Sunday, November 11, 2012

The Best Yet of Charice in her Infinity Tour-Hawaii

Charice sounds and looks her best yet in the Hawaii leg of her Infinity Tour 2012.

She just keeps on getting better: she's got the most beautiful, melodious, powerful voice. She looks very fit and pretty. She feels her Chasters' love. She's very positive about her "secret admirers". And she seems happily in love.

Thanks to Chaster ice3353 for the videos below:

Part 1 of 4



Part 2 of 4



Part 3 of 4: http://youtu.be/sO5E3EqlSSs
Part 4 of 4: http://youtu.be/SH1eum7KL48

Being a Chaddict, watching her in Hawaii made me search for her first performance there. See the videos below:

Charice Pempengco "I have nothing" live in Hawaii by LOU6410:



Charice Pempengco "I have nothing" rehearsal in Hawaii by oneofChasters (Charice's rehearsals are equally amazing):

Monday, November 5, 2012

Charice's performances in TOFA-NY 2012

Thanks to LantaoIslands again, we are enjoying videos of Charice's latest performances.

From the ChariceConcerts YouTube channel:
New York City designates October as the "Filipino American History Month". The awarding ceremonies for the Outstanding Filipino Americans of New York (TOFA-NY) is held at the Weill Hall @Carnegie Hall in NYC on October 27, 2012. Our dear Charice is invited to this event of course and sang her single "The Way You Look Tonight" and another duet with Cheesa Laureta, a finalist in the American talent show "The Voice".

The Way You Look Tonight


I'm Not Perfect

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Philippine news report on positive reviews received by Charice

Photo from Zimbio.com
Good to know that two leading Philippine newspapers came out with articles citing the good reviews Charice received for her role in the Hollywood movie "Here Comes The Boom".

In general, these positive reviews of Charice's performances may be all over the Internet but unless they come out in local newspapers, many Filipinos do not get to know about it and this is one reason why they miss out on many of Charice's achievements.

Philippine Daily Inquirer:

Charice gets rave reviews for Hollywood film role

By Allan Policarpio

With the recent US release of her Hollywood film “Here Comes the Boom,” Filipina singer Charice has added yet another milestone to her career as an international artist.

Charice got positive feedback for her role as Malia de la Cruz—a music prodigy in the sports-comedy flick that opened on October 12.

Directed by Frank Coraci and anchored by lead stars Kevin James and Salma Hayek, the film is about James’ character Scott Voss, a 42-year-old biology teacher forced to moonlight as a mixed martial arts fighter to raise money for his school’s ailing music program.

In a review published on his website (www.themovieboy.com), Online Film Critics Society member Dustin Putman commended Charice’s acting: “She brings such honesty and emotion to the screen that one can’t help but care about her… Charice is a star in the making with a smile that could light up a New York City blackout.”

David Germain of The Associated Press said Charice “adds adorability as a bright and earnest student.”

“Here Comes” writer and producer James, who is Charice’s teacher in the film, raved about the petite Pinay’s performance of Neil Diamond’s “Holly Holy.” He told Colorado FM station Jammin’ 101.5 during the red carpet premiere in Denver: “My girl Charice rocks it. She’s unbelievable, you’ll see.”
Read the whole article:
http://entertainment.inquirer.net/63090/charice-gets-rave-reviews-for-hollywood-film-role


Manila Bulletin:

Positive Reviews Pour In For Charice’s Movie Performance

By Rowena Joy A. Sanchez

MANILA, Philippines – The reviews are in for the inspirational comedy flick “Here Comes The Boom.” And while critics are divided over this Kevin James starrer, a handful of them commended the performance of cast member Charice.

David Germain of the Associated Press wrote that the 20-year-old singer and budding actress “adds adorability as a bright and earnest student,” referring to her character Malia dela Cruz—a “musical genius” and “brainiac,” as Charice herself described.

The review was also published on Huffington Post and Fox News.

Charice’s character “could easily have been a mawkish bit, but like so much else, it works, and when she and the school band surprisingly appear in Vegas to perform Scott’s unlikely theme song, 'Holly Holy,' I defy anyone not to get a little misty,” said David Noh of Film Journal International, the sister publication of Billboard and The Hollywood Reporter.

Dustin Putman, member of the Online Film Critics Society (OFCS), put out a lengthy commentary on Charice’s performance in his review, saying that the latter “gets the best and more energized moments” in “Here Comes The Boom.” Acting-wise, the international singing sensation “brings such honesty and emotion to the screen that one can't help but care about her.”

“For a singer-turned-actor whose biggest notable credit is a guest-starring role on ‘Glee,’ Charice is a star in the making with a smile that could light up a New York City blackout,” he added.

The “Louder” singer also got a special mention in Michael Phillips’ review for the Chicago Tribune.

“The film takes it easy on the audience, even while indulging in shameless narrative strategies to engineer a very full climax, showcasing among others the talented Filipina student played by Charmaine Clarice Relucio Pempengco, who goes by Charice.”
Read the whole article:
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/377542/positive-reviews-pour-in-for-charice-s-movie-performance#.UJZzuIapano

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Review of Charice's Performance in Here Comes the Boom

Playing a supporting role, Charice stands out in this 2012 comedy film. Commenting on what was most memorable about it, the author wrote (emphasis mine):
...Scott's prized pupil Malia (Charice), an aspiring musician who is able to memorize information by turning them into song lyrics, gets the best and more energized moments. For a while she is stuck with a lame subplot—her father wants her to give up her dreams to work for him at his restaurant (what is this, "Kung Fu Panda?")—but newcomer Charice brings such honesty and emotion to the screen that one can't help but care about her. Later appearances, as she tutors Niko in preparation for his citizenship test by twisting the lyrics of his favorite song, Journey's "Faithfully," or a climactic moment where she beautifully performs Neil Diamond's "Holly Holy" before the UFC fight, are even better. For a singer-turned-actor whose biggest notable credit is a guest-starring role on "Glee," Charice is a star in the making with a smile that could light up a New York City blackout.
Source: http://www.themovieboy.com/reviews/h/12_herecomestheboom.htm


Monday, October 15, 2012

KC Concepcion and XFactor Winner KZ Tandingan talk about Charice

Let the ones who really know Charice talk about her.
KC, KZ Attest To Charice's Humility, Dedication
By ROWENA JOY A. SANCHEZ

Charice herself prepared the arrangements for her group's individual performances on 'X Factor,' and maintained open communication with them, said KZ (ABS-CBN)

MANILA, Philippines - TV host-actress KC Concepcion and "X Factor Philippines" grand winner KZ Tandingan have stood up against Charice's haters online.

