NEY (center), with recent collaborators Kleggy, left, and Dello
Though he quit 6cyclemind in 2011, people still associate Ney Dimaculangan with the band. And why not? It’s still his voice that fans hear when 6cyclemind’s hits, such as “Biglaan” and “Sandalan,” are played on radio.
Burnout was one of the reasons that Ney left 6cyclemind—he wanted to try something new. For the past two years, he has been trying to make a mark as a solo artist. In the process, the fire in his belly has been re-ignited.
Going solo, Ney said, was at once exciting and daunting. He’s glad he took the plunge, though, especially when Awit Awards last year cited one of his recent works, “Ligaw,” and gave him the trophy for best performance by a new male recording artist trophy.
“There were a lot of risks involved … but they only made me stronger,” he told Inquirer in an e-mail interview.
For his self-titled album under Star Records, he wrote, arranged and produced all the songs. He put it succinctly: “The record sounds like Ney. And, backed by a different set of players, the songs will sound fresh.” If he had to name a favorite track, it would be “Sana,” Ney said, adding, “It’s my ultimate love song.”
So far, the highlight of his burgeoning solo career is having collaborated with FlipTop artists Dello and Kleggy in the uplifting rap anthem “Darating.” “The message is, there’s a solution to any problem, and that life goes on no matter what happens,” he said.
Asked if he was happy now, Ney said, “I’m happy I’m still doing what I love.”