Ang4gettables on friendships and music * - Ang4: All for one, fun for all * - Ang4gettable Merk’s in March * - The unforgettable Ang4 at Merk’s - Ang4 better than original versions -- By Dyords, Ang Galing ng Pilipino -- Ang4: no interludes!* -- 2002: Ang4 celebrates 9th anniversary! -- Ang4 at Streetlife -- The AngFourgettables: a musical 'marriage' in four-part harmony -- Meet the Members -- More!
Ang4gettables on
friendships and music
By Jojo P. Panaligan : Source: Manila
Bulletin, 7 Mar 2003 - www.mb.com.ph/ENTR/2003-03/EN03030728898o.txt
If you were to receive a caller in the dead of night
asking, “You wanna have fun?” would you say yes?
In 1993,
singer-actress Pinky Marquez did. After all, the caller was longtime
friend/comedian Dyords Javier who was then mulling over the idea of forming a
vocal group composed of seasoned solo performers.
As human nature
goes, Dyords had friends in mind first.
“Her only concern
was who the other members would be. As soon as Pinky found out that it would be
other friends, she immediately committed,” narrates Dyords.
Friendship, indeed,
became the nucleus of the now nine-year-strong musical entertainment group
Ang4gettables. And through several world tours, some line-up changes (original
members Nanette Inventor and Mon David were eventually replaced by recording
artist Bimbo Cerudo and Ms. Saigon alumna Isay Alvarez) and a slew of personal
and professional ups and downs, it’s the foundation that has kept them
together. “Para na nga kaming
magaasawa,” Dyords remarks with a smirk.
Than again, that’s
just one of the secrets of the group’s staying power. The more important
ingredient in Ang4gettables’ winning formula is talent.
“Everyone can sing
solo. As a group, we can do songs that require duets, trios and, of course,
quartets. Dahil madami din kami at iba-iba ang influences, vast din ang
repertoire ng Ang4gettables ranging from ’50s tunes up to current Top 40. Did I
already mention that we never sing covers exactly as the original versions? We
always rearrange songs to fit our styles,” Dyords enumerates.
Little wonder then
why Ang4gettables has been in demand for concerts, tours, conventions and
product launches since its inception. To date, the group has notched several
achievements abroad that remain unrivaled.
“We are the only
Filipino group to have enjoyed a full house in Ras La Fan (third largest gas
deposit in the world) and Delhi. Sa Honolulu, the mayor proclaimed one day as
Ang4gettables Day dahil natuwa siya sa ‘Ang Galing Ng Filipino’ show namin
duon. We are just so lucky that our kababayans continue to ask for us,” Dyords
tells humbly.
While on the
subject, “Ang Galing Ng Pilipino” is almost always the theme of all
Ang4gettables shows abroad. This way, according to the group, they are able to
remind OCW’s of who they are and what they can do as Filipinos.
“Magaling ang Filipino at alam ng mga
foreigners yan,” Dyords says. “Kapag kumuha ang foreigner ng Pinoy, para na din
silang kumuha ng apat na tao dahil likas na resourceful tayo. Hindi lang isang
trabaho ang alam natin. Bukod duon, honest at masipag pa ang karamihan sa mga
Pinoy.”
We asked the group
if there have been instances when members felt pursuing solo careers once more.
The idea, after all, is a tempting one.
“Not for us though
we have no rule that stops any member from doing so,” Pinky avers. “Challenging
din naman kasi ang kumanta with a group.
You have to learn blending, voicing, adjusting to others, things that
solo singers don’t bother with. Harmony keeps us together.”
But don’t they ever
tire of what they do?
“Hindi naman kasi we
are still evolving. Ika nga, Ang4gettables cannot be put in a box. Ilagay mo
man kami sa box, we will just change it’s shape. Babaguhin namin yon into a
hexagon or octagon para laging fresh pa rin for us,” Bimbo says.
And when asked what
lessons they have learned from being part of the music industry for this long,
Dyords sums up for the group.
“Count your blessings and make your blessings
count,” he ends simply.
Ang4: All for
one, fun for all
Pinky Marquez, Dyords Javier, Isay
Alvarez and Bimbo Cerrudo reveal the
secrets of Ang4’s success
By
Cris O. Ramos Jr : Source: Manila Times. 1 Mar 2003 - http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2003/mar/01/enter/20030301ent1.html
“HAVE you ever been
to our shows?” Pinky Marquez asked me as soon as the obligatory introductions
were made.
Knowing that I
couldn’t lie and act out even if my life depended on it, I sheepishly admitted
that I haven’t. Uh-oh, I thought.
“We are one of the longest-running groups
made of solo performers in their own right.” Pinky Marquez beams proudly as I
asked her what makes her proud about her group Ang4. Then, I reminded her that
Ang4 is the only group of such kind. “Oh yes, you’re right,” Pinky proudly
corrects. “The one and only, no second.”
Ang4 — Marquez,
Dyords Javier, Isay Alvarez and Bimbo Cerrudo — has proudly made it through
nine years. They’ll be marking their ninth year in the business with a series
of dinner shows at Merk’s, Greenbelt 3 on March 6, 13, 20 and 27. Many solo
performers have tried forming their own groups and failed which leads one to
ask the secret to their longevity.
“Basically, it’s
commitment and friendship,” says Dyords.
Pinky goes on to
observe: “When a singing group breaks up, it’s usually for selfish reasons.”
The name Ang4 is
short of Ang4gettables, which was derived from the Nat King Cole classic
“Unforgettable.” The name crept up in the wake of the song’s re-emerging
popularity following the release of Cole’s, uh, “simulated” duet with her
daughter Natalie. “You can’t believe how cheesy and pilit the other names that
we thought of were,” says Pinky with her eyes rolling.
The four members of
Ang4 are all seasoned performers in their own right, as a group they are a
relentlessly powerful and wacky unit. “The main thing you’ll notice in an Ang4
show is fun,” says Pinky. “When we first formed the group nine years ago, our
prerequisite was that each member had to have a stable solo career before
joining. The logic behind this is we want the people to see how soloists blend
together. We carefully choose our songs in terms of harmony. During our
formative months Dyords asked for three things from us: fun, entertainment and
commitment. We cover different types of songs, but we put fun and twists in our
arrangements.”
“The audience can
ask for requests,” adds Bimbo. “Limit lang siguro sa new R & B. We can do
hits from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s.”
“Most of our loyal
followers sometimes even ask us to repeat some certain jokes that we performed
in the past,” says Pinky. “They also ask more of the four-part harmonies that
we’re fond of doing, especially Platters covers. And then the impromptu parts —
now those are the parts where we get the most fun!”
I then asked them
what their typical audience is. “Sometimes it takes time for the audience to
warm up to us. At the same time it usually takes time to cater to our audience
also. If the venue we’re performing in is popularly known as a place where
people generally dance, naturally we have to include dance-oriented songs in
our repertoire. Sometimes audiences are like, ba’t kayo nandito? We can’t blame
them because they’re expecting bands, pero eventually we manage to entertain
them. We don’t believe in niche marketing, we don’t constrict ourselves to the
A-B crowd or the C-D crowd. We want to cover all walks of life.”
