FROM left: Jake Vargas, Aljur Abrenica, Derrick Monasterio and Rocco Nacino
Four Kapuso heartthrobs Aljur Abrenica, Rocco Nacino, Derrick Monasterio and Jake Vargas—who are known mostly as actors—their coming concert, “Oh, Boy!,” is a chance to show people another side of them as artists.
“We’re excited because, here, we get a venue to express our passion for performing, singing and acting. We love being onstage,” related Aljur, whose earliest memory of being on one was singing Rico J. Puno’s “Macho Gwapito” during a pageant he entered when he was 12 years old.
“The experience felt good. And I thought that maybe it was something I could do in my life,” he said at a recent press conference for the one-night concert, which will be held on Sept. 23 at the Music Museum in Greenhills, San Juan (call 891-9999 or 911-5555).
Rocco, who comes from a music-loving family, plays the drums, and this time, is looking forward to seeing if his vocals is also up to the task.
“I requested that I be given singing workshops, singing lessons. Being included in this concert must mean that GMA Artist Center believes I’m now ready to take this step,” he said, adding that he’s hopeful that the project will help him become a more well-rounded artist. “It’s nice that they’re trying to get us out of our comfort zones.”
Like Rocco, music has been a part of Jake’s life growing up. He plays the guitar and the first song he learned, he said, was “Kumusta Ka.” While he can hold a tune, he is admittedly not as confident with it. “But since I play an instrument, I thought it was just natural to learn how to sing,” he said. “I want to continue improving.”
Among the four, Derrick is definitely the most competent vocalist, having undergone proper training during his time with the Kilyawan Boys Choir in high school. “Prior to my chorale training, I didn’t have much experience in singing,” he said. “But I worked hard and [sometimes], hard work beats talent on its own.”
Teased if he would bare his body onstage, which he has been working on, Derrick quipped: “That will depend on my adrenaline level that night… Maybe if they want it!”
Mounted by Dreamstar Events and GMA 7, “Oh, Boy!” will have group numbers and solo spots, which intend to highlight the four men’s respective talents. Singer-actress Julie Anne San Jose was tapped to be their special guest.
Aljur, Rocco, Derrick and Jake have all released solo albums. Are they open to recording one together and perhaps continue as a boy band of sorts?
“That’s a possibility,” Aljur said. “That’s why we’re preparing and working very hard, just in case this show gives birth to something bigger—maybe an album or a tour.”
E-mail apolicarpio@inquirer.com.ph