My 54th Grammy Awards Predictions

The 54th Grammy Awards award is on tomorrow (9 am here in the Philippines via Star World) and while I usually love to see upsets in award shows not this time. I don't want an upset this year! I really hope Adele will win the Album of the Year, Record of the Year and Song of the Year awards as she clearly deserves it. :D Anyway, here are my predictions for the selected categories:

Album of the Year
Winner: 21 - Adele
Wildcard: Doo-Wops & Hooligans - Bruno Mars

Record of the Year
Winner: Rolling in the Deep - Adele
Wildcard: Holocene - Bon Iver

Song of the Year
Winner: Rolling in the Deep - Adele
Wildcard: The Cave - Mumford & Sons

Best New Artist
Winner: Bon Iver
Wildcard: The Band Perry

Best Pop Solo Performance
Winner: Someone Like You - Adele
Wildcard: Grenade - Bruno Mars

Best Pop Vocal Album
Winner: 21 - Adele
Wildcard: Doo-Wops & Hooligans - Bruno Mars

Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
Winner: Moves Like Jagger - Maroon Five feat Christina Aguilera
Wildcard: Body and Soul - Tony Bennet and Amy Winehouse

Best Dance Recording
Winner: Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites – Skrillex
Wildcard: "Call Your Girlfriend" – Robyn

Best Rock Performance
Winner: Walk - Foo Fighters
Wildcard: Lotus Flower - Radiohead

Best Rock Song:
Winner: The Cave - Mumford & Sons
Wildcard: Every Teardrop is a Waterfall - Coldplay

Best Rock Album
Winner: Wasting Light - Foo Fighters
Wildcard: Rock 'n' Roll Party (Honoring Les Paul) – Jeff Beck

Best Alternative Album
Winner: Bon Iver - Bon Iver
Wildcard: The King of Limbs – Radiohead

Best R&B Performance
Winner: Far Away – Marsha Ambrosius
Wildcard: "Is This Love" – Corinne Bailey Rae

Best Traditional R&B Peformance
Winner: Fool for You – Cee Lo Green featuring Melanie Fiona
Wildcard: Surrender – Betty Wright & The Roots

Best R&B Song
Winner: Far Away – Marsha Ambrosius
Wildcard: Fool for You – Cee Lo Green featuring Melanie Fiona

Best R&B Album
Winner: F.A.M.E - Chris Brown
Wildcard: Love Letter - R. Kelly

Best Rap Performance
Winner: Otis – Jay-Z & Kanye West (featuring Otis Redding)
Wildcard: Look at Me Now – Chris Brown featuring Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes

Best Rap/Sung Collaboration
Winner: All of the Lights – Kanye West featuring Rihanna, Fergie & Kid Cudi
Wildcard: I Need a Doctor – Dr. Dre featuring Eminem & Skylar Grey

Best Rap Song
Winner: All of the Lights" – Kanye West featuring Rihanna, Fergie & Kid Cudi
Wildcard: Otis" – Jay-Z & Kanye West (featuring Otis Redding)

Best Rap Album
Winner: Watch The Throne - Kanye West & Jay-Z
Wildcard: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy – Kanye West

Best Country Solo Performance
Winner: Dirt Road Anthem - Jason Aldean
Wildcard: Honey Bee - Blake Shelton

Best Country Duo/Group Performance
Winner: Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not – Thompson Square
Wildcard: Don't You Wanna Stay" – Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson

Best Country Song
Winner: God Gave Me You - Blake Shelton
Wildcard: Mean - Taylor Swift

Best Country Album
Winner: Speak Now - Taylor Swift
Wildcard: My Kinda Party - Jason Aldean

Best Song Written for Visual Media
Winner: You Haven't Seen the Last of Me - Cher (Burlesque)
Wildcard: "I See the Light" - Mandy Moore & Zachary Levi (Tangled

Best Short Form Music Video
Winner: First of the Year (Equinox) – Skrillex
Wildcard: Rolling in the Deep - Adele

R.I.P Whitney Houston

When I saw this on Twitter earlier I thought this one of those lame, hoax RIP tweets that manages to get in the trending topics (like R.I.P Cher and R.I.P Adele) but unfortunately Whitney Houston's publicist confirmed her death to the Associated Press. There's no news yet what's the cause of her death but many are speculating that it could be substance abuse. It's really sad that the journey of one of the biggest pop icon ended this way. It's sad that she became a cautionary tale and because of her personal troubles many people have forgotten how great she was until now that she has passed away. Tomorrow is the GRAMMY Awards and I'm sure there will be tribute. R.I.P Whitney Houston. The song below is a personal favorite of mine ever since I was a child "The Greatest Love of All".

