MANILA, Philippines - The New Minstrels Divos, a new singing group formed by former members of the New Minstrels, will make its performing debut at The Teatrino at The Promenade in Greenhills, San Juan City at 8 p.m. on June 27 and 28.
The New Minstrels Divos is made up of Eugene Villaluz, Ding Mercado, Chad Borja and Rene Puno (photo). Eugene, Ding and Rene were original Minstrels, while Chad was a fourth-generation member of the group. The New Minstrels was the top show band during the ’70s era that performed to packed houses here and abroad and made hit recordings. Among the latter were the now iconic versions of the Filipino classics Buhat and Balut.
Eugene, Ding and Chad went on to successful solo careers. Eugene had hit songs like Gulong Ng Palad and Nothing I Want More with fellow Minstrel Louie Reyes. Ding became a big star on Hong Kong television. Chad continues to record (Ikaw Lang was his biggest seller) and perform. Eugene, Ding and Chad have been very active performing together these past few years as part of the very successful Circus Band and New Minstrels reunion concert series.
Rene also recorded and performed solo after leaving the New Minstrels but he also decided to pursue a law career. He is now the managing partner of the Law Firm of Zulueta, Puno and Associates. The New Minstrels Divos concert marks his official return to performing.
The New Minstrels Divos will be performing romantic music by great balladeers like Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Perry Como, Vic Damone, Steve Lawrence and many others, plus songs popularized in the ’60s and ’70s like Cherish, Let It Be Me, The Seventh Dawn, Distant Shores, Never My Love, Come Saturday Morning and others.
Tickets to The New Minstrels Divos are now available at Ticketworld, 891-9999 and at Teatrino, 721-6726 and 721-0635.