Spreading love, compassion is Kuh’s kind of February
There was a time, Kuh Ledesma admitted, when she missed having a romantic partner, especially during February when singers like her hold a string of Valentine shows.
“In the past, there was a hint of longing during the Valentine season … when surrounded by couples at my shows. But with Christ in my life, I have come to feel complete in a way that I hadn’t before. My happiness is no longer dependent on people or situations—there’s a profound sense of peace and contentment within me,” she told the Inquirer in an interview.
Seeing people happy and in love as she sings onstage is more than enough for the 68-year-old OPM icon. “Seeing the joy, the love shared by couples during my performances brings me joy, and I pray earnestly that their relationships last and remain anchored in Jesus Christ,” she said.
It’s a sight she can’t get enough of, so much so that she’s holding a post-Valentine concert, after a successful previous show early this month. Titled “More Love,” the musical event will be held on Feb. 24 at Hacienda Isabella, Cavite and will feature guests Maegan Aguilar, Richard Merk, Nathan Randall and Isabella Gonzalez. Call 0960885-0288
What does she consider her Valentine show staples?
“People always ask for my hit, ‘I Think I’m in Love.’ The audience also loves hearing and singing along to familiar tunes like ‘Till I Met You’ and ‘One More Try.’ These original songs of mine are always the most requested,” Kuh said.
“And then, of course there are timeless classics like ‘When I Fall in Love’ and ‘The Nearness of You.’ These tunes never fail to evoke feelings of romance or nostalgia. ‘All of Me’ by John Legend is also a favorite because of its heartfelt lyrics,” she added.
While Kuh has been in the business for more than four decades now, she remains passionate about performing and looks at shows as opportunities to create new memories.“I’m hoping it will be another unforgettable evening of love songs. It’s another chance to make more lasting memories, strengthen relationships—particularly for married couples who need to heal,” said Kuh, who considers music as a balm for the weary. “Music and songs can be used as a great instrument to soften hearts.”
For Kuh, love shouldn’t be celebrated and made special only during the Valentine season. And the occasion shouldn’t be exclusively about romantic love.
Moving experience
Recently, she visited Biñan City Jail to distribute shirts, food and share the Word of God with the inmates. And much to her surprise, they ended up singing a Christian song together. “It was a deeply moving experience to sing for them. I was so pleasantly surprised to find that many of them knew that Christian song ‘Who Am I?’ by heart. The song is part of my gospel album and one of my favorite inspirational songs. It reminds us that despite challenging circumstances, there’s always victorious hope in God,” she said.
As touching as the moment they all shared together, however, she couldn’t help but feel sad about the inmates’ living conditions. “The second most important command is to love our neighbor as ourselves. And yes, they made some terrible mistakes in their lives. But no matter who they are, they should be treated with mercy and compassion,” she said.
“My prayer is that they also give the prisoners psychological therapy. I’m glad there are Christian pastors who visit the prisoners to minister to them the Word of God,” she added.
Despite her busy schedule as an artist and entrepreneur, Kuh makes time to take part in ministry work that helps, not only prisoners, but also the sick and underprivileged.
“If I have a show in a province, I try to extend my stay for an extra day so I can arrange a visit. I’m blessed to be connected with a lot of people because of my music, including people of authority, to facilitate these visits,” she said. “Visiting the sick and prisoners is the best time for ministry. I believe in sharing the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, not just during times of adversity, but as consistent interactions with friends.” INQ