Spotlight: "If You Asked Me To" - Angeline Quinto & Erik Santos

So when I recently saw the trailer for Star Cinema's upcoming John Lloyd Cruz-Angel Locsin romcom "Unofficially Yours" (which yes I will watch of course) and heard this song, it was love at first listen. You know what I'm tired of covers/revivals that has been dominating the local music scene but for some reason this cover of the Patti Labelle original (Celine Dion also has a version of this song) struck a chord on me. The voices of Quinto and Santos blended well and this is really a good cover of the song and not just a karaoke version if you get what I mean. I welcome remakes if they are well done and this one is particularly strong.

Billboard Hot 100 (Issue Date: Feb. 18, 2012)

Kelly Clarkson is definitely back stronger! Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) dislodges Adele's Set Fire to the Rain for the top spot on this week's Billboard Hot 100. This is Clarkson's 3rd Hot 100 #1 hit. She first hit the top spot a decade ago with her American Idol coronation song A Moment Like This while she didn't hit the top spot again until in 2009 with My Life Would Suck Without You. Interesting enough Clarkson failed to get a #1 from her breakout album "Breakaway". Her highest charting song there was Since U Been Gone which stalled at #2 in 2005, it could have hit #1 but 50 Cent's Candy Shop was just too strong back then. But look sever years later, who's still charting? Clarkson is still the lone American Idol alum to have multiple #1 singles. Arguably, Clarkson's win help bring American Idol some level of cred as oppose to being just a hype machine.

Adele and Clarkson will likely battle it out for the next couple of weeks. The former is ahead in airplay but the latter is ahead in sales. Nevertheless, it's quite a refreshing to see two artists with no ounce of autotune in their vocals with non-Rhythmic songs dominating the chart.

Three songs in the top 10 achieved new peaks: Jessie J's Domino (#6), Tyga's Rack City (#7) and Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dog and Bruno Mars' Young, Wild and Free (#8). This week's top debut comes from Madonna with Give Me All Your Luvin', the lead single from her upcoming album MDNA, which bows at #13. This is the pop legend's 44th Top 20 hit. The song which features Nicki Minaj and M.I.A got a boost on this year's Super Bowl where Madonna had a well-received halftime performance.

Speaking of Super Bowl boost expect LMFAO's Sexy and I Know It (#9) and Party Rock Anthem (#20) to return to the top 5 and top 10 ranks again, respectively as LMFAO performed with Madonna during the halftime show. Also receiving a boost is We Are Young by Fun. feat Janelle Monae. The song earlier got a boost when Glee covered the song which result to sales boast good enough for the single to debut at #53 but the song was used on commercial aired during the Super Bowl and the song immediately shot up on iTunes and is currently the #1 song.

Speaking of Glee, 5 tracks enter this week from their Michael Jackson tribute episode headed by Smooth Criminal (#26) followed by Human Nature (#56), Black and White (#64), Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' (#78) and Bad (#80).

Adele's Rolling in the Deep hangs on to #44 just down a notch from #43 last week on its 57th week on the chart. Retiring to recurrent status this week are Headlines by Drake (25 weeks, peak: #13), You Make Me Feel Good by Cobra Starship feat Sabi (29 weeks, peak: #7) and Pumped Up Kicks by Foster The People (40 weeks, peak: #3). Lady GaGa's Marry the Night drops out this week as well after just 12 weeks on the chart and peaking a #29. This is the lowest charting official single from Lady GaGa as her first 11 singles all made it to the top 10.

