Star Powerhouse

Late last year, Noel Cabangon asked his fans on what songs they want the singer-songwriter to record for his new album. This new record, produced by Universal Records, contains Noel’s refreshing take on 12 modern classics. Unlike his multi-platinum albums “Byahe” and “Tuloy Ang Byahe,” “Acoustic Noel” covers OPM classics from various decades. The album opens with Noel’s take on Ogie Alcasid’s classic “Nandito Ako,” which is also the carrier single of the album. The singer-songwriter’s vocals soars in his rendition of Rivermaya’s “Himala.”

Universal Records continues to be the home of the best, most respected local musical acts. At this year’s Awit Awards, the label’s artists headline the list of nominees – Gloc-9, Noel Cabangon, Gary Valenciano, Sam Concepcion, Sponge Cola, Kamikazee, Parokya Ni Edgar, Ogie Alcasid, Christian Bautista, and She’s Only Sixteen. Gloc-9 leads with five nominations Album of the Year for MKNM: Mga Kuwento Ng Makata, and for Sirena ­– Song of the Year, Best Rap, Best Collaboration and Best Music Video. The song also features Ebe Dancel. Noel Cabangon takes home for four nominations: Album of the Year for Tuloy Ang Byahe, Best Performance by a Male Recording Artist and Best Ballad for Tuwing Umuulan At Kapiling Ka, and Best Regional Recording for Usahay. Gary Valenciano also bags four nominations: Best Performance by a Male Recording Artist, Best Musical Arrangement and Best Engineered Recording for Send In The Clown, and Best Vocal Arangement for Overjoyed. Sam Concepcion is nominated for B...