No stopping Gary V.
With ‘World Of Dance Philippines’ behind him, Mr. Pure Energy headlines a series of shows in the US.
With ‘World Of Dance Philippines’ behind him, Mr. Pure Energy headlines a series of shows in the US.
For someone who has always been kind, it’s unusual to hear a negative comment on Gary Valenciano.
But at a time when everyone seems to be entitled to someone else’s opinion on social media, bashers did not spare the revered artist from senseless tirades.
Some have thrown shade at Gary for his style on recently concluded reality competition series “World Of Dance Philippines” where he played jury duties with Billy Crawford and Maja Salvador.
“Some netizens asked, is it ‘World Of Dance’ or ‘World Of Drama?’” he said, referring to some of the comments they got. “I understand there are misconceptions on how reality series works. Many believe a contestant should share a dramatic event in his or her life to catch the audience or even
the judges’ attention.”
As much as Gary wants to ignore the naysayers, he thinks it’s necessary at times to speak up.
For him, there’s nothing wrong when contestants talk about their situation or circumstance in life if it pushes them to strive harder in life.
“Every single human has a story to tell and that adds to your character,” he pointed out.
Gary stressed, however, that these had no bearing on how they judged contestants’ performances. In the end, only talent counts, he said.
“I did not judge them based on their back stories — I judged their singing or dancing. I looked at how they perform on stage. What matters is what you put on the moment you step on stage to face the audience and the judges.”
‘God is your best friend’
Many look up to Gary for the inspiration he brings, especially when he won his battle against kidney cancer.
In that light, we asked for his advice to good friend Dayanara Torres, who recently revealed she has skin cancer.
Gary and Dayanara worked on the film “Hataw Na” in 1995, and on “ASAP Mania,” where her dancing skills had people calling her “Dancing Queen.”
“Her case is different from mine, but the word is that it’s cancer,” he said. “I guess the advice I could give her is one, follow what the doctor says and keep your body healthy always. Second, surround yourself with people that can encourage you, support you.”
Gary went on: “Most importantly, remember that you have God. He is your best friend. Hold on to your faith because that’s how I surpassed my health journey.”
Giving back
Gary has enjoyed 35 years of fame in the industry.
As a way of thanking his supporters, he has resumed fulfilling his dream of visiting 35 universities and sharing his life journey to young students.
Talking about his other projects, Gary hinted he will be having a “grand concert” with the working title “Pure Energy” by first quarter of next year.
The man also known as Mr. Pure Energy will hold a tour in the US starting this month. Part of the proceeds goes to Yakap Foundation, a movement supporting the marginally poor people of Los Angeles and the Philippines.
Joining him on tour are Jona and Katrina Velarde.
The girls feel “blessed” for the opportunity to share the stage with their “idol.”
“We feel lucky because we are going to witness how Sir Gary works off the stage. The experience I’m going
to have on tour will affect my future performance as a singer,” Jona said. “Apart from that, I’m excited to see my friendship with Katrina grow deeper, stronger.”
The first leg of the tour happens on April 12 at Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas; followed by shows at The Town Hall in New York City on April 14; Creative Arts Building Pittsburg High School in Pittsburg, California on April 20; Saban Theater in Los Angeles on April 21; Snoqualmie Casino in Seattle on April 26; and culminating in Morongo Casino, Resort, and Spa in Morongo on April 28.
“He’s Back: Gary V US Tour” is a joint production of Manila Genesis and Starmedia Entertainment in cooperation with TFC and ABS-CBN.
Support
Gary recalled American host Ellen DeGeneres saying that the “best singers come for the Philippines.”
He couldn’t agree more.
“We have an abundance of incredible talents,” he said. “There are a lot of good singers in the industry now, and even if outside of the limelight.
“I just hope these good singers are courageous enough to write music. I hope they will be guided and supported, and be given enough chance to shine. We have a lot to look forward to.”
Latest album
Gary continues to promote his advocacy album “Awit At Laro,” which assembles over a hundred local musical and visual artists to promote homegrown Filipino children’s games and songs in partnership with UNICEF, Tukod Foundation, Museo Pambata, and Shining Light Foundation.
The artists who lent their talents to the endeavor were Lea Salonga, Ogie Alcasid, Gab and Kiana Valenciano, Billy, Bamboo, Jonathan Manalo, Yeng Constantino, Morissette Amon, Jona, KZ Tandingan, Darren Espanto, Anne Curtis, Sam Concepcion, Jungee Marcelo, Ebe Dancel, the TNT Boys, Marcus Davis Jr., Chris Lopez, Thyro, Noel Cabangon, Gloc-9, Julie Anne San Jose, Lara Maigue, Katrina, Mel Villena, and Ryan Cayabyab – all of whom donated their royalties to the cause.
Gary recorded two new songs namely “Saranggola” and “Bawa’t Isa Sa Atin” for the project.