Music: Ed Sheeran Announces Tour Dates Across Asia!

Manila, MOA Concert Grounds

7 November 2017 

Tickets On Sale Thursday, 10th June 2017, 10AM

Ed Continues To Dominate The Charts Worldwide With

“Shape Of You” & “Castle On The Hill” (Official Video)

 ÷ (Divide) Out NOW

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(Manila, 8 June)—AEG Presents and Ovation Productions are excited to announce that celebrated singer songwriter Ed Sheeran is bringing his highly anticipated World Tour to Manila on 7 November 2017 at the MOA Concert Grounds. Tickets for the show priced at P13040, 11450, 8290, 4060, 3010, 1950 will be sold starting 10 June 2017 at www.smtickets.com.

The touring news comes straight off the back of a phenomenal few weeks for 26-year-old Ed Sheeran. Kicking-off music in 2017 and delivering the biggest musical comeback in recent years, Ed’s dual singles “Shape Of You” and “Castle On The Hill” have taken the globe by storm, hitting the #1 and #2 spots across the charts worldwide while seeing the Suffolk native break a magnitude of records along the way. On course to cement his third week at #1 & #2 respectively in the UK’s Official Singles Chart tomorrow [Ed made OCC history as the first-ever artist to land the two spots respectively with two brand new tracks], Ed recently conquered more milestones in the USA after landing his first-ever #1 as a performer on the Billboard Hot 100 with "Shape Of You" - with "Castle On The Hill" sitting closely behind at #6 on the chart, Ed also became the first artist to debut in Billboard's 'Top 10' with two songs simultaneously. Not to mention the huge assortment of Spotify records broken by the troubadour this month, making history with their biggest-ever ‘one week’ and ‘one day’ streams for a track, globally with “Shape Of You” (the records were previously held by Drake’s “One Dance” and Adele’s “Hello”, respectively). Moreover, Ed topped the streaming service’s biggest-ever opening 24 hour streams with both singles, surpassing previous title holders, One Direction. Reaching 132 combined #1 iTunes positions around the world and accomplishing Apple Music’s biggest-ever ‘day’ and ‘one week’ streams, the two singles have accumulated over 370 MILLION worldwide streams to date. Launched on Monday, Ed’s official video for “Castle On The Hill”, which was shot in his native Framlingham, Suffolk, has already reached over 10 million hits!

In addition to Ed’s epic rise with his recorded music, the Suffolk-born artist has also broken records in the live sphere over recent years. In July 2015 Ed took to the stage of Wembley Stadium, solo, becoming the first-ever artist to headline the prestigious venue without a band - with just his trademark loop pedal and guitar – seeing him play to 240,000 people over three consecutive sold-out nights! Securing a very special collaboration with Sir Elton John on the opening night, Ed followed with the release of his live DVD ‘Jumpers for Goalposts’ at the end of 2015, documenting the lead-up and live performances from the Wembley weekend. Moreover, not only has Ed caught the headlines with his phenomenal solo concerts, he's also been involved in an array of spellbinding collaborative performances over his career to date, further proving his colossal status in the musical world - in 2012, Ed performed at the London Olympics' closing ceremony alongside members of Pink Floyd and Genesis for a very special version of "Wish You Were Here" and in 2015, Ed shared the stage with Beyonce and Gary Clark Jr. at that year's Grammy tribute for Stevie Wonder.

Ed Sheeran’s genre-defying third studio album ÷ (divide) was released on 3rd March through Asylum/Atlantic Records (available now).

TOUR DATES
October                                                
Sun 22                    Taipei
Wed 25                  Osaka
Sun 29                    Seoul
Tues 31                  Tokyo

November                                                
Wed 1                    Tokyo
Sat 4                       Hong Kong
Sun 5                      Hong Kong
Tue 7                      Manila
Thu 9                      Jakarta                  
Sat 11                     Singapo re
Sun 12                    Singapore                              
Tue 14                    Kuala Lumpur    
Thu 16                   Bangkok
Sun 19                    Mumbai                
Thu 23                    Dubai                                      

Music: Village People Coming to Manila For Their 40th Anniversary

The undisputed Kings of Disco – Village People – are coming to Manila to celebrate their 40th Anniversary Tour on Sunday, May 14 at the KIA Theater. Joining them as special guest will be none other than the World’s #1 ABBA Experience - Björn Again. In true Village People style, this one-of-a-kind group, that still comprises two of the original band members, promise to deliver a smorgasbord of smash hits and get everyone up on their feet.

Having sold more than 100 million recordings, Village People were an unstoppable force in the 70’s and 80’s.  Their characters and classic hits will forever be ingrained in the fabric of pop culture.  Originally formed in 1977 by French Music composer Jacques Morali, the Village People quickly became an instant phenomenon, with chart-topping hits such as San Francisco, Macho Man, Y.M.C.A, In the Navy, Go West, Can't Stop the Music and more.  Their impact and influence on music have earned them the title of “Kings of Disco” as well as a prestigious star on the coveted Hollywood Walk of Fame.   The group has won many international awards including the American Music Award for Favorite Musical Group in 1979, AGVA's Georgie Award, West Germany's Gold Lion Award for music excellence and Brazil's 1981 Award for Best Act.

