Rico Blanco’s music docu showcases local rock icon’s formidable catalog

Rico Blanco

In the musical documentary, “Rico Blanco Songbook: Musical Stories by Rico Blanco” the local rock icon’s formidable catalog takes centerstage with 12 acts reinterpreting and retelling some of his classic hits.

Directed by filmmaker Treb Contreras II and produced by Viva Live, the project’s song repertoire encompasses Rico’s work for his former group Rivermaya and as a solo artist: “Your Universe” (performed by Sarah Geronimo); “‘Wag Mong Aminin” (Ebe Dancel); “Umaaraw, Umuulan” (December Avenue); “A Love to Share” (Janine Teñoso); “Yugto” (Earl Generao);

“Ayuz” (John Roa); “Liwanag sa Dilim” (This Band); “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita” (Raphiel Shannon); “241” (Callalily); “Lipat Bahay” (Mayonnaise); and “Imbellisque” (Sponge Cola and GIBBS). The said versions can also be found in an accompanying compilation album, also titled “Rico Blanco Songbook.”

Aside from the musical performances, the documentary also has seasoned rock artists like Ebe, Yael Yuzon and Kean Cipriano sharing their perspectives on Rico as a musician.

“Some songwriters are good at writing melodies; some at lyrics. But Rico excels at both,” Ebe pointed out. “He always has this ‘shet-ang-ganda-sana-ako-na-lang-nagsulat-nun’ song in every album he releases. He’s a master at what he does and I have always idolized him.”

Burgeoning acts

Newer and burgeoning acts and bands like December Avenue, Janine and This Band, on the other hand, reflect on the impact Rico had on their respective craft. “We were excited and honored to pay tribute to one of OPM’s greatest songwriters. Rico is one of my musical heroes. Growing up listening to his songs heavily influenced my passion for music,” December Avenue’s Zel Bautista said. Produced exclusively for streaming, “Rico Blanco Songbook: Musical Stories by Rico Blanco” is now available on the online content platform Vivamax.