As singer-songwriter Ogie Alcasid gears up for his highly-anticipated “Ogieoke the Concert” at Newport Performing Arts Theater on September 29, one song, in particular, holds a special significance for the iconic artist.
“My Way,” a song that has gained notoriety in the past for its association with fights breaking out after performances, is far more than just a tune for Ogie. It’s a loving tribute to his late father, Herminio Alcasid, Sr., who passed away three years ago.
Originally popularized by Frank Sinatra, “My Way” has a history of causing disputes and even in some cases, violence when performed in karaoke bars in the country. However, for Ogie, it’s a deeply sentimental melody that his father loved.
“Most of the songs in my repertoire – 80% – are not my songs,” Ogie began. “But ‘My Way’ dinu-duet namin ng tatay ko ‘yan. May video pa ako nung buhay pa si daddy lagi naming dinuduet ‘yan, Pasko ‘yun…. Favorite song nya ‘yan. Sa ‘Kilabotitos’ [concert], lagi kong kinakanta ang’ My Way,’ and in the States, it was probably my most applauded – may standing ovatioon talaga sila, pagdating sa My Way.’ It’s medyo heartfelt pagkakanta ko, so syempre hindi pwedeng mawala si ‘My Way’ [in my ‘Ogie-oke’ show].”
“My Way” has become “his song,” said Ogie.
“Song ko na sya. Napansin ko wala ding kumakanta nun dito. Although kinakanta sa videoke, wala namang kumakanta nun,” he related.
“Actually sa survey ko, number one ‘My Way,’ number two, ‘Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang.’ Kaya naisip ko, eto na lang ang song ko.”
“Ogieoke” is a special anniversary presentation of Newport and Ogie’s concert celebration to mark his 56th birthday last August 27. The concept is a tribute to the Filipinos’ deep-rooted love for videoke. The concert takes this beloved pastime to new heights by featuring a massive giant screen where lyrics will be projected, allowing the audience to sing along with Ogie.
“May score, may video din na walang kinalaman sa kanta. Nag shoot din ako sa States na nag sho-shopping ako,” he related. “May lyrics ang buong show. Para kang nagsimba.”
Aside from two of Ogie’s A-team artists, Gian Magdangal and Lara Maigue, there will be surprise guests in the show.
For details, contact JhayR dela Cruz at 0917-818-9847 or Raf Sangco at 0917-807-9387. — GFCT