Ang4 may have
released their debut album ages ago, but they’re really in no hurry in making a
follow-up. “We have already cut in the album,” says Bimbo. “But just like
everybody else we’re waiting for the right material.”
“Our new manager wants us to make one soon,
but it’s not yet time,” adds Dyords. “It will have it’s own time. When the
right time comes, we’d be more than ready to do it.”
Ang4TV Na!
What Ang4 is more
enthusiastic on doing would be a TV show. “Because it would be easier to show
our audience the real essence of the group, that we’re committed and dead
serious in our craft.”
“We want to use our talents to leave
something behind to our audience and reach out the message.”
And that would be …
“The Filipino is
hardworking and talented,” says Pinky. “It’s innate. We should be proud of our
country.”
“People empowerment,” says Bimbo. “We want
people to realize that, yes, they have the power. My dream is to change the
psyche of the Filipino. Humility is a kinda’ overrated virtue here in the
Philippines. Filipinos should stop feeling inferior about themselves.”
Ang4 wants their
audience to feel great as they’re feeling about themselves. They were then
asked what they believe their greatest achievement is and Dyords points out
that it’s “Keeping the friendship and the harmony, the money and the awards are
easy.”
“When we see our audience happy,” says Bimbo.
“Ultimately realizing that, yes, we truly
have the talent,” says Pinky. “You go to a record bar, you’d see anyone can
have an album.”
“I remember the group performing at Strumm’s
for 10 months,” says Dyords. “A family watched us twice! And also when The
Platters were here in the Philippines, one friend of the group called The
Platters in their cell phone when we were performing a Platters medley. They
went to see us. They gave us a standing ovation.”
Uh oh, I thought.
Pinky smiled and
said, “Wow, you should definitely be there. Bring a date with you, it will be
fun.”
By Walden Sadiri: Source: Manila
Bulletin, 18 Mar 2003 (http://www.mb.com.ph/ENTR/2003-03/EN03031829551o.txt )
It will be another
“Ang4gettable” nights of music as the talented and zany group Ang4 joins
“Merk’s in March’s” entertainment extravaganza every Thursday night (March 20
and 27 with Mae Romero and Soul’d Out Band) from 9 p.m. onwards. Composed of
actor and comedian Dyords Javier, host and recording artist Pinky Marquez,
versatile theater actor and singer Bimbo Cerrudo and world–class performer and
“Miss Saigon” alumnae Isay Alvarez, the Ang4 with its wide repertoire of songs
and comic antics has been added to the numerous reasons why every moment at
Merk’s Bar and Bistro is deemed an “Ang4gettable” experience!
Ang4’s show usually
starts with “Trapik Dyan,” an upbeat song describing the Filipinos’ daily
adventurous encounter with the metropolis’ monstrous traffic problems. The song
which is a combination of good harmony and humor with the group’s ad libs and
Dyords’ funny facial expressions, makes
it a cinch for Ang4 to break the ice as they lighten up the mood of their
audience who braved the traffic going to Greenbelt 3!
Once the energy is
released from Ang4’s vibrant rendition of their opening number, it becomes a
blow by blow dosage of peppy songs that gives their listeners a natural high
and enjoyment.
For example “Trapik
Dyan” is followed by their own version of “Drive My Car” and a Kalapana medley.
Then, their show becomes a showcase of each member’s vocal prowess. Pinky
Marquez belts out “Natural Woman,” Bimbo Cerrudo and Isay Alvarez do a duet of “Someday We’ll Know” and Dyords
Javier goes romantic with “You’ve Lost
That Loving Feeling.”
Like its onset in
1993, Ang4 never faltered in making their audience laugh with their scripted
antics and often times candid remarks about themselves and most especially
their audience. Whether they are seriously singing their hearts out with a
Manhattan Transfer medley, a Motown medley or a Sinatra medley, they never
forget what their show is always about — interacting with people.
Through the years,
Ang4’s rapport with their audience comes naturally since they involve them most
of the time. Their request portion in their shows alone keeps the ambiance
lively and intimate as Pinky Marquez and Dyords Javier host and sing their “I
Love You, I Hate You” portion.
As Pinky used to say
about their group putting much leverage with audience interaction, “When the
high level of performance you produce is positively reciprocated by the audience,
that is a definite source of an ultimate high.”
She added that the
group was formed in the spirit of fun and performing with good music and good
comedy.
“To bring fun in entertainment to the highest
level is our collective goal. Because when you give your best in your
performance and perfectly blend well with your band mates, you immediately feel
its effects of mixed excitement and fulfillment,” Isay seconded.
The beauty of Ang4
also lies in their individual talents and styles of singing which as a whole
defines Ang4. At the start of their
show, each one of them is highlighted
in their back-to-back number with Pinky Marquez’s “Bridges,” Isay Alvarez’s “Like
A Love,” Bimbo Cerrudo’s “Give A Little More Time” and Dyords Javier’s “One
Note Samba.”
Known more as a
comedian than a singer, Dyords Javier is always a revelation in every Ang4 show
with his versatility. Providing most of the group’s humor and blending very
well vocally speaking, makes Ang4 a total entertainment package everyone of all
ages would enjoy. And with his funniness, he hopes to help the group be
remembered as the most successful Filipino musical group in the whole universe!
“We put in all our
creative juices together in a fun-filled mix. With this in mind, we as a whole
can reach greater musical heights with Ang4!” bragged Dyords about each
member’s working relationship with one another that is vital to their success.
Other songs in their
repertoire include “The Harder I Try,” “Put A Little Love In Your Heart,” “Good
Lovin,” “Heal The World,” Bimbo and Jorge’s “Just A Gigolo” and a number of
Soul hit songs.
Talent, good music,
wholesome wit and humor spells out what Ang4gettables is all about. But as
Bimbo would say, every show is unforgettable. “It’s always something new so
it’s exciting because it’s like breathing fresh air, musically speaking.”
The unforgettable
Ang4 at Merk's
By Edmund L. Sicam, Inquirer News
Service - Mar. 28, 2003: http://www.inq7.net/ent/2003/mar/29/text/ent_5-1-p.htm
MOST singing groups
start out by putting together several individuals, who are generally newcomers
and are not yet familiar to the public. When the group becomes famous, some
members use their celebrity status to pursue solo careers.
Ang4gettables is
different. It is composed of four musical talents who have flourishing solo
careers-Pinky Marquez, Isay Alvarez, Dyords Javier and Bimbo Cerrudo.
Pinky has a
multi-media career that includes the movies, television and live entertainment.
She has done such demanding musicals as "Magnificat" and
"Katy."
Dyords Javier can be
seen weekly on ABS-CBN, where he plays a wacky police chief on the Cesar
Montano-Maricel Soriano sitcom, "Bida si Mister, Bida si Misis."
