Jessica Mania
Jessica Sanchez did not exactly lose “American Idol.” She almost won. Sometimes it’s better to be in second place because it makes you strive harder to be Number One. As a runner-up, Jessica is not lulled into a false sense of complacency. Nor is she going to sit on her laurels.
There’s certainly life after AI. It has opened so many doors for Jessica. As she embarks on her new career, here’s some well-meant advice from some of our best singers ever.
The Jessica Mania is here to stay. Cheers to the sweet yet fierce 16-year-old who has given us countless reasons to “idol worship”:
Ogie Alcasid
She should record her version of “I Will Always Love You.” It will surely be a smash hit. Can’t really compare Phillip Phillips and Jessica. Phillip also has a rare talent. Sometimes it’s not about the winning but the impact that you made on people the way Jessica did. I’d love to sing “Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang” or “Hanggang Kailan” with her.
Article continues after this advertisementGary Valenciano
Article continues after this advertisementJessica, you did more than touch the hearts of Filipinos on AI. You touched the hearts of people around the world. You are the world’s idol. It is because of this, I pray you never forget that as you sing every note, every word and every melody, you sing it from the heart. Schedules will get busier, your voice may at times get tired but it is from your heart that the voice creates its impact. May your source of strength be the One Mighty God who has given you that moving gift. Stay humble and passionate. As you do your best, trust that God will handle the rest.
Medwin Marfil (True Faith)
Jessica is so talented but I wish she would find her own voice eventually. It is fine to emulate your music heroes but this process should help her discover and hone a style which is all her own. It would be interesting to sing “I Got You Babe” by Sonny and Cher with her.
Jed Madela
She should not stop learning. She has an amazing voice but being onstage requires a lot more than a set of pipes. She should strengthen her passion and her heart, and make everymoment onstage an opportunity to connect and tell a story. It would be a dream come true to sing “The Prayer” with Jessica.
Bo Cerrudo
Jessica, continue singing from the heart and enjoy what you do best. Always remember your roots and the people who are helping you on your journey. It would be good to sing any nice old Filipino song like “Maalaala Mo Kaya” with Jessica, so today’s generation can rediscover our musical roots.
Leah Navarro
The world is her oyster now and she should prepare for a long and fruitful career. I hope she continues to polish her craft, keep her heart open to critique as well as praise, stay grounded through family, keep growing inside and continue to shine.
Sitti
Jessica, change nothing, stay down-to-earth, keep it real and fall in love.
Kyla
No matter what, she has a great career ahead of her. She should not lose her focus. A lot of producers are already willing to support her. She should just keep on giving it her 100 percent.