Filipino singer and songwriter Bayang Barrios celebrated her 35th year in the industry in her first ever solo concert entitled ‘Bayang Barrios: Katutubong Diva’ on Saturday, May 6 at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (Black Box Theater) in the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).
Barrios, the Manobo singer who is known for her folk-pop style of music, gave her fans great performances with well-known artists who had been part of her long career. From the stage design to the musical instruments, the concert presented the beauty of Filipino and indigenous music. It showcased what kind of great singer Barrios is— a katutubong diva.
The concert started with an ethnic performance. Barrios was later joined by her husband, Mike Villegas, to sing the song ‘Harinawa.’ This was followed by a duet of Barrios with Poppert Bernadas. The two performed a mashup of the popular Filipino songs “Gulong ng Palad” and “May Bukas Pa.” Bernadas also performed “Magsimula Ka” in his solo performance.
Barrios sang one of her classic songs, ‘Malayo Man, Malapit Din,’ much to the delight of the fans. She also performed some of the popular songs she had in the past, such as “Pag Nananalo ang Ginebra” and the theme song of the popular television series “Encantadia.” During the concert, Barrios shared some backstories of her life and career.
Barrios also performed with OPM legend Gary Granada, and the two provided a warm and great performance.
In her performance with Cooky Chua and Lolita Carbon, the three performed the popular “Proud Mary.” But, it was not just an ordinary performance of the song, the classic rock hit was actually played with indigenous instruments during the concert. Many fans in the venue were up on their feet during the solid performance by the Tres Marias.
After this, Barrios was joined on stage by Joey Ayala. Ayala was said to be among the first people who discovered Barrios when she was starting out and later became a part of the band ‘Ang Bagong Lumad.’ They sang the songs “Bathala” and “Walang Hanggang Paalam.”
The singer later took a chance at the concert to introduce the band. She wrapped up the astonishing night by singing “Bagong Umaga.” Barrios’ first ever concert was directed by Floy Quintos. Andrew Barrios served as the musical director.
There were other songs that were performed during the show. The entire concert showcased Barrios’ journey as a Filipino musician who is proud of her identity and roots. Through her songs, she was able to present the beauty of Filipino and indigenous music.
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