Here is this week's Billboard Hot 100 as posted at Pulse Music Board:

01 02 07 Kelly Clarkson, Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)
02 01 23 Adele, Set Fire To The Rain
03 04 19 Flo Rida, Good Feeling
04 03 20 Rihanna Featuring Calvin Harris, We Found Love
05 05 10 David Guetta Featuring Nicki Minaj, Turn Me On
06 08 17 Jessie J, Domino
07 10 11 Tyga, Rack City
08 12 17 Snoop Dogg & Wiz Khalifa Featuring Bruno Mars, Young, Wild & Free
09 07 23 LMFAO, Sexy And I Know It
10 06 19 Bruno Mars, It Will Rain

11 11 26 Jay-Z & Kanye West, Ni**as In Paris
12 19 08 Gym Class Heroes Featuring Neon Hitch, Ass Back Home
13 NE 01 Madonna Featuring Nicki Minaj & M.I.A., Give Me All Your Luvin'
14 09 17 Katy Perry, The One That Got Away
15 13 14 Pitbull Featuring Chris Brown, International Love
16 16 12 Drake Featuring Lil Wayne, The Motto
17 14 18 Big Sean Featuring Nicki Minaj, Dance (A$$)
18 15 33 Maroon 5 Featuring Christina Aguilera, Moves Like Jagger
19 18 26 Gavin DeGraw, Not Over You
20 20 46 LMFAO Featuring Lauren Bennett & GoonRock, Party Rock Anthem

21 17 23 J. Cole, Work Out
22 21 31 Adele, Someone Like You
23 26 12 Drake Featuring Rihanna, Take Care
24 22 23 David Guetta Featuring Usher, Without You
25 23 33 Selena Gomez & The Scene, Love You Like A Love Song
26 NE 01 Glee Cast Featuring 2Cellos, Smooth Criminal
27 31 05 Gotye Featuring Kimbra, Somebody That I Used To Know
28 25 19 Luke Bryan, I Don't Want This Night To End
29 24 34 Gym Class Heroes Featuring Adam Levine, Stereo Hearts
30 40 04 The Wanted, Glad You Came

31 27 15 Toby Keith, Red Solo Cup
32 29 18 Hot Chelle Rae Featuring New Boyz, I Like It Like That
33 30 17 Drake Featuring Nicki Minaj, Make Me Proud
34 28 13 Rihanna, You Da One
35 34 16 Chris Young, You
36 32 21 Coldplay, Paradise
37 41 22 The Band Perry, All Your Life
38 51 16 Christina Perri, A Thousand Years
39 42 08 Chris Brown Featuring Kevin McCall, Strip
40 33 14 Breathe Carolina, Blackout

41 63 07 Fun. Featuring Janelle Monae, We Are Young
42 46 13 Taylor Swift, Ours
43 38 11 Outasight, Tonight Is The Night
44 43 57 Adele, Rolling In The Deep
45 35 22 Kelly Clarkson, Mr. Know It All
46 37 40 Lady Antebellum, Just A Kiss
47 47 25 Colbie Caillat, Brighter Than The Sun
48 44 15 Wale Featuring Miguel, Lotus Flower Bomb
49 45 45 Pitbull Featuring Ne-Yo, AfroJack & Nayer, Give Me Everything
50 50 09 Jake Owen, Alone With You

51 53 16 The Fray, Heartbeat
52 48 20 Eric Church, Drink In My Hand
53 52 10 J. Cole Featuring Trey Songz, Can't Get Enough
54 54 08 Keith Urban, You Gonna Fly
55 65 04 Train, Drive By
56 NE 01 Glee Cast, Human Nature
57 RE 07 Lil Wayne Featuring Bruno Mars, Mirror
58 66 13 Dierks Bentley, Home
59 60 07 Lee Brice, A Woman Like You
60 62 12 Avicii, Levels

61 56 19 Zac Brown Band, Keep Me In Mind
62 67 13 Kenny Chesney, Reality
63 69 12 Beyoncé, Love On Top
64 NE 01 Glee Cast, Black Or White
65 77 06 Rihanna Featuring Jay-Z, Talk That Talk
66 87 03 Miranda Lambert, Over You
67 68 18 Martina McBride, I'm Gonna Love You Through It
68 70 07 Young Jeezy Featuring Jay-Z & Andre 3000, I Do
69 59 03 Nicki Minaj, Stupid Hoe
70 57 03 Tyga Featuring Lil Wayne, Faded