After achieving international fame, Charice has been accused of becoming swell-headed and "Americanized"—a malicious perception that KC disproved via "Kris TV" on Monday.

According to KC, Charice is down-to-earth and funny.

"Actually kalog siya lalo na 'pag nagjo-joke in Tagalog. Kasi Pilipina naman talaga si Charice. Hindi naman niya nakakalimutan 'yung Filipino roots niya, as opposed to what people think," she said.

The "X Factor Philippines" host went on to relate how dedicated Charice was during the competition. The former recalled that for the past three months, the 20-year-old singer would fly to the States every week to attend to her engagements there, then back to Manila in time for the "X Factor" preparations and shows.

"Sobra kaya sa pagka-committed kaya 'yon, if you have to fly back and forth. Talagang parang hindi [na] niya alam 'yung time zone niya," KC added.

Charice was a hands-on mentor to her group—the girls, composed of KZ, Allen Sta. Maria, and Jerrianne Mae Templo—and she herself created the arrangements for their songs on the show.

"Siya mismo 'yung kumakanta ng demo namin… So… gumagawa po sila ng arrangement, tapos from that arrangement, ang ginagawa ko po, binabago ko na lang 'yung vocals niya," KZ said.

Having open communication apparently strengthened the bond between Charice and her team.

"Dati pa naman po nagi-email na kami. Tapos nung last two weeks na hindi na siya bumalik ng Amerika, until nung nag-grand finals, nagte-text-text po kami," KZ related.
Read the rest of the article:
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/376327/kc-kz-attest-to-charices-humility-dedication

Friday, October 12, 2012

Charice guests in CBS' The Couch

Charice brings the Philippines once again to the international movie scene with the opening of her movie Here Comes the Boom.
Charice promotes Hollywood movie in US show
By Karen Valeza | Yahoo! Southeast Asia Newsroom

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 09: Charice Pempengco attends the "Here Comes The Boom" premiere at AMC Loews Lincoln Square on October 9, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Robin Marchant/Getty Images)
Count CBS morning talk show “The Couch” in Charice’s growing list of international TV appearances.

The singer recently flew to the US and guested in the show to promote her first big Hollywood movie “Here Comes the Boom” which stars Kevin James and Salma Hayek.

“I play  Kevin James’ student,” she told hosts of “The Couch”. “That was my first big role because it’s one of the supporting roles and I also sang in the movie. There was also a singing part. It’s very inspirational. I’ve seen a lot of Kevin James movies and this is the best one so far.”

“Here Comes the Boom” is about a Biology teacher (James), who also works as a mixed martial arts fighter to keep the music program of the school alive.

Charice auditioned for a role in the movie and was asked to sing Neil Diamond’s “Holly Holy.”

Unfamiliar song

“I did not know the song. I didn’t even know that I was gonna do the song. I thought I was just gonna act. I was getting ready, reading the script and all of a sudden they gave me the lyrics of the song 'Holly Holy'. So I went to the conference room, Frank (Coraci),  the director was there, everyone was there. I was shaking. (I was saying to myself) ‘Why am I shaking? This is my job, I sing.’ Thank God I made it,” she said.

Charice also feels proud and grateful about working with the cast, whom she described as “nice and sweet.”

“I love all of them. I’m just very blessed. I just didn’t expect them to be that nice and sweet. Being with them on the set, I kept telling them, if you guys are gonna make another movie ‘Pick me, pick me,’” she said in jest.

Charice was also asked how TV host Oprah helped her career.

“I can say that she’s one of those people I really owe. She gave me the career I’ve been wanting. Until now she’s still there to support me. I want to thank her for everything,” Charice replied.

Infinity album

She also discussed her Infinity album, which will  be released in the US.

“The album came out in Asia first. I’m still working on some music to put in the US version. It’s called Infinity. I just finished being a judge-mentor in X Factor Philippines.”

Charice was ecstatic when she met fellow guest Lynda Carter, star of “Wonderwoman.” 

 “"The real Wonder Woman :)... Starstruck mode!!!!", she tweeted.

Charice’s  first Hollywood movie appearance was in  “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel,” where she played a cameo role as herself.
Source: http://ph.omg.yahoo.com/news/charice-promotes-hollywood-movie-in-us-show.html

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Charice mentee KZ Tandingan is 1st X Factor Philippines Grand Winner

Congratulations to Charice for being a great judge-mentor in the 1st X Factor Philippines and for her mentee KZ being the grand winner!

Good people with real talents really only have one way to go: up!
‘X Factor’ winner KZ finds her voice
By Allan Policarpio
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Kristine Zhenie “KZ” Tandingan used to believe that one should have a beautiful face, smooth skin and a powerful set of pipes in order to make it big in the local music industry.

As expected, the 20-year-old band vocalist from Digos City, Davao del Sur, grew up with low self-esteem. She spent most of her high school days trying to belt out the most demanding ballads of Celine Dion and Whitney Houston.

But on Sunday night, the petite, soulful singer proved her own notions wrong after being crowned the “X Factor Philippines” grand winner at the Pagcor Grand Theater in ParaƱaque City.

“The first thing that came to my mind when I heard my name was, ‘Thank you, Lord!’ I wanted to win badly, but I didn’t expect anything,” she told the Inquirer after her victory, stifling her sobs. “You can be the best singer, but if it’s not meant for you, then you can’t do anything about it. I had prayed and surrendered everything to God.”

