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Kyla: Red Moon Rising | Philstar.com
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Young Star

Kyla: Red Moon Rising

- Martin Syjuco -
Music embraces change. The famous formula of verse-chorus-verse has stood the test of time and through it, new genres have emerged. Filipinos, being music lovers, embrace these changes but popular OPM has stuck to its tried and tested guns. However, over the years, some artists have managed to incorporate different genres to keep Filipino pop from stagnating.

That was some years ago; and then there is now. And the here and now started a little over two years ago with an album called Kyla, by the artist of the same name. Everyone knows the video single from her debut album won for her the MTV Moon Man for Best Video. Not a small feat considering Kyla’s early struggles and humble beginnings. "I went through a lot of rejection, and it felt really bad at that time because I knew what I was capable of bringing to the music industry," she states.

Kyla got her share of the spotlight first in the now defunct That’s Entertainment. She then began singing with cover bands and had gigs in Brunei. However, deep inside, she knew what she wanted all along.

"Ever since I was nine years old, I’ve been visualizing myself performing in front of a huge audience."

Demo tapes were sent in hopes of landing a record deal "but they (the producers) didn’t want any part in marketing a local singer." Lucky for us, her uncompromising attitude led her to pursue a deal singing the music she wants to sing. When she did get the contract, she was more like on probation than being treated as the next big thing.

"Even the company told me that my debut would be experimental. I was nervous, they were nervous. Somehow the Filipino audience cannot entertain the idea of an R&B singer, but I had faith back then that somehow they would accept me." Two hit singles on her first outing – ‘Bring It On’ and ‘Hanggang Ngayon’ earned for her diva status.

Growing up listening to Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston and Ella Fitzgerald, it comes as no surprise that Kyla is as talented as she is. Incorporating her genetic inclination towards music with powerful delivery and non-linear vocal phrasing of her musical influences make for a new kind of OPM pop. "It’s wonderful and amazing to think that our local audience are becoming more responsive to my musical style."

Wise beyond her years, Kyla promises to improve some more. "I learn from people around me. I want to constantly change, add a new dimension hopefully inspire other musicians to do the same."

With that kind of attitude, do not be surprised to see and hear more of Kyla. Obviously, her prime is still way ahead of her. Given the proper leverage, the rocket is just about to explode with the tide of change.

ARETHA FRANKLIN

BEST VIDEO

BRING IT ON

HANGGANG NGAYON

KYLA

MOON MAN

SOMEHOW THE FILIPINO

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