Jed celebrates ‘voice that launched a thousand shrieks’

Jed Madela

Jed Madela and I go a long way. I used to watch his gigs in Aruba bar regularly when he was still with the Prime Council band. We also have an “Ilonggo connection” since his relatives (the Tajanlangits) “adopt” me every time I’m in my second home, Iloilo.

Back then, I already knew he would eventually make it big. Whether the venue was jampacked or not, Jed always gave his 200 percent. It was not an easy journey for him. Jed’s dad did not approve of his band stint because he wanted him to pursue a more stable career. But, Jed’s love for music prevailed. All his struggles paid off.

Now, Jed is celebrating his 15th anniversary in the biz via a major concert, “Higher Than High” at the Big Dome on Nov. 16, 8 p.m. (call 9115555) under the baton of Maestro Gerard Salonga. Jed will be joined by Regine Velasquez, Vice Ganda, Darren Espanto, BoybandPH and the TNT Boys.

Since I witnessed Jed’s journey, I’m mighty proud of him. Bravo, Migo (that’s how I call him)! Keep singing your heart out with that voice that has launched a thousand shrieks. Pabitetime. Yodeeee (that’s Hiligaynon for “Showoff time. Wow.”)

Here’s my chat with Jed:

What  stands out in your memory about your show biz journey? I have encountered all kinds of people who have molded me into the person I am today—people who supported me, lifted me up, used me, rejected me, and tried to pull me down. The ones who stood by me through thick and thin stand out in my memory.

When did your dad accept your choice of career? I asked him to give me one year to pursue my singing and if nothing happened, I would stop and follow his wishes to look for a stable job.

Within a year, I won the Voice of Asia competition and was offered a recording contract by the late Bella Tan of Universal Records.

One night, my dad sat me down and said, “Son, I see that you’re really meant for this job. I will set you free. Go and follow your dreams.”

What can fans expect from your concert? A total experience. They will go home with happy memories.

What was your most embarrassing moment onstage? Singing with my zipper wide open.

Tell us about your new single, “Superhero.” We all have people we look up to. But sometimes, we keep hoping to have what they have without appreciating our own unique qualities. My song is a reminder that we need not look any further because there’s a superhero within us.

What song do you listen to when you are sad, happy, tired and angry? When I’m sad, I enjoy listening to painful songs like “Jealous” by Labrynth or “Tonight I Wanna Cry” by Keith Urban. When I’m happy, I listen to songs I used to sing in the band like “Do You Believe in Me?” by Eric Gadd and songs by Toto.

When I’m tired and angry, I listen to relaxing music. But, if I’m too tired or angry, I’d rather be in silence.

What song would you rather not sing?  Any song that requires rapping … because I’m the most “bulol” person ever. And heavy metal, because it just hurts my throat.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned about life, love and your career?  I’ve learned that everything happens so fast. Life is short, so I try to enjoy every moment of it. As for love, never be afraid to give it away. In terms of career, it is what you make of it. Love it, and it will love you back.

If you could travel back in time, what chapter of your career would you want to relive? My winning moment at the 2005 World Championship of Performing Arts in Hollywood, because that moment changed everything.

Is it harder to please a Pinoy or foreign audience?  After performing for different audiences around the world, I think the Pinoy audience here is more difficult to please. Maybe it’s because we’re based here and they have easier access to local performers. Pinoys living abroad rarely see us in the flesh, so they’re more showy with their appreciation.

After 15 years, what else do you wish to accomplish? I want to give back. I want to put up a school for the performing arts and share what I have learned with aspiring artists.