Martin’s unsolicited advice to Pop’s future partner

Pops Fernandez (left) and Martin Nievera

Not too many people know that Martin Nievera and I are distant relatives (on the Tabuena side). I am more than delighted to be his “relative,” friend and fan, as well. He is one of my few fave interviewees because he never gives “show biz” answers.

Since Pops (Fernandez) and I are like sisters, I was a witness to their colorful love story. There really comes a time when one kind of love gives way to another. Mart and Pipay have come full circle. They now realize that friendship is the best kind of love, après tout.

It was my mom, Inday Badiday, who coined their Concert King and Queen moniker. After 36 glorious years in the biz, Mart still reigns supreme. From the looks of it, this king will never be dethroned.

Bravo, Mart! Keep hitting our hearts in all the right spots with your songs.

Here’s my chat with Martin:

Looking back, is there anything you wish that you would have done differently? I wish I made more time to write more songs. It’s hard for a frustrated songwriter like myself, because I don’t play an instrument. I could have contributed more to a business that has been so very good to me.

What was the turning point in your career? Every other day for me is a turning point. So many things have happened in the last 36 years—lessons learned from wrong decisions, miscues and bad notes have turned my world around over and over again. Success is seasonal, and failure haunting. Survival is the key.

Do you still get jitters before a show? If you don’t get jitters before each performance, then something is wrong. If I have learned anything, I’ve learned how to turn jitters and nerves into excitement and sweet anticipation.

What makes your relationship with Anj (his new girlfriend) work? A relationship with me is complicated. With my schedule and excess baggage, you have to be a special kind of woman to stick it out with me. That, she is. If I don’t make her laugh or at least smile once a day, we’re history.

What’s your unsolicited advice to the guy whom Pops will end up with? Hold on tight, don’t let go. Don’t take her for granted. Don’t hurt her the way I did. Respect her and the life she chose before you met and, most importantly, know from the get-go that it’s our sons, Robin and Ram, before you.

How do you feel about Robin and Zia Quizon’s relationship? I am happy that they’re happy. They’re a great mix. His talent matches hers. They take good care of each other.

What stands out in your memory about you and your dad, Bert Nievera? I had much to say, but did not say it. I had questions I never asked. The distance between us was often too far.

What advice from your dad do you follow until now? When in doubt and feeling insecure, he used to say, “Look into the light.” He was talking about the spotlight during a performance, but I think he meant something more profound. Maybe he meant, “You’ll find comfort in the light…”

If there’s only one song you could sing, what would it be, and what song would you rather not sing? “This Is My Life” was my father’s big go-to song, which is about his eagerness to live and love.

I probably wouldn’t sing a fast Tagalog rap song, simply because I don’t know how. I love it when it’s done right, but only as a fan.

What are your major plans for your 36th year in the biz? I will sing and perform forever. Or for as long as there’s a song to sing and someone to sing that song to. If I can no longer inspire, then my job is done.