The Philippine Consulate has publicly presented the top 10 finalists vying for the top prize at this year’s upcoming Dubai Dubai Musikahan (DDM) 3.
Philippine Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes stated that DDM 3 is now becoming globally known with the help of ABS-CBN and other local producers.
In the press briefing, Cortes proudly talked about how Filipinos are not only great singers they are excellent songwriters as well. He mentioned that Pinoys should passionately support their own music as what other countries like Sweden and Korea are doing with their music.
Entering into the music scene, he said “We like to change the mindset of the public when it comes to song writing, music production and tell the younger generations that it is ok to go into arts because it is also a viable career alternative, an integral part of the economy”.
As part of the Linggo ng Wika month in August, the songwriting competition aims to bring about Filipinos artistic side in the music field and introduce original Pinoy harmony to the world over. Furthermore, the organizers mentioned that with this event, they hope to encourage more Pinoys to showcase their talent through their unique and creative compositions.
The theme of this year’s musikahan, prearranged by Star Music, is ‘Malayo Ma’y Magkaugnay Sa Pag-ibig’. The idea is to make a song that is relatable to the lives of overseas Filipino workers, far from their loved ones. One of the contestants, Mark Regino said his entry is all about his personal experience, which he expressed in a love song.
Most of the finalists will be performing their own songs whilst others have their own singers to interpret their ‘obra’. The top 10 artists will also have the chance to have their songs recorded and compiled by the organizers.
Emirates NBD, one of the sponsors, will also organize a jingle writing competition for their Direct Remit as a side entry for the top 10 songwriters. The artist of the winning piece will be given a cash prize of AED5,000 and will be announced on the same day of the event.
Among the three respected board of judges are the Philippine’s top songwriters and composers from Star Records Artistic Content and Star Magic. The winners will receive gifts and cash prizes worth – Dh 8,000 for 1st place, Dh 3,000 for 2nd and Dh 2,000 for 3rd. Moreover, the winning composition will be interpreted and released by a Star Music Artist.
Out of 35 entrants, the judges picked the top 10 songwriters for this year’s DDM 3 and here are their names:
1. Exequiel Nuñez Jr.
2. Angelo Catolico
3. Eugene Cantara
4. Mark Reginio
5. Ric Lamigo
6. Carlos Soliano
7. Marcus Jeremiah Isip
8. Felix Mabolo Jr.
9. Ronaldo Mendoza
10. Jessie Paderes
The grand finals is scheduled to take place this coming August 17. (Yba Ognikob)