A few years back, KZ developed polyps in her throat, which altered her voice and dampened her desire to pursue a singing career. It was then she realized she couldn’t always be a biritera (belter).

Unique style

The condition turned out to be a blessing in disguise, KZ said. Her now-limited vocal range forced her to develop a unique mode of singing by exploring different music genres and playing up a song’s key and arrangements. She developed a tone and style that lends itself well to jazz, reggae and soul-flavored tunes.

KZ’s audition piece was one of her most memorable performances.  Her stylized, acoustic rendition of “Over the Rainbow” showcased her improvisational skills—she even scatted portions of the song.

“Everything happens for a reason. Had I stuck to my old singing style, I probably wouldn’t be here right now. Perhaps I suffered from the condition so I can find who I really am as an artist,” she mused.

“I want to prove that you don’t have to be a belter to be appreciated. You just have to believe in yourself and your capabilities,” she added.

KZ won by a landslide, garnering 54.77 percent of the total text and online votes. She bested 19-year-old balladeer Gabriel Maturan and the all-male vocal harmony group Daddy’s Home, with 32.33 and 12.90 percent, respectively.

Fighting back tears, the first winner of the local franchise of “X Factor” struggled through her encore of The Carpenters’ “Superstar,” her contest piece during Saturday’s performance night.

“It was surreal. I asked Ate KC [Concepcion] to slap me just to make sure I wasn’t dreaming,” said KZ, who almost got eliminated on the show’s ninth week after landing in the bottom two.

Best advice

KZ shared the touching moment with her mentor and “X Factor” judge Charice, who was equally surprised by the results.

“We were so shocked because we’re already conditioning ourselves for a second place finish,” Charice told the Philippine Daily Inquirer. “I feel really proud. She’s such a smart performer.”

The international pop star said that more than being an extremely talented performer, it was KZ’s humility and willingness to learn that helped her win the competition. “I want her to have the right people around her,” she said.

Despite being the same age, KZ fondly calls her more experienced mentor “Madame.” She said that working with Charice boosted her performance on and off the stage.

“She would always tell me to sing because I love doing it, and not just because I need to,” KZ related.

Sure bet

Clad in glittery, rocker chick outfits, KZ and Charice regaled the crowd with a swaying rendition of the American standard, “The Way You Look Tonight.”

Meanwhile, Martin Nievera, “X Factor” judge and mentor to Gabriel Maturan, said that from the moment he heard KZ sing during the auditions, he knew that she was the one to beat.

“We don’t just look for someone who has a beautifully-textured voice. The winner of ‘X Factor’ should also be astig. And that’s what KZ is,” he told the Inquirer.

For the church

As the grand winner, KZ received a check signifying P4 million worth of prizes: P2 million in cash and a P2-million exclusive recording contract with Star Music. Gabriel received P100,000, while Daddy’s Home won P50,000.

Asked what she’s going to do with the prize money, KZ said she would donate P1 million to their local church in Digos City, which was in dire need of repairs. “Our church is in a really poor state. And just this morning, my father called to inform me that a portion of the church had collapsed,” she said. “I’m glad I can honor my commitment to rebuild it.”

Hosted by KC Concepcion, the results night reunited the top three finalists with the rest of this season’s contenders.

They shared the stage with special guests Jovit Baldivino, Angeline Quinto, Jed Madela, Erik Santos, April Boy Regino, Yeng Constantino, Pooh and K Brosas.

“X Factor” judge-mentors Martin Nievera, Pilita Corrales, Gary Valenciano and Charice also delivered rousing performances.
Source

Watch the duet of Charice and KZ during the grand finale night:

Sunday, October 7, 2012

Saturday, June 16, 2012

Martin Nievera on Charice as X Factor Judge: "She's always right"

In an interview posted on Philippine Entertainment Portal, X Factor Philippines judge Martin Nievera commented on Charice as a fellow judge:
WHY CHARICE? Sa pagsisimula ng X Factor Philippines, isa sa nakuwestiyon ay ang pagkakapili kay Charice dahil napakabata pa raw nito maging judge at parang kulang pa sa kaalaman kahit pa nga naging international singer na ito. (As X Factor Philippines begins, one of the things that has been questioned is the choice of Charice as one of the judges since she is deemed too young to be a judge and apparently lacks experience even if she is already an international singer.)

Dinepensa naman agad ito sa amin ni Martin. (Martin immediately defended her.)

“Feeling ko yun ang unang mararamdaman ng tao... Pero pag dating sa lasa ng music, sa bagong tunog, sa bagong beat, mas lamang si Charice sa lahat. (I feel that's the people's first impression... But when it comes to knowing music, the new sound, the new beat, Charice has the edge over everyone.)

"She’s been through David Foster, recording with RNB, hip hop and the rappers of the world, so [she knows] what's new.

"We’re looking for that  X Factor, yung buong package na hindi lang magaling kumanta.(...the one with the complete package, not just the one who sings well.)

"We’re looking for that certain something na di puwedeng i-define, dun magaling si Charice. (...that can't be defined, that's where Charice is good at.)

"She knows when she is being fooled, she knows when parang kaboses ni ganito, ni ganyan," ayon kay Martin. (...when someone sounds like this or that singer, according to Martin.)

"Alam na alam niya (She knows it so well...), parang she’s been there, done that and yet she’s so young.

"Tita Pilita on one end, Charice on the other.

"Gary and I are in the middle.  So it’s nice to watch X Factor, I hope everybody watches it, June 23 na ang start.

“Actually sa lahat ng mga judges, favorite ko si Charice kasi parang alam niyang mag-judge talaga, magaling siyang mag-decide. (Among all the judges, Charice is my favorite because she really seems to know how to judge, she decides really well.)

