Sweetnotes to release debut album of original songs

CEBU, Philippines — With six million followers on Facebook and nearly two million subscribers on YouTube, the viral singing couple from General Santos City, Sweetnotes, has gigs booked left and right thanks to their unique and impressive covers.

Charlotte Mae and Jeffrey Bactong frequently perform in Cebu, with their appearance at the 65th anniversary benefit concert of the Daughters of Saint Teresa at the IEC Convention Center last month marking their 18th in the province.

They are even popular among the Overseas Filipino Workers. The couple is spending much of their April touring around Australia and New Zealand where they are booked in several cities.

But being in-demand performers comes with challenges, as Charlotte and Jeffrey have two young children at home: a four-year-old daughter and a two-year-old son.

“We are not always at home, so I am glad that we can video call them on Messenger. But it’s really hard, especially when there are events in school and we are not there because of work,” Charlotte told the media during a backstage interview.

“That’s why we make an effort to catch up with them in our free time. I hope someday they will understand,” she added, noting that their eldest has shown an interest in music.

With their duets of “Iniibig Kita” and David Pomeranz songs to name a few, their chemistry as performers shines through. But as with any couple, they’ve experienced both highs and lows offstage.

“There are ups and downs, so it’s normal that we would have arguments,” Jeffrey shared. “We may not be a perfect couple, but Charlotte and I always show love to each other. We are thankful to God that we can handle whatever challenges are thrown at us.”

Charlotte added, “What’s important is proper communication. If something is not okay, we just talk it out for a long-lasting relationship. Just love lang!”

While the couple may be known for their covers, they are now interested in composing original material. They plan to record their first album later this year, featuring original songs written and composed by them, with assistance from their church friends.

“We are still working on it because we are busy with our schedules,” Charlotte shared, to which Jeffrey added, “We don’t want to rush this. We want to make sure the recordings are polished and do justice so that listeners can enjoy our originals.”

Positivity and inspiration are what their fans can expect from their upcoming debut album, which explores love in all its forms.

“It can be applied to romantic relationships, or about family, and even to the Lord,” Charlotte said.

“For sure, it’s all positive vibes,” said Jeffrey. — (FREEMAN)