Tagged as the “Revival King,” Jojo Mendrez continues his legacy of recreating old classics with his latest single, “Yakap.” This is a reinterpretation of the classic hit originally popularized in 1979 by Filipino-Spanish crooner Junior.
An iconic romantic ballad of the late ’70s and early ’80s, “Yakap” became a favorite among Filipinos after serving as the official soundtrack of the highly-regarded film Good Morning Sunshine, which starred Vilma Santos and Junior and was directed by the legendary filmmaker Ishmael Bernal. Through the decades, the song remained a beloved anthem of love, comfort, and longing, holding a special place in the hearts of generations of OPM fans.
Now, Jojo Mendrez breathes new life into the timeless classic, gaining positive feedback from listeners, music enthusiasts, and netizens alike. Among those deeply touched by his rendition is Optimum Star Claudine Barretto, who shared her emotional reaction after hearing the song. “Oh my God, I’m crying! The best rendition, Kapatid!” Claudine exclaimed. Her praise carries special significance as Junior, the song’s original singer, is her uncle. The family connection adds a deeply personal appreciation of Mendrez’s revival. For months, Claudine has been openly supportive of Jojo, admiring not only his talent but also his genuine passion and dedication to his craft.
Adding to the growing support for the the single, Mendrez recently sat down for an interview with entertainment host and director Ronald Carballo, where he discussed the inspiration and emotional journey behind recording “Yakap.” The conversation offered viewers a deeper glimpse into his love for timeless Filipino music and his commitment to preserving OPM classics.
Direk Ronald was equally impressed by the song. “Ang ganda, ang ganda! Gusto kita yakapin!” he remarked, adding that the song gave him goosebumps while listening. For Mendrez, reviving “Yakap” had long been a dream project close to his heart. His version remains faithful to the tenderness and sincerity of the original while introducing a contemporary emotional depth that resonates with today’s listeners. Through his signature heartfelt delivery, Mendrez transforms the beloved ballad into a more intimate experience.
The release boosts his title the “Revival King,” following the success of his interpretations of classics such as Handog, Somewhere In My Past, and Tuyo Na’ng Damdamin. Mendrez also expressed his gratitude to the supporters who continue to embrace revival music in an ever-evolving music landscape. According to him, revisiting timeless songs is his way of preserving the beauty and legacy of Original Pilipino Music while introducing these treasured melodies to a new generation of listeners.
“Yakap” is now available on all major digital music platforms. For updates on Jojo Mendrez’s latest projects and releases, follow his official Facebook account.