Isay is a veteran of
"Miss Saigon" and continues to guest in TV shows and concerts.
Bimbo is also a
stage veteran and was part of the men's ensemble of the Manila production of
"Miss Saigon." Despite their individual gigs, the group has been
performing for 10 years.
Ang4 is the featured
act every Thursday night at Merk's Bar and Bistro at Greenbelt 3, Makati City,
where they dish out their usual repertoire of humorous and serious numbers that
have entertained audiences here and abroad. Their gig at Merk's has been
extended till the second week of April.
What is the secret
of their togetherness? "Two words," says Dyords. "Friendship and
fun." To the four, performing is not a job but a fun activity that
everyone enjoys.
This doesn't mean that the four don't have disagreements. When you have performers with strong personalities, this is inevitable. But Pinky says, "We treat each other as family and we value our work so much that we manage to settle our differences right away."
Ang-4 better than original versions
Showbiz Tidbits by Lea Solterio, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 10 Jul 2002, http://www.inq7.net/ent/2002/jul/10/ent_3-1.htm
THE TEXT message I
received from singer-comedian Dyords Javier early last week was brief and
simple: "Ang-4 will perform at Conways starting Wednesday. Bring the whole
barkada."
When I got to the
office that day, Inquirer national editor Jun Bandayrel, a long-time friend of
Dyords, said he received the same message. It didn't take much convincing from
Jun to make me drive to Conway's Bar at Makati Shangri-La Wednesday night.
I've seen other
bands perform at Conway's, like Side A and Channels, so I initially found it
hard to reconcile a group like Ang-4 with the crowd in the posh hotel music
lounge.
Ang-4 is known not
just for its brilliant four-part harmony but also for its hilarious comedy
sketches. With Dyords in the group are Pinky Marquez, Isay Alvarez and Bimbo
Cerrudo, who replaced Mon David three years ago.
From the time they
opened the show with the Fifth Dimension hit, "Aquarius," Ang-4
enraptured the audience. The four did one number after another-"Say a
Little Prayer," "How Sweet It Is," medleys of Kalapana tunes
("Hurt," "Nightbird") and soul hits. Their beautiful four-part
harmony intensifies every number.
For Conway's,
however, the Ang-4 quartet did away with their gags and antics.
"The crowd here
is not suited for that kind of entertainment," Dyords told us after the
show. "They want to move and dance, so we just sing. But in the other
places where we perform, we inject comedy into the show."
Hence, it was a
night of purely music and entertainment at Conway's. The repertoire was
carefully selected to fill-up two hours of songs that pleased the audience.
In "I Can't
Stop Loving You," Dyords crooned the solo part and the rest did the backup
vocals. It was a different arrangement that was perfect for the group.
Pinky belted out
"Natural Woman," while Dyords again regaled the crowd with "I'm
Just a Gigolo."
Midway into the
show, the group invited four guests from the audience to join them onstage in
"To Love Somebody." One was a male tourist from Brazil who was
apparently still jubilant after his country bagged the World Cup title for the
fourth time. He gamely sang the refrain.
Another was former
singer-actress Dinah Dominguez, who told Bimbo to sing the first voice while
she did the second voice. Dinah, who doesn't mind being tagged as the mom of
young star Champagne Morales, obviously missed performing onstage. As wife and
mother, she is enjoying her life away from the limelight. When she faced the
audience again, Dinah sang with much gusto and revealed the talent which once
catapulted her to show biz fame.
When it was time for
requests, Ang-4 generously dished out songs the audience wanted to hear. Pinky
obliged my request for "As If We Never Said Goodbye," the beautiful
theme of the Broadway musical, "Sunset Boulevard."
Bimbo did James
Ingram's "One Hundred Ways" and Isay belted out "Bridges."
Dyords hardly participated
in this portion and simply read the thick bunch of request cards from the
audience. But he would make facial expressions and movements that left the
crowd in stitches.
The Ang-4 members
individually stood out onstage with their respective singing prowess. Of
course, collectively, they are even better as a quartet. A four-man band backs
up the group in a stage devoid of any frills.
Ang-4 later did a
stirring, four-part harmony of "The Prayer," originally a duet
recorded by Andrea Boccelli and Celine Dion. It was the first time we heard
"The Prayer" in four different voices and it was stirring.
Isay's hubby, Robert
Seña, was celebrating his birthday that night and watched the show with his
male friends. When Ang-4 called him to the stage, Robert did an astounding,
well-applauded "Lately."
He was perhaps even
better than the original singer, Stevie Wonder.
Toward the end of
the show, Ang-4 got the audience to its feet with a string of dance
ditties-"Boogie Wonderland," "Shake Your Groove Thing,"
"Haven't Stopped Dancing," "Rock the Boat," "Dance
With Me," "Dancing Queen," a medley of Teri Desario's hits, as
well as a medley of VST and Co. hits.
From start to end,
the energy of the four artists was unflagging and infectious.
Watch Ang-4 in other
venues like Strumm's on Jupiter Street in Makati City on Tuesdays and at the
lobby of Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City on Thursdays.
By Dyords, ‘Ang Galing ng Pilipino’
By Leah Salterio, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 16 Jun 2002, http://www.inq7.net/ent/2002/jun/16/ent_7-1.htm
IN THE face of the
current violence, Filipinos need something positive to boost their sense of
pride.
This is exactly what
prompted singer-comedian Dyords Javier to embark on a tri-media campaign to
propagate the slogan "Ang Galing ng Pilipino. "
"I want to
promote a positive slogan to counter the negative things that have been
happening around us," Javier told the Inquirer.
"The objective
is to rebuild trust in the Filipino by inculcating self-confidence via a
nationwide slogan," he explained. "If we want change, it has to come
from the heart. You have to make a Filipino believe in himself so he will be
proud to be a Filipino. That should also take away his condescending outlook or
false humility."
"Ang Galing ng
Pilipino" actually started as a special Independence Day presentation in
1995. Javier wrote the lyrics for a song of the same title, with music by Ryan
Cayabyab. It was recorded in two versions, ballad and reggae.
In 1996, the Ang-4
quartet, which included Pinky Marquez, Isay Alvarez, Mon David and Javier, took
the show abroad to entertain overseas Filipino workers.
"In my entire
career as entertainer, I have not seen an abundance of self-esteem in Filipinos
as when I go abroad," Javier said. "We wanted to boost their
self-esteem and self-worth. We wanted to bring them something positive and
happy, virtues that I believe are intrinsic in Filipinos."
The free show was
supported by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Department of
Foreign Affairs (DFA), Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) and the
Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).
Ang-4 has been all
over the United States, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Europe. Three years
ago, Bimbo Cerrudo replaced David in the Ang-4 quartet.
Feel-good
"We’ve been to
places nobody else has gone before," Javier beamed. "Ras Laffan is
the single biggest natural gas deposit in the world which is two hours outside
Doha in Qatar. We did a free show there for 4,000 Filipino workers, but the
Pakistanis also watched us perform."
