OPM ‘in good hands’ with Stell and Julie Anne, says Gary V

GMA Synergy

With artists like SB19’s Stell Ajero and Julie Anne San Jose, the future of Filipino music couldn’t be brighter and more promising.

“I can say that OPM is in good hands,” music icon Gary Valenciano said at the second night of the “Julie x Stell: Ang Ating Tinig” concert, where he made a special guest appearance.

“I speak on behalf of artists like myself … artists who have been in the industry for a long time: These are not just artists,” he said, addressing the two. “They’re outstanding artists. And I’m being very honest with the both of you right now,” he stressed.

Gary had nothing but admiration for the two headliners’ respective talents and accomplishments.

“You (Stell) represent SB19. Hats off! I got to see your concert at the Araneta Coliseum. And Julie, there are many female singers, but very few extraordinary female vocalists,” he said.

Needless to say, sharing the stage with one of the country’s most celebrated artists was a huge honor for Stell and Julie Anne.

“We’re honored that you’re here with us—the one and only Gary V. Nakakaiyak! We used to just watch him perform and listen to his songs. Now, we get to be with him,” Julie Anne said.

Gary Valenciano, Julie Anne San Jose and Stell Ajero during rehearsals – GMA Synergy.

Explosive performance

Together, they brought that house down with an explosive performance of the SB19 dance anthem “Gento,” which elicited a standing ovation. Truth be told, Gary felt nervous about the production number.

“Because I know that you all know the steps! It’s hard to do the steps with the rap [parts],” he said. “But I don’t have a choice. It was Stell’s idea and the show is directed by my son Paolo (Valenciano). And then there’s Julie. So, of course, I will try to do it.”

And when Gary said that he thought he didn’t do the choreography “perfectly,” Stell quickly said, “Hindi, perfect!”

Generational gap

The crowd at the New Frontier Theater was considerably younger than what he’s used to but Gary V found it heartening that they still appreciate his talents.

“My generation is different from yours, but hearing your cheers and love really means a lot to me,” said Gary, who also performed “Sana Maulit Muli” with Stell and Julie Anne in hopes of “bridging” the generational gap.

Stell Ajero and Julie Anne San Jose share the stage with Gary V — GMA SYNERGY.

“It really feels good when you have people like these in front of you. What we give you is all from here,” Gary told the crowd, hands on his chest. “And what you give us is also from here.”