Charice Pempengco, 16 years old, hailed from Batangas, Philippines, is currently soaring high across the continent singing on top of her lungs. She gives me shiver everytime she starts hitting a note. After several tv appearances at Ellen and Oprah shows, her biggest break was when she recently had a duet with Celine Dion’s concert at Madison Square Garden where her ultimate dream was granted.
Her first appearance was in local Philippines TV show singing contest, “Little Big Star” by ABSCBN tv network in 2006. Almost everyone had bet that she would win the contest among the other teen/kiddie contestants. Unfortunately, due to low text votes she didn’t land in first place but as third place. It was Sam Concepcion who garnered most of the text votes. However, talent wise, Charice was apparently way better.
The judging computation was comprised of 50% by the judges and 50% text votes. Even if she got low text votes, the judges’ ratings could have pulled her score. Nevertheless, due to the mindset of future business gain of the tv network, the person who appealed most to the masses by basing on the text votes swiftly landed the first spot. You may ask, how far the first placer has gone now? He’s an actor/singer and showing on the said tv network. If I were Charice, I can kiss ABSCBN goodbye and give thanks for not letting her win. Shame on you people who do not appreciate what real talent is.
After the local singing contest, she joined another contest in Korea. Eventually, someone posted a video of her on YouTube singing in front of Korean audience in awe. From then on, Ellen discovered her on YouTube as well as Oprah and the start of her publicity rose.
Charice brought pride and represented Filipino talent. I hope she will start writing her own songs and not just by imitating or singing songs of other people which Filipinos are known for.
After (2008)
Before (2006)
Update: Oprah Winfrey is now her US manager in addition to her Filipina manager. Way to go Charice!
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