Sitti releases new album "Singles Bossa Nova Trio"

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Sitti has successfully made her indelible mark in the music industry as the Philippines’ one and only bossa nova queen. She amazes the audience with her cool performance that makes her a sought-after artist here and abroad.

Almost a decade since the release of her double platinum album Café Bossa, she’ll revive it with Singles Bossa Nova Trio. It was a one-day, live recording session done al fresco at a house in Rizal with guitarist Erskine Basilio and percussionist Diego Martinez.

The tracks include some of the most popular Sitti singles which were given a fresh twist like “Girl From Ipanema,” “Tattooed On My Mind,” and “Para Sa Akin” with other favorites like “Sunday Morning,” “I Want It That Way,” “To Forget You,” and “La La Means I Love You,” to name a few.

Her carrier single “Ligaya” defines her life right now as a happily married woman. The song is also about her husband, Joey Ramirez, and is the most special among the songs she has ever written. Other originals are “Answers” and “All I Ever Wanted.”

Indeed, Sitti finds happiness being married and it reflects in her new album. Sitti hopes that fans would like Singles Bossa Nova Trio and support her just like before.

Singles Bossa Nova Trio is now available on CDs at Astroplus, Astrovision, and Odyssey outlets. It is available for download on Spinnr and iTunes. It can also be streamed on Spinnr, Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer and Guvera.

Sitti is a Backroom artist. For inquiries, call Backroom Inc at 4351108, 4351120 and 9280717 or email us at backroominc@hotmail.com. Like Backroom Inc. on facebook at www.facebook.com/backroominc and or follow Backroom Inc. on twitter at www.twitter.com/BackroomArtists.

Backroom talents in ABS-CBN’s ‘Pasion de Amor’

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ABS-CBN’s new show Pasion de Amor features two new faces: former varsity athlete turned aspiring actor and model Benj Bolivar, and Century Tuna Superbods grand winner Mauro ‘Maui’ Lumba, who join the cast of the sizzling primetime drama that airs right before TV Patrol.

Pasion de Amor, which is directed by Eric Quizon and premiered last June 1 on the Kapamilya network,is the story of love and revenge between two sets of siblings, the Samonte brothers (played by Joseph Marco, Ejay Falcon and Jake Cuenca) and the Elizondo sisters (Ellen Adarna, Arci Munoz and Coleen Garcia).

The original was first aired in 2007 and featured Mexican superstar Mario Cimarro in the lead role. In this currently-airing ‘Filipinized’ version, Benj plays the best friend and co-worker of Joseph Marco’s character.

Benj Bolivar

“The story is, I met him at this bar called Armada na owned by the family ng mga Elizondo sisters. Si Joseph, nag-applydoon. Ako ang naging best friend niya. Matagal na ako dun sa bar, kaya marami akong alam na family secrets ng magkakapatid.”

The show is Benj’s first acting assignment since Moon of Desire, which was almost a year ago. Benj was surprised when he got the callback from the show’s staff.

“Nag-audition ako, nu’ng nagpa-go-see sila ilang months ago,” he says. “Di ko nga inexpect ang callback,hanggang tinawagan nila ako at sinabing na-shortlist daw ako.”

He’s been learning a lot from his co-stars, especially Joseph Marco who, like him started out modeling until he got his big break in showbiz. He’s been advising Benj to be patient with the pace of his career.

“Ine-encourage niya ako lagi, 'wag daw ako maiinip, and to just take it one day at a time daw.” - says Benj.

But Benj’s bigger goal is to eventually make his mark as an indie film actor. He dreams of doing gritty character roles like the one done by his idol, Hollywood actor Michael McConaughey in Dallas Buyers Club, the Oscar-nominated film about a Texas electrician who suffers from AIDS.

According to Benj, he’d be willing to do any role or character—he’s even open to gay roles or play a serial killer—as long as what he’s asked to do is essential to the story.