In every show, Ang-4
includes an eight-minute portion where the group members try to get the
"Ang Galing" message across, without being preachy. Then the group
sings "Ang Galing ng Pilipino." During the refrain, they get people
from the audience to participate in the singing.
"Then they’ll
surely remember that feel-good moment," Javier said.
He said he has seen
how "Ang Galing ng Pilipino" works in many parts of the world.
"The effect is
tremendous when we do a show and send the message," he said. "We
don’t really do anything different. We just sing and do a little comedy. We’ve
received testimonials from the OFWs, OWWA and research groups through letters
and e-mail."
For their efforts in
trying to bring cheer to overseas Filipinos workers, the Ang-4 quartet has
received many commendations, endorsements and letters of gratitude from foreign
ambassadors, city mayors and even the contract workers themselves.
Former First Lady
Amelita "Ming" Ramos called them "credible ambassadors of
goodwill . . . bridging the gap between the government and the doubting mass
audience."
No politics
Honolulu Mayor
Jeremy Harris gave the group a gold seal proclaiming "Ang Galing ng
Pilipino" and urging Filipinos in Honolulu to spread the message among
their fellow citizens.
"I may sound
idealistic or nationalistic, but I’ve seen it work," Javier said.
"The journey of a mile begins with the first step and I’m already on my
third step. If I can make this work, I’ll have my mile."
He denies that he is
pushing "Ang Galing ng Pilipino" in preparation for a political
career. He campaigned for former President Fidel Ramos in 1992 and he was among
the entertainment celebrities who took part in the 1986 Edsa Revolution. But
Javier said he does not see himself entering politics.
"After 1986, I
decided that for the country to be better, the change should start within
ourselves," he said. "This country does not need a president for it
to be progressive. I believe people should first work hand in hand. Then we can
all support the president."
Javier wants to
bring "Ang Galing ng Pilipino" shows to the grass-roots level in the
country.
"You don’t give
money to the fisherman or buy him a fishing rod," he said. "Teach him
how to fish. If he knows what to do and how to do it, then he will realize his
self-worth. We should apply that in our lives. It’s not very hard to do."
(Manila Bulletin, June 2002 http://www.mb.com.ph/ENTR/2002-06/EN02062714100o.txt)
A show not to be
missed is that of the Ang4gettables. Every Thursdays at the Lobby Lounge, the
group composed of world class performers Isay Alvarez, Pinky Marquez, Bimbo
Cerrudo, and Dyords Javier shall delight the audience with a wide range of
repertoire that run the gamut. From ’80s Disco Movies, Motown, and
Broadway Medleys to kundimans and Top 40, Ang4gettables will surely be, well,
unforgettable.
"Di kami
pumepwesto at nagse-set like other bands", Pinky says. May build-up factor
kasi ang mga shows namin kaya di pwedeng putulin sa gitna tapos ituloy na lang
after an interlude. An integral part of our shows, too, is the comedy we inject
on the spiels. We understand kasi that audience just doesn't want good music
but rapport with the performers as well.
Most Ang4gettables
show start, thus: Everyone sings collectively, then solos followed by request
portions that ends with dance music with wisecracks and light banters in
between.
Not everyone can
carry a show this way, in truth.But because every member of Ang4gettables is an
accomplished soloist in his own right, a versatile repertoire and commanding
vocal performances are right up the group' alley.
The Ang4gettables is
so in demand that they will be staging an Asian tour after this Lobby Lounge
stint (so be sure to catch them here while you still can!)
2002: AngFour celebrates 9th anniversary!
( Crispina Martinez. Belen, Manila Bulletin, Celebrity World,
02/21/2002, http://www.mb.com.ph/ENTR/2002-02/EN0202216653f.txt )
How time flies! It
seems only yesterday when the wacky and lovable musical group Angfourgettables
(later shortened to AngFour or Ang4) was formed:. It was originally composed of
Pinky Marquez, Isay Alvarez, Mon David and Dyords Javier. Mon eventually got
out and Bimbo Cerrudo replaced him.
The group has proven
to be performers to reckon with, with their beautiful and carefully selected
repertoire and spontaneous wit and humor. No wonder even then First Lady
Amelita M. Ramos was so taken by them she brought them abroad for several
performances.
Ang4 continues to
wow lovers at the Strumms in Jupiter St., Makati every Tuesday night (sponsored
by Caltex and Insular Life Assurance Company) and Downtown Music Bar at Hotel
Rembrandt every Thursday. By March, Isay, Pinky, Bimbo and Dyords will also be
entertaining habitues of Streetlife.
Also, the second
album of the group will soon be released and they will be going on a promo tour
of Metro Manila and key cities of the south while at the same time promoting
the slogan "Ang Galing ng Pilipino" that advocates positive qualities
in every Filipino and for every Filipino.
The Ang4 will also
do a show for Malayan Insurance at RCBC Plaza on March 6, and on March 8, they
will perform for the Governor’s Ball of the Rotary International at the NBC
Tent, and on March 19, the group will perform at the Manila Golf and Country
Club for Total Philippines.
'Ang4gettables' wows crowd at Streetlife
(Source: MANILA BULLETIN, 04/16/2002, http://www.mb.com.ph/news.php?art=9847§=6&fname=EN0204169847o.txt )
What started out as
friends hanging out and blending tunes for fun nine years ago has turned into a
non-stop, remarkable and powerful performance by the country's top vocal
singers collectively known as the "Ang4gettables."
A musical
entertainment group composed of seasoned performers - Isay Alvarez, Pinky Marquez,
Bimbo Cerudo and Dyords Javier - Ang4gettables was created in 1993. It debuted
at the Versomina Lounge (Jul. 2, 1993), with a full house and a triple encore
finale that caused a standing ovation from an audience eagerly wanting for
more.
"The Ang4gettables
is basically created all in the spirit of fun and singing good music with a
touch of wholesome comedy," said Marquez who is a stage, TV and film
performer whose gift for hosting both live shows and special parties earned her
the monicker "Convention Queen. People watch us not just to enjoy music
but, mostly to be entertained."
And they did that at
Makati's food and entertainment hub, Streetlife, last Thursday and will do so
all Thursdays of April. Performing at the usual jam-packed venue in Glorietta,
Ang4gettables belted out a diverse repertoire of songs and tickled the
imagination of the dining patrons of Streetlife.
"When the high
level of performance you produce is positively reciprocated by the audience,
that is a definite source of an ultimate high!," said Alvarez.
The quartet was
surprised at the warm reception from Streetlife patrons whom they regard as
"high-brow."
"It's our first
time to perform in Streetlife," Marquez points out. "It's a first for
us to perform in a huge venue where we have to compete for attention against a
diverse selection of food!" Cerrudo, who has top-billed several sold out
concerts both here and abroad, is thankful that the Streetlife crowd is
"very accommodating and a happy bunch of people!"
