OPM legend Jonathan Manalo celebrates two decades of record-breaking music
Back in high school, I remember Tara Tena as a sticky song I would burst into singing at random parts of the day after hearing it once on TV. The song is so upbeat and memorable, it is LSS-worthy. Fast forward to more than a decade since, I feel fortunate to constantly get the chance to interview the musical genius behind the song. Now the Creative Director of ABS-CBN Music, Jonathan Manalo is already celebrating twenty (20) years in the music industry. He has carved his own place in the local music scene.
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Another hit produced by Manalo is “Pinoy Ako,” the official theme song of the phenomenal reality program Pinoy Big Brother. The song has since been rearranged as the show is on its 10th season.
“I love being able to write the songs that make a lot of people sing along to,” Manalo said when asked about what he considers as one of his major achievements in hís two decades in the índustry. Last year, he was awarded by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as one of the Ten Outstanding Music Artists in the last decade.
with 75 Multi-platinum and 100 Gold
PAR Certifications.
“Mr. Music” also feels privileged that in his place in the music industry, he is able to work with everyone from the iconic legends to promising new artists.
Jonathan is certainly at the top of his game being the most streamed Filipino songwriter & record producer and has the most number of multiplatinurn album certifications of all time in the Philippine music industry. He is also the most awarded Filipino songwriter & record producer.
Recipient of more than 200 awards and nomimations from Awit Awards, Katha Music Awards, Star Awards For Film Festival, Catholic Mass Media Awards, New York Festivals, Walk Music, Metro Manila On Water Awards, and many more. When asked what is up next for him, Jonathan was so excited to announce about his co-ownership of the Academy Of Rock Philippines.
He attributes his longevity in the music scene to his strong faith in the Lord who guides him. “l just give my all and always exert my best effort everything thatI do, and then God takes care of the rest,” added Manalo.
Watch out for Jonathan Manalo’s anniversary concert this October and a special collaboration project with missionary visual artist Kristine Lim, a first of its kind music & arts fusion project.
