JESSICA has united the country, says Leo Valdez. www.americanidol.com
Amid all the show biz madness—fistfights, twitter bashing and lawsuits—Jessica Sanchez making it to the finale of “American Idol” Season 11 is a breath of fresh air. I asked some of our renowned singers why they think Jessica should win. Here goes Team Jessica!
Leo Valdez
Whereas I am impressed with Joshua Ledet’s amazing vocal range and riveting performances, as well as with Phillip Phillips’ interesting tone and originality, I feel these guys are uni-dimensional performers—which doesn’t take credit from the impressive performers that they are. But Jessica Sanchez has the vocal quality, versatility and the vocal artistry in her manner of delivery that makes her stand out. From her poignant delivery of “Dance With My Father” and her effortless caressing of the melody in “You Are So Beautiful,” to the full power on “I Will Always Love You” and “And I Am Telling You”… I believe she truly deserves to be declared this year’s American Idol. I am one with our proud countrymen in celebrating this phenomenal young artist. She’s only 16! God-willing and with the right breaks after “American Idol,” we can revel in her success and remind ourselves that for one shining moment, we Pinoys were one in our support because we never doubted that, on the world stage, the Pinoy truly can.”
Luke Mejares
Sa sobrang galing niya, wala akong masabi. For her age, she sings like a pro. She knows how to use her voice. ’Di gaya ng iba, birit lang nang birit. Sobrang napabilib ako nang kumanta siya ng “My All” ’cause sobrang kontrolado boses niya.
Martin Nievera
Jessica’s voice is a kaleidoscope of brilliant colors that collide to the music, making emotions sing, dance and play. Her style is soulful and timeless. She can sing anything. The Philippine flag has never flown so high in any singing reality competition so, as far as I’m concerned, no matter how America votes, Jessica Sanchez owns the victory.
Joey Generoso (Side A)
The first time I watched Jessica perform, I said to myself, “May laban ito!” I just hope no discrimination will get in the way since she’s not 100-percent American.
Robert Seña
She will definitely win, not only because she’s charming, young and soulful but also because of her Spanish, American and, most of all, Filipino influences. Her voice is breathtaking.
Duncan Ramos (Side A)
She has a lot of old-school influence, which has won the hearts of the judges and the fans, especially since we are all products of the old school with the likes of Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson. Jessica truly is an evidence of early maturity unveiling true musicality. She deserves to win.
Twitter cheers
Some comments about Jessica on Twitter caught my attention as well:
Wonder which National Anthem Jessica Sanchez will sing if and when she’s invited to grace Pacquiao’s match vs a Mexican. (jetvalle@twitter.com)
Jessica Soho and Korina Sanchez—Jessica Sanchez. Pinoy Pride indeed (mrfu_mayganon@twitter.com)
Sad, sad
Speaking of great singers, it’s sad that we lost another icon, Donna Summer. Her “Whispering Waves” and “Winter Melody” are my all-time faves. The logo of “Gandang Gabi Vice” has a striking resemblance to Donna’s “Four Seasons of Love” album cover. I can imagine Vice Ganda impersonating the late Queen of Disco since Donna was truly a gay icon in her prime. How uncanny that her death coincided with the end of summer here in the Philippines! Thank you, Donna for the songs that will always be a big part of our “Summer Love” memories.
True colors
I was appalled when I found out the true colors of this lady celebrity. She tries to win public sympathy via her interviews but, in truth, she’s a scheming woman out to get more than what’s rightfully hers.
Women power
May is women empowerment month on TV5, marked by a brand-new afternoon block Monday to Friday. It starts off with Sine Tanghali at 12:45 p.m., featuring “Tagalized” Hollywood fare. Award-winning Koreanovelas follow: “White Lies,” 2:45 p.m.; “Love You A Thousand Times,” 3:15 p.m.; “Pink Lipstick,” 3:45 p.m. “Sharon: Kasama Mo, Kapatid” starts at 4:30 p.m.
At it again
Speaking of Shawie, her Twitter bashers are at it again. Mega can’t help but react because the tweets, all against her daughter KC, were allegedly posted by an ABS-CBN executive. I asked Kapamilya network bigwig, Deo Endrinal for an official statement about the issue. He said he would check.
If it is verified to be a Twitter account of the executive, then it’s so sad that they are not living up to what it means to be a Kapamilya.
(E-mail wateringholeshangrila@yahoo.com)