By YUGEL LOSORATA
Perhaps very few rock stars in the Philippine bandscene exemplies the image of a frontman than that of Rivermaya vocalist Rico Blanco. But the twist to this truth is that no less than Rico himself believes he is no mainman. He calls himself a piece like any other guy, in the puzzle of Rivermaya.
There must be real beauty in irony. Or it’s just Rico’s self-defense to keep the treacherous thing called ‘ego’ get inside his head. Whatever it is, the sense of humility should serve as piece of advise to other band frontmen in keeping their feet firmly planted on the ground.
Rico has become Rivermaya’s frontman since the group’s former lead vocalist Bamboo Mañalac left the band in the late 90s. While critics thought he would have a tough task to sustain the energy his predecessor provided to the group for three multi-platinum albums, the songwriting gem proved them wrong and led the band to new heights of success that began with the single "Nerbyoso" up to its current hit "241."
Rivermaya fans have come to consider Rico as the heart and soul of their favorite band. But the latter would rather not make a big deal about it. And instead concentrate on his craft, which without being forceful, has come to lead the group in many positive ways. One, his expertise in keeping his compositions fresh and substantial one single after the other has kept the flight of the group free from any turbulence. And two, his ability to be involved and get in touch with the fans during live performances have made him an idol in his own right, both to OPM lovers and rockstar wannabees.
Here are some thoughts from a guy who feels that the main point in being in a band is by working as a group, in equal terms, and in spirit.
What is your definition of your role as Rivermaya’s frontman?
"There are no rules in Rivermaya, no official roles. We never worry about who plays what or who sings. We play whatever we want to play. There are songs where I play all the instruments and there are songs where I don’t play anything at all. The songs are the most important thing."
Did you take formal training in music?
"I didnt take any formal lessons for any of these instruments. Kapa kapa lang and hours and hours of practice. I also didn't get vocal training when I had to sing for Rivermaya. I’ve been singing ever since I was little, in family gatherings, in school, in church, and was usually the singer in my previous bands. And with Rivermaya, I usually sang the songs first until my bandmates learned them and we figure everything out."
Is keyboard your favorite instrument since playing this was your initial role in the band?
"Aside from singing, I loved playing the piano growing up. I always wanted to play keyboards if I was going to be in a band, sometimes I still wish I could. A musician discovers a lot from this beautiful instrument of limitless possibilities. I like playing guitars too. Its a very accessible but highly expressive and powerful instrument."
During Rivermaya’s first three albums, you were lead-singing on some songs. What made you decide to do the vocals of certain tracks?
"Again, there are no rules in the band. I sang "Bring Me Down", "Panahon Na Naman", "Tea for Two", "Lost", "Walrus" and the duets on "Elesi" and "Luha" on our early albums because my bandmates wanted me to sing on those songs so I sang them."
Was it really your dream to become a musician?
"I didn’t really seriously dream of being a musician, much less make a whole career out of it. But I was really into music even before I could talk or walk. I was a zealous music fan who had the radio on even when I was asleep. I loved singing and playing along to other people’s songs."
What are your other endeavors aside from music?
"I also paint a lot and love photography. One day I hope I can find time to study fine arts or design either here or abroad."
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