‘Billy Crawford’ is a name we often hear on television up to this day, but if you first heard of him as “Billy Joe,” yup, that’s a sign that you’re not getting any younger. He’s among the Filipino celebrities who entered the glamorous world of showbiz at a very young age.
At four years old, he was already certain about the path that he wanted to take. He was brought to the set of ‘That’s Entertainment,’ a show created and produced by then-Entertainment Mogul Mr. German Moreno. From then on, Billy got hooked and would often watch live. He went and convinced the host, also German Moreno, to let him star on the show. With his talent and persistence, he became the youngest ‘That’s member,’ and the rest is history.
From 4 years old, to now in his 40s, he stayed in the limelight as an all-out performer—a singer, dancer, actor, and host. Although he’s had his share of controversies, Billy made it a point to showcase his talents every now and then.
He has reached various career milestones, but some of them are not really known to everyone. Here are some that you’re probably not aware of or have already slipped your mind.
Billy’s momentous singing career in Europe
Did you know that Billy Crawford tried his luck to pursue an international career and got successful in Europe? At 12 years old, he left the Philippines to embark on a new singing career in the US. It later brought him to Europe, where his songs and albums were greatly received by the locals, especially in the areas of France, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, and Switzerland.
In 1998, the R&B sensation released his first ever single “Urgently in Love.” This was included in his self-titled debut album, which he released in 2001. This was followed by another single in 2002, “Trackin’,” the first single from the sophomore album “Ride.” It climbed the charts in France and was certified platinum. In 2004, he made a comeback with the album “Big City,” which was released in Asia and France only.
Crawford’s career in Europe was like a roller coaster ride, having its own ups and downs. Although he was not able to repeat the same success in the US and UK, it cannot be denied that he was one of the R&B superstars back in the days. Most of his tracks were included in the top charts and would stay there for weeks. His albums also sold hundreds of thousands of copies and were certified gold and platinum.
If we may recommend–here are some Billy Crawford tracks from his past albums album that are still worth listening to in this day and age:
Despite his success, he decided to return to the Philippines in 2007, and had a new dance reality show on GMA 7, titled “MOVE: The Search for Billy Crawford’s Pinoy Dancers.”
Billy with the King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
Did you know that Billy’s attempt to succeed on the international stage brought him to meet his idol, Michael Jackson? The child star became one of the back-up dancers for the King of Pop’s performance at the MTV Video Music Awards back in September 1995 in New York. He rehearsed with the superstar for one month and witnessed his talent and professionalism. The experience inspired him to strive more and claim a spot internationally.
Billy’s international projects
Billy has starred in an international film. In the 2005 DVD edition of “Dominion: Prequel to the Exorcist” released in 2005, he portrayed the role of “Cheche,” a character who was possessed by a devil. He also voiced the character Dean in season 3 of Totally Spies.
Billy and his Pokemon connection
Guess what–Billy Crawford sang the Pokemon theme song, “Gotta Catch Em All”, for the Pokemon: The First Movie OST, which happens to be the franchise’s first full length animation film. He was offered the chance to record the theme song in 1999. Here’s Billy sampling it during an ambush interview:
More than three years in the showbiz industry later, Crawford’s star continues to burn bright. Just recently, he won the latest edition of “Danse avec les Stars” in France. Indeed, a Pinoy pride! /VT
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