Acoustic Noel by request

MANILA, Philippines - Noel Cabangon may have joined the mainstream recording industry just a few years ago, but the singer-songwriter has already established himself as a multi-platinum recording artist with hit albums like Byahe, Panaginip and Tuloy Ang Byahe.

These albums spawned Noel’s hit revivals of Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko, Tuloy Pa Rin, Tuwing Umuulan at Kapiling Ka, Malayo Pa Ang Umaga, among others. Byahe was awarded a double platinum award, while Tuloy Ang Byahe was given a gold record award.

“I am grateful that people appreciate my own interpretation of OPM classics,” says Noel. “This new album is my own way of thanksgiving to the people who have supported me and my music.”

As a sign of gratitude, Noel asked his fans, via Facebook, late last year on what songs they want him to record.

The requests totaled to more than 1,000. The most requested songs are now part of the new album.

Produced by Universal Records, Acoustic Noel instantly zoomed to the top of music sales charts, and continues to be one of the best-selling OPM albums in the country.

The album opens with Noel’s take on the Ogie Alcasid classic Nandito Ako, the carrier single of the album. His vocals soars in his rendition of Rivermaya’s Himala.

Noel turns sentimental in ballads like Basil Valdez’s Araw, Gabi and Aiza Seguerra’s Pagdating Ng Panahon.

He also breathe new life to band hits like Parokya Ni Edgar’s Harana, Rizal Underground’s Bilanggo and Eraserheads’ Huwag Mo Nang Itanong.

OPM classics also made it to the list such as APO Hiking Society’s Tuyo Nang Damdamin and Asin’s Itanong Mo Sa Mga Bata.

Noel’s previously-recorded songs, Nag-iisa, Wala Ka Na and Awit ng Bahaghari, have been given new versions in the album.

Asked what he considered when he was choosing the songs, Noel says, “Of course, the songs have to be requested by more people. Plus, I also had to think if I can give the song my own, distinct flavor. Third, it had to be OPM.”

Noel is the vice president of the Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit.