Ebe Dancel drops new single ‘Habangbuhay’
Hit-making singer-songwriter Ebe Dancel makes his presence felt in this month of hearts with a new single “Habangbuhay” dropped in digital stores last Friday (Feb. 11). It is also the title track of his four-song EP released today (Feb. 18) and highly anticipated by fans who are expected to put it on their playlists. That gem of a package compiles his most recent releases.
The inspirational, radio-friendly song is released and published by Widescope Entertainment, the label that became home to the former frontman of legendary band Sugarfree whose subsequent solo career turned out to be among the finest examples of a career after a successful band stint.
“‘Habangbuhay’ is a promise of a better life. It’s the realization of one’s dream of finding happiness and holding on to it for the rest of his/her life,” shared Ebe who has kept himself solidly intact throughout the pandemic through continuous creative work and by sharing his laudable skills with new-blood musicians.
“Habangbuhay” showcases the singer’s trademark tenor and refreshing rhythms that embrace his sincere lyricism. Everything in the arrangement matches the depth of his voice. Well, there’s actually more to the piece apart from being Ebe’s latest single as it is also, in his own words, “the last song in a wedding-themed EP collection.”
The first three tracks in the EP are “Manatili,” “Tanging Kailangan,” and “Huling Unang Sayaw.”
Ebe noted, “Think of it as the song you play after the reception, when the couple leaves and everyone wishes them well.”
One of the most respected names in 21st century OPM deserved a stellar cast of men behind the scenes backing him up. Three on top are executive producer Vic de Vera, supervising producer Neil Gregorio, and, yes, producer Rico Blanco.
“Habangbuhay,” which opens with the line “Umaawit ang langit sa araw na itong walang katulad,” is mixed and mastered by the equally revered Angee Rozul, with ample help from vocal recording engineers Robert Seña and King Puentespina.
A trio of competent musicians helped Ebe, with John Apura on guitars, keyboards, and strings programming, Roger Alcantara on bass, and Nash Ignacio on drums.
Ebe Dancel’s storied career that began with Sugarfree’s debut album which Blanco also produced put him in a special league of the finest songwriters and singers in the local music scene. Small surprise he is often tapped to share his experience and knowledge with budding acts, something he’s often willing to do. His current work and recording run with his home label offers him more room to explore his ever-growing artistry.
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Actress Heart Evangelista cannot help but “fangirl” over senatorial candidate and human rights lawyer Chel Diokno during their meeting in Sorsogon recently.
Heart posted on Twitter a photo of her latest encounter with Diokno when the latter visited the province during a campaign sortie. “I’m kilig. fan mode @ChelDiokno good luck po,” Evangelista tweeted.
In response, Diokno said he was the one who had a “fanboy” moment when he met Heart. “Ako po talaga yung totoong nag fanboy. It was so nice meet you, @heart021485!” Diokno responded on Twitter.
The human rights lawyer also took the time to greet Heart “advance happy birthday” ahead of her birthday on Monday (Feb. 14).
Diokno also turned into a “fan boy” during the campaign kickoff in Naga City where he met various celebrities, including Nikki Valdez, Cherry Pie Picache, Bituin Escalante, Agot Isidro, The Company and Rivermaya.
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