Darren Criss featuring Lea Salonga for Billboard Film & TV/Music Conference

American and Broadway singer Darren Criss paved his tribute to Oscar-winning composer, Alan Menken at the Hollywood Reporter/Billboard Film & TV/Music Conference. Menken was presented with this year's Billboard / Hollywood Reporter Maestro Award by Billboard Editorial Director Bill Werde after introducing him as "the Babe Ruth of composers." Among the many Disney films which Menken has composed the music for are The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin.

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

It was written that Darren emailed Lea Salonga to join him in the Billboard Conference. After checking her schedules, Lea said yes. Darren started a medley of hits from the various Disney movies that Alan had scored and wrote music for, as well as a couple from his musical theater shows. At the last part of the medley, Darren then started to play “A Whole New World” and began singing. After his verses and chorus, he called Lea to join him. When Alan saw Lea Salonga on stage, he jumped in his chair.

After their collaboration, Lea went ahead to her cabaret rehearsal few blocks away. Darren came to the show too along with members of family and friends. Lea wrote to her article that Darren shed a few tears when she sung “Reflection”. Darren, prior to his Glee stint became famous in Youtube for covering Disney music including ‘Princess’ songs.

Half-Irish and Half Filipino Darren will be seen on Broadway when he will take over the role of Daniel Radcliffe as J. Pierrepont Finch in the revival of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”. He will also be appearing in the romantic comedy “Imogene” with Annette Bening, Matt Dillon and Kristen Wiig.

Finesse Hair Care - "I'll Take Care of You"

After a long day gone of working under the sun or being confined in a room full of stress magnets, you would want to have someone to take care of you. The long wait is finally over. Here comes a product that will take care of you. Relax and pamper yourself with the all-new Finesse Hair Care.

On October 25, Tuesday Pinoy Bloggers gathered together and took time from our busy schedule and bond with some players of the Philippine Volcanoes in Eastwood City - joined by Finesse Hunks and Andrew Wolff. The Finesse Hair Care products have been in the market for almost 20 years. But it undergone make over. Now, the All New Finesse Hair Care is here to take care of you.

Finesse is the brand that really takes care of your hair. It has a self-adjusting formula. Your hair suddenly becoming silky smooth and so manageable with just a small application of Finesse shampoo and conditioner. Hair when disheveled easily falls right back into place. You can curl parts of your hair even just with your bare hands while hair is still a little wet  because of the high level of manageability of Finesse-shampooed and conditioned hair. What's more, hair looks shiny and feels soft to the touch.

Recently, Finesse launch its “I'll Take Care of You” Call Center Invasion where Finesse hunks with Philippine Volcanoes' Andrew Wolff. They went to various call centers to give agents tender, loving hair care. The Finesse Hunks shampooed more than a hundred call center agents using Finesse Self-Adjusting Shampoo. This product targets young professionals just like the call center peeps. Being in this industry is not easy – I bet you! It is a day to day basis that you will meet Mr. and Mrs. Stress and one obvious manifestation of it is dry hair and dandruff. And Finesse specialized their products to the needs of Filipino young markets.

Finesse Self-Adjusting Shampoo is the intelligent shampoo. Its self-adjusting formula provides only the nutrients your hair needs, thus preventing build-up or weigh-down. Regardless of your type of hair, there is an appropriate Finesse variant: one is Texture Enhancing for normal, healthy hair. Another is the Moisturizing dry, for coarse or damaged hair, and Volumizing for fine or thin hair.

Participants to this ‘I’ll take care if you’ call center tour will have a chance to win an Ipad 2 and Samsung Digicams during raffle draws on the following dates:

            October 30, 2011                    Samsung Digicam

            November 15, 2011                 Samsung Digicam

            November 30, 2011                 iPAD 2

Get to know more about Finesse. Visit http://www.facebook.com/finessehaircare.

Pilipinas Got Talent Season 3 Grand Winner - Maasinhon Trio

Season 3 of Pilipinas Got Talent grand finals result received mixed reaction from viewers. 
At 11:00 PM , Sunday, October 23, 2011, has tag (#) PGT trend worldwide with mixed comments from its audience all around the world. Maasinhon Trio from Southern Leyte emerged as PGT 3^rd grand winner. They received 2 Million Pesos and follow the steps of Jovit Baldivino and Marcelito Pomoy.

Meanwhile, Bringas Brothers of Davao del Sur and Heartthrob Khalil Joseph Ramos from Paranaque were given One Hundred Thousand Pesos and other finalist received Fifty Thousand Pesos each.

Celebrities and stars share their luminous shine in the stage of PGT rendering performances top billed by Gary Valenciano and son Paolo, Christian Bautista, Jed Madela, Nina and Kamikazee. Hosts Billy Crawford and Luis Manzano joined the finalist for a special number. And Season 2 grand winner Marcelito sang his winning piece.