"Kung may kaunting friction sa mga judges, ang deciding factor ay si Charice. (Whenever there's a bit of friction among the judges, Charice is the deciding factor) Can you believe that? Siya kasi, she’s always right. (It's because she's always right.)
Source: http://www.pep.ph/news/34501/Martin-Nievera-in-OPM-Icons-concert-at-the-Arena-tonight

Below is the latest X Factor Philippines teaser:

Friday, June 15, 2012

Lyrics (partial) of Parachute by Charice

Is the song "Parachute" going to be part of the US/International edition of Charice's Infinity album? I hope so, it sounds great!

Someone uploaded a teaser on YouTube but it can't be embedded so just follow the link here: http://youtu.be/-VwTy-92wGg

Lyrics of PARACHUTE by CHARICE
(Chasters, please correct and/or fill in the blank)

I know you wanna play it safe babe
but love wants you to risk it all
go up against the wall
go ahead jump over the edge
my heart plus head
close your eyes and faaall

i would never let you down
never touch the ground
we'll be in the air
and I'll keep you there
take my hand, promise not to turn it loose
when I jump, you jump, we jump
we won't need no parachute

(...?)
get closer to me and I'll jump with you
if you believe in us, we're gonna prove
we don't need no parachute

I'm learning now
just freefalling in love, yeah me and you
if you believe in us, we're gonna prove
we don't need no parachute

Friday, May 25, 2012

Favorite Charice shot: X Factor Philippines

Favorite Charice shot right now:

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Charice photos & videos: X Factor Philippines - Davao Auditions

Updated (27 May 2012) - Below is a playlist of videos uploaded on YouTube:



Many thanks to this series of Charice tweets and photos from Ms Angeli Pangilinan Valenciano (@AngeliPV):

Why was Charice crying?




I feel for Charice. It's bad enough to have a parent die, worse when you've been missing him for so long and then suddenly he's gone in a violent way. I'm just glad the memory of it was brought on by something good and happy, and that the X Factor Philippines judges are becoming like family for her.

Charice now is the same Charice we fell in love with

People change, looks change. But fortunately, Charice now is still the same Charice we fell in love with.


Here's an excerpt of a 2009 article on Charice (emphasis mine):
Charice Pempengco is PHILNEWS.COM Person of the Year for 2009


...Of our seven finalists Charice seems to have truly captured the hearts of the Filipino people. And why not, listening to this young charming seventeen-year-old, one cannot help but be taken in by her charm, and her talent.

One of the first things people notice about Charice is that she is unpretentious. She has no problem letting the world know about her humble beginnings and her struggles growing up in a single-parent household. Unlike local entertainers who immediately put on a faƧade of sophistication or wealth, this young Filipina with a golden voice has a strong sense of who she is and what she can achieve thus making it unnecessary for her to go out of her way to impress anyone.

Charice is a breath of fresh air for the Philippine entertainment industry. An industry which had initially given her short shrift for looking too "Pinay." It took adoring fans from distant shores to jolt locals into the realization that there was real talent here which they should not ignore.

And yes, we realize that Charice may change, fame and fortune has a way of reshaping even the purest of spirits. But for now, we rejoice in the Charice we have—may she always retain that honesty, that sincerity, that love for her craft, and that truly great singing voice that has made her the overwhelming choice for our Person of the Year.
Source: http://www.philnews.com/2009/32a.htm

As a Chaster, a Filipino, a person, I am happy to see that despite the success and fame that Charice has achieved so far, she has indeed retained the beautiful qualities that made us love her when we first "discovered" her: unpretentious, with a strong sense of who she is and what she can achieve, honest, sincere, love for her craft, and a truly great singing voice.

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Charice (Tsares) videos: X Factor Philippines auditions (Cebu)

I just really enjoyed watching these videos. Charice is naturally funny and she makes people happy with her amazing voice, even when done out of fun, and by just being herself.

According to a tweet by @jamie34peters:
(Charice pretending to be a contestant) Charice began singing "Kailangan Kita"...
Watch video below as uploaded by :


And then the dialogue below followed:
Mr. Gary V.: Ahh.. sandali ah..what's ur name?
Charice as Tsares: Ano po..Tsares!
Gary V.: Tsares?!.. (talking to Martin & Pilita Coralles)
Charice as Tsares: Dii..Please po Ser! say Yes!..
Gary V. I'm not sure ah..I'm not sure...uhmmm
Charice as Tsares: Please po!
Martin Nievera: i know you're a Foster Child..but uhmmm..
Charice as Tsares: Apo..
Martin Nievera: (laughing) YESSSSSS!!! (Audience Screaming)
Charice as Tsares: Thank You po. Thank you po.
Gary V.: Basta ako naniniwala ako na you can become a representative of the Philippines, cause you have the X-Factor. The world deserves to see you.
Charice as Tsares: Thank You po Kuya Gare..Thank You po...Yeheyyy! Tsares!!..Yehey!...Tita Pilita Please say Yes!..Please po, say Yes!.No? Yes? No?...
Pilita Corrales: Yeessssssssssssss!! *screaming*
Charice as a Judge: sa lahat po ng nasa Auditions..sa pagkakataong ito si Tsares na po ang nanalo..Thank You..
Below is another video from the same uploader. Charice sings "Louder", ballad-style:



Congrats, TSARES!

Playlist of X Factor Philippines - Manila auditions:
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLC9B7AA6B967B7943

Sunday, April 29, 2012

Dreamgirls Composer: Charice's version of "Listen" is better than the original

Many, including myself at times, would say of certain things that, generally, the original's the best. But Charice is obviously far from being part of what's general or usual out there.

And so while there are people who get peeved when her fans say that she's better than the original when she sings covers, a significant composer like Henry Krieger does not hesitate at all to say that yes, Charice did better than the original.

From broadwayworld.com:
InDepth InterView: Henry Krieger Talks LUCKY DUCK, DREAMGIRLS, SIDE SHOW...

Recently, noted composer Henry Krieger was generous enough to take a comprehensive look back at his many accomplishments onstage and onscreen, turning back the pages of time and sharing memories of DREAMGIRLS...

PC: Charice did “Listen” from the DREAMGIRLS film on GLEE to much acclaim last year - she has done this column, as well, actually.

