Saturday, October 10, 2009

Famed NY singer to serenade Mindanao hometown

MULTI-AWARDED Philippine-American hitmaker Archie D is set to make a concert in Pagadian this December in an upcoming episode of his new album “Built To Sound Good.”

Archie D, Archimedes Daiorocas in real life, is a seasoned professional arranger, composer, producer, engineer, songwriter, singer and musician who made waves in the 80’s with his songs ‘Kasayaw,’ ‘Pakita Mo,’ Mahal na Mahal’ and ‘Complicated,’ which was performed by Gretchen Barreto.

Archie D likewise has performed with top caliber Original Pinoy Music artists like Randy Santiago, Pops Fernandez and Regine Velasquez, among others.

He has released two albums while under contract with Vicor Music Corp. and Octoarts EMI in the country. His 1991 “Pakita Mo” album was certified Gold.

Born and raised in Pagadian City, Archie’s mother, Lilly, was a well-known pianist and composer, from whom he inherited his musical talent.

Through diligent study and hard work, Archie was able to develop his craft and established himself as a legend in the Philippine pop music industry.

In 1992, Archie D left the country and settled in Queens, New York. He then enrolled in the Berklee College of Music in Boston, studying music production, synthesis and audio engineering to further challenge his knack of music.

After graduation he returned to the New York City area, released another album, garnered additional awards, and became known as a “Filipino Icon living in New York.”

In 1998, he won the Philippine Katha Award for composing the Alternative Song of the Year ‘Changing and Giving Ways’ which was performed by Dawn Dineros.

He says that his decision to do a concert in Pagadian City is to share to his hometown his dreams and success, inspire the youth and promote the Filipino musical heritage.

His “Built To Sound Good” (888 Records), is a 14-track dance/pop album of mostly original tunes. One of the songs on the album, a different ‘Never Gonna Give You Up' ballad, is a Rick Astley remake.

See Archie D perform songs from his “Built To Sound Good,” album in a Matinee Show scheduled on Dec. 18 at the SMC Gym and a Gala Show on Dec. 20 at the “10” Disco.

Cool Music Productions New York and the Pagadian City Tourism Council are the main sponsors of Archie D’s upcoming concert.

Tickets are sold at P50 for the Dec. 18 Matinee Show and P500 for the Dec. 20 Gala Show. For inquiries and bookings, contact: 09063131396 and 214-2472.

REPORT BY MICHAEL MEDINA