Sharing through music

I love music. It really stimulates the soul. It has the power to give cheer or comfort, to move people.

How many times do we find ourselves in a bad mood, only to be cheered up by an unexpected tune played over the radio? Or how many times do we find ourselves unconsciously singing along to a catchy tune? Music is everywhere — from sounds loudly blasting from a passenger jeepney’s speakers, to a street artist quietly strumming his guitar, to the sweet hum of a church choir.

I also love to sing. Those in my circle know this very well. I’ve had a passion for singing for as long as I remember. It is not a career but I like to sing! My first foray into singing on TV was when I gave a few sample lines when I served as judge for Showtime —   and it was hardly “performance level,” but it was a peek at that particular “not-so-known” thing about me.

My first public performance was for the Valentine concert of Christian Bautista where we sang a duet of Way Back Into Love and I sang a solo of Fallin’. I have performed twice on TV for ASAP. Most of the time I sing for fun and I play around with friends or family over several rounds at the KTV bar. But I really do have a serious passion for singing.

Music is beautiful in whatever form, in my opinion. I appreciate all genres — dance, house, standard, hip-hop, pop, rock — I can listen to songs all day long (and even sing along!). I do not discriminate. I love foreign and local artists and own various records. I regularly update my iPod playlist and it keeps me going whether I am just relaxing at home or working out at the gym.

Among my favorites are songs from Hill Song, a Christian band. Its tunes never fail to make me feel good.

I can even think of songs to represent important chapters in my life — compile them all together, and I got myself a personal soundtrack. Music indeed has been a good ally. On my way to the Miss Universe pageant I just played Never Say Never by Justin Bieber and Win by Brian McKnight over and over. In fact, I sang along to these tunes so much that the other candidates found themselves singing them, too.

Music has been a source of strength and joy — a gift that I absolutely enjoy. I especially hold dear the song Amazing Grace for its beautiful melody and inspiring lyrics.

I may not be a professional singer (yet!) but the value and beauty of music is something that I hope I can get the chance to share with others.