Singer-songwriter Juan Karlos Labajo, who goes by the stage name juan karlos, is preparing for a grand moment in his musical journey. On November 29, he will command the stage at the SM Mall of Asia Arena for his first major concert, aptly titled “juan karlos LIVE.” With seasoned director Paolo Valenciano taking the lead and the gifted Karel Honasan handling the musical direction, this show is set to be a major experience for fans.
A Labor of Love
JK has dedicated himself fully to preparing for this landmark event. He’s meticulously involved in every aspect of the production, from the setlist to the overall flow of the show, all while striving to enjoy the journey. “The nerves will probably hit closer to the date,” he admits, “but right now, I’m focused on what I can control and making sure everything comes together seamlessly.” He’s working in close collaboration with Valenciano and Honasan to craft a concert that reveals a new facet of his artistry. “There will be some surprises,” he hints. “Songs we haven’t played live before, and some very special guests joining me on stage.”
A Constellation of Guests
And special guests they are. The lineup reads like a who’s who of OPM’s most talented artists. Paolo Benjamin Guico, the voice behind the popular folk-pop band Ben&Ben, will lend his soulful songwriting to the stage. Guico and Labajo recently collaborated on “Tapusin Na Natin ‘To,” a moving track about breaking free from unhealthy relationships.
Adding another layer of excitement is Zild Benitez, formerly of IV of Spades, whose solo career has been a resounding success. He and juan karlos previously joined forces on “Gabi,” a song from Labajo’s 2023 album Sad Songs and Bullshit Part 1, and earlier on “Lunod” with Ben&Ben, a track exploring mental health that was featured on Ben&Ben’s Pebble House, Vol. 1: Kuwaderno album. Their shared passion for raw, honest songwriting promises an unforgettable collaboration.
Voices of Emotion
The concert will also showcase the incredible vocal prowess of Janine Berdin, who first rose to fame as the winner of It’s Showtime’s Tawag Ng Tanghalan season two. Known for her emotionally charged performances, Berdin collaborated with JK on the playful “Pancit” in 2022. This lighthearted track, with its whimsical Alice in Wonderland-themed music video, quickly became a fan favorite. Berdin will not only join JK on stage but also open the concert, setting the stage for an evening of exceptional music.
Adding to this remarkable roster is Moira Dela Torre, considered one of the finest songwriters of her generation. Her duet with JK on “Medyo Ako” from Sad Songs and Bullshit Part 2 is a delicate exploration of post-breakup emotions. Their voices blend seamlessly, promising a truly special performance.
A Fusion of Styles
And as if this wasn’t enough, the iconic rapper Gloc-9 will also grace the stage. His socially conscious lyrics and distinctive rapid-fire delivery have made him a legend in the Filipino music scene. In 2020, he and JK released “Sampaguita,” a powerful tribute to the struggles and sacrifices of Overseas Filipino Workers, blending JK’s soulful vocals with Gloc-9’s hard-hitting verses.
From The Voice Kids to the Big Stage
juan karlos’s musical journey began at the young age of 13 as a finalist on The Voice Kids in 2014. Since then, he has blossomed into a major force in the OPM world. He’s released two solo albums, formed his own band, and delivered hits like “Buwan” that have become modern classics. His talents extend beyond music; he’s a gifted actor with notable roles in popular television series and films.
A New Chapter for Nathan Studios
“juan karlos LIVE” is produced by Nathan Studios, marking their first venture into live entertainment. Known for their innovative work on film and television projects, the studio, with the support of Universal Music Group, aims to redefine the concert experience in the Philippines.
Tickets for the concert are available now, with prices ranging from PHP 750 to PHP 8,500 for the SVIP experience, which includes exclusive merchandise and a meet-and-greet opportunity.
As juan karlos prepares to step into the spotlight, all indications suggest that this concert will be a celebration of his artistic evolution and a defining moment in his career.
