SHOWTIME

Basil Valdez

Shows continue to pour in for Basil

Celebrated balladeer Basil Valdez has been singing professionally for 40 years now as a solo artist—49, if we include his time with the Circus Band.

Still, Basil remains busy with work. “When I did my 40th anniversary concert in 2017 … it was a little draining. But shows continued to pour in, and I have been so blessed,” he said.

Having performed many times with Kuh Ledesma in the past, Basil said their chemistry onstage was something that now comes to them more naturally.

Frequent coworker

“We started with ‘Rama Hari’ (the 1980s pop ballet musical) and did some 21 shows. We have sung together in several concerts abroad too. We already know each other—nagkahulihan na kami,” he said at a recent press conference for their concert “My Unforgettable Valentine,” which will be held on Feb. 14 at the Dusit Thani Manila (call 891-9999).

The two music icons also headlined the shows “Socorro, Bakit Mo Inaawitan si Basilio,” “Devoted” and the George Canseco tribute “Paano Kita Mapasasalamatan.”

“And when Kuh personally asked me to be part of the show, I said, yes, of course. I will give her what she wants, how many songs she likes,” added Basil, who promised to sing his biggest hits, including “Hanggang sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan,” “Kastilyong Buhangin,” “Ngayon at Kailanman” and  “You.” —ALLAN POLICARPIO