The season 3 results doomed with combined responses from audiences. On Twitter.com, many tweted their dislike with the result of the grand finals. Audiences watching PGT from all over the world voiced out their disappointment  Even on my Facebook account, I was flooded with many dislike with the result. Even I myself couldn’t believe that my personal bets weren’t able to make it to the top 3.

Not to be a know-it-all person, but I have an eye for a potential talent and I trust my own instinct that this keen skill is true. I started to eye for a potential star quality and marketable artists back in 2002 when Sarah Geronimo won the Star for A Night in IBC 13. Since then, I can sense who’s hot and not.

The Pilipinas Got Talent is a reality contest that requires people’s choice of who among their finalist will emerge as grand winner. And people will have to text to cast their vote, and as many text it would be, the greater chance of that finalist can win.

This means that Maasinhon Trio has the most number of text votes throughout the period of voting. Analyzing it, this could be possible for this trio is from Visayas. Visayas and Mindanao is a large population compared to NCR. And many people could have inspired with their back story. This could be the reason why Philippines choose this trio balladeer as grand winners. They may not be as young as others, but they have the guts - same scenario as to British Got Talent’s Susan Boyle.

Congratulations to the winners. I am pretty sure that non winners will have a brighter career in showbiz like Khalil to be a future singing heartthrob, Muriel – the Philippines’ answer to Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald and Jennifer Hudson in one package and to El Gamma Penumbra who has a unique and royal talent.

David Beckham + LA Galaxy vs Team Azkals in Manila

Football Superstar David Beckham will be coming here in Manila for a friendly game alongside the Philippine Azkals on December 4 – via ABSCBNnews.com.

Ace Bright, Azkals team coordinator made the announcement via Twitter that Beckham with Los Angeles Galaxy will meet on December 4, 2011 in Rizal Stadium.

Visiting Southeast Asian Countries including Manila is part of the LA Galaxy’s promotional tour said in a report posted in Goal.com and they are just looking for sponsors and 80 percent confirmed. They added that they are working for a polished negotiation for the whole team including Beckham.

David Beckham is one of the highest paid athletes in the world. He aided the Manchester win the Premier League title six times in a row. And he is one of the most successful athletes conquering the advertising and business worlds. 

This is once in a lifetime event, and if this will be push trough - it will bring much pride to Filipinos.

Good luck !

Westlife to split after 14 good years

Irish handsome boyband Westlife announced that they are splitting after 14 years of top hits and sold out albums and concerts together. The band has to sing farewell to fans on the already-announced Greatest Hits Tour, which kicks off in May 2012. Nicky Byrne, 33, Kian Egan, 31, Mark Feehily, 31, and Shane Filan, 32 - sold over 44million records in their entire career.   

with former member Brian Mcfadden

In an official statement, the band said: "We today announce our plan to go our separate ways after a greatest hits collection this Christmas and a farewell tour next year”. The assessment is entirely good-natured and after spending all of their life together so far, They want to have a well-earned break and look at new ventures. Their upcoming greatest hits album and the tour are their way of giving thanks to their loyal fanbase.

An informant close to the band said that there's no bad blood in the band, they're still great pals. But all good things come to an end and they are all keen to do their own thing. In the greatest hits album and final tour, they will showcase the 14 number one hits, such as Flying Without Wings they have clocked up since they launched as a five-piece in 1998. After the tour, they will go their separate ways and have all planned new ventures to keep them busy.

Shane is planning to embark on a solo career and is already understood to have written some songs. Mark is also planning to stay in the music business and wants to write songs. Nicky has his heart set on being a radio DJ and Kian is planning to take on more TV opportunities. He is already lined up as a judge for the Irish version of new singing talent show The Voice.

Rumours proliferate recently that ex- original member Brian Mcfadden was scheming a return to his old band for a TV special this Christmas, which will see them sing songs from their back catalogue.

But Kian denied this, saying: "All the rumours about Brian rejoining Westlife are untrue. We have been a four piece for too long now. We love Brian but it's not going to be. That includes any TV performances."

 I will miss this boyband. Since grade school I have been a huge fan of this Irish group and knowing that they'll separate soon will be so sad. I even have cassette tapes and CDs of their records. I remember collecting songshits and magazine with them on the cover and even posted bunch their poster in my room. I grew up listening to their songs and became the soundtrack of my youth. Their songs were my first heartbreak songs, love songs, friendship songs and inspired me a lot. But the band has to bid their goodbye and sing their farewell song. I will miss them together.

Source:

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/3882167/Westlife-are-to-split.html

Nicholas Sparks in Manila

To all my fellow book lovers, here is a good news to you. Famous American author Nicholas Sparks will be coming to Manila this October! Powerbooks and National Book Store will be hosting Nicholas Sparks for a book-signing tour in October here in Manila. With his verified Twitter account, Sparks tweeted that he will be in the Philippines from October 27 to 28.

