Singer and original Smokey Mountain member Geneva Cruz is set to take audiences on a heartfelt musical journey with “Gen Evolution,” her solo concert happening on May 30.
The show marks a personal milestone for Geneva, who is celebrating 35 years in the entertainment industry since she was first introduced as part of the iconic group Smokey Mountain, launched in 1990 under the guidance of National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab. “We were launched in 1990, but we trained under Maestro Cayabyab as early as 1989,” Geneva recalled. “Since a Smokey Mountain reunion wasn’t possible this year, I decided to still celebrate this milestone.”
She shared that her decision to go solo this time came after discussions with her manager Arnold Vegafria.
“It’s time,” Cruz said. “Even if the group can’t be together this year, I still want to honor the music and journey.”
To bring her vision to life, she tapped her Smokey Mountain “brother” and longtime friend, Jeffrey Hidalgo, to direct the concert. The goal? To recreate the emotional connection with fans who grew up with her music. “I want the audience — especially those who were in elementary or high school when I started — to feel like they’re going back to those days,” the singer said. “That feeling of nostalgia, that thrill, that ‘kilig’ — I want them to experience all of that again through the music.”
The concert promises a mix of Geneva’s originals as well as hits from the ’90s and beyond. “Music has this way of pulling us back to the past,” she mused. “Whether it’s about falling in love, heartbreak, or a special memory — it brings us back.”
When asked if the show is more meaningful now that she’s in love, Geneva didn’t shy away from being candid. “I’m happy. I’ve always been a grateful person. But yes, I feel more inspired now,” she said, referring to her relationship with a national athlete who, she shared, pushes her to be her best self. “He inspires me to work harder, to take care of my body, because when it’s showtime, there’s no room to cheat preparation. Kung hindi ako mag-work out, ako rin ang hihingalin!”
Geneva emphasized the importance of being with someone who helps you grow.
“Life is short. We’ve lost so many great artists. So while I’m here, I want to be real. I’m in love — but I won’t lose myself. Hindi na tayo bata.”
While a full-scale Smokey Mountain reunion concert isn’t happening yet, Cruz confirmed that fans of the group still have something to look forward to. “We had a semi-reunion last December, a private event with the original members like Tony Lambino. James Coronel couldn’t make it, but I’m proud to say we’re working on something for May 30 as well,” she hinted, adding that James might be present even if not performing, and that they’re hoping Cayabyab himself will be there.
While waiting for that, Geneva promises to showcase her best in “Gen Evolution,” happening on May 30 at the Music Museum in San Juan.
