With the revival of TV5 and Viva’s singing contest Born To Be A Star, three of their star agents that will assume as judges and help out contestants to grow into better artists were products of other musical competitions.
First, we have Sam Concepcion. He won ABS-CBN’s Little Big Star Season 1 in 2006 and became one of ABS-CBN’s artists in both music and acting. Concepcion also had phenomenal energy when performing live, which landed him a spot on ASAP.
When asked what he feels now that he will become a mentor, Sam felt surreal being on the other side of the stage as a judge or a star agent. He also added that he identifies himself with the contestants they’ve already met.
“Surreal yung feeling na makapanood and being on this side of the room. And I really see myself sa marami sa kanila, because I know the feeling of being in a competition (competing). Tapos preparing for it. The nerves, the pressure, the whole atmosphere, (and) the whole environment of it all. So it’s nice to see, and it’s nice to watch. I really identify myself with them,” said Sam.
Second, there’s Katrina Velarde, who joined X-Factor Philippines back in 2012. Later she gained online popularity as the Suklay Diva for her powerhouse renditions that showcase her belting capacity and range.
When asked the same question, she recalled her days as a contestant in competition circuits. She adds that she sees herself with the contestants of Born To Be A Star.
“Nakikita talaga namin yung sarili namin sa stage, kasi ganon yung ginagawa namin dati and may mga pagkakataon na maaalala mo talaga kung pano kami sumasali sa mga singing contest dati,” shared Katrina.
Finally, we have Janine Teñoso. She was a finalist of Born To Be A Star in 2016. Although she didn’t bring home the title, Janine rose to fame as a Viva Agency artists. She released hit songs such as Di Na Muli and Hindi Tayo Pwede.
When asked how she felt about her return to the Born To Be A Star stage, not as a contestant but as a mentor, Janine highlighted the opportunities she received. She added how grateful she was for Viva for providing her the success she receives today as an artist.
“Grabe until now po, I’m still trying to sink in this opportunity na nabigay sakin na dati. I can see myself there on stage as a contestant of Born To Be A Star. And now, I’m given the (a) chance to be a star agent alongside such amazing artists. I’m so grateful po to shows like this, like Born to Be a Star na nagbibigay ng platform for young artists na gusto talaga maachieve yung mga dreams nila na to become a performer and an amazing singer,” Janine admitted.
Born To Be Star returns to TV5 this January 30, 2021, Saturday, at 7 PM.