What Billy is learning from younger ‘Cr3w’ performers James and Sam

Billy Crawford (middle) flanked by James Reid and Sam Concepcion

He may be older and have more experience in show biz than James Reid and Sam Concepcion, but Billy Crawford has nothing but respect for the two artists, who helps him put a finger on the pulse of mainstream music today.

“They help me discover and learn what’s relevant or hot on the scene at the moment. So, sharing the stage with them is such a pleasure for me,” he told reporters at a press conference for the concert “The Cr3w,” which he will coheadline with James and Sam on April 5 at Araneta Coliseum.

“After all, we all share a single goal—creating music and performing,” added Billy who, at 36, is the “kuya” of the trio; James and Sam are 25 and 26, respectively. “There’s mutual respect … We inspire each other; we feed off each other’s creativity.”

Billy, who cowrote “No Limitations,” one of Sam’s past singles, has witnessed the latter’s journey—from being a child star to one of today’s most well-rounded live performers.

“I have already seen what he’s capable of doing. Even when he was still a kid, I already knew that he would be one of the ‘dopest’ artists in the Philippines,” he said.

As for James, it’s his passion and tenacity that impress Billy the most. “He’s got balls; he doesn’t take no for an answer. I respect his passion. He’s very professional. And when he’s in the zone, you could barely talk to him,” said the singer-dancer.

“I was also surprised when I first heard him. He has his own identity and is not trying to be like anyone else,” he added. “I also like the fact that he’s a songwriter, a producer and has his own record label.”

Mounted by Viva Live, “The Cr3w” (call 911-5555), will have the three artists performing their hits and popular songs, either in solo spots or group numbers.

The repertoire will be heavy on pop-R&B songs laced with hip-hop—something all three artists love. Special guests include Nadine Lustre, Yassi Pressman and Coleen Garcia.

“It’s going to be like a party,” Billy said. “It’ll be visually entertaining. Despite the big venue, we will still make the show as intimate as possible.”

For Billy, this concert is one of the many music-related projects he plans to do this year. After 10 years of not releasing an album, it’s about time to focus, he said, on the thing he loves the most.

“I will concentrate on music and performing this time around. My last album was released in 2009 (‘Groove’), so it’s a big challenge for me to come up with something the public will love, especially those of James and Sam’s age.”

Produced by Marcus Davis, Billy’s new album, “Work in Progress,” dropped earlier this month, with “Filipina Girl” as its lead single.

“Whether it sells or not, the album was something I put my heart and soul into. I’m proud of it. It sounds fresh. This is my favorite album.”

Billy would also love to release the album abroad.

“We, Filipinos, are gifted, especially when it comes to music,” related the singer, whose first two albums, “Billy Crawford” and “Ride,” helped him achieve mainstream success in France and other countries in Europe.

“May ibubuga tayo.  I’m excited about what this album has in store for me,” he said.