Choose your Valentine Show: ‘Ingram is the voice to fall in love with’

Every year, Inquirer Entertainment helps readers pick a show for that special day, by asking the concert artists to talk about their gigs … and romance.

‘James Ingram Live in Manila’

James Ingram with Lea Salonga, 8 p.m. February 17, Smart Araneta Coliseum; call 911-5555

What’s your most unique and unforgettable romantic relationship?

Lea Salonga: Oh goodness! Surely the relationship I have with my husband has been the most romantic and longest-lasting (we’ve been together 10 years, married for eight). But, I gotta say, the ones before had their shining moments, too. I’d rather keep the details to myself (and themselves), I’m not willing to share.

What’s the worst thing you did after a breakup?

Besides cry for a few days? With one boyfriend, I had a stack of faxes about an inch thick, letters we sent to one another every day. When we broke up, I took the stack and, page by page, tore up the letters. I felt that if I kept them, I was holding on to something that wasn’t meant to be. To let it go, I had to let everything go. After another breakup, I burned every photo of him and watched the ashes blow away in the wind. Dramatic, no? But, I always kept the gifts, heh heh.

Is Valentine overrated or does it deserve its special observance? Tell us why.

I kind of waffle back and forth on whether it’s overrated or not. On the one hand, it’s a great way for restaurants and hotels to gain more customers (same for entertainers and musicians), and for many bouquets to be sent, and for couples in love to celebrate. On the other, shouldn’t we celebrate love every day? We shouldn’t have just one special day for that.

How do you keep your love life interesting and exciting?

We’re parents. Every day is interesting and exciting. Our love is manifested in our little one, who, as she grows, becomes more and more her own person. It’s really exciting to see. On some days though, I’ll admit, I feel like pulling my hair out. Out of love, that is!

What, in your opinion, is the most uniquely written love song, and why?

One of my favorites is Julia Fordham’s “Love Moves in Mysterious Ways,” because it captures the mystery of love, and says to just accept it without trying too hard to understand what’s behind it. Even after finding “the one,” there’s still something unreachable.

Why should we watch your concert with James Ingram?

Because it’s James Ingram! He’s the voice that’s played on mix tapes all over the world! The voice to fall in love with, break up with, and make up with. I’ve seen him perform live and he’s amazing. I was instantly transported back to my days as a young girl in love. Nakaka-ahhh talaga.