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Rocksteddy: As steady as a rock
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Life is a gamble. It is like a game of teks, a popular children’s game. Once the magic word "Tsubtsatagilid" has been shouted and the cards have been flicked up into the air, you never know if card will drop face down ("Tsub") or face up ("Tsa"). All you can say is "akeyn" hoping your card will land face–up.

This was how Rocksteddy would compare its entry to the mainsteam music scene and inspired the title of the group’s debut album "Tsubtsagilidakeyn." Who would have thought that the band spawned the poetic radio hit "Lagi Mo Na Lang Akong Dinededma" actually started as a Christian band just like Switchfoot and Jars of Clay?

"We started in 1999 as a three–man Christian band called Acoustic Faith," said vocalist/guitarist Teddy Corpuz who can also be seen on TV as Richard Gutierrez’s best friend Pikoy on "Sugo."

After years of mostly singing inspirational songs, they felt it was time to transcend to alternative rock and let their music be heard by a wider audience.

Teddy, along with original bassist Christian Sandico, was joined by Jowi Ramos (guitars/backup vocals), Juven Pelingon (lead guitar) and Jeff Cucullo (drums). At first they considered calling themselves Rocksteady but another group had already used the name. They eventually settled for Rocksteddy, from the same word replacing "teady" with Teddy’s name.

"The name also came from our Christian roots that God is our steady rock," Teddy said.

Suddenly, the range of topics for them to sing grew wider.

"It did become wider because you are not limited to carefully choosing the lyrics but still it is based from personal experience. Before, there was incorporation of religion. Every time you have a personal experience with God, you try to relate it on music and consider how Christians would accept the song," said Christian.

Though now an alternative rock band, they still infused their Christian influences and maintained the style they will never compromise—truthful, straightforward and unadulterated music inviting everyone to listen, feel their lovelorn declarations and sing with them.

"Christianity is not about preaching. It is really about living truthfully. Songs like ‘Gising Na’ and ‘Magpakailanman’ came out truthfully," Teddy said.

These became evident with all Tagalog line–up written by Teddy infusing his gift of poetry. Tracks like "Gising Na," a song inspired from the Corinthians and "Magpakailanman," a take on love and how time flies so fast. Universal themes like camaraderie ("Tara," "Super Nova"), love and relationships ("Balewala," "Kung Wala Na Tayo," "Playing Safe") are also included.

Of course, there is "Lagi Mo Na Lang Akong Dinededma," the song that made people listen to its intriguing spoken words delivered with much emotion by Teddy. Its video, directed by the group themselves, sparked interest with its fun storyline. Likewise, the song’s continuation "Wag Na Lang" is something to watch for.

"Tsubtsagilidakeyn" is now out in CDs everywhere under 12 Stone Records and Sony BMG Music Entertainment and is presented by PLDT MyMusic and Budget Cards, Mossimo, Power Peel, and Belisima Salon.

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