. He had been receiving treatment at the Philippine Heart Center, according to social media posts by his wife, Jovie Albao-Aguilar. Aguilar was one of the leaders of the locally based Original Pilipino Music movement of the 1970s, and was known for his political activism, often tackling social issues through song. In the 1980s, he lent his voice to the People Power Movement that overthrew then-dictator Ferdinand Marcos, with his rendition of the traditional patriotic ballad Bayan Ko (My Country) serving as an anthem. In a special 2018 resolution, the Philippine Senate lauded him for 'lifetime outstanding contributions to Philippine arts and culture.' Anak, a Tagalog-language song about the struggles of raising a problematic child, sold more than 30 million copies. — AFP
