For OPM singer-songwriter Juan Karlos, headlining a concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.
“This is a dream come true,” he said. “It proves that there is room for everyone in the music industry. I’ve always wanted this, and it’s finally happening thanks to Nathan Studios, who believes in my worth and artistry.”
Known for hit tracks like “Buwan,” “Demonyo,” and “Ere,” the 23-year-old admits that performing in a venue as grand as MOA Arena was never in his original plans.
“I’ve never really thought about having a concert at the Mall of Asia Arena,” he said. “I’m happy performing anywhere. I mean, we’ve been performing for a while now, and I’ve been content with that. It’s just more about being grateful that I can perform wherever I am.”
The idea of a solo show at the MOA Arena wasn’t even on his radar until actress Sylvia Sanchez, his High Street co-star and the head of Nathan Studios, encouraged him to take the leap. As producer of the upcoming concert, Sanchez reminded him that the concert would be as much for his fans as for himself.
“I don’t think you can ever be ready for something like this,” Juan Karlos admitted. “But Sylvia told me, ‘Wag mong isipin na para sa iyo lang ito, kasi para ito sa mga taong gusto kang makita at marinig live. Para ito sa mga fans mo’.”
Reflecting on her words, he said, “No matter how cheesy it sounds, it’s true. It made me think. I never thought of it that way before. It shifted my perspective and made me see this concert differently. It proves that there is room for everyone in the music industry,” he added, grateful for the belief Nathan Studios has shown in him.
With these new insights, Juan Karlos sees the upcoming concert as more than just a performance. For him, it’s a gathering of the people who continue to support him.
“If you wrap the whole idea with that concept in mind—of doing it for everyone who loves you and believes in you—it changes the direction and meaning of the concert. It’s more nerve-wracking, but it’s also something that comes from within,” he explained.
Talking more about Juan Karlos Live, he expressed excitement about the process of preparing for the event and gave fans a hint at what to expect.
“The concert’s production team is working hard to polish every element to provide the best possible concert experience. Of course, they’ll hear and see me perform my hits as well as a few songs that have influenced me as an artist,” he shared.
“At this point, I’m just trying to enjoy the process, focusing on the flow of the whole show and putting my energy into the things I can control, like the setlist and its presentation,” he said, adding with a laugh, “I’ll probably get more nervous as the concert date gets closer.”
Anticipation is building not only for his solo performances but also for the special guests he plans to share the stage with, including Paolo Benjamin of Ben&Ben, Zild, Moira, and Janine Berdin.
Juan Karlos Live is happening on Nov. 29 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. Tickets are available at SM Ticket outlets and at smtickets.com.
