Long before acoustic music became the trend, Romy Jorolan was already onstage, performing with his guitar. In the live performance circuit, he gets instantly remembered by lounge aficionados. That’s not surprising, since Romy is considered an icon of Manila’s night club scene, with 25 years of musical experience tucked under his belt.

Performing an entertaining mix of acoustic folk, country, R&B, light rock and pop-jazz, Romy gives a fresh take to contemporary tunes, dishing them out in his unique vocal style reminiscent of the likes of Don McLean, Christopher Cross, James Taylor, Jim Croce, Kenny Loggins, and Kenny Rankin.

Romy has proudly developed his own following as a solo performer so that he draws in the crowd wherever he sings. His repertoire includes hits by other artists such as Steely Dan, Sting, Stevie Wonder, U2, Bread, America, Kalapana, Bob Marley or even John Mayer and Babyface. Romy’s unique style and rendition is coupled with his excellent audience rapport.

“Every now and then, I update my repertoire and include 10 new songs,” Romy informs. “I also give in to requests from the audience so they will appreciate me more as a performer.”

Of late, he sings with his six-member band, Acoustic Jive, which performs at Merk’s Bar and Bistro on Tuesdays from 9 p.m. onwards. Romy goes solo during happy hours at Merk’s on Mondays, 6 to 8:30 p.m.

“For the past 25 years, I’ve performed around the city,” Romy beams. “There were ups and downs in my career, but I still consider myself fortunate. The more I got older, the more good breaks I get. I’m endlessly blessed, that’s why

I’m thankful. I always count my blessings.”

A native of Dumaguete where he was born, Romy attributes his musical inclination to his family, whom he also credits with introducing him to music. Dad plays the violin and mom can also sing. His brothers also play the piano and the guitar. Yet, it was only Romy who pursued a professional musical career.

Encouraged by his siblings and relatives, Romy joined song festivals and competed in singing contests. “I won some and lost some,” he fondly recalls.

While taking up Industrial Engineering at Adamson University, he auditioned at My Father’s Moustache. Earning P60 a night, Romy sang in the popular Malate night haunt for 11 years. He was there rain or shine, doing three sets a night and eventually capturing his loyal following.

“It felt good to earn your own money at such a young age,” Romy asserts. “For me, it was fulfilling. I practically supported myself throughout college with my music.”

By 2002, he was among the first few performers who opened Merk’s Bar and Bistro to the public. The now-famous music lounge and restaurant is owned by jazz prince Richard Merk and his wife, Roni Tapia-Merk.

His career has its highlights, too. He did a duet with Kevyn Lettau – their version of the James Ingram-Patti Austin hit, “How Do You Keep the Music Playing?” – at the launch of the NBC Tent. Romy also performed for the Department of Tourism show in Paris. He also did commercial jingles for San Miguel and Gold Eagle beer.

Romy did lucrative singing stints in Japan and Singapore. Once, he dabbled in the trading business with his brothers, but was quite unsuccessful in his venture. “I guess my heart will always be into music,” Romy reasons out. “Music is my passion.”

He calls the shots for Acoustic Jive, who basks on having done the front act in the Manila concert of Acoustic Alchemy. Performing for a more discriminating audience, Acoustic Jive carries out jazz standards, pop tunes and even Brazilian rhythms. Also part of the group as a soloist is May Bayot. Romy regularly sings at Merk’s with Acoustic Jive.

Aside from performing in top night spots in the city, Romy sings on weddings and corporate functions, solo or with his band.