HK: Oh, yeah - I love her! Her version is better than the original.
That's a wonderful compliment from a great composer to a great singer.

To it I'll just add that it's not only that Charice sings it better. Even more than this, she has a very, very beautiful voice that sounds rich & deep in whatever song genre. And her performances are always passionate. I think this is a rare combination in singers, especially these days.

Read more: http://broadwayworld.com/article/InDepth-InterView-Henry-Krieger-Talks-LUCKY-DUCK-DREAMGIRLS-SIDE-SHOW-Revival-More-20120315#ixzz1tO8HUNwN

Listen to Charice singing "Listen" on Glee:


Buy it at http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/listen-glee-cast-version-single/id392166032

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Behind the Scenes: Charice Album

Below is an original post by Mr Arnold Jallores in his blog, The Sound of Arnold!

He talks about the album production of "Charice", the Philippine EP and debut EP of Charice released in May 2008. This is different from the international debut album also titled "Charice" which was released internationally in May 2010 and reached the No. 8 spot in the Billboard 200, making Charice the first Asian artist to do this. (Read more about Charice's discography)

(I just adjusted a bit the layout of the original post, highlighted my favorite parts, and added the photos the author placed in separate posts.)
OK... now my life is back to being semi normal after a series of album productions starting off with sweet Charice Pempengco's self titled album.

Now i feel i can blog about this album since it is out on the market and i can look back and shed some useful info on the production of this album.

First off, cut number one: And I Am Telling You

Originally heard on the movie adaptation of "Dreamgirls".

Arranged by Arnold Buena, a talented and amazing arranger who uses high quality samples on his arrangement. None of the orchestral instruments were done live but if you listen closely enough you probably won't notice since the MIDI arrangement and samples are simply fantastic.

Charice didn't sing the way Jennifer Hudson did. She wanted to do it her way which Jon and I happily agreed. At least she doesn't just want to cover the song but to sing it in a style of her own.

Picture of me (author) and Charice Pempengco
taken during one of her vocal sessions for her self titled album.
Click the photo to go to the original post.

Cut number two: It Can Only Get Better

...A song originally done by Amy Diamond.

Now this song I believe can't be sung in any other way since it is about juvenile love. It's a teenage girl singing about how after all the pains you encounter, things will definitely get better. Hmmm now isn't that a song we can all relate to?

This song I arranged but i did change it a little bit since the original arrangement didn't have a band feel to it. No drums and no string parts, this I put in myself to make the song more lifting and heavier towards the middle and end part. The guitars were all done live by again... Me :-)

I just love playing guitars specially on an album which features a very competent singer.

If you listen closely to this song you'll hear an original guitar line that i felt complements the particular section it was in.

Cut number three: I Will Always Love You

Originally written and performed by Dolly Parton if i'm not mistaken. But we all remember Whitney Houston's famous rendition of this song.

Charice practically grew up singing Whitney songs... so this one is not so much of a difficult song for her and she sings it in its original key. I've seen Whitney videos on YouTube of her singing this song a key lower. Charice does justice on this song since she must've been singing it since she was four years old. hahaha

This version was arranged by my good friend Paulo Zarate who now has his own studio aptly called Studio Z!

Guitars by moi... this song originally had a saxophone solo in the middle part but now for this album Jon wanted a guitar solo so ... i used my fender strat for this song plugged straight to Protools with an amp simulator plugin.

Cut number four: Born To Love You Forever

Now this song is a Swedish song originally included on an album she recorded in Sweden.

The original arrangement was for the Swedish market which i believe likes songs with heavy synth textures and drum loops.

The arrangement for this song is once again done by.... guess? Well, me of course. Jon decided as producer that he wanted me to give this song a band feel to it of which i was only too happy to oblige.

Charice did all the vocals for this song... which called for quite a number of backup vocals as well and Jon decided to let Charice sing her backup parts as well so that the texture and stable vocal timing are retained.

Cut number five: I Have Nothing

This song posed quite a challenge since the original arrangement was done by David Foster.

And Leona Lewis has done this song as well. Jon wanted to keep the original Foster arrangement since we both felt that this was a very good arrangement for this song and it would not seem right to change it at all ... since this album was intended to be used by young hopeful singers as well hence the inclusion of minus one versions of all the songs in the album.

Of course the Foster version featured human musicians but Philippine production budget would not allow for a full orchestra for just one song, well unless you'll only sell one song on the CD.

Plus the logistics for doing such a thing would be ridiculous considering the amount of time we were told to come up with this album. This album was started after her "Ellen" performance and before her "Oprah" guesting. In the middle of production we had to take a short break because she had to go to do the Paul O'grady show in London. Charice had a hectic schedule.

I personally like the arrangement and I think it holds it own and it serves its purpose.

One very notable incident was that I arranged the song almost sync'd to the original and i purposely did not put in a click track or metronome count on the breaks of this song. Charice sang it straight through proving that she knows this song by heart and did not need a count to keep her in time. Now that's something I rarely see in a singer. :-)


(Author) with Charice Pempengco... who as far as i know is the first filipina singer
to guest in Oprah's show. :-)
Click the photo to go to the original post.

Cut number six: Mama

Originally done by Smokey Mountain.

Star Records wanted to include this song since they felt Charice could do justice to this song. It was kind of funny though since the lyrics include the lines "mama is a maid in London" which Mrs. Pempengco obviously isn't. We had a blast doing this song which was arranged by Gino "Blooze" Cruz, another excellent musical arranger and keyboard player.

Charice wasn't really familiar with this song so it took a little bit longer to sing than when she sings a song she knows by heart.

All recordings were done at Mixsonic Recording studios
Recorded by Arnold Jallores and Jonathan Manalo
Produced by Jonathan Manalo for Star Records Inc.

The original mix had vocals sitting on the mix but Star Records wanted more vocals upfront since after all it was a vocal album.