Over the past few years, Village People have performed a full schedule of performances throughout the United States as well as Canada, Brazil, France, South Africa, England, Finland, Belgium, Spain, Italy, Romania, Japan, Mexico, Australia, Poland and much more. The Guinness World Records book certified their Sun Bowl appearance on December 31, 2008 as the world’s largest Y.M.C.A dance with over 40,000 fans doing the “YMCA moves” while the group performed.

Adding to this action packed night of disco fun and supporting Village People across all shows is the world famous tribute band, Björn Again - the only ABBA show endorsed by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus.  The group is regarded as the most successful tribute band of all time, having performed in more than 100 countries worldwide and in concert venues from Sydney Opera House to Wembley Stadium.  Björn Again will bring ABBA's timeless hits back to the stage, combined with glitzy 70’s stage costumes, Swenglish banter and hilarious stage antics to create "one of the most entertaining rock shows in the world today" (Time Out, New York).

Catch this special 40th Anniversary Tour that will feature the Village People’s greatest hits and prepare to get carried away with the most irresistible disco tunes performed in this super group’s unique way. Tickets go on-sale on March 15 via TicketNet.com.ph or call 911-5555. Presented by Zaccaria Concerts.

Get the best of the 90's with Sugar Ray, Smash Mouth and Gin Blossoms!

Long before supposed singers hung naked on wrecking balls making suggestive sexual innuendos there was a time when the music actually mattered and that was during the glorious 90's. Now I am a 90's kid so I was really excited when I heard that there would be a concert featuring 3 great bands who helped define the music of the 90's. 

Just as I have influenced Paul with music of my generation like Paramore, Fall Out Boy and Panic! At The Disco, his influence has rubbed off me as well and that is why a great chunk of my College Memories would include songs from Gin Blossoms. 

Formed in 1987 Gin Blossoms have had their share of ups and downs, from changes in line up, a break up and even the suicide of one of their founding members. But despite these challenges Gin Blossoms have maintained relevant in the music industry 26 years later. 

Gin Blossoms is such a big part of our relationship that we asked our Wedding Band to play 'As Long As It Matters' during our wedding check out the video below!  

Some of my favorites from them include 'Hey Jealousy' and 'Till I Hear It From You' - which was one of the songs during our 'ligawan stage' :P  

     

Sugar Ray

Growing up every one had a crush on Mark McGrath the lead singer of Sugar Ray. He was the epitome of a rock star the girls screamed and fawned over him and with his good looks and raspy vocals he is a rock star. He has also done some hosting stints for Extra and Don't Forget the Lyrics. 

Formed in 1986, Sugar Ray started off with funk and metal influences and still maintained the funk (they have a Dj!) and released 90's hits such as Someday and Every Morning. My personal favorite of course is the ultimate ringtone ever - Answer the phone - check out the video below!   

I Went To Fall Out Boy: Save Rock And Roll Tour Live In Manila and lost my retainers

Photo by Magic Liwanag  

August 8, 2013.

I Went To Fall Out Boy: Save Rock And Roll Tour Live In Manila and lost my retainers- true story. Or is one of the stories that was all over Twitter right after the Fall Out Boy concert. Apparently aside from retainers and hearts being lost to the four man band from Chicago, soles, shoes and broken eye glasses were some of the material things lost amongst the crowd of eager fans.  Physically though? There was a lot of pushing and shoving as expected from a rock concert. A couple of girls fainted and were hoisted away by bouncers and carried out via stretchers. Yes - that was how hot the guys were on stage. 

Front act: Local band - Typecast. Shout out to drummer Sir Melvin! :)  
Photo by Paul Cheng 

The crowd bathed in light. This was pretty much our view from our seat. Photo by Paul Cheng. 

Concerned for the fans, bassist Pete Wentz asked the crowd to back up a few steps just to make sure there was enough air circulating. Thankfully there were no serious injuries aside from the hearts of many fans breaking after the concert that is. 

*UPDATE*

Apparently even before Fall Out Boy went up on stage there was already a woman who fainted. Which prompted concert organizers to make an announcement to the crowd not to push or shove - this of course was met with cheers and jeers from the crowd. It was even featured in the Inquirer - headline - Woman faints at Fall Out Boy concert - I kid you not. 

Photo by Mary Miracle Aco  

There are some things that we should be glad to have made a come back (and no Final Destination 5 is not one of them!) and Fall Out Boy is definitely one of them. Coming back with guns-a-blazing after a 4 year long hiatus which lyricist and bassist Pete Wentz talks about needing the hiatus to feel energized and to figure things out. The boys have returned with a spanking new album, a distinct new sound, the same amazing lyrics and a whole new mission: To Save Rock and Roll.    

Photo by Magic Liwanag. 