Sparks tweeted some tagalog phrases, “Aking tiyahin ay mula sa Maynila. Siya itinuro sa akin (sic)," (I tried to say that my aunt is from Manila. She used to talk to me and taught me to say some stuff).

Sparks has published 16 novels and six have been adapted to film. “Message in the Bottle” starring Kevin Costner, Mandy Moore and Shane West’s film “A Walk to Remember,” and the Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams’ film “The Notebook,” the Richard Gere and Diane Lane starrer “Nights in Rodanthe,” Channing Tatum and Amanda Seyfried’s “Dear John” and, most recently, Miley Cryus and Liam Hemsworth's “The Last Song.”

Another book of him is set to be seen in the cinema. “The Lucky One,” starring Zac Efron, is expected to be released in March or April of 2012.

So for you fans of Nicolas Sparks, watch out and come for his authograph signing in Powerbooks and National Book Store on October 27-28.

X Factor - Stacy Francis, A Powerhouse Talent

X Factor early crowd favorite and powehouse performer Stacy Francis is bringing the house down song after song. 42 year old single mother blew everyone way with her heartwarming piece “Natural Woman”. She was a victim of a chaotic marriage to a emotionally bully and discourage man.

On the day when she entered the X Factor Boot Camp, he found out that his father passed away. And it has been a roller coaster ride for this diva whether to leave the reality show or stay. She bravely decided to stay on and didn’t give up her dream.




Stacy singing Prince's Purple Rain ! with low note of F3 to the high note of A5 - Stacy is the new Aretha Franklin !!




Stacy's Audition piece



And her outstanding rendition of Summertime

Stacy had a Broadway stint appearing in the Tony-nominated stage production Footloose where she sang ‘Let’s Hear It For the Boy”. And in 1997, she joined Whitney Houston onstage at Wallingford, Connecticut’s Oakdale Theater (now called Chevrolet Theater) for the song ‘Exhale’. Whitney chose people from the audience to sing with her at the stage, and Stacy was one of the luckiest one. Whitney introduced her as ‘very successful singer from New York’. She even compared Stacy to Mariah Carey who sing effortlessly high C notes.

Usher's Wardrobe Malfunction in Decade of Difference Concert

R&B Superstar Usher recently performed at the William J. Clinton Decade of Difference Concert and got his pants ripped off while performing her latest tracks. While he is onstage and dancing, his pants accidentally split down  on the left part of his leg. 

Despite what happen, the singer made a smooth recovery and pointed out to the growing hole, smile and said: 'I work hard'. And continue to perform as if nothing happens.

Decade of Difference Concert is a gathering of all star group of the most influential and socially responsible artists in music, film and television. Gathered together in one pact special concert to celebrate the work and impact of President Clinton and his foundation. President William J Clinton's foundation visions and lead a fight that benefiting 4 million people lifesaving HIV/AIDS treatment, more than 12,000 US schools, more than 26,000 micro-entrepreneurs and many more. 

Along with Usher, other performances came from  Lady Gaga, The Edge & Bono. Yahoo! will also be sending fans to the concert in Los Angeles through a sweepstakes. Yahoo! will amplify its audience’s impact by donating $1.00 to the Clinton Foundation for each sweepstakes submission, up to $50,000. Entrants will be able to direct Yahoo!’s donations toward strengthening economies, improving global health, protecting the environment, or promoting healthier childhoods. For sweepstakes information, ‘Like’ Yahoo! on Facebook and enter by October 7, 2011. 


source:http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/the-difference/usher-dances-wardrobe-malfunction-062126055.html

Youtube Philippines

Youtube Philippines was officially unveiled yesterday, Thursday, October 9, 2011 at Blue Leaf Tent, Taguig City. 

courtesy of Move.PH

This mark the first localized taste of the popular video site in Southeast Asia and ranked 34^th in the world.

Google who owns the Youtube site refer to Filipinos being creative and habitual in patronizing the website and a great evident to this are the launch to international stardom of two local breed Arnel Pineda and Charice Pempengco through this site.

It would be remembered how Charice rose to fame after being discovered in a Youtube video singing in Korean show. But now Charice took everyone by storm and being guested in America’s premiere show including Ellen DeGeneres show and Oprah and many more. Charice is now an outstanding performer ruling over the world and vowed ever crowd. And Charice sent a video message for the launch during the event.

During the event, President Noynoy Aquino III launch the updated presidential channels atwww.youtube.com/govph and www.youtube.com/rtvmalacanang. 

President Aquino will participate in Youtube’s World View live interview series where the questions come directly from citizens. Aquino will be the first Asian head of state to participate in the program on November 4, 2011 along with US President Barack Obama. 

Pinoy BIg Brother Season 4

The biggest and grandest reality show in the Philippines is back!

