Having established himself in the music circle as a 14-year member of premier vocal group The Company, and being the main singer behind a couple of familiar tunes, including “Pakisabi Na Lang,” pop ballad singer Reuben Laurente has moved along in his own terms using his gift as a means of living and in staying, yes, relevant.
That he is nominated in two categories for tonight’s (Dec. 13) Aliw Awards event happening at the historic Manila Hotel is a shoutout from industry observers that he is still very much around. That is, considering he spent most of the last ten years sailing as featured singer for theater shows of the Royal Caribbean International fleet, along with the likes of Eric Somoza Arenas whom he recalled “dancing to my Basil Valdez medley.”
Reuben deservingly got Aliw nods for Best Male Cross Over Artist and Best Male Concert Artist.
“ I am honored to have been nominated from the show which I did for Pinoy Playlist Music Festival held at the BGC Arts Center last October 19,” shared the soloist in a coffee chat last week. “Thanks to Moy Ortiz, Noel Ferrer, and newly conferred National Artist Ryan Cayabyab for paving the way to present my show. I am also thankful to BGC Arts Center chair Maribel Garcia for co-presenting that event.”
That show, cutely entitled Ang Trip Ni Bentot, is his tribute to OPM.
He added, “That show was really memorable for me as it was my way of paying homage to the songs I grew up with. Thanks to Eboy Refuerzo my musical director, Naldy Rodriguez for arranging my Cayabyab Medley, and musicians Josh Royeca and John Apura.”
Since May, Reuben is on a tour of duty onboard international cruise lines, namely, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Holland America. For quite a while he’s been carrying our flag on the high seas.
Having proven himself worthy of such gigs, he is currently a headliner under the helm of Miami-based Don Casino Productions. With fireworks he is doing solo show for international guests, and even singing in Chinese, Italian, and Spanish. With a hectic schedule, he will sure be onboard the Westerdam of the Holland America cruises come Christmas and New Year celebrations. It’s a price he’s willing to pay.
Next year March 22 to 31, Reuben will be part of Ballet Philippines’ remake of the dance musical Tales of the Manuvu at the Cultural Center of the Philippines which is marking its 50th year. Upon the insistence of project coordinator Bernie Abella, he will be alternating the role of Manama along with Lorenz Martinez and Anthony Castelo.
In keeping up with today’s platform of choice, his albums Heartblends and Pop Virtuousy are available on various music streaming devices, with his latest digital release being his version of the Odette Quesada classic “You’re My Home.”
Whether out there on the ocean or back in Manila, the diligently talented Reuben Laurente is always at home or scoring home runs.