MUSIC icons Rey Valera and Marco Sison have kept their feet on the ground despite their remarkable success over several decades in the entertainment industry. Their long-standing careers serve as a testament to the belief that maintaining a grounded perspective is essential for lasting success. Both artists underscored the importance of humility, ensuring that fame and accolades never cloud their judgment or perspective on life.
Rey shared a personal insight into how he consciously keeps himself grounded amid success. He recalled moments that remind him to stay humble: “Aaminin ko na sa inyo na kahit ano ‘yung success na natanggap ko, hindi ko hinahayaan na umikot sa ulo ko ‘yung… nakabili ako ng sasakyan, takbo agad ako sa tindahan, dala-dala ko ‘yung bagong sasakyan. Bibili ako ng Sky Flakes para lang ipaalala ko sa sarili ko na, ‘huy, tapak ka sa lupa.’”
Marco echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to remember one’s origins. He stated, “It reminds you of where you came from. And kahit paano, nare-remind ka, na lahat ng ‘yan, nandiyan, pero ‘wag mong iaakyat sa ulo mo. Kumbaga, grounded ka pa rin. Malaking porsiyento ng swerte ang ugali.”
In addition to their humility, both Rey and Marco expressed admiration for the new generation of artists, particularly rising P-Pop groups like SB19 and BINI. They recognized these groups for their significant contributions to elevating Original Pilipino Music on a global scale. Marco passionately shared his thoughts on BINI: “I love BINI. I love their music. Alam mo, ang feeling ko sa BINI, magse-set siya ng panibagong trend for a girl group. Finally, may sisikat na girl group, and that’s BINI.”
Rey also offered valuable advice to rising stars, encouraging them to manage their pride and ego: “Sa lahat ng grupo na katulad ng BINI na sumisikat, alagaan ang pride o ego. Kung may kaunting problema, pagpasensyahan at palampasin… Kapag naka-survive sila sa kahit anong conflict, magtatagal sila.”
As a seasoned songwriter, Rey shared insights for aspiring songwriters, stressing the importance of empathy in their craft: “Ilagay niyo ‘yung sarili niyo sa kapwa niyo… para hindi puro istorya mo ang lumabas sa gawa mo. Mahirap gumawa ng kanta na hindi naman maririnig… Ang kanta, may sariling buhay at gumagawa ng sariling history. Ayaw niyang mamatay. Gusto niyang mabuhay.”
Marco, too, recognized the significance of love songs in Filipino culture, asserting, “Kahit anong klaseng kanta ‘yan, sentimental ‘yan. You can’t go wrong with love songs.”
The upcoming concert “Ang Guwapo at Ang Masuwerte,” scheduled for November 22 at the Music Museum, promises to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing Rey and Marco alongside promising young singers Andrea Gutierrez and Elisha.
Directed by Calvin Neria and produced by Echo Jham, the event aims to deliver memorable performances, including a surprise P-Pop number that hints at the influence of groups like SB19. “Mala-SB19? SB-senior!” Marco quipped.
Tickets for “Ang Guwapo at Ang Masuwerte” are now available at Ticket World and Music Museum.