Interactive Concert 

I believe that one of the reasons why the concert was enjoyable was that, the songs in the set list really have the crowd moving to the music. The songs will have you fist pumping in the air, clapping to the beat and there are a lot of screaming and shouting and singing involved. The crowd held on to neon glowsticks that shone brightly in the darkened Araneta Center - it was a sight to behold. You could event spot glowing bunny ears in the crowd. 

Spotlight on Patrick. Photo by Inna Martinez 

A great live performance

You will always appreacite a musician more when you watch them perform live and this was also the case for Fall Out Boy who showcased their musicality during their concert. I was so impressed with Patrick who sang Sir Elton John's part during Save Rock and Roll and it was a whole range lower than his! A couple of octaves maybe? I'm not sure - any musical expert please correct me. He was going to and from different vocal ranges without a sweat! All this while also showcasing his talent on the piano. Clap! Clap! Indeed! 

Plus I was also able to appreciate guitarist Joe Trohman more, with his awesome 'Beat It' guitar solo! He is no doubt a rock star and with that hair - he can't do wrong. 

Drummer Andy Hurley even stood up on the drums and sang along, it was a sight to behold and his skills on the drums are undeniable! 

Say yeah - YEAH!!!! Amazing view of Team Gen Ad. Photo by Jasper Lucne.

Pay It Forward 

Honestly, this concert experience was very surreal for me. I really wanted to go to the concert and was determined to do so - even if car payments and sending my siblings to school seemed to threaten those plans. I told myself I would go no matter what and decided to buy General Admission tickets should all else fail. I knocked on so many doors but failed, I went through so many negotiations for payment plans on tickets that didn't push through. In the end we purchased General Admission tickets. Then I got a tweet from a former Colleague two hours before the concert, offering me Patron tickets- for free! I couldn't believe my lucky stars! I was so ecstatic and to pay that good deed done to me we gave our General Admission tickets to a friend who wanted to go to the concert. It was a good feeling and I really couldn't believe how everything worked out - from one kind act to another. :)  


A special thank you to Ben Anthony Rones - you have no idea how happy you made me! Starbucks on me! 

Event: Independence Day Concert at the Araneta Center

Join the Club rocking during the Independence Concert 

While the rest of the country was celebrating Independence Day, the Araneta Center certainly was not far behind with their own Independence Day activities as they joined in the country through their Freedom Rocks event. 

The 115th Independence of the Philippines was celebrated through a FREE concert featuring OPM acts Join the Club and Tanya Markova. Aside from the great music there was also fun games (and lots of prizes!!!) lots of delicious food and drinks from the different food stalls comprising the FLAVORS food market.  

Shot! Shot! Shot! Shot! Drinking game - do I spy a Kevin there?---- :P 

Tanya Markova - Music and Theatrics. 

Theatrical group - Tanya Markova took over the stage with their stage makeup and lots of props (bubbles, confetti). Aside from the great music there was also face painting and a freedom wall and as mentioned earlier delicious food trip courtesy of FLAVORS food market. 

Event Announcement: Independence Day Concert at The Araneta Center

EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT 

Freedom Rocks at the Araneta Center

What better way to celebrate Independence Day than to enjoy great OPM music --for FREE! Yes! The Araneta Center will be celebrating Independence Day by showcasing OPM bands Join the Club and Tanya Markova for a FREE concert on June 12, 2013. 

But wait there's more! 

100 very lucky Facebook fans of The Araneta Center (like their Facebook page here)will get the chance to bring home lots of goodies and prizes through an upcoming online promo - watch out for the BIG announcement today! 

So make sure to mark your calendars on June 12 - and celebrate Independence day through OPM music, great food and have a great time at The Araneta Center. 

You can also follow them on twitter: @AranetaCenter 

Of Concerts and Soundfests

I read this online: "People in Manila must be rich because of all the concerts happening" While this is certainly flattering I wouldn't say that it is true - at all. 

As a music lover getting to go to your favorite band's concert is the ultimate high, it is a once in a lifetime experience that shouldn't be left to the "What if's?" and "Should haves" of your life. So when does "so many artists/bands coming to your country" become a problem? Well frankly - when you can't afford to go and see them. 

I've been working for 5 years already, earning my own money and paying taxes - like any good citizen so why can't I afford tickets? Well, with car payments and still sending my younger siblings to school I'm not at liberty to attend every concert my heart oh so desires- and to think I also work part time as a freelance writer. 

So am I begging for concert tickets? No, this blog post/rant is not a cry for free tickets (although I definitely won't decline any offers) but it's more of a call to event organizers and productions - Why do you have to have all the concerts so close together? 

Don't believe me? - See below. 

Paramore - February 15, 2013 

The Script - March 31, 2013 

Slash - May 4, 2013 

Aerosmith - May 8, 2013 

Vans Summer Music Jam - May 11, 2013 

Jason Mraz - May 14, 2013 
Wanderland Music Fest - May 8, 2013 
Circuit Fest 2013 - May 25, 2013 
Deftones - May 26, 2013 
Fallout Boy - August 8, 2013 
Linkin Park - August 13, 2013 
Bazooka Rocks II - August 25, 2013 

and I didn't even mention the K-pop groups and Daniel Padilla's concert.