Of course, the quartet
lives up to its band's name with unforgettable and exciting performances that
keep the audience craving for more. Not the usual bands that cover songs,
"Ang4gettables" gives an original interpretation to its exciting
repertoire making the songs almost their own. Alvarez stresses the band's daily
mantra of "giving an all-out and best performance ever."
"We have a
collective goal whenever we perform, and that is to bring fun in entertainment
to the highest level," Javier, a deadpan TV and film comedian and one of
the country's few actors who can actually sing, said.
Cerudo adds,
"When you give your best in your performance and perfectly blend well with
your band mates, you feel its effect of mixed excitement and fulfillment."
For nine years the
Ang4gettables has tirelessly wowed its diverse audience leaving everyone asking
what makes the band click and stay modesty successful?" "Well, when
you love what you do, you not only count your blessings, you make your blessing
count!" Javier confides. "We want to be remembered as the most
successful Filipino musical group in the universe who had the most fun and
shared it all in their performance ."
"We started as
just friends with a common desire to have fun," Marquez quips. "Now
we're great friends, doing what we do best and most important of all, having
fun, fun, and more fun!"
Catch the
Ang4gettables at Streetlife Glorietta, every Thursday of April and experience a
merry mix of food, music and entertainment at its best.
A musical 'marriage' in four-part harmony
(By Nestor U. Torre, Phil Inquirer, Saturday Special Section, 16
Oct 1999; http://www.inquirer.net)
SO many singing
groups and bands have been breaking up of late that our admiration for groups
that do stay together has increased by leaps and bounds. What do they know and
do that the "self-destructing" groups don't?
We talk to the
members of the popular music-comedy quartet, the AngFourgettables, which has
been performing for more than six years. Why are they still together?
Bumps and jolts
Original members
Pinky Marquez and Dyords Javier point out that "AngFour" has had its
share of bumps and jolts through the years, but the important thing is that the
group has resisted the temptation to call it quits due to these problems.
That's why it's still around, and very much in demand for concerts, local and
foreign tours, private and company parties, conventions, product launches, etc.
The first dropout
was Nanette Inventor, who opted to leave the group after only one year, due to
conflicts with her schedule as a solo performer. Isay Alvarez was tapped to
take her place, and Isay has blended in well with the other members of the
group.
Then, some months
ago, it was Mon David's turn to opt for greener pastures, and he's been
replaced by Bimbo Cerrudo, who's also doing well in the quartet. Thus, AngFour
now has a younger, breezier projection with Pinky, Dyords, Isay and Bimbo.
Relative longevity
What accounts for
the group's relative longevity, despite the defections it's experienced?
"Basically," says Dyords, "it's commitment and friendship."
"And," Pinky adds, "we've learned to adjust easily to each
other. Also, speaking for myself, I refuse to consider putting a stop to the
group just because some problems crop up. Why? Because I really love singing,
whether as a soloist or with a group! So, I'm ready to put up with almost
anything just so I can continue to have as many opportunities as possible to
sing."
Isay reflects
philosophically, "I've learned that nothing lasts forever talaga, but the
group can go on." "That's right," says Pinky, "if someone
leaves, don't stop. Don't take it personally. The group remains."
Candidly, Pinky and Isay
admit they had "clashes" when they first worked together. "But
we learned to talk our problems through, to bring them out in the open, so we
were able to settle them with no harm done," Isay recalls.
Selfish reasons
Pinky goes on to
observe: "When a singing group breaks up, it's usually for selfish
reasons." Meaning, the members can't work as a group and focus on their
diverse personal agendas.
This is particularly
true if the group is made up of name singers who are soloists in their own right,
as is the case with AngFour. The pressures and potential conflicts are there,
but the "surviving" members of the group have managed to resolve
actual and potential problems by continually reminding themselves that the
group is what's important, not its individual members.
That takes a lot of
humility, a quality that local show biz denizens are not exactly famous for. In
this business, some talents boost their egos by stealing the spotlight every
chance they get, and some name performers are notorious for brazenly trying to
steal all of the numbers and scenes they're involved in. Thus a number of stars
have reached the top of the show biz "molehill-mountain" by stepping
on the carcasses of competing talents.
Well, those are the
people who couldn't possibly be happy in a singing group, where the key to
success and "survival" is musical and personal harmony. As Isay
insightfully observes, "Being in a group, para kang may asawa." In
the case of AngFour, it's a double marriage!
No difficulty
Like Pinky, Dyords
has no problem fitting into a group. "Ever since," he grins,
"I've had no difficulty working with others, even with the most obnoxious
artists!" Pity, he refuses to name names.
Dyords' lack of
soloist airs is surprising because, truth to tell, he's the member of the group
with the most extensive stellar experience. Perhaps many of today's show biz
followers may not know it, but in the '70s, Dyords was a biggish name in local
comedy, and even topbilled a number of popular movies.
But Dyords chooses not
to dwell on that, and is clearly enjoying his new career as a member of a
musical group, despite the fact that his singing-and dancing-skills are not as
well-honed as his co-members'.-No sweat, because Dyords' main contribution to
the show is comedy, one of the main reasons why the group is so popular.
OK, so soloists can
do well in a group, as long as they keep their egos on a tight leash. But why
would already successful solo singers even want to be part of a singing group?
New strengths
Pinky: "It's
the harmony. Singing with others can be more challenging than just singing
solo. You have to learn voicing, blending, adjusting to others, things that
solo singers don't bother with, so you discover new strengths in yourself as a
musical performer."
Bimbo: "It's
something new, so it's exciting-it's like breathing fresh air, musically
speaking." Isay: "You stretch yourself as a performer, and as a
person."
Dyords: "We're
able to get our creative juices together in a fun-filled mix. Together, we can
scale greater musical heights!"
Meet the members of Ang4, in alphabetical
order. J
ISAY ALVAREZ
(http://www.misssaigon-manila.com/musical/cast_principals.asp)
Isay has portrayed "Gigi", the world-weary
veteran prostitute whose impossible dreams of a better life away from war-torn
Vietnam never cease to tug at the audience's heart-strings, in the original
1989 Miss Saigon production in London, and kept the role for four years.
She is a product of musical productions mounted at the Metropolitan Theater and
the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Among her theatre credits are Magsimula
Ka, My Fair Lady, Mga Anghel sa Lupa, West Side Story, Once on This Island
and They're Playing Our Song. Simultaneous with her theatre
performances, she also made the rounds of lounges and 5-star hotels in the
Philippines. She had shows in the Hyatt Regency Hotel, the Manila Hotel,
Century Park Sheraton and the Manila Garden Hotel. Isay also expanded her
horizons by hosting top-rate TV programs such as Batibot, Good Morning
Philippines, Magandang Umaga Po and Atbp., for which she wont he
1995 Star Award for Best Children's Show Host. Isay is now a member of the
group Angfourgettables, composed of other accomplished artists Bimbo Cerrudo,
Pinky Marquez and Dyords Javier. The Angfourgettables have done shows in the
United States, Germany, Australia, Korea, New Zealand, Canada and the Middle
East. She's married to fellow artist, Robert Sena (antagonist "Thuy"
in both the London and Manila productions of Miss Saigon), and proud mother to
their three children: Emilio, Roberto Jericho and Maria.
