Just like last year, Kuh Ledesma is presenting a pre-Valentine show on Feb. 10 at Hacienda Isabella, with a distinct theme that also serves as its title.
The Original Pilipino Music (OPM) icon calls it “The Diva Sings the Love Songs of the Divas.” Yes, Kuh, the country’s Pop Diva herself will interpret tunes related to romance, relationships, and love popularized by music divas such as Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and “the” Barbra Streisand.
It’s different from “Hello Love, a Valentine Getaway” which saw Kuh and her daughter Isabella take turns singing a collection of love songs.
Speaking of the latter, The STAR asked Kuh to share her Top 5 favorite love and romantic songs in a recent e-mail interview.
First on the list is Till I Met You, her own signature and hit tune.
“It has always been one of my long-time favorites. It must be 40 years ago that I first sang this song in the Sixth Metro Pop, and we won the grand prize. Odette Quesada wrote this song,” said she. “The song’s meaning to me has evolved into something deeper. I now sing it to express my love and devotion for my Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ.”
Kuh shared this line from the song that goes, “I never knew what love was till I met you.” When she found God, that was the time she felt and knew “what enduring love is all about,” added she.
Taking the second spot is The Prayer.
“I believe that if someone I love tells me that this is his favorite love song, it deepens my affection for him. Knowing that he appreciates a song centered on prayer suggests he is a person of faith, cares deeply and offers prayers for my blessings,” shared she.
“I’ve realized as a Christian, that every relationship should be anchored on God, the one who holds the success of our relationship. The Prayer has such a beautiful melody with profound lyrics that resonate to the core of the heart.”
Kuh added that The Prayer is “a beautiful duet,” and she loves singing it on Valentine’s Day.
“It never fails to elicit an amazing response from the audience. The song’s beauty lies in its ability to touch hearts deeply. I firmly believe that prayer should be our priority, a vital part of our everyday lives to keep our relationship healthy.”
Another song of hers, One More Try, written by Cecil Azarcon, is also a favorite for “it talks about second chances,” said she. “I believe in the value of perseverance and not giving up easily on any relationship. One More Try is a reminder that we need to work on our relationships, even when faced with challenges. We must keep every promise spoken, especially sacred vows.”
The John Legend song All of Me also captures her heart and earns her admiration.
“I love this song! I always get good applause when I sing this song because I believe people can relate to the lyrics. I love its heartfelt expression of love. The song beautifully tells a love that accepts every aspect of a person, flaws and all regardless of imperfections,” said she.
“The lyrics are charming and so honest, with a very soulful melody. I love how the song captures the heart of a person in love. The lyrics are well written and its melody is so easy to remember making it easy for the listeners to sing along.”
Before she named “the” song that would complete her list of favorite ditties to listen to this Feb-ibig, love month, Kuh gave tidbits about the show’s presentation and repertoire.
“Well, for one thing, the concept for this year revolves around the famous love songs from iconic divas like (Barbra) Streisand, Mariah (Carey), Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and others. The audience will journey through time with the enchanting melodies and timeless classics that define the music of the divas. This concert promises to be not only a celebration of love but also a tribute to the timeless and powerful voices that have shaped the world of love songs.”
Joining her in the musical presentation are stage actor-crooner Bo Cerrudo and new singer Nathan Randall as guest artists.
“Bo and Nathan stand out as versatile and captivating artists, each bringing a unique flair to the stage,” said Kuh. “Bo Cerrudo has been in the business for a long time and is a very versatile artist, can sing in almost any genre, and is very easy to work with. Nathan Randall, who is only 16 years old, is a very, very promising artist. I believe that he is going to go a long way. He is very dedicated to his art as a singer, loves to sing difficult songs and loves doing the classics.”
With that, the diva will do duets with them in segments that will showcase the male guests’ talents by delivering “the songs of the divas in their style, promising a diverse and captivating musical experience for our audience,” said Kuh.
Before and after the show, concertgoers can explore different areas of Hacienda Isabella. They will enjoy its beautiful landscape. They can also visit the souvenir shop, said Kuh. “Prior to the concert, attendees can indulge in a sumptuous dinner, setting the stage for an evening of culinary delights and delightful music.”
The audience will have post-show snacks and photo sessions. Attendees can also stay overnight and experience the accommodations provided by Hacienda Isabella. The following day, they will have a hearty breakfast with Kuh.
As for the last song, Kuh had When I Fall in Love to complete the list. “(It) stands as a winner, capturing the enduring love that leaves a lasting imprint on the hearts of those who experience it,” concluded she.
(For details, call 0960-8850288 and 0920-2868895.)