Mixed and mastered by
Arnold Jallores
Go to the original post: Charice Album

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Charice's New Look and Her Fans / Fingerprint

Updated on 9 April 2012
Taken in April 2012 at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards 2012
(that was after her March 2012 taping in the the Korean show Star King)

Frankly, I'm happy that as Charice continues on her way to the top, she's doing it by working hard and seems to know better how to preserve her voice while at the same time singing on a higher level with amazing contrasts - when she wants to she can make her voice so much fuller or lighter, edgy or melodious, powerful or soft. Her Infinity Tour showed her greatness as a singer - and she's still only 19.

With regard to her new look, I'm learning to like the new hair but not as much as her long black hair. I think she looks so beautiful in the photo above while I'm not so sold on some of the boyish outfits like what she wore in Star King; though if you talk of extremes I'd rather those than see her baring flesh and/or performing in glorified underwear as is getting common now.

And the tattoo? Well, I won't encourage my students to have one but Charice wears hers simply - and amazingly for me, she still looks clean and wholesome.

So I'm not completely taken by her new look (and I neither liked her singing "Take You Down" and dancing to it in her tour). But what matters more is that Charice is still Charice - her attitude, her talk, her love for her family and fans. Besides, in her Infinity Tour, she showed her flexibility in style - with rugged attire in some parts while sleek and feminine (with killer heels) when she sang the ballads.

I think all these "fans" getting turned off and angrily airing all their "concerns" can only find reasonable ground for doing so if Charice were to turn indecent and vulgar and/or get hooked on vices. Because then she'd really be destroying herself and negatively influencing many of her followers.

Charice is growing up and just like any person who's searching and establishing her own identity, she can make some mistakes here and there. Give her space! After all, Charice continues to show herself a sensible girl.

In her Infinity Tour press conference in the Philippines, she said that when she does something, she always has reasons, and does not do something simply because she wants to. The girl thinks and her thinking - together with her humble, loving heart - has brought her to a good high road so far.

So if mere looks or style is such an overwhelmingly major concern for some people, then they should look for a more superficial star to follow.

Adding below the lyrics and video of Fingerprint, an original by Charice:
Lyrics from: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/c/charice/fingerprint.html
How can I be sure
When everything is so confusing
I'm old enough to learn
That I'm too young to know what I'm doing
Gotta break free
From what used to be
It no longer makes sense for me

How do I stand out
In a world that's all about fitting in
I'm certain of my doubts
But I wouldn't be me for no reason
My identity
Right in front of me
There's nobody else I wanna be like

I'm JUST TRYING TO FIND, FIND MY FINGERPRINT
REDEFINE, WHO AM I, WHERE DO I BEGIN
ALL I KNOW IS WHAT I'VE BEEN TOLD
BUT THE ONE I SEE IN THE MIRROR IS SO DIFFERENT
UNIQUE AS MY FINGERPRINT

I'm positive
That I don't know where I'm going
How do I make sense
Of all these crazy emotions
I'm up and down
Get turned around
But I'm still clear on my intentions

I'm JUST TRYING TO FIND, FIND MY FINGERPRINT
REDEFINE, WHO AM I, WHERE DO I BEGIN
ALL I KNOW IS WHAT I'VE BEEN TOLD
BUT THE ONE I SEE IN THE MIRROR IS SO DIFFERENT
UNIQUE AS MY FINGERPRINT

Do they see me like I see me?
Not even close
Do they know me like I know me?
Well I don't know
I'm still undecided but I realize that it's ok
Good things are worth the wait

Monday, April 2, 2012

"Charice Wins Favorite Asian Act at Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards 2012" Articles

First, this photo of the beautiful Charice with the Orange Blimp...


And her tweets:
Article links:

Charice named Favorite Asian Artist at Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards
http://ph.omg.yahoo.com/news/charice-named-favorite-asian-artist--at-nickelodeon-kids%E2%80%99-choice-awards.html
"Millions of Charice's fans voted online, on mobile, on Facebook and on Twitter, showing us not only how popular she is across Asia, but also how active Nickelodeon’s audience in Asia is online,” said Syahrizan Mansor, Senior Director, Programming & On-Air, Nickelodeon SEA. “We couldn’t be happier for her or her fans, and congratulate Charice for winning the inaugural Favorite Asian Artist Awards.

Charice got six million votes from fans all over the world.
Charice Wins Favorite Asian Artist At 2012 Kids’ Choice Awards
http://www.hollywoodlife.com/2012/04/02/charice-pempengco-wins-kids-choice-award-favorite-asian-artist/
Charice is the first singer to nab a blimp in this brand-new category.

Charice wins Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards’ 'Favorite Asian Act'
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/253624/showbiz/charice-wins-nickelodeon-kids-choice-awards-favorite-asian-act

Charice “Favorite Asian Artist” at KCA!
http://hollywoodinvasian.com/charice-favorite-asian-artist-at-kca/

Charice wins at Kids' Choice Awards in US
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/entertainment/04/01/12/charice-wins-kids-choice-awards-us

Top stars reign at Nickelodeon’s Choice Awards
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/336450

Bieber, Berry slimed at Kids Choice Awards Charice wins Favorite Asian Act
http://www.malaya.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/587-bieber-berry-slimed-at-kids-choice-awards-charice-wins-favorite-asian-act

Bieber, Swift Big Winners at Kids' Choice Awards, Agnes Monica Loses to Charice‬
http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/lifeandtimes/bieber-swift-big-winners-at-kids-choice-awards-agnes-monica-loses-to-charice/508659

Charice thrilled over win at the Kids’ Choice Awards
http://beonline.com.ph/breakingNewsArticle.php?aid=7117&pageid=2&i=Charice+thrilled+over+win+at+the+Kids%26rsquo;+Choice+Awards

Charice Takes Home Favorite Asian Act Award while US First Lady Obama Gets Slimed at Nickelodeon’s 25th Annual Kids’ Choice Awards
http://www.juanmanilaexpress.com/2012/04/charice-takes-home-favorite-asian-act-award/?utm_source=WAGindonesia&utm_medium=twitter

Charice wins at Kids' Choice Awards in US
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/entertainment/04/01/12/charice-wins-kids-choice-awards-us

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Charice Wins the Nickelodeon KCA 2012 Favorite Asian Act Award

After a successful Asian Infinity Tour, here's another achievement by Charice!

