Rock the mic with Jim Beam

MANILA, Philippines - Filipinos are music lovers by nature. No matter what genre is playing on the radio, there’s sure to be someone tapping his foot or humming along. However, it’s rock music that has struck a chord in the hearts of Pinoys. And it’s not surprising at all. Rock’s appeal is global. It can be said that rock ‘n’ roll is a universal language. A lot of bands, both local and foreign, have achieved rock superstardom through the years. And we’ve all enjoyed the tunes, the iconic melodies, the “anthems.” Some have become a part of the soundtrack of our lives. And when we do listen to them, we always want our favorite drink in hand. When it comes to rock, the best drink to have is a smooth Jim Beam bourbon mixed with cola or with other cocktails like a Manhattan, appletini or bourbon slushie.

For the past three years, Jim Beam has paid homage to good old rock ‘n’ roll with “Ignition,” a search for the country’s top rock bands. But while rock is seen as a collaboration of talents, it’s usually the lead vocalist who is considered the heart and soul. Queen wouldn’t have been the same without Freddie Mercury. Incubus wouldn’t be what we know them to be without Brandon Boyd. Journey wouldn’t have made that big comeback if it weren’t for Arnel Pineda. That’s why Jim Beam is looking for that outstanding individual who has the vocal prowess, can really rock on guitar, and who exudes the aura needed to be the ultimate frontman, It’s The Jim Beam Frontman should be able to adapt to any rock genre and take the sound to greater heights — much as this smooth bourbon amps up any drink.

Frontman-hopefuls (with no previous or existing record deals with any major record label) can get their shot at fame by uploading videos of their performances or their music files on the Jim Beam Frontman Facebook page or by logging on the www.inquirer.net (and clicking on the Jim Beam Frontman banner) or by dropping off a DVD or CD at UR 105.9 FM which is located at 4/F Ventures 1 Building, 7849 Gen. Luna corner Makati Avenue, Makati City. Early submissions get priority at the sing-off auditions to be held in the following selected bars and clubs: Lighthouse in Subic (Saturday, Nov. 21), Outpost in Cebu (Friday, Nov. 27), Bluepost in Davao (Wednesday, Dec. 2), Subdelicious in Angeles City (Friday, Dec. 4), Mag:net in Bonifacio High Street (Tuesday, Dec. 8), and Hard Rock Café in Makati (Thursday, Dec. 10). However, it’s not just the judges who have a say about who wins. Every Jim Beam cola pitcher purchase at each venue entitles the audience member to five voting forms. The winner of the Jim Beam Frontman Finals 2009 will receive P120,000 in cash, the Jim Beam Frontman Guitar trophy and the chance to perform in various gigs.

So, do you think you’ve got the skills to be the next Arnel Pineda? Do you think you can be the heart and soul of a rock band? Can you scream like Axl Rose and play the guitar like Eddie Van Halen? What are you waiting for? Grab your leather jacket and guitar — and join Jim Beam Frontman. You could very well be the next big thing in Pinoy rock!

Jim Beam Frontman is sponsored by Jim Beam, Channel V, Philippine STAR, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Libre!, Bandera, Inquirer.net, UR 105.9, NU 107, Jam 88.3, and Killer Bee. This search is organized by Crush Philippines.

For inquiries, contact Shiene Sto. Nino at 893-1434 or e-mail them at shiene@crush.com.ph. CRUSH Philippines is located at Unit 317, 3F Peninsula Court, 8735 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City.

So, come on. Life’s too short to play backup. Be a Frontman. And get the chance of a lifetime!