JUST A THOUGHT: “Writing is utter solitude, the descent into the cold abyss of oneself.” – Franz Kafka
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‘KINSE’ ANYOS NA SI JONATHAN: The timing, he said, is just right. Not too early, not too late.
Prize-winning composer and record producer Jonathan Manalo celebrates his 15th anniversary in the music industry by way of a big bang of a concert slated on Dec. 3 at the Music Museum in Greenhills.
Jonathan told reporters recently that the concert, “Kinse,” is his way of thanking God for the blessed life he has been gifted with.
“It’s not so much as a tribute to call attention to myself. ‘Kinse’ is my effort to personally thank God for having been so good to me throughout the years.”
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ACCOMPLISHED AT 37: At 37, Jonathan is among the most accomplished songwriters whose other roles include being a record producer and Star Music executive in charge of repertoire.
He has a string of 200 recorded compositions, 20 of which became hits.
Among Jonathan’s greatest hits are “Pinoy Ako” by Orange and Lemons, “Patuloy ang Pangarap” (Angeline Quinto), “Magandang Buhay,” “Ipagpatuloy Mo ang Galing ng Pilipino.”
Having worked with the brightest names in local recording, Jonathan will, but of course, celebrate with a star-studded cast.
Caress Caballero of producing outfit Cornerstone Entertainment said that 22 artists will be playing Jonathan’s songs.
The roster is mind-boggling. Expect the likes of Piolo Pascual, Toni Gonzaga, Yeng Constantino, Erik Santos, Lani Misalucha, Gary Valenciano.
Jonathan revealed his one big dream is for his songs to be discovered in the international arena.
Being a great fan of Mariah Carey, he hopes the famed diva can one day record a song of his. Like the English version of “Patuloy ang Pangarap.”
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GROWING UP WITH GOSPEL SONGS: Jonathan has a degree in Advertising Arts from Polytechnic University of the Philippines. He grew up in a home where secular music wasn’t welcome.
Jonathan’s parents and also his grandparents were active members of their church choir.
Early on, he was trained to praise God in all his undertakings. “I grew up listening to gospel songs,” he says.
Such deep religious background explains Jonathan’s inclination towards songs that uplift, offer prayers of thanksgiving, alternately religious or spiritual in nature. (NESTOR CUARTERO)