From sentimental to millennial

“Lunes, nang tayo’y magkakilala. Martes, nang tayo’y muling nagkita. Miyerkules, nagtapat ka ng ’yong pag-ibig. Huwebes ay inibig din kita. Biyernes ay puno ng pagmamahalan, mga puso natin ay sadyang nag-aawitan. Sabado, tayo’y biglang nagkatampuhan. At pagsapit ng Linggo giliw ako’y iyong iniwan.”

The sentimental lyrics of Imelda Papin’s Isang Linggong Pag-Ibig evoke melancholia brought about by the abrupt conclusion of a week-long love affair. The song that was released in 1992 is a favorite anthem of the broken-hearted who would belt out animatedly the forlorn lines of the famous ditty. 

Isang Linggong Pag-Ibig, composed by Mon del Rosario, turned into a phenomenal hit and dominated the local airwaves for a substantial period of time, earning multiple platinum sales records for the original producer and the iconic title Jukebox Queen for Imelda.

The original song never loses its popularity and charm almost three decades after its release. The OPM classic has now taken a refreshing transformation with its revival by talented young singer-actor LA Santos. To keep up with the changing times, LA’s rendition created a millennial vibe in contrast with the sentimental appeal of the original’s ballad. Its latest style is an evolution in rhythm, slightly upbeat while keeping its fidelity to the nostalgic feel of the previous composition.

Imelda, who produced the song revival, presented LA to the media during a formal launch that was held at Papa Kim’s in Tomas Morato, Quezon City.

LA shared in an interview, “I was six or seven years old when I first heard Isang Linggong Pag-Ibig. My mom was cooking in the kitchen while the song was being played on the radio that time.” The two singers finally crossed paths when LA performed as front act in The Legendary Jukebox Queens concert of Imelda, Claire dela Fuente and Eva Eugenio at Resorts World Manila a few years ago. According to LA, they hit it off right away and become good friends since then.

He is grateful to the singing icon for giving him the opportunity to revive Isang Linggong Pag-Ibig. “One night, tinawagan ako ni Tita Mel at sinabi niya na sa akin na raw iyong song. Of course, I immediately said yes. I’ve long wanted to revive Isang Linggong Pag-Ibig. I am very blessed and deeply overwhelmed but I know that I have to work diligently in order to meet the expectations of the people and to ensure the success of the song revival.”

LA explains that his version of Isang Linggong Pag-Ibig is different from his other songs because it is a female song and he is the first male singer to revive it. Contrary to the song’s theme, LA candidly reveals he has not yet experienced having a one-week love affair.

LA feels honored to be included in the league of millennial singers who revive classic OPM songs. He wants to sing Bakit (more popularly renowned for its chorus, “kung liligaya ka sa piling ng iba”) if given another chance to revive another Imelda Papin hit song.

The young singer-actor has found his niche in music. He is enjoying all the big breaks coming his way. LA has a self-titled debut album which contains six originals and staged a sold-out major solo concert at the Music Museum last year.

Aside from singing, LA has now ventured into acting. His recent acting foray was in the action movie Maria topbilled by Cristine Reyes.

After a short vacation in Canada, LA gears up with several projects including the upcoming concert titled Imelda Papin: The Queen of Music (45 Years of Timeless Hits Celebration) where he is the special guest performer. The anniversary concert will be held at the Araneta Coliseum on June 27. He is currently busy shooting the music video for Isang Linggong Pag-Ibig which will be released soon.

LA looks forward to an exciting career. How does he see himself five years from now? “My topmost priorities are my career and studies. You can expect more from me when it comes to my singing career. A lot of songs will be in the works. I hope to do more movies that will improve my talent as an actor. I will have more engagements with my fans.”

His mother, Florita Santos, is a remarkable presence in his life. LA has the utmost love and attention of his mother who sees to it that her son lives his life to the fullest. “I love my mom! Her unconditional love inspires and encourages me to dream big for myself, to conquer my fears, and to be the best version of myself. Mom always reminds me to have a positive outlook in life despite the circumstances. I’m thankful for all the sacrifices she has done for me. Mom, I love you and thank you for giving me the gift of life. Thank you for always supporting me in my career and for always taking care of everyone. You’re not just a mom to me but to a lot of people, too.”