Pinoy Big Brother is set to open it’s door for their fourth season. The reality show that launched the stardom of Philippines’ biggest celebs – Kim Chui, Gerald Anderson, Melai Canteveros etc. This season, business unit head director Lauren Dyogi revealed that they conducted the largest audition ever held in its show's history. Auditions for this season started in Metro Manila last March 4, 2011. About 10,000 were auditioned at SM Mall of Asia for the Metro Manila auditions alone.

Auditions were also conducted in several venues across the archepelago includes Pangasinan, Davao, Laguna, Albay, Negros, Leyte, Cebu, and Lanao plus two international venues in Japan and Universal Studios in Hollywood, California, USA.

This is going to be a sure hit and a the comeback of PBB is as big as its name. This season, PBB will have new set of hosts. Newest faces Robi Domingo and Martin Concio will be joining Toni Gonzaga and Bianca Gonzales. Robi Domingo was launched in Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus on 2008 and been creating his mark in local showbusiness. Meanwhile, Martin Concio is the son of ABSCBN president Charo Santos-Concio. Martin is 25 years old and the youngest of the lady president’s brood. He is currently hosting a late night musical show at ABSCBN with Yeng Constantino and Gee Canlas. 

PBB Season 4 will open its door on October 29.

Michael Trevino, Newest Bench Endorser !

Months ago, Penshoppe introduced Ed Westwick as their new ambassador and endorser of their latest collection and set to introduced Asian Teen Sensation Mario Maurer as their newest endorser. Rival clothing line, Bench, has introduced music genius and Grammy award winner Bruno Mars in their collection.Today Bench is glad to announce the newest addition to their growing family. 

Through Mr. Ricky Lo's article, Bench announced Hollywood star Michael Trevino as their new endorser. Michael play as Tyler Lockwood, a lovable werewolf in US TV hit Vampire Diaries. He was born on January 25, 1985 in Montebello, California and has a Mexican decent. 


We are looking forward to see Michael in the Philippine land. Congrats Bench !

At Last .. Mike Chang Sang !!

At last Mike Chang.has given his own spotlight in Glee Season 3. Chinese cutie and Asian Heartthrob Harry Shum Jr. showcases his vocal prowess in Glee Season 3 Episode 3 "Asian F".

The episode began when arrives late to Booty Camp having woken up late and eating. Santana has resworn her allegience to New Directions and makes a comment towards her and Mike proceeds to assist Mercedes. Mercedes begins to feel sick and Will begins yelling at her. Mercedes tells Will that she's doing her best but Will wants more then her best. Mike Chang and his father are in Figgins office. Mike Chang Sr says he wants Mike drug tested every day because Mike got an A-, or, as it is also known, an Asian F. Mr Chang also wants Tina to be removed from the picture and for Mike to quit Glee Club, saying that it was not good for his college application. Mike assures his father that he will try harder and get better grades, he asks his father to give him another chance.

Mike Chang auditioned for the role of 'Riff' with 'Cool' as the football team eventually joins in. Coach Beiste applauds Mike, telling him that she hopes he isn't wasting his time. Mike then tells her that he loves dancing and its his dream, so it will never be a waste of his time. Mike is practicing his dancing in an empty room while his mother walks in. Mike never went to his tutor, he went to audition and his mother covered with his father for him. Mike just wants to dance, it's his dream, it's what he loves. He says that dancing is the only thing that he does that makes him feel special. His mother supports him, saying that when they get the results for the casting of the musical they'll both go and tell Mike's father about it, and reveals a secret. She too loves dancing, but gave up her dream.

I have waited long enough to see and hear Harry Shum's voice. In all fairness, he has a good quality of voice. At first glance, he even sounded like Matthew Morrison. Harry began his career as the only male dancer on BET's Comic View in 2002 and has continued his dancing career from there.Harry appeared in Step Up 3-D, a 3D look at New York style street dancing. He is also a dancer and choreographer for the Legion of Extraordinary Dancers.


Harry shared his similar experiences as it was shown in the episode - as a kid growing up to be a man. He told Billboard.com that his real parents are supportive to him. They wanted him to adapt the American culture and hold on to my old culture as well, be it in Latin or Chinese based. He may come as an ordinary kid who doesnt get straight A. He may get A's, B's and couple of C's.

Billboard also asked Harry what's his go-to-shower song. He answered songs ranges from classic rock to Frank Sinatra. He is a big Bobby Darin fan, but when he first heard Frank Sinatra, everything changes. Meanwhile, he describes Bobby Darin as underrated artist. He meantioned that his voice is different and powerful.

I, personally love the character of Mike Chang and the real person behind the character. I'd love to meet him someday and see how great he moves right with my very eyes. His moves is so mouth watering !! More Mike Chang story in Glee !! More Mike Chang voice !!