'Round the Biz

Erik Santos, Dingdong Dantes at Robinsons Malls

July 30, 2009, 3:53pm

There are endless names of male artists being thrown around in the local showbiz industry today but only a few make it to the premiere list. Among them are ultimate Pinoy hunk Dingdong Dantes and Prince of Pop Erik Santos.

August will definitely be a fiery and romantic month as two of these industry male stars conquer Robinsons Malls and feature a slice of their ongoing projects.

Dingdong Dantes recently launched his first audio/visual project conceived by Universal Records aptly called “The Dingdong Dantes Experience.” This interactive and dynamic DVD features Dingdong Dantes music videos shot by topnotch music video and commercial directors and a CD compilation containing international hits personally selected by Dingdong. It also comes with a mini-coffee table book and scrapbook featuring exclusive Dingdong Dantes images never before seen and published ever.

Erik Santos also made a big wave as he launches his newest album entitled “Erik Santos: The Jim Brickman Songbook.” The famous songwriter and pianist Jim Brickman collaborates with Star Records in producing this very inspiring album ought to bring good and timeless music to its listeners. Erik Santos was the lucky man chosen by Star Records to receive and deliver this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The Jim Brickman Songbook consists of 10 beautifully crafted love ballads from the world-class piano and virtuoso composer, Jim Brickman. This highly-anticipated album includes revivals and original compositions penned by the singer/composer. Erik now joins the league of Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera, Pops Fernandez, Sharon Cuneta, Ariel Rivera and Agot Isidro who have previously collaborated with Jim Brickman.

Catch Dingdong Dantes live on Aug. 1 at Robinsons Metro East, August 8 at Robinsons Nova Market and Aug. 16 at Robinsons Place Manila. Erik Santos will also be serenading everyone on Aug. 1 at Robinsons Starmills Pampanga and Aug. 30 at Robinsons Galleria.

Tiongco Brothers keeps legacy

As foreign artists keep on coming to the Philippines as if there is no global crisis and global warming, our local talents whose acts are at par with the main shows in Las Vegas strip keeps on reaping standing ovations and more performances. This is the case of Tiongco Brothers who has been performing for more than 50 years now.

During their time, when Original Pilipino Music (OPM) has no place in live performances and radio airplays, they earned the title “Four Aces of the Philippines.” Elvie Medina, president of Philippine Commuters Protection gushed, “I feel like I’m in Las Vegas while watching them perform.”

Yes, they still command the endless applause and standing ovations in most of their performances. They are the best argument in importing talents. They move and sing as if they are only in their ’40s and most of their avid fans would chorus “You have not changed, you are still the best.” So, what’s their secret? Emil who is the lead singer and also a Senior Board Member of the Province of Laguna is quick to answer, “Lucida DS duo plus Power Joints.” They don’t look their age.

Their younger set of audience get awed and stunned. Atty. Sharon Peñaflorida of Stotsenberg Hotel in Clark, realized why her dad idolizes them. They are one of a kind performers.

Even if Emil, the lead singer is a board member of Laguna and Art a city councilor and Jun is busy with his business, they would still love to perform and entertain people.

After their July 22 show with Pilita Corrales in Mandarin Hotel’s Captain Bar, they will be at Pagcor Angeles for the first time on August 8 (Saturday). The Casino show will be free to the public.