Lani Misalucha: Culminates eventful homecoming with Araneta concert

After a flurry of backbreaking activities-from mall tours, guest appearances to rehearsals-Lani Misalucha finally culminates her latest homecoming with a live concert at the Araneta Coliseum tonight, fittingly entitled "Lani Misalucha - Missing You."

Lani has certainly been missed as evidenced by the welcome executed in grand fashion via ABS-CBN's "ASAP." Even if she has made the US her home for sometime now, who could ever forget her heartfelt and powerful stylized singing which has brought her across the globe as well solidly sustained her presence in the country? For one, her latest eponymous album, under Universal Records that features soulful covers of well-loved ballads, has figured on top of the charts and has sold more than 10,000 copies even without the benefit of a promo blitz.

Lani has proved that the Pinoy talent is truly top-caliber and world-class, as she collected accolades in recent years such as the recognition of being the First Asian to headline in a main showroom of the Las Vegas Strip, and generated raving reviews from Vegas critics that catapulted her name to the top of the heap of must-see performers in Vegas. Even with her achievements abroad, she still makes time to revisit her home country and touch base with family, friends and fans.

In this e-mail interview, exclusively for The FREEMAN, the one and only Asia's Nightingale takes some time off from her super-hectic schedule to update readers of this paper about her latest trip home.

Here are excerpts from the e-mail interview.

The Freeman: How's your homecoming so far?

Lani: It's such an overwhelming feeling to be welcomed so warmly every time I come home. It's just wonderful!

TF: We've heard so much about your successful shows in the US, particularly in Las Vegas. Can you share with us the most memorable one?

Lani: There is no one particular memorable performance in the US, but what had been exciting were the times when US celebrities who I used to see on TV were in the audience watching me perform. For instance, Sheena Easton and Gladys Knight.

TF: What do you miss most about the Philippines when you're in the States?

Lani: I miss the food!

TF: What was the first thing you did upon return?

Lani: I phoned my mom to inform her I'm in town. Before checking in to my hotel, I had breakfast at Gloria Maris restaurant.

TF: What would you advice to those who'd like to take on an international career?

Lani: My advice is just to love your work, put your heart in whatever you're doing and always do your best.

TF: Is there any possibility that you'd revisit Cebu anytime soon in the future?

Lani: Given the opportunity, I'd really love to go back to Cebu again. The Cebuanos are such wonderful audience and I really feel their love.