“Okay lang naman sa akin, lalo kung kinakailangan talaga.”

Meanwhile, Century Tuna Superbod winner Mauro ‘Maui’ Lumba also wants to try doing character roles, and he finally gets his chance with his role in Pasion de Amor, where he plays akontrabida-type role as one of several ‘goons’ employed by the Samonte brothers as they exact revenge for the death of their sister. It might not be a major role or guarantee a lot of screen exposure, but as far as Maui is concerned, it’s a step in the right direction, acting-wise. It’s what every beginner or newbie like him dreams of.

Of course, there are still many things he longs to do to prove that there is room for him in this business. 

“Mahilig talaga ako sa mga action films and roles, actually, ang dream ko, maging action star. Gusto ko sana buhayin ‘yung action genre ulit” - says Maui, who longs to prove that there’s more to him than just his good looks and hunky body. 

Maui’s goal—aside from being an ambassador for health and wellness—is to prove that he is different and has the potential to stand out from among all the newcomers now angling for a spot in showbiz. Says Maui:

“I just want to be different just by being consistent, but ‘yung roles sana, iba-iba and not always the same. I want to be challenged in different ways. Gusto ko din na ‘yung look ko, maiba sa ibang mga artista.”

Like Benj, he’s willing to go out on a limb and take a risk with his roles and assignments. He’s excited to see what the future holds. 

“I really want to be an actor,” says Maui.

He feels that all the guidance he’s received, the workshops and training he’s attended will really help him achieve his goal.

 “Kailangan lang siyempre, tiyaga, and to be patient and believe in yourself, things will happen at the right time,” - he says philosphically.

Pasion De Amor, which premiered last June 1 before TV Patrol, is the fourth telenovela locally adapted by ABS-CBN following the successful remakes of Rubi and popular Thalia-seryes Maria La Del Barrioand Maria Mercedes. It also stars Aubrey Miles, Michelle Madrigal, Ahron Villena, Daria Ramirez, Alex Castro, AJ Dee, Ron Morales, Zeppi Borromeo, Ashley Rivera, Benj Bolivar, Nathaniel Britt, Mauro Lumba and June Macasaet.

Aiko Melendez wins Best Actress Awards at the London International Filmakers Festival of World Cinema

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Aiko Melendez has proven once more her acting caliber. She recently bagged the highly-coveted Best Lead Actress in a Foreign Language Film award from the 7th International Filmmakers Festival of World Cinema in London for Direk Louie Ignacio’s Asintado (Between the Eyes).

Photo: aikomelendez instagram

Aiko bested seven other actresses from different countries in the same category - international actresses Charlotte Munck for “Meeres Stille,” Marianna Panagidou for “Butterfly,” Sveva Alviti for “Borderline,” Jung Ho for “Diary,” Anqi Liu for “Belief,” Laia Forte for “Distanza,” Thaila Ayala for “(Des)Encontros,” and Shahana Chatterjee for “Picnic.”

The movie, which is an official Cinemalaya entry last year, is Aiko’s first foray into indie film. In Asintado, Aiko plays Julia, a widowed mother of two who finds herself at the crossroads of choosing between saving her older son or risking her younger son’s safety. The story is situated in a town in Nueva Eciija and takes place during the Taong Putik festival.

Aiko was not able to attend the grand event in London because of prior showbiz commitments: she is part of the cast of ABS-CBN’s Inday Bote and an indie film titled Daluyong. Asintado director, Louis Ignacio, accepted the award for Melendez.

“This award somehow boosted my confidence and it made me love myself more,” says Aiko. “But the honor isn’t just mine alone. It’s for every Filipino.”

Aiko also expressed her gratitude for the recognition through her Instagram account. She dedicated her award to her children Andrei Yllana and Marthena Jickain.

Aiko is a Backroom artist. For inquiries, call Backroom Inc at 4351108, 4351120 and 9280717 or email us at backroominc@hotmail.com. 