BIMBO CERRUDO
(http://www.misssaigon-manila.com/musical/cast_men.asp )
Bimbo is part of the Men's Ensemble of Miss Saigon's Manila
production. He has had a very active singing career, both here and abroad. He
has performed around the world in concert, from LA to New York, the Middle East
to Australia, among others. He has a couple of albums to his name, and he did
the theme songs from movies such as Isang Lahi, Kailangan Kita and Huwag
Mong Itanong Kung Bakit. Bimbo also starred in several musicals like Florante
at Laura, Walang Sugat, West Side Story and Rama at Sita, among
others. He is currently a member of the group Angfourgettables
In her 13 May 00
Manila Bulletin Celebrity World column, Crispina Martinez Belen said:
"Bimbo Cerrudo,
on the other hand, is blessed with a cool, solid baritone voice, and it was but
natural for him to start out as a singer. His classical voice training has
afforded him the capacity to interpret any tune from opera to pop. He has
top-billed numerous sell-out concerts both locally and internationally, and has
been in demand for various awards nights, beauty pageants and private company
parties and product launches. His songs have enjoyed widespread radio airplay
and have been on the record charts for a number of months at a time. It was in
musical stage plays though where his discipline and spontaneity were honed, and
it was not long after that his talent for acting was also brought to the fore.
He has in every one of his endeavors.
His most recent major performance was
"Rama at Sita" were he played God Vishnu.
Today, even after years of hard work and
perseverance, he continues to explore other avenues in order to further enhance
his craft.
Bimbo Cerrudo has emerged as one of showbiz's
most sought-after performers." (http://www.mb.com.ph/ENTR/Cworld/2000/cw000513.asp)
JORGE JAVIER
Jorge Javier returns to comedy
(By Crispina Martinez Belen, Manila Bulletin, Celebrity World, 17
Oct 2000; http://www.mb.com.ph/ENTR/Cworld/2000/cw001017.asp)
Making a comeback to comedy is Jorge Javier, one of the most
effective comedians we have on TV and the movies in recent years. During his
absence, Jorge (he used to spell his name 'Dyords') did singing stints here and
abroad with the AngFourgettable (with Pinky Marquez, Isay Alvarez and Bimbo
Cerrudo as the other members).
Now, Jorge tries
once more his mettle in comedy in the movie "Sagot Kita...Mula Ulo
Hanggang Paa" Millennium Cinema's latest offering. Topbilled by San Juan
Mayor Jinggoy Estrada and Vina Morales, the movie was premiered the other night
at SM North EDSA.
In "Sagot
Kita..." Jorge plays the role of Bay, one of the small-time crooks that
Jinggoy's character encountered when he first came to the Big City. Bay soon
became Jinggoy's sidekick in his many hilarious misadventures.
Why did Jorge decide
to make a comeback to comedy in the movies? Because Jinggoy and the director,
Felix E. Dalay, are his longtime good friends. "When Felix told me that
Jinggoy wants me in the movie, I read the script and I like it. Since Felix and
Jinggoy are my friends, I agreed to do it.
"There are many
funny situations in the movie that's why I enjoyed reading the script. One
important thing for me before I accept a movie assignment is that the story
must be entertaining," Jorge said. "It should cater to the whole
family. I seldom do movies now and I can say that I didn't make a mistake in
accepting this movie with Mayor Jinggoy."
Jorge, who have
worked with both Jinggoy and Felix in the past, continued: "Felix is not
only a good director but he's a good writer as well. We've been good friends
for such a long time that I know his calibre already. When we did movies
before, we always brainstormed. I like his concepts and stories. I can truly
say that Felix is one of best but underrated directors in comedy-action in the country.
In this project, he was given ample creative leeway. I think it's time people
get to know Felix as a good director."
In the past, Jorge
has appeared as lead in many comedy films, among them "Tolongges,"
"Ambrosio de Foctorum," "Estefanio delas Amboy,"
"Tolome Alyas Zorro," and "Working Girls 2." He said he
wasn't getting good scripts after these, that's why he stopped making movies
for a while.
"One primary
consideration for me to do a movie is that it must be really funny. In the
script alone, I should be amused already while reading it. But of course, I
like to work with actors who are professional and supportive. Like the cast of
'Sagot Kita...' they are all very good people and I enjoyed working with
them."
When not performing
or travelling with the Ang4 in the recent past, Jorge was busy doing slogans
for both government and private entities. He has been writing slogans for the
past 15 years. He's also a doting father to his three kids, namely Niccolo, 13;
Corinne, 10 and Sam, 4.
He concluded that
this year, he hopes to be more active in the movies. He might do three more
this year with Felix as his writer-director.
Jorge, balik pelikula!
(By :Arthur Quinto, Philippine Star, Deretsahan, 2 Oct 2000; http://www.philstar.com/philstar/archive.asp?archive=true&category_id=34&content_id=16666)
Matagal nang hindi
gumagawa ng pelikula ang komedyante at mang-aawit na si Jorge Javier.
Pinakahuli niyang ginawa ang Working Girls 2 noon pang 1987. Ngayon, nagbabalik
siya bilang si Bay, sa isang action-comedy, Sagot Kita... Mula Ulo Hanggang
Paa.
"Hindi naman
ako pihikan kaya bihira akong gumawa ng pelikula," sabi niya sa isang
one-on-one interview sa Virgin Cafe noong Lunes. "Pero hindi ko
mapahindian yung the same writer ng Tolongges, si Felix Dalay, kaya binasa ko
muna yung script niya at nagustuhan ko naman. Late 80s din yung Tolongges na
pinagbidahan ko noon, at ever since, inaalok ako ni Felix pero hindi ko
magustuhan, until this one picture na pinagbibidahan ni Mayor Jinggoy Estrada
came along."
Ayon kay Jorge, very
close siya sa karakter na binubuhay niya sa pelikulang ito. "Si Bay kasi,
Bisaya, gaya ko. Isa pa, I've always enjoyed playing that role, yung medyo
palpak na mahilig gumawa ng paraan, matulungin pero laging nadidisgrasya."
Sa pribadong buhay,
sabi ni Jorge, kalog siya. Pero kung seryoso ang pinag-uusapan, nagiging
seryoso rin siya. "Kung tinatanong kasi ako, what is my other side, I do
not know if I have another side because I never wake up in the morning and say,
today, I'll be my other side."
Akala ko si Jorge
ang eldest sa mga Javier brothers. Dito siya umalma nang husto. "Pang-apat
ako, ah, excuse me! Si Danny ang eldest. Nagkataon lang na ako ang
pinakamatangkad, kasi, mas maraming Vitamin E sa panahon ko. Si Sandy ang
ikalawa sa amin. Tapos yung sister ko. Pinakabunso yung youngest namin,
broadcaster, si Jimmy. He is now the one anchoring for the Sydney
Olympics."
