Sam Milby to younger celebs: Invest your money

MANILA, Philippines — Twelve years is a long time to be in an industry that banks on fresh talents and new faces to survive. So Sam Milby, who started out as a "Pinoy Big Brother" housemate, cannot believe he is not just around. He even has a comeback album, "Sam: 12" under Star Music.

The Fil-Am thinks it is amazing to see how times have changed. Back in the day when he was starting out in the biz, he politely called his elders Kuya, Tito or Tita.  Now, it is his turn to answer to the name Kuya Sam when newbies address him in the ABS-CBN variety show "ASAP."

Back in the day, social media was not even a glint in anyone’s world. Today, younger celebs get millions of Twitter or Instagram followers and feel that they are rulers of the universe. That is why he has words of advice for them.

“Enjoy the journey. But don’t base your self-worth on social media. Don’t measure your value as a person on (social media) comments,” Sam says.

The bottom line, he adds, is self- love. Look within – not somewhere else – for self-validation. Be your own source of strength.

Sam’s other advice centers on making hay while the sun shines. He admits it is easy to go sky’s the limit when you experience a money surge. But do not get carried away, he warns. Be practical. Invest.

Sam walks the talk. He invested in a recording studio in his own condo unit. He admits recording gear is expensive. But the passionate singer looks at it as an investment, not an expense.

“I enjoy recording for my friends when they have a mall show. They can do it in my place. They can even video edit,” he says with pride.

Sam even bought his own drone because “I want take nice drone shots.”

He also co-produces "Sam:12," his comeback album after six years.

“I don’t want to get music out of my system,”  he explains. So the album marks Sam’s return to his first love.

Someone who cares this much for his craft is bound to stay in showbiz, even in the uh, "advanced" age of 33. He knows how to look back and thank those who made his success possible.

“Give back to the fans; thank them,” he gives more words of wisdom.

This is why Sam thinks even his US-based fans whom he does not see so often feel he has not changed through the years. They even support his relationship with TV host Mari Jasmine. Fans feel happy for him when he posts a photo of their sweet moments on his Instagram account.

“She’s my inspiration. I dedicate my songs to her,” the enamored Sam relates.

Yes, he sees her in his future. That is why he can sing about love with more feelings. Does this mean he will tie the knot anytime soon?

Sam answers by way of a wish. “I hope I’ve found the one. I’m in my 30s. I’m at an age when I can get married.”

Sam is bound to make many people happy when that big day comes.