Like Backroom Inc. on facebook at www.facebook.com/backroominc and or follow Backroom Inc. on twitter at www.twitter.com/BackroomArtists.

Backroom search for new talents

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AUDITION ON MARCH 9 AT ANIX’S RESTO

Do you have what it takes to be the next showbiz sensation? Then what are you waiting for?

Backroom Inc. is currently looking for new singers, actors, hosts, comedians, and models who would like to break into the exciting world of showbiz. Audition is on March 9 (Monday), 2 to 5pm at Anix’s Resto #12 Scout Borromeo St., South Triangle, Quezon City . 

Applicants must be 18 to 23 years old. They must bring their folio, tight shot and whole body photo. For singers, kindly bring demo CD and minus one.

Interested applicants can apply on audition day.

For 25 years, Backroom has established itself as one of the country’s most successful companies in artist management, public relations, concert production, product launch, among other fields of specialization. The company has a stellar league of talents in the entertainment and media industries.

For more inquiries regarding the audition, please call Dale Magdangal at 9280717 and 0917-8879210.

 

Gretchen Barretto and Arnold Reyes win top awards at 13th Gawad TANGLAW Awards

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Gawad Tanglaw, Gawad Tagapuring mga Akademisyan ng Aninong Gumagalaw, is an organization composed of members from the academe.

Gretchen Barretto

Gretchen won the Best Supporting Actress award for her brilliant performance in the movie The Trial where she plays a psychologist who convinces her lawyer husband to help a mentally-challenged student accused of raping his teacher. 

Arnold bagged the President’s Jury Award for Excellence (Theatre Television and Film). He is known in showbiz circles as the ultimate actor having displayed his acting skills in numerous stage plays, television shows, and movies (both indie and mainstream).

Gretchen and Arnold are both Backroom artists. For inquiries, call Backroom Inc at 4351108, 4351120 and 9280717 or email us at backroominc@hotmail.com.

Like Backroom Inc. on facebook at www.facebook.com/backroominc and or follow Backroom Inc. on twitter at www.twitter.com/BackroomArtists.

Backroom Artists Stage Concerts on Valentine's Day

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Be ready to be entertained this Valentine's Day.

Whether you're in love or have fallen out of love, it's time to celebrate the love month.

Backroom artists have lined-up Valentine shows for everyone.

The comedic tandem of Pooh and K Brosas will stage a unique "love" concert at the Casino Filipino Pavilion on February 11. 

"Sa mga loveless, gugulong kayo sa tawa. Kalimutan niyo muna bf or gf, enjoy lang pag may time," says Pooh. "Let us enjoy ourselves," adds K who is also scheduled to stage a concert in KL Central , Malaysia on February 15.

Pooh and K will prove once more that laughter is the best medicine as they tickle your funny bones on February 18 for The Funny Valentine concert at Skydome SM North Edsa.

Bossa Nova Queen Sitti holds a Valentine show on February 11 at Casino Filipino Bacolod and will fly abroad for a concert in Du Arena Yas Island, Abu Dhabi on February 13. "Everybody looks forward to celebrating the love month. I'm excited to be part of that special celebration," says Sitti.

Ai Ai delas Alas sings and dances her way to audiences’ hearts in a special show at Solaire Resort and Casino on February 12. 

"Dance with me. Sing with me. Let's have fun together. Masarap pag may kasama siyempre habang ikaw ay sumasayaw," says Ai Ai.

For inquiries, call Backroom Inc at 4351108, 4351120 and 9280717 or email at backroominc@hotmail.com.

Backroom, Inc. looks ahead for a more blessed and brighter 2015

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Backroom, Inc. wrapped up a blessed and meaningful 2014 with a Christmas Party last December 18 held at the Village Patio, 185 Maginhawa Street, Diliman, Quezon City.

For Backroom, Christmas is always a joyous and much-anticipated season of the year. It is a time of merry-making and thanksgiving for all the blessings received. The Christmas Party was also a continuation of Backroom’s 25th anniversary celebration.

The party began with a Thanksgiving Mass officiated by Reverend Fr. Allan Samonte followed by a sumptuous dinner.

After dinner, exciting parlor games were played participated in by Backroom staff, artists, and guests.

One of the highlights of the party was the videoke singing competition among Backroom staff and guests. Junnel Manansala, Backroom artist and member of NYOBG, emerged as the First Place winner with his rendition of the song Let Me Be the One. Jamie Almario who sang You bagged Second Placewhile Philip Rojas who sang Bituing Walang Ningning won Third Place.

A video presentation reminiscing the company’s 25 years was presented. Happy memories of the good old years were recalled as the staff and the guests watched old photos on the screen.

As part of its annual tradition, Backroom had its raffle draw and exchange gifts. Raffle prizes were also drawn for lucky guests.

It was a fun and intimate Christmas Party. Backroom, Inc. is now optimistic for a more blessed and brighter 2015!

Jayke Reyes Launches Self-Titled Debut Album Jayke Reyes

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Enjoying a wonderful world in the time of meeting one simple girl, singing one of songs in her new album. I really enjoy listening to the smoothness in her voice.  She has made those soaring high notes and i think she is more than capable of carrying a pop tune. Her voice is pure and beautiful.

Fast-rising singer Jayke Reyes launches her self-titled debut album "Jayke Reyes." The album which contains the carrier single Kay Palad Mo (a remake). Perry’s Will, Paano Na Kaya, Sana’y Pakaingatan Mo and We’re All in This Together comes with a minus one.

She shared us that she grew up listening to Broadway songs. Raised in the US, Jayke is a daughter of Filipino immigrant. It had always been Jayke’s dream to pursue a singing career so when the opportunity knocked at her doorstep, she didn’t hesitate to leave Los Angeles and flew all the way to Manila.

Trained by illustrious vocal coach Seth Riggs, the same star-maker behind heavy hitters like the late Michael Jackson, Natalie Cole, Anita Baker, Josh Groban, Luther Vandross, Stevie Wonder and James Ingram, did commercials and auditioned for shows on Nickelodeon and Disney. Jayke’s musical exposure is quite impressive.

The album’s concept is diverse. There are ballads meant to showcase her ability to hit the high notes and there are R&B dance hits. Jayke wants to be known as a versatile singer who can sing almost anything in her field.

“I think, there should be a mix para hindi magsawa nag tao. That’s why for me, I don’t want all birit. I don’t want people to say that’s the only thing I can do.”

Determined to make it big in the music industry that’s why she is learning hard to speak fluent Tagalog. She is also attending workshops and taking lessons in order to become a better singer.  She shared us that she used to practice reading even children's books.

“I know it will be hard. Success is not easy. But I believe in myself and I think I have good chance of making it. My family and I sacrificed for my dreams, so for my parents especially, I need to really push.”

“As a singer, I really think I give my all. I’m really dedicated. I know I can do anything. I’m really focused.”

Jayke is awesome in the first one,  I loved all of her songs on there. I hope she will make more. ♥

Check on You Tube and listen to her rendition of Kay Palad Mo

Backroom artist Jayke recently represented the country in the Asean Music Festival for the 80th Birthday of Thailand’s Queen Sirikit. The Event was sponsored by the Ministry of Culture of Thailand. The album is being distributed by Ivory Records.

Jayke is also busy with the following mall tour. 

October 27 (SM Baliwag)

October 28 (SM Fairview)

November 9 (SM Novaliches)

November 11 (Robinson Pulilan with JM De Guzman)

November 17 (SM Rosario), November 18 (SM Calamba)

November 24 (SM Masinag), November 25 (SM Dasmarinas)

December 9 (SM Clark) and January 6 (SM Bacoor)

For inquiries, call Backroom at 4351108 and 4351120 or email at backroominc@hotmail.com