71 76 04 Lady Antebellum, Dancin' Away With My Heart
72 74 05 Jay-Z & Kanye West, Gotta Have It
73 81 02 Blake Shelton, Drink On It
74 58 19 B.o.B Featuring Lil Wayne, Strange Clouds
75 75 03 Tim McGraw, Better Than I Used To Be
76 55 19 T-Pain Featuring Wiz Khalifa & Lily Allen, 5 O'Clock
77 100 05 Flo Rida Featuring Sia, Wild Ones
78 NE 01 Glee Cast, Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
79 92 02 LMFAO, Sorry For Party Rocking
80 NE 01 Glee Cast, Bad

81 78 05 Jason Mraz, I Won't Give Up
82 71 13 The Black Keys, Lonely Boy
83 80 07 Ellie Goulding, Lights
84 79 13 Scotty McCreery, The Trouble With Girls
85 73 16 Rick Ross Featuring Nicki Minaj, You The Boss
86 61 08 will.i.am Featuring Mick Jagger & Jennifer Lopez, T.H.E. (The Hardest Ever)
87 72 20 Jason Aldean, Tattoos On This Town
88 82 10 Justin Moore, Bait A Hook
89 90 05 Montgomery Gentry, Where I Come From
90 84 12 Hunter Hayes, Storm Warning

91 97 03 Mary J. Blige Featuring Drake, Mr. Wrong
92 85 15 Florence + The Machine, Shake It Out
93 94 03 George Strait, Love's Gonna Make It Alright
94 83 18 Beyoncé Featuring André 3000, Party
95 89 07 Waka Flocka Flame Featuring Drake, Round Of Applause
96 86 03 Jay-Z & Kanye West Featuring Frank Ocean, No Church In The Wild
97 NE 01 Melanie Fiona, 4 AM
98 88 04 Foster The People, Don't Stop (Color On The Walls)
99 99 02 Diggy Featuring Jeremih, Do It Like You
100 RE 02 Brantley Gilbert, You Don't Know Her Like I Do

Chart Recap Extra: Album Sales 71

Here are the best selling albums from Odyssey & Astroplus Record Bars and My Music Store Philippines online digital music store. As always, these charts are first posted at the Philippine Music Charts Thread at Pinoyexchange.com. Also thanks to Philcharts.com

My Music Store Philippines Top 20 Albums
as of February 10, 2012

1. Up All Night - One Direction
2. No Water, No Moon - Bamboo
3. Teenage Dream - Katy Perry
4. Patuloy ang Pangarap - Angeline Quinto
5. With Love - Gary Valenciano
6. Zia - Zia Quizon
7. Walang Hanggan OST - Various Artists
8. Mr. Simple - Super Junior
9. Somedaydream - Somedaydream
10. Sorry for Party Rocking - LMFAO
11. Middle-Aged Juvenile Novelty Pop Rockers - Parokya Ni Edgar
12. Byahe - Noel Cabangon
13. Songs from The Vault - Aiza Seguerra
14. Slow Rock Volume 1/2 - Hijo
15. Unbroken - Demi Lovato
16. Hold On Til The Night - Greyson Chance
17. 2011 SMTown Winter - Jang Ri In
18. Mylo Xyloto - Coldplay
19. Awit Para Sa'Yo - Erik Santos
20. Talk That Talk - Rihanna

To see the full TOP 100, click here

Odyssey Top-Selling Albums
January 23 – 29, 2012

Overall

1. Mr. Taxi - Girls Generation (MCA Music)
2. The Boys - Girls Generation (MCA Music)
3. Kendeng Kendeng - Willie Revillame (Viva Records)
4. Grammy Nominees 2012 - Various Artists (MCA Music)
5. Patuloy Ang Pangarap - Angeline Quinto (Star Records)
6. Basil Valdez - Basil Valdez (Vicor