KRISTELA Musica Cristobal
“AVON Voices,” a global online singing talent search organized by the beauty company Avon Products, is now in its semifinal stage. Two Filipinos, Joy Loria and Kristela Musica Cristobal, made it to the shortlist of 25 out of the initial 100 contenders from 41 countries.
Ten finalists will be selected on August 25 by a combined online public voting (avonvoices.com) and renowned judging panel composed of Fergie of The Black Eyed Peas, songwriter Diane Warren, percussionist Sheila E., singer-songwriter and producer David Pack and Lea Salonga, among others.
Joy and Kristela talked with the Inquirer via e-mail recently.
Tell us about your impressions of Hollywood.
Joy Loria (JL): It’s amazing! Hollywood was only a place in my dreams that turned into reality. I feel like a superstar!
Kristela Musica Cristobal (KC): I always think of Hollywood as a place for movie stars. When I got there I felt like one, especially when we were rehearsing for our performance. The stage where we rehearsed was also the one used by Michael Jackson, Christina Aguilera, Beyonce, Carrie Underwood and many others. I had the opportunity of singing with the drummer of Michael Jackson! I was so tired during those vocal coaching and rehearsals. But it was worth the experience. I realized there are a lot to learn if I want to be a good singer.
What new things have you learned from the professional coaching that you underwent?
JOY Loria
JL: I learned how to sing properly through proper breathing, pronouncing correctly the lyrics, singing with feelings and connecting with the audience. I was fortunate to meet professional artists like Sheila E., David Pack and the others who were very supportive as we prepared for the semifinals.
KC: What I learned most was how to pronounce the words. David Pack helped with that. He said that it was as important as singing the song. He also wanted me to lessen the vibrato in my singing. It was kinda hard because I was so used to that kind of style.
But he also admired my singing in “Unbreak My Heart.” He said I sang it with the right emotion. He also taught me how to connect with the audience while performing on stage.
Describe the kind of pressure that you’re experiencing, now that you made it to the semifinals.
JL: Mixed emotions. Nervous but happy because whatever happens, God had made it possible for me to experience such amazing, unforgettable moments, from our training in Hong Kong to Hollywood.
KC: I don’t want to think of it as pressure. I just want to enjoy every minute of it and believe in myself. This is my dream, to make a name in the music industry. I will do my best. The rest is up to God. This is all a blessing.
What do you think is your edge against the other aspirants?
JL: All the 23 contenders are fabulous. They have different singing styles and superb voice quality. Modesty aside, I think my edge in this singing search is my confidence. I believe that I can really sing. Filipinos are very talented and I’m going to prove that once again to the world.
KC: I believe in the quality of my voice and style. A lot of people always say that my voice has a rare quality. I have been singing since I was a kid. I am used to performing with a band or with an acoustic setup. I grew up performing in front of many people. All I need to do is to give my best.
What are your plans in case you win?
JL: I will continually work hard as an Avon sales representative. I will help Avon to reach more people through singing as well.
KC: I guess it would depend on the projects that would come my way. And if I do make it in the music industry, I will share my blessings with other people. I would love to be in a regular TV show. I also would like to help friends of mine who are musicians. Of course I can take them with me if I have shows.