Congratulations, Princess! Congratulations too for having such dedicated, hardworking, passionate Chasters all over the world!

Tweet from @NickelodeonTV regarding the airing of exclusive-award winners:

TV Contest Director on What Makes Charice a Standout

Posting here excerpts from the article written by Mr Freddie Santos, the director of "Batang Kampeon", a tv weekly singing contest joined by Charice when she was 9 years old:
...Throughout the 70’s, singing champions came and went and in general, they were all very good singers, just nothing too great is all. Until the 80’s came around when a young provincial lass of 16 by the name of Chona Velasquez won the national finals. Slight in stature and hefty in voice, she caught the nation’s fancy, but only for a little while.

In the next couple of years after her winning, she went under the management of Ronnie Henares, was put in my charge for performance coaching and her name was changed from Chona (her nickname) to Regine (her baptismal name).

With the country still not heavily enamoured with her, Regine was sent to Tokyo to represent the country in the Asia Pacific Singing Contest and after some spectacular renditions of two Broadway showstoppers, hands down, she won.

Her victory stunned the Philippines like lightning and almost immediately, belting one’s heart and guts out (we call it BIRIT) became the new standard for triumphant singing.

It was when the country shifted to this mentality regarding pop singing that Charice Pempengco was born.

Unsurprisingly, it was this kind of singing that her own mother, a former singer herself, would teach her. When her family life began falling apart and Charice (aged only 4 at that time), her mother and brother had to flee from a hopelessly abusive situation with Charice’s father, it was “Birit” singing that saw them through. Singing contest after singing contest, in whatever barangay (village) of whatever province, Charice joined and sang and belted and hit notes impossibly high for most girls her tender age. She won some, lost many…but she never stopped.

When she was 9, she auditioned for the Batang Kampeon (Child Champion) Singing Contest, a television weekly which I was directing at that time. The BKSC was a brainchild of Ultimate Entertainment and was aired on Channel 13. Our tapings were all held at Broadcast City which housed the studios of both Channels 9 and 13.

For hosts, I had two of the most delightful, most iconic entertainers in Philippine showbiz. First was Pilita Corrales, herself a product of several radio singing contests. Gifted with a velvety alto, a whistle-bait figure, a naughty sense of humor and a unique, sexy performance style, she became known during the 60’s as Asia’s Queen of Song. Co-hosting with Pilita was Carding Cruz, the wackier half of former Las Vegas headliners The Reycard Duet which was a crowd-drawer at The Strip during the 60’s and 70’s.

The format of Batang Kampeon was simple. 4 weekly winners, 12 monthly winners, one grand champion. Charice won in the month of September.

Because I was the director of the show, I could not do any kind of coaching to the finalists. That was a bit frustrating for me because I had some very clear ideas on how to teach these kids to deliver solid performances. Instead, they have to listen to parents, relatives, neighbours and God knows who else and believe me, many a performance has gone awry due to some bad advice from such well-meaning people.

Some of such advice:

    Sing like Celine Dion
    Act like Mariah Carey
    Win like Regine Velasquez

The end result is, to my mind, almost always awful, yet the public almost always buys it. (At least, the Pinoy public does.) Some critics attribute it to our “colonial mentality”, a nurtured bias towards anything white and west. I attribute it to a “winning mentality” – whatever so and so did to win, you do the same and you have a chance. It’s not a matter of being the best, it’s a matter of what will get the judges’ nod.

And obey such advice every singing finalist on this TV show, boy or girl, tried to do. Sadly, during the Grand Finals, Charice couldn’t do it.

Oh, she tried, that’s for sure. Performing big and brassy was already muscle memory for these kids, it was just a matter of who was bigger and brassier. On that day, Charice was not. Take a look at the video compilation and see and hear for yourself after which, I will tell you my opinion on what of Charice made her a true standout then, and still does today. And it has only little to do with her voice.

Watch Charice Pempenco


(Or watch a re-upload with improved audio: http://youtu.be/qlDmWh6kuoI - inkheart)

Direksions:

1. Do what you can… – Nobody prays to be in an abusive situation. But finding herself in one, Charice’s mother did the best thing she could which was to pack up her two kids and get the hell out of there.

2. With all that you’ve got… – Finding that her daughter could carry a tune, and not just lightweight ones, Charice’s mom entered her into countless contests, the winnings of which were enough to feed the family of three for a good number of years.

3. And in all that you get… – Treat every opportunity that comes your way with great importance and respect. You never know where it can lead, you never know what it can teach.

4. Find great JOY. – And this is what I believe continues to make Charice a standout. That smile is real. That gladness is real. At the age of 9, she knew what it meant to delight in what she was doing. Look at the video again in case you may have missed it. Do you see any violent past in her eyes? Any hunger in her facial expression? Any desire to win for winning’s sake? Whether or not such things are in her, notice that the moment the music starts, her joy, her genuine, immeasurable joy over music, takes over and to my mind, it is this that continues to be her most appealing talent.

5. And may that joy never end. – As many know, Charice was spotted in a YouTube video by a very impressed TV Host Ellen Degeneres and was asked immediately to appear in the host’s American TV program. This then led to another appearance on American TV, this time on The Oprah Winfrey Show where Charice’s international career began taking shape under the guidance of Ms. Winfrey whose greatest contribution to Charice’s music was introducing her to the brilliant composer/producer/mentor David Foster.

Shortly after such things happened, Charice came back to the Philippines for a couple of appearances. At the same time, another young talent was also making a visit home. Charlie Green, son of an English father and a Filipina mother (a Cebuana!), had just recently made waves on the UK program Britain’s Got Talent, impressing no less than producer/critic Simon Cowell.

With both Charice and Charlie in town, producer Precy M. Florentino, president of the Music Museum Group whose venues serve as the launch pads of many Filipino music stars, decided it was only right and just to recognize the achievements of these two youngsters.

