Music legends take centerstage

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Two legendary acts, two milestone concerts — one unforgettable month for Filipino music fans. From the grand serenade of Ogie Alcasid, Louie Ocampo, and Ryan Cayabyab in "OAC: Original and Absolute Classics" to the electrifying, decades-spanning journey of The Dawn in "Almost 40," The T-Zone brings you up close with the artists who have shaped OPM across genres and generations and coming to you live this February.

A night of legends: Ogie, Louie O. and Mr. C set the stage for an unforgettable serenade

Ogie Alcasid, Louie Ocampo, and Ryan Cayabyab PHOTO FROM INSTAGRAM/OGIEALCASID

What happens when you put Ogie Alcasid, Louie Ocampo and Ryan Cayabyab on one stage? You get a once-in-a-lifetime Valentine's concert that's bound to carve its place in OPM history. Titled "OAC: Original and Absolute Classics" and set for February 13 at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort North, this isn't just another star-studded show — it's a grand serenade by three of the biggest names in the industry. And if their banter is anything like it was during the media con, audiences are in for a night of pure musical magic and mischief in staccato.

How did this genius idea all come together? Divine intervention, if you ask Ogie — multi-awarded singer-songwriter, hitmaker and arguably the most earnest pillar of OPM today. Apparently, he had a lightbulb moment while brainstorming with Solaire. "We were thinking about what concept we could come up with for this season; we were the ones who put on a show last year as well. Then I said, 'Why don't we bring in Mr. C, Louie and perhaps myself for Valentine's?'" he recounts. Mr. C, of course, being none other than National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab and Louie Ocampo, the prolific composer who dominated the OPM ballad scene in the 1980s and 1990s with the most timeless hits.

"Solaire said, 'It's a great idea!' I mean... it's like the Lord nudged me to do this, so thank you, Lord, for making it happen," Ogie adds, still in awe of his luck. "For me, it's a wonderful opportunity. A great honor to be with these two gentlemen who have contributed so much to the Philippine music scene. Looking at them, they're like the Mozart and Chopin of OPM — serious musicians but down-to-earth and very giving."

Believe it or not, despite decades of working in the same circles, this powerhouse trio has never performed together in one production before. "I've always performed with Mr. C in concerts, and with Louie too. But the three of us together — this is the first time," Ogie shares, still pinching himself.

Louie, always the composed and straight-talking musician, is just as excited. "With Ogie, there's never a dull moment because he's got this quirky side. His energy is really something else!" he says with a chuckle. "But at the same time, iba yung puso niya (his heart is something else). He's so generous in sharing his gift, his knowledge. Just being around him, you learn so much — about the stories he makes and the songs he writes."

Mr. C, the ultimate maestro, has nothing but admiration for his co-headliner. "Si O, I always look forward to working with him. Even if I'm the musical director, I keep watching him because he's just so entertaining," he beams. "And I told him that to his face. I said, 'You know, you're not just a performer — you have that charm, that very natural, diplomatic persona.'"

As for the music — the undeniable centerpiece of the evening — audiences can expect an evening of heart-melting love songs, timeless anthems, and a few surprises. Granted that it isn't usual for Valentine's concerts to have an all-male headliner, Louie stepped in to set the scene: "Just imagine the three of us serenading you."

Now that's a Valentine's treat for the books.

"This is really a concert that celebrates the music that has touched hearts for decades," Ogie shares. "We have guests coming in, and some of our songs will be performed in different versions, including those originally sung by women in my key."

The evening will, of course, showcase the original and absolute classics from all three icons — Ogie's unforgettable hits like "Nandito Ako" and "Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang," Louie's timeless compositions such as "Tell Me" and "Ikaw," and Ryan Cayabyab's masterpieces, including "Araw Gabi" and "Ulan." New and fresh arrangements of these classics by the OGs themselves will remind audiences why these songs have stood the test of time.

But while Ogie will be doing most of the singing, don't expect Louie and Mr. C to sit quietly behind their pianos. "Maybe we'll sing a line or two from the songs," Mr. C conceded briefly before quickly clarifying, "But this is really an Ogie showcase, so don't expect us to be the singers that we're not."

Beyond their brilliant music, what truly binds these three together is something even more sentimental. Ogie shares it in this story: "I had an epiphany. I had just come from Australia to pay respects to a relative who passed away, but at the same time, we found a venue for my daughter's wedding. [Ogie's daughter Leila became engaged to her longtime boyfriend, indie singer-rapper Mito Fabie, in September 2024.]

"And just recently, I attended Louie's daughter's wedding. That's when it really hit me — we're fathers. When I saw Louie at his daughter's wedding, he was so emotional, crying the whole time. And there I was, just on my way to my own daughter's wedding venue, already tearing up. I thought, 'So this is what it feels like.' We're men who have lived, who have experienced life, and I'm beginning to follow in their footsteps. I think that's what connects us — we're husbands, we're fathers, and at our core, we are deeply romantic."

And that deep sense of romance is, as we all know, most evident in their music, even before Ogie's epiphany — songs that have not only defined their careers but have also become the soundtrack of countless Filipino lives. Their melodies and lyrics have scored love stories, heartbreaks, and reunions resonating across generations, yours and mine included, for sure.