Six-three ang height
ni Jorge. Sayang at hindi siya naging professional basketball player.
"Pero naglaro rin ako sa Ateneo noong araw," sabi niya. "Nabali
kasi ang tuhod ko eh. Na-injury ako."
Dahil hindi siya
naging professional cager, pinasok niya ang pagiging professional singer, circa
1983. Nagkaroon siya ng rap album (uso na pala ang rap noon) na ginawa ni Ading
Fernando noon. "All of my career moves through accidents," sabi ng
komedyante. "Tinawagan lang ako ng WEA Records noon, si Danny ang nag-inform
sa akin, kung gusto kong mag-recording, tinapos ko yung buong kanta,
"Naonseng Delight" (mula sa "Afternoon Delight"), ang
nangyari, the following week, hindi na ako makapag-shopping dahil tunog na
tunog na ang kanta ko, hindi ko alam kung paano ako magri-react."
Para kay Jorge, ang
pinakamalaking tagumpay niya bilang mang-aawit ay ang tour ng kanyang singing
group, Ang Fourgettables, sa OCWs. "Because it was very enriching, very
fulfilling, from 1995 to 1998." Aktibo pa rin ang grupong ito, "Kaya
lang, ngayon yung dalawa sa grupo (Bimbo Cerrudo at Isay Alvarez), nasa cast ng
Miss Saigon.
Si Nene Riego raw na
kaibigan niyang writer ang makakapagpatunay kung gaano siya ka-dedicated bilang
isang alagad ng sining. "When it comes to my craft, I am very serious
about it. I do not like to compromise my craft. Hanggang dito sa pelikulang ito
nina Jinggoy at Vina, hindi ako gumagawa, kasi, yung mga alok sa akin, hindi ko
feel. I don't like to accept an offer just because the one offering the film is
isang kaibigan o malaki ang bayad.
"I still enjoy
the positive comments of people in the streets, yung gasoline boy, yung waiter,
yung valet, yung mga tindero, doon sa mga pelikula ko dati. That is something I
respect. I want to give the people worth their while. Kasi, kung gagawa ka ng
isang pelikulang not worthwhile, I think you are short changing the
public."
Ano ang reaksyon ni
Jorge, kung makita siya sa personal ng publiko at ituring siyang may katok?
"Wala, lampas na ako dun!" pahayag niya. "Natutuwa ako dahil may
feedback. Positive yon. Pero iba yung pambabastos! Pag sinabihan ako halimbawa,
ng 'Hoy, tangengot,' nagri-react ako. Sandali lang, gusto kitang kausapin,
sasabihin ko.
"Igalang mo ang
artista. Natutuhan ko yan sa mga sinaunang artista na nakasama ko, gaya nina
Dolphy, Panchito, Apeng Daldal. Malaki ang paggalang ko sa mga 'yan. I live
that, sa buhay ko, dala-dala ko yan palagi - igalang ninyo ang mga comedian,
igalang n'yo ang mga artista.
"Kung may
nababasa akong artista na who goes to something negative, like nagda-drugs o
naghihiwalay, o inanakan ang isang babae, I feel responsible for alleviating
that part of the industry."
Si Jorge ay ikinasal
kay Chiquita noong 1986. "Sa ilalim ng dagat kami unang nagkita, scuba
diving. Bale dive body ko siya.
Tatlo ang supling ng
mag-asawang Jorge at Chiquita, sina Niccolo, 13, nag-aaral sa Xavier School,
Corinne, 10, sa Assumption at Samantha, 4, sa OB Montessorri. Bawat anak ay
iba-iba ang tawag sa kanya bilang ama. 'Yung panganay ko, "Ama", ang
tawag sa akin. Yung ikalawa, "Papa". Yung ikatlo, "Itay".
Mabuti na yung iba-iba ang tawag sa akin, madaling ma-identify kung sino ang
tumatawag."
Eh ano naman ang
reaksyon ng mga anak niya sa mga pinagagawa niya sa mga pelikulang gaya ng
Tolongges, Ambrosio de Factorum, Estefanio de las Amboy, Tolome Alyas Zorro at
Working Girls 2"?
'Yung mga anak ko,
hindi ako naabutan, nung naglalalabas pa ako sa pelikula madalas. Buti na lang
at hindi nila naabutan yung mga pelikula ko noon, which is good for me,"
sabi niyang nasisiyahan.
PINKY MARQUEZ
(Source: www.pinkymarquez.homestead.com )
Pinky was a mainstay of the SPCM HIGH SCHOOL GLEE CLUB that
performed in a series of successful joint concerts with its Ateneo de Manila
High School counterpart in the '70s. With her distinctive "powerful yet
very soothing and enchanting" voice, she became a member of the AMBIVALENT
CROWD, FOURPLAY, MUSIC MAKING COMPANY, and since 1993, the globe-trotting
ANGFOURGETTABLES. She has a successful solo career and has twice represented
the country in the ASEAN MUSIC FESTIVAL. She has performed in concerts all over
the world and guested in countless variety shows. To date, Pinky's voice has
graced 6 music CDs, namely: Angfourgettables' "ANG4", Bing Pimentel's
best of all-originals "BUHAY, ISANG AWIT", Viva's all-star
"MOTHER OF ALL" , and soundtrack albums of Original Filipino Musicals
"RAMA AT SITA", "MAGNIFICAT", and "LAPU-LAPU".
Pinky's the
incumbent Treasurer of the ORGANISASYON NG PILIPINONG MANG-AAWIT (OPM). She
also served as Vice-President for External Affairs in 1991-92. She was part of
the 1988 "PILIPINO MUNA!" ("FILIPINO FIRST") ad campaign,
where music artists performed a Ryan Cayabyab composition in a 60-second TV
commercial. Participating OPM members were Tina Agoncillo, Joey Albert, APO
Hiking Society, Heber Bartolome, Janet Basco, Ralph Bautista, Bernardo
Bernardo, Elaine Carriedo, Ryan Cayabyab, Mari Ceguera, Paul Clemente, The
Company, Archie Consunji, Mon David, Dulce, Maribel Fernandez, Ray-an Fuentes,
Pam Gamboa, Jaime Gatchitorena, Maxie Goloy, Ramon Jacinto, Maryjane Lapez,
Ronnie Lazaro, Celeste Legaspi, Donna Luise, Teresa Loyzaga, Paola Luz, Lyon,
Jay-R Manuel, Mariz, Pinky Marquez, Bobby Martino, Richard Merck, Mica, Tenten
Muñoz, Gina Olivares, Cynthia Patag, Cecile Posadas, Gigi Posadas, Louie Reyes,
Lea Salonga, Victor Salvador, Robert Seña, Anthony Tinio, Boyd Tinio, Anna
Tirol, Anarie Toledo, Mitch Valdez, Rey Valera, Miguel Vera, Gamaliel Viray and
Nonoy Zuñiga.
