A bolder, grittier Jessica Sanchez

A big voice in her own right, Jessica Sanchez is back to perform with an edgier look and a sound that is her own. Catch up with the powerhouse voice on November 10 in her self-entitled concert “Jessica Sanchez with special guest Martin Nievera” happening at The Theatre at Solaire.

The singer said she always looks forward to doing concerts in the Philippines. It is her way to connect with her roots. And she is excited to share the stage with the Concert King. Even if they’ve done shows before, Jessica says doing a number with Martin is a great opportunity.

Jessica’s story is one that begins when a shy 16-year old girl dominated the stage with a voice that can go head-to-head with some of history’s icons. It may seem like she was dealt a lucky card, but behind the curtains, it couldn’t be anywhere near the truth.

“I was so young when ‘American Idol’ happened,” she said. “I learned so much from the show, the people, and the experience afterwards. It prepared me for what was to come, the constant hustle and hard work.”

The impact of the memories has not evaded her. In the years that followed, the Philippines saw Jessica perform on local television programs, radio shows, and held a concert for her freshman album. Her constant appearance has prompted most to wonder whether she will be back again, or maybe stay for good. Although with no certainty just yet, Jessica shares, “I try to visit at least once a year. I’m half-Filipino so I always want to learn and experience more of the culture.”

Now 23, Jessica has kept the momentum going, but at her own pace.

“These past years have been filled with traveling internationally for events, concerts and recordings, but I’ve also taken some time to step back and find myself as an artist.”

Her upcoming concert will show her evolution and versatility as an artist with songs that are deemed Filipino favorites such as “I Will Always Love You,” “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” and “I Have Nothing,” which are coincidentally, in her “Idol” performance repertoire. This night will also see a new Jessica that’s bolder and grittier as she sings R&B songs alike that speak of her edge and vibrancy.

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Tony Labrusca rocks! Everyone is talking about him, wanting to have a piece of him and he is giving his audience very, very good roles.

After a compelling performance in “Double Twisting, Double Back,” his fans will be able to watch his debut film “ML,” written and directed by Benedict Mique, which hits theatres nationwide today. The film was a box-office hit when it was shown last August in Cinemalaya.

At the movie’s press conference held yesterday, Tony said the beautiful script of this Cinemalaya entry which won for Eddie Garcia his nth Best Actor award was one of the reasons why he accepted the movie.

“We liked the story and secondly, who would ever pass on a chance to work with Mr. Eddie Garcia?” said the hottest male star of the moment.

He is so new in showbiz but Tony is making such a great impression. He has just a few goals in mind: provide for his family and secure for himself a bright future. But in terms of seeking attention, he doesn’t go for it.

“Of course, we all enjoy the attention that I am getting but I don’t like that to affect my values. I don’t want to focus on the showbiz side. I want to lead my life as a normal person,” said the all-too-sudden hot dude.

It was Direk Benedict who reached out to him and offered him the lead opposite Eddie Garcia in “ML.”

“They told me about the story and I was really interested because I will be working with Tito Eddie. And it just seemed right and the film is an entry pa sa Cinemalaya,” said Tony.

When he accepted the role, Tony did not expect that the film will create such buzz.

“It was really beyond my expectations. I just wanted to work and show to the people the art that we had been making. I just hope that the people will like it.”

Tony is super excited that “ML” is hitting theaters. “I am excited for Direk. Sana mabawi niya ang pera niya. Sana the millennials will watch and like the film. It is an important part of our country’s history that we should not forget.”

“ML” also stars Liane Valentin, Henz Villaraiz, Jojit Lorenzo, Rafa Siguion-Reyna, Chanel Latorre and Mr. Eddie Garcia as the Colonel.