Ogie: OPM is not dead

Even as he conceded that piracy is “an evil that exists,” something impossible to stop (like the drug menace), Ogie Alcasid insisted that OPM (Original Pilipino Music) is not dead.

Like the film industry worldwide, the music industry is badly affected by piracy.

“OPM is alive and well,” Ogie confirmed during the recent media launch of OPM2Go, an online store dedicated to serving Filipino artists, musicians and music lovers. “Buhay na buhay ang OPM,” added the head of the OPM (Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit).

Hopefully, OPM2Go will sustain the music industry and help curb piracy even just a bit. Ogie is the chairman of the OPM2Go, with OksPinoy as partner.

How does OPM2Go work?

For only P15, anybody can buy and download original Pilipino songs, old and new, from its website (www.OPM2Go.com). The artists stand to gain from it because they will directly receive their revenue share, unlike in the current set-up in which it takes time for the artists to get their royalties from their label companies.

“No cheating here,” explained Ogie, “because the money will go straight to them. They will get reports regularly so they can check if they’re getting their correct share.”

To spread the good news and familiarize industry people and the public about the mechanics of OPM2Go, there will be a ceremonial event set for March 28, 7 p.m., at the Eastwood Central Plaza in Libis, Quezon City.

Ogie said that it’s his way of giving back to the industry.

“The industry has been good to me. I think that OPM2Go is a great way for me to help the next generation of musicians and artists. I hope that both the industry and music lovers will realize that we are trying to do more than just sell songs; that we also want to be part of something bigger than what we can imagine. I believe that we’ve only scratched the surface of what can be achieved through the marriage of music and Internet technology.”

What’s up?

• During a lull in the recent search for Miss Galaxy Beauty (a gay pageant) in L.A. where he sat as one of the judges (together with Venus Raj and STAR’s L.A. correspondent Raymond de Asis Lo), Derek Ramsay (photo) was asked by the screaming audience when he was getting married. Without missing a beat, Derek answered, “I’m gonna get married in two years…yes, two years. Let’s start the clock!” But Derek forgot to say who he was going to marry.

• The Filipino Society of Cinematographers, in cooperation with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and Plusiminus Film Camp, is holding a cinematography workshop March 23, 24 and 25 at Arthur’s Resort in Siniloan, Laguna. The workshop will be highlighted by the use of special effects in cinematography. Speakers include Isagani Sioson (FSC president), Jess Navarro, George Toralba, Karl Claveria and Ariel Reyes. Workshop fee is P4,000 inclusive of food, transportation and accommodation. For inquiries, e-mail [email protected] or [email protected].

• Manila Manor Hotel will feature live entertainment this summer. The search is on for young entertainers aged 18 to 26 who can sing or perform retro music. Auditions are held every Friday, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Those interested may proceed to Manila Manor Hotel at 1660 Jorge Bocobo St., Malate, Manila. Or call 525-9065.

(E-mail reactions at [email protected]. You may also send your questions to [email protected]. For more updates, photos and videos visit www.philstar.com/funfare. or follow me on www.twitter/therealrickylo.)