Pinky has always
considered live theatre-acting as the ultimate performance, Her first stint was
in 1989 when she played second lead in Nestor Torre's OFM "KATY!".
Directors and fans liked what they saw and Pinky was hooked. To date, she has
played lead roles in various hits including Torre's longest-running
"MAGNIFICAT" and "ANG BAGONG BITUIN"; Behn Cervantes'
"FLOWER DRUM SONG", "DIARY OF ANNE FRANK", "BY
GEORGE!", "REFUGE AND STRENGTH"; and "THE SOUND OF
MUSIC", Henry Victor Tejero's "LAPU-LAPU"; Tony Espejo's
"PERFECT DAYS" and "RIZAL - MGA HULING ARAW", "NOLI ME
TANGERE", "EL FILIBUSTERISMO", "ON BROADWAY",
"THE GREAT WHITE WAY 3", and Leo Rialp's P40M blockbuster, "RAMA
AT SITA". Her latest role is as an Italian nun in "BAKHITA", an
Original Religious Musical written in English by Mookie Katigbak about a
recently-canonized Sudanese Canossian Daughter of Charity, .St. Josephine
Margaret Bakhita.
Pinky has gained a
big fan base on TV sitcoms like "WORKING GIRLS",
"WANSAPANATAYM" and "READY NA DIREK". She has also appeared
in local movies including "CODE NAME: BLACK AND WHITE", "GORIO
PUNASAN... REBEL DRIVER", "THE SINGING MASTER",
"MATUDNILA" and "EVERLASTING LOVE". She gained acclaim as
the leading lady in the first two -- both comedies. A major upcoming project is
Reyna Films' "LARAWAN", where she will play the dramatic role of
"PEPA".
A Community
Nutrition graduate of UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES in Diliman, Pinky currently
hosts "LUTONG BAHAY" -- a popular cooking show on PTV4 shown every
Sunday morning, 10:30 to 11:00. She promotes National/Panasonic and other
products for TV and print; and hosts various corporate events, like recent
Department of Health's Breast Cancer Awareness "SALU-SALONG SAYA",
Arzobispado de Manila's "JUBILEE PILGRIMAGE FOR PEACE 2000", and San
Miguel Corporation's COOKMATCH 2K -- a prestigious cooking contest in Manila.
Despite her busy showbiz schedule, she always takes the time to directly manage
"TA-BATCHOY", her popular restaurant located at 143 Katipunan Ave
(near St Ignatius Village) in Quezon City.
Big Hit
(By Mario Bautista, Manila Times, Freehand, 11 March 1998; http://www.portalinc.com/manilatimes/archives/march11/!ENTER11)
One singing group that's a big hit with our kababayans
abroad is the Ang4Gettables, composed of Pinky Marquez, Isay Alvarez, Dyords
Javier, and Mon David, who are solo artists in their own right.
The group was formed
in 1993, upon the initiation of Dyords, and has since toured the US, Canada,
Autralia, and the Middle East. Pinky and Isay are the sopranos, Mon is the
tenor, and Dyords is the bass.
"Para kaming
Manhattan Transfer," says Pinky. "Maganda raw and blending. We can
feel we are well loved abroad, what with the support of First Lady Ming Ramos,
who has even performed with us."
Pinky has done
several movies and TV shows, and has also appeared in various plays like
Magnificat, Flower Drum Song, Noli and Fili, Katy, Bagong Bituin, and
Lapu-Lapu. Her last role was that of Maria in The Sound of Music at the Meralco
Theater. She auditioned for Miss Saigon with Lea Salonga and passed it.
"Voice-wise,
they like me. Nagkaproblema because of my mestiza features. I don't look Asian
daw," she sighs.
Isay Alvarez joined
Ang4Gettables after her stint as Gigi in London's Miss Saigon, where she met
her husband, Robert Sena, who's still in London playing the role of Judas in
the revival of Jesus Christ Superstar. Their son, Bokyo, is now six years old.
"I'm very happy
that Robert and I are still together, kahit na he's in London most of the
time," she says. "But he's coming home on March 28 and will be
staying here until July. While he's here, we'll be doing a musical together,
Miong, the life of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, which is the Rep's contribution to
the centennial celebrations, written by Joy Virata. So, for the next three months,
I have a husband and our son has a father. Lubog na nga kami sa utang dahil sa
long distance phone bills namin."
The Ang4Gettables is
currently on its Ang Galing Ng Pilipino Provincial and World Tour '98, with the
Department of Labor and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration as two of
their sponsors.
Last weekend, they
performed in Cebu, Bacolod and Dumaguete. On March 20, they'll be at Batangas
City, at Lipa on March 21, and San Carlos City in Pangasinan on April 17.
From April to July,
they'll visit Hong Kong, Sydney and Brunei. In August, they'll be in Los
Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and Las Vegas. From September to November,
they'll be going to the Middle East and then in Rome, Milan, Brussels and
Barcelona.
They have also just
recorded their first album, produced by Bodgie Dasig, with eight songs
including "Iwas Pusoy," "Hoy Lalake" and their official
theme song, "Ang Galing ng Pilipino," composed by Dyords himself.
(By Crispina Martinez Belen, Manila Bulletin, Celebrity Word, 23
Jul 2000; http://www.mb.com.ph/oldsite/entr/9907/23jb00b.asp )
Ang4 welcomes its
newest member, Bimbo Cerrudo. Yes, that versatile, brilliant, dynamic and
artiste naturale is now officially with Ang4. With his solid baritone voice, he
can interpret any tune from opera to pop. This is why it was so easy for him to
adapt to the Ang4 repertoire, which has a lot of intricate harmonies. His stage
discipline and spontaneity, another asset of his, will definitely add more
color to the group's very entertaining gags.
Ang4 is composed of
Dyords Javier, Isay Alvarez, Pinky Marquez and the new member, Bimbo Cerrudo,
is in the planning stage of their second album which will be probably be
released by mid-November or early December. Also in the planning stage is
another world tour for the group.
Managed by the very
able and energetic Marines Carvajal-Elizalde, Ang4 will definitely reach newer heights.
For bookings and inquiries, interested parties may call Production Core &
Management Co. (tels. 532-0269/533-2657).
(25 Nov 00: Please bear in mind
that introductory information provided above is not comprehensive; references
are 99% Internet-based and limited to more recent events. Through the years,
Pinky, Jorge, Bimbo, and Isay have done much more and it will be
near-impossible to document everything. We will continue updating this page as
new info is found.)
(Photo credits: Ang4 group picture
was from www.inquirer.net;
Isay and Bimbo's solo shots were from www.misssaigon-manila.com; Pinky's photo was from www.sunstar.com, Jorge's was from www.philstar.com. The CD photo was from www.divisoria.net. )
www.pinkymarquez.homestead.com
Latest page update: 5 April 2003
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