As we enter the merriest time of the year, GMA Artist Center offers a musical treat to uplift the spirits of Filipinos via the holiday song ‘Christmas of Love.’
Talented Kapuso singers Ken Chan, Rita Daniela, Derrick Monasterio, Jeric Gonzales, Royce Cabrera, Psalms David, Matt Lozano, Hannah Precillas, Crystal Paras, Coleen Paz, Gabrielle Hahn, and Bianca Umali alljammed to this heartfelt song that will surely welcome the season’s festivities.
Ken hopes that this message can still elate hearts and shed light during dark times, “Christmas will not be cancelled this year, especially as Filipinos are known to be positive-thinkers. We will always find a reason to smile and celebrate in our own ways.”
Rita intends to inspire and promote togetherness via Christmas of Love. “In the middle of everything we’re experiencing, we just want this song to symbolize hope for brighter days ahead. The physical distance shouldn’t be the reason not to celebrate in spirit with our loved ones,” says Rita.
Likewise, Derrick believes that songs can set a hopeful mood among listeners, “I know that things are difficult but there’s nothing a joyful sound cannot fix. We all just need a little encouragement from one another from time to time and this song will surely brighten our day.”
Jeric also echoes how the song shows that we all should remain thankful despite the current circumstances, “Iyong message niya na gusto ko is the importance of life na we are here, we are safe and healthy so ‘yung buhay ka at nalampasan mo lahat ng pagsubok na nangyari is a gift for you this Christmas.”
Royce lets out a Christmas wish for the listeners, “Sana sa kabila ng lahat ng hindi magandang nangyari ngayong taon ay hindi pa rin makalimutan ng tao na may Diyos na laging gumagabay sa atin at nagpapaalala na may pag-asa pang makabangon at makabawi muli para maibalik ang saya na dapat lagi nating naramdaman.”
Meanwhile, Psalms shares how he wants everyone to see Christmas this year, “That the true essence of Christmas is not just giving material gifts. Christmas is about spreading love, forgiveness, and peace.”
Matt also believes in the power of music during trying times, “Performing for Christmas of Love brings back floods of happy emotions and memories. I love the way music can uplift the soul. Christmas is all about compassion and giving. ‘Yun ‘yung kind of moments that make the Christmas spirit tangible, it is to love and keep each other close.”
Through Christmas of Love, Hannah wants to encourage people to never give up, “Christmas this year may be different from the past years but we should not lose hope. Things right now may be difficult but with trust and love in Him, I know we can get through this. Make the most out of our lives by making our loved ones happy by showing it through our love.”
Crystal, on the other hand, feels grateful to be part of the recording the song, “First of all, it’s a beautiful song and sa totoo lang na-LSS po ako lalo na after listening to it again after our recording. Naging enthusiastic ako sa areglo nina Direk Njel and nag all-out sila sa quality ng kanta kaya nabuhay po ulit ang creativity ko to write and compose. Thanks to the experience of recording Christmas of Love.”
Coleen shares the same sentiments as well, “As a newly introduced talent for GMA Artist Center, I’m so grateful to be a part of this project and to have met new people who will treat me well and take care of me. Even though 2020 has been tough, Christmas is the time to celebrate and be thankful for the love that got us through this year – the love for our loved ones and for ourselves.”
As for Gabrielle, “Singing always brings me joy and just knowing that performing Christmas of Love will bring warmth to a lot of viewers brings me so much happiness.”
For Bianca, she treats this as an opportunity to bring smiles to people’s faces this Christmas, “It was a wonderful feeling knowing that we were doing this for the people. To make people happy despite all the negativity in the world. Making people happy makes me happy. Love is to be celebrated. Love is forever. Love is for everyone!”
Sing along to ‘Christmas of Love,’ composed by Njel de Mesa, on GMA Artist Center’s official YouTube channel and social media pages.
