Rico J the singer as Rico J the councilor

Since Rico J. Puno became a councilor for the first district of Makati, his working routine has been a chain of socio-civic activities. There seems to be no end to invitations for every conceivable occasion like weddings, birthdays, graduation, basketball tournaments, club openings and baptisms. He seldom says no provided it doesn’t fall on a Tuesday which is reserved for session hearings.

Don’t be surprised to find Rico comforting bereaved families of his constituents since he makes it a point to do the rounds of funeral parlors once a week. "Consoling our kababayans during their time of grief and showing your concern is a big relief for them. Giving alms is only incidental," he says.

Rico never intended to join politics. He was campaigning for Jejomar Binay until someone urged him to be a candidate himself. He couldn’t back out anymore.

The former mayor commented: "You may not know it, but you are one of the most effective psychologists. Your songs embody the deepest feelings and aspirations of the common tao."

For almost three decades now, Rico continues to sing for his audience with the same energy and magnetism. Pure dynamite is how his shows abroad has been described. To abandon his craft would be like walking with one leg, he says.

In every album he makes, we witness the growth of Rico as an entertainer. It can be felt in his new album titled Aliw under BMG Records. The idea of doing an album with Eraserheads frontman Ely Buendia is an opportunity he would not want to miss but sad to say, it never materialized. Into the picture entered Bodjie Dasig whom BMG employed to continue with the venture.

With a fresh, innovative approach to music, they create new songs that make for a high-quality album. It assembles top producers and arrangers such as Vehnee Saturno, Nonoy Tan and Bodjie Dasig himself. The carrier single is Kay Hirap Mong Limutin by Lito Camo.

With Aliw, Rico J. fans can still witness an exemplary display of their idol’s suave and soulful singing style that made him a recording phenomenon back then.

The naughty touch is intact which Kay Hirap Mong Limutin can attest.

Rico’s advice to aspiring singers? "Be professional and love your work. I would not last this long if I didn’t love my work. In getting a manager, look for someone who will be loyal and who will consider you as a friend," he says.