So, with these three icons pouring their hearts into every note, "OAC: Original and Absolute Classics" is shaping up to be more than just a concert — it will definitely be an unforgettable celebration of love, life and the magic of OPM. Get ready, because this Valentine's, Manila is about to be serenaded like never before.

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OAC: Original and Absolute Classics unfolds on February 13, 8:30 p.m. at the Solaire Resort North Grand Ballroom. Tickets available at www.ticketworld.com.ph, the Solaire Box Office at Solaire Resort Entertainment City, and at the Level 1 Lobby beside the check-in counters.

Why The Dawn will always be cool — now and for generations to come

Rock bands are, by default, cool. There's just something about screaming guitars, pounding drums, and defiant anthems that transcend generations. But when a band like The Dawn — one of the most iconic rock bands in Philippine music history — pushes towards its 40th anniversary, the question inevitably arises: Are they still cool?

This is what The Manila Times Entertainment asked them at a media conference organized by Ticket1 producer Jonathan Wee in Quezon City for their milestone concert "Almost 40."

"I never saw myself as cool to begin with," frontman Jett Pangan says, laughing. "And we never really used that word to describe the band either. We've always just been... loud. Maybe fun. But cool? I don't know."

The Dawn frontman of ‘Almost 40’ years Jett Pangan (second from right) with band members (from left) Bim Yance, Francis Reyes, JB Leonor and Rommel Sanchez PHOTO FROM INSTAGRAM/THEDAWNPH

Guitarist Francis Reyes echoes the sentiment. "I guess there are people who would say that about us, but it's not something we apply to ourselves," he muses. "It's a matter of perception. If people think we're cool, that's nice. Thank you. But collectively, we don't think of ourselves that way."

And yet, as they approach their remarkable milestone, their impact on Philippine rock is undeniable. In fact, it transcends coolness, with The Dawn remaining as much a force as ever in Philippine music and culture — one that has weathered changes, evolved with the times, and stayed true to their craft.

"To be almost 40, as a rock band, is a badge of honor," Jett admits. "It's not all fun and games being a rock band in the Philippines. To last this long, through member changes, management shifts, and everything in between... it's something I wear proudly on my sleeve."

Drummer JB Leonor, one of the band's founding members, reflects on the transformations they've undergone. "I never thought we would last this long. I've seen so many member changes, and with each new addition, the band shifted a little. Every member brings something new and influences our sound in some way. It's a constant evolution."

Indeed, The Dawn has seen it all — the tragic loss of founding guitarist Teddy Diaz, disbandment in the early '90s, a triumphant reunion, and now, four decades of unwavering musical passion.

"Through the years, we've had different directions," Jett explains. "We've always chosen members who have open minds when it comes to music. The Dawn tends to explore and mix genres. That's part of why we're still here."

The group turns 40 in July and celebrates the milestone on Feb. 28 with a concert at the Music Museum. PHOTO FROM INSTAGRAM/THEDAWNPH

At the heart of their endurance is, of course, the music. It has always been their end-all and be-all — then, now, and always. Not the rockstar image nor the fame that many mistake as the essence of "a cool rock band," but the sheer love of creating and sharing music. Proof is how the best of The Dawn — "Salamat," "Enveloped Ideas," "Iisang Bangka Tayo" — aren't just nostalgia trips almost 40 years later. They continue to be played, streamed and sung along to by old and new fans alike. And while their own songs remain timeless, The Dawn is just as eager to embrace new sounds. Their set lists even include covers, proving their openness to contemporary influences.

"We always think of the audience," Jett shares. "What will they enjoy aside from our songs? We love discovering new music and incorporating fresh elements into our performances."

With a catalog spanning rock, pop, and even alternative influences, The Dawn clearly refuses to be boxed in then and now. "It's easy to say that we're just a rock band, but if you listen to more of our songs, you'll hear a diverse range of influences," Jett continues. "That's our formula for longevity if there is one. Openness. We need to keep exploring music to keep it exciting."

Perhaps what makes The Dawn enduring isn't just their music — undeniably the core of their coolness—but also their attitude. For after all these years, they remain grateful for the opportunity to perform and connect with audiences. Still in awe of the unwavering support from fans who have stood by them through decades. Still ready to play.

"Each day is a blessing," Jett says simply. "We never take it for granted. The fact that we're still doing this — gathering for a press conference, inviting people to a show, having a discussion like this — it's not lost on us. We appreciate every moment."

Looking back, if there's one song that encapsulates The Dawn's journey and which Filipinos have embraced as their own, it's certainly "Salamat." Jett aptly says of the massive hit, "That song has a life of its own. The high I get from singing it has never changed. We've been playing it forever, but it still means something every time."

Whether it's a graduation, a farewell, a reunion, or even a simple gathering among friends, "Salamat" is the song Filipinos turn to when they want to celebrate gratitude and lasting bonds.

And so, as The Dawn takes stock of everything they've been through at this gratifying vantage point, one truth stands out. They may have never thought of themselves as cool, but there's something undeniably electrifying about a band that keeps going — not for the hype or the trend, but for the love of music and the people who listen. That is why as they gear up for "Almost 40," one thing is clear, The Dawn will always be cool for generations of Filipinos now and in the future.

"Almost 40" will rock the Music Museum on February 28. Tickets are available through the TicketWorld website and Ticket1 on Facebook.