Slow but sure for Sam Concepcion

HE INSISTS he “can be versatile.”

Some of his contemporaries may have achieved more in a much shorter span of time, but Sam Concepcion isn’t bothered one bit.

With Sam starring alongside Enrique Gil in the coming ABS-CBN drama series “Mirabella,” fans have started pitting the two young artists against each other. Both men are 21 years old, but Enrique has headlined a solo show at the Big Dome, despite starting in show biz much later than Sam.

Sam is holding his solo concert, “No Limitations,” on March 15 at the Music Museum, a much smaller venue. But as far as he’s concerned, he’s happy with what he’s got at the moment.

“I don’t compare my achievements or career with other people’s,” he said at a recent press conference. “I’ve been doing my homework and I’m happy where I’m going.”

No jealousies

The singer-actor, who received nationwide exposure via the talent show “Little Big Star” in 2005, believes there is no room for jealousy if one’s aim is to learn.” “I’m in it for the experience, the journey,” he said.

But Sam admitted that, just like any performer, he aspires to perform in a big venue like the Big Dome. “I’m taking things slowly but surely—starting small, and then working my way up,” he said.

The perceived rivalry between him and Enrique couldn’t be avoided, Sam said, especially since they had a new show.

“I have come to accept that that’s how things work,” said Sam, who previously worked with Enrique in the teen-oriented show “Good Vibes” and the film “Way Back Home.” “This issue shouldn’t affect our friendship and it doesn’t. He also worked hard for what he has now.”

Going sexy

Aside from music, Sam has always wanted to venture into television acting. Are his boyish charms getting in the way of his landing more mature roles?

“There’s really more to me than what you see on TV. I’m no longer just the boy you grew up watching. I’m capable of doing more,” he said. “I am versatile; I know I can carry myself creditably in any role.

Asked if he would bare some skin and go sexy for his coming concert, Sam explained, “Maturity goes beyond the physical. There’s a different time and venue for going sexy. My plan is to take a different route to maturity.”

He added, “I can show maturity in the songs I sing, my voice, music and performances,” he added.

Finally, asked what he thought about being considered an “underrated artist” by his concert director, Paolo Valenciano, Sam said, “Actually, I’d rather have a few fans who know that I’m good, than many people who think I’m bad.”