While Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez have shared the stage numerous times over the years, their upcoming concert “Always and Forever” on February 7 promises to bring something fresh and deeply personal to their audience. For Pops, it’s more than just another performance — it’s an intimate reflection of their shared journey through music.
“The whole show is a concert of our life story together through music,” said Pops.
The duo has been working tirelessly in preparation for this special pre-Valentine’s Day show at the Mall of Asia Arena.
“Marami rin ‘yung mga areglo na bagong bago so madami pong kaming pinag-aaralan sa bahay. I’ve been locking myself in my room, really try to concentrate and study the songs that we are preparing for ‘Always and Forever.’”
Martin echoes her sentiment, sharing how this concert represents more than just their past hits.“When Pops and I are onstage, it’s mostly songs of our era, the ‘80s. There’s a whole list of singers who can do songs from the ‘80s and we’re part of that list… These are the songs that tell our story from then until now….”
Their relationship — a journey that began as co-hosts, blossomed into a real and reel romance, then evolved through separation into a friendship — can be an inspiration for many. Despite no longer being romantically involved, their professional chemistry and synchronicity on stage remain undeniable.
This concert marks a new chapter. As Pops puts it, “I’m very excited kasi bago nga ‘yung show naman,” she said. “Usually pag nag show kami ni Martin its bits and pieces of our past shows, but this time it’s a brand new show.”
The mutual admiration and respect between Pops and Martin are also evident in their birthday wishes for each other. For Pops’ birthday, Martin focused on her personal growth, offering this heartfelt wish: “I wish that everything she starts whether it’s lipstick or whatever will always blossom to great things. She was not always like this before, she was not business minded… My birthday wish is that every dream that you have comes true.”
“I enjoy it and I didn’t know I can be independent pala,” reacted Pops.
Pops’ wish for Martin, who is turning 63 this coming February 5, focused on his well-being. “Whatever it is, I hope you find peace and happiness — always.”
With “Always and Forever,” Pops Fernandez and Martin Nievera continue to show that some connections only grow stronger with time, and their music, as always, is a testament to that enduring bond.