Entertainment press and luminaries came in full force and as director/host of this event, I was able to watch Charice and Charlie perform live from up close.

Despite such cathartic events in their young lives, and no doubt with much thanks to their doting parents, those two – neither one of whom became grand champions in their respective contests – exuded joy that moved the audience to cheers and tears.

Singing from a place of no agenda and overflowing delight, they had become true champions. 
Read the full article at Direksions: Life Blogs of a Live Director:
http://direkfreddie.com/2011/02/08/batang-kampeon-contest-tv-weekly/

Friday, March 30, 2012

Charice Articles March 2012 - Asian Infinity Tour

Below are links to some articles about Charice this month:


Charice's 'Infinity' concert underscores greatness
http://mb.com.ph/articles/354079/charices-infinity-concert-underscores-greatness

Wonder Girls' Hyerim praises Charice: 'She's amazing'
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/355066/wonder-girls-hyerim-praises-charice-shes-amazing#.T2qOXapJxpZ.twitter

Well-attended concert in Seoul caps Charice's Asian 'Infinity Tour'
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/252570/showbiz/well-attended-concert-in-seoul-caps-charice-s-asian-infinity-tour

Japanese Prize-Winning Book Author Reviews Charice’s Infinity Concert!
http://www.charicemania.com/2012/03/21/editorial/japanese-prize-winning-book-author-reviews-charices-infinity-concert/


Charice didn't disappoint
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=785925&publicationSubCategoryId=70

Charice packs Araneta for concert
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/entertainment/03/11/12/charice-packs-araneta-concert?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Charice rocked Araneta Coliseum
http://www.charicemania.com/2012/03/10/news/charice-rocked-araneta-coliseum/

This is who I am, get over it, move on
http://www.philstar.com/youngstar/ysarticle.aspx?articleid=787568&publicationsubcategoryid=84

Charice defends animƩ look
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=785912&publicationSubCategoryId=68

With the Voice of an Angel, Charice is Set to Wow
http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/lifeandtimes/with-the-voice-of-an-angel-charice-is-set-to-wow/501779

Charice Pempengco sings straight from the heart
http://gulfnews.com/arts-entertainment/music/charice-gives-her-all-in-dubai-performance-1.989391?localLinksEnabled=false&utm_source=Feeds&utm_medium=RSS&utm_term=Entertainment_RSS_feed&utm_content=1.989391&utm_campaign=Charice_gives_her_all_in_Dubai_performance_&utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=twitterfeed

Meet the 'Chasters'
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=783408&publicationSubCategoryId=89

More Charice articles 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008

Saturday, March 3, 2012

Charice Infinity Tour Dubai - First Video

Charice opens with an amazing cover of Without You (David Guetta ft. Usher)



There was a tweet after the concert from @durtyfeet: @OfficialCharice feels so tired and sick. she was so nervous wanting everyone to like the show. but she feels like she didn't do well enuff.

All I can say is: Charice is a real artist and real artists are never satisfied with their work no matter how great it may be. So they strive to do better and better. And that's how they become the greatest artists.

Charice is surely working towards her destiny of becoming one of the greatest artists.

Saturday, February 25, 2012

No One Else Comes Close/Just The Way You Are by Charice

Here's a higher quality video of a medley Charice sang in "One for the Heart", her 2012 Valentine concert. Uploaded on YouTube by .

Really, no one else comes close to the lovely Charice and her voice.

Charice's 2012 Valentine Concert: One For The Heart

Enjoy watching Charice's Valentine concert aired on Philippine TV in February 2012. She looks and sounds lovelier and more mature and at the same time still exudes the refreshing and childlike aura we adore.

There are two versions on YouTube. A seven-part series uploaded by . Below is part 1 of 7:


This other version is a compilation done and uploaded by

"One Day" by Charice Inspires Flashmob for Leukemia Victims

Bravo! This is what we need, young Filipinos like Charice and these UP med students who move and inspire others to help our fellow citizens, especially when what we see right now are political leaders tearing each other down.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

So Real: Charice, Cover Girl of Preview Magazine's Jan-Feb 2012 Issue

Many people must be so jaded not just with life, but with themselves, that every time something so real comes along, they can't quite believe it. They're the type who, when they see a luxurious arrangement of perfectly long-stemmed, blood-red roses,  just pass by it thinking, it looks so real it must be fake.

From stylebible.ph

That's how this kind of people react to Charice - to her talent, her story, her achievements, her values, her personality. And recently, her being a fashion magazine's cover girl.

Preview Magazine, the Philippine's fashion authority, opened the year 2012 with a bang -  Charice on their magazine cover!  She looks so gorgeously sophisticated that many of those who were quickest to react when the magazine came out were those who said, "Over photoshopped!"

Right, they take one quick look and then make an even quicker judgement. These people wouldn't know anything authentic even if it were to come under their nose.

Sure, in Preview Magazine's cover Charice didn't look her usual self mainly because this superstar of a girl is so natural and so totally comfortable with herself that many times she doesn't mind going out in public or even coming out on TV and photos with just the lightest make-up, and at times, no make up at all. (Yet you see she's naturally beautiful even with light make-up.)

So now that she's delightfully Preview Magazine's first cover girl for 2012, not only do these people think Charice's photo has been digitally altered, but they've also been criticizing her and the magazine for it. Oh well, as Jessica Zafra said, "the talentless are always resentful" - unfortunately, even of what's authentic and true.

Viewing the behind-the-scenes video below belies any "over photoshopped" claim:


And here's a favorite retweet about it by the cover shot's make-up artist:
@annecurtissmith “@lizzzuy: RT @juansarte: Charice for Preview Behind the Scenes video. Eto ang pruweba. Hindi po yun Photoshop. youtube.com/watch?v=RoUmLM…”
To Charice, don't mind the crabs who want to pull you down with them. Just keep on setting trends, creating waves, breaking barriers, expanding and perfecting your talents, and strengthening your character. With your big, big heart you'll go very, very far!