Nyoy Volante played Usnavi in the musical In The Heights, a role that was once essayed by the composer of In The Heights, Lin Manuel Miranda. He almost changed his mind into doing the role. The reason? There were too many songs to memorize and he had to rap. But like a true-blue musical artist, Nyoy took on the role and now, he’s got the hang of rapping like he was born to rap. And he even got a nomination from the Aliw Awards.
Though he has been called one of the best acoustic balladeers in the country, Nyoy has always loved rap and hip-hop. And he has had hit songs like What Did I Do and Nasaan. And when he appeared rapping and doing hip-hop in In The Heights, his performance was met with rave reviews. Here’s more of Nyoy. Read on.
Nyoy, what other talent would you like to have aside from music and acting and why?
I wanna learn how to do a somersault! It’s just too cool if you know how to!
In your opinion, what is the worst thing about being an actor/singer? The best?
The worst? Maybe, when you’re obligated to do a piece you don’t really like, then you still have to sound good. That’s hard. The best: You get to do something you really love over and over again!
Are you afraid of getting old?
Not really.
What was the best thing said about you?
Simple lang.
When do you consider ambition healthy?
All the time.
What is the question you have been asked most often? And the question you hate most?
What’s up in show business? What’s up in show business?
How well do you understand women?
Well enough to know men won’t win!
What childish thing do you still do as an adult?
Hanging out in toy stores.
How do you pray?
Fervently.
If you were a movie or a play what would its title be?
Happy.
What color describes your life? Why?
White. Lots of plain space to draw in.
The most expensive thing you bought for yourself?
A condo.
If you are Superman, who is your Superwoman?
The one I love!
What is your greatest fear?
Having nobody.
What makes you laugh?
Everything!
How much of you is Usnavi?
I would like to believe all of it.
Your greatest influence as an actor/singer?
Gary Valenciano.
The best gift you have ever received from a loved one?
Honesty.
Who is your favorite singer and why? And your least favorite?
Bugoy Drilon. Me, when I was six years old.
If you were a musical instrument what would you be? Why?
Guitar. I’m always around!
What is your philosophy in life?
God is love!
Your biggest regret?
Giving away too many chances.
The most photogenic face in the world?
Jamie Cheung.
Who is the most beautiful person in the world and why?
My girlfriend. She is!
If you were a fictional character, who would you be? And why?
Spiderman. Wouldn’t that be cool?
Happy or content?
Happy.
One song you would not sing?
Anything that says God isn’t.
How do you want to be remembered?
Someone who wouldn’t sing songs that say God isn’t.
Are you a generous lover?
Very.