Mike Chan released his self-titled second full-length solo
album under Heroes Records and Star Records yesterday at Tiendesitas, in Pasig
City. His last effort, Dragona, the prequel to this album, reached as high as
No. 4 on local sales charts. The rocker believes that this album could be his
breakthrough work as a solo artist, and he credits his strong love for learning
and making music as his source of inspiration for this album.
“In many ways I actually think of this as my first solo
album,” says Mike. “This is the first time I’ve actually produced, written,
co-wrote and personally had a hand in every song that went into the album. It
took me a long time to get to this point and the journey getting here has been
long and difficult most times. The funny thing is though...I loved every minute
of it.”
Although a mainstay in the local music scene for four years
now, Mike says his passion for making music has not waned despite the difficult
and fickle nature of the music business.
Mike, who belongs to a prominent Chinese clan, acknowledges
that hard work is a must to get somewhere in this business.
“The thing is” , shares Mike, “thanks to my parents I’ve had
a pretty life. Doors were opened to me thanks to my family’s reputation and the
education my parents paid for ensured that I would never be found wanting
intellectually. In short, throughout most of my life I’ve had every advantage
money can buy.”
“Success in the music industry however, is not something you
can purchase or guarantee thru family connections,” Mike acknowledges. Which is
why the singer is encouraging his followers to find their true passions in
life. “If you have to work hard for something it might well be for something
that you love doing. Life is too short and precious to settle just as opposed
to really living!”
Mike hopes that his listeners will understand the real
message behind this album. “This is not just about the songs in the disc. It’s
about the passion and determination that went into the making and the
production of these songs. It’s about believing in yourself and knowing that
you are responsible for your own success or failure in life. It’s about
creating your own luck and never giving up.”
Mike Chan performs at Tiendesitas every Tuesday until June,
and at various SM Supermalls starting May 7 for his album promo tour. Mike Chan
The Album is presented by My Phone, DJM Music, Shimmian Surgicenter Manila,
Eventus Advertising, Game Club and Epipes.
