Glaiza reveals the songwriter in Angelica; Martin’s idol

Glaiza de Castro

Angelica Panganiban

Unknown to many, actresses Glaiza de Castro and Angelica Panganiban have been secretly writing songs for quite some time now.

“We exchange lyrics and melodies. That’s one of the ways we communicate or listen to each other’s sentiments,” Glaiza revealed at the recent launch of her new album, “Magandang Simulain.”

She further disclosed that her latest album’s lead single, “Sinta,” was actually a poem by Angelica, who likewise penned the tracks “Ganti” and “London.”

For her previous album, “Synthesis,” Glaiza cowrote with Angelica the songs, “Waiting Shed” and “Barcelona.”

“I promised her that we will continue creating music, even if we don’t plan to record or release it. But of course, it would be better if we could share our work with people, and hopefully, inspire them,” she said.

Angelica has been a close friend of Glaiza’s since their days in the 2002 teen-oriented show, “Berks.”

Unlike “Synthesis,” which was more experimental in nature and was a mixed bag of alternative and synth-pop tunes, “Magandang Simulain” pays tribute to classic Filipino pop and rock, with covers of such hits as “Itanong Mo sa Mga Bata” by Asin and “Bato sa Buhangin” by Cinderella making it into the track list.

Before becoming an actress, Glaiza dreamed of pursuing music. She later realized that achieving a goal depends not only on talent, but on finding the right people who will guide and help push you forward.

“Acting happened for me simply because there were more opportunities available. But, because people around me (including Angelica) eventually began expressing support, I mustered courage to go for it,” she said.

As an actress, Glaiza revels in portraying different kinds of roles. Same goes with her music. “There are lots of genres to explore, and I don’t want to box myself in a particular one,” said the 29-year-old artist.

Glaiza will hold a solo concert, titled “Kun[g]diman,” on Oct. 27 at the Music Museum (call 3748385 or 7216726). One of her guests is Juan dela Cruz bassist Mike Hanopol.

Emulating Frank Sinatra

Two of Martin Nievera’s defining qualities as a performer are his rich baritone and his gift of gab. But, while he’s still very much active in the live-music scene, he wishes that he also had the platform to put his hosting skills to good use.

The 55-year-old recording artist, who used to host the programs “Martin After Dark” and “Martin Late @ Nite,” was recently announced as the new celebrity endorser of Solaire Resort and Casino. He also stars in the video of the jingle “Follow the Sun,” cowritten with Moy Ortiz of the CompanY.

Martin Nievera

“This is huge for me. After 35 years in the music biz, getting an endorsement deal of any kind is a miracle! Now, I have the freedom to create and conceptualize shows. I can also help keep OPM alive by paying tribute to our country’s biggest names,” Martin told the Inquirer recently.

During this stint, Martin also hopes to emulate one of his idols, Frank Sinatra, who also used to perform in casinos.
“Sinatra and his rat pack frequented many new casinos in Las Vegas. And wherever they went—even unannounced—people followed,” he related. “I want to be the same magnet of fun, games and good times.”

Martin is set to hold his 35th anniversary concert at The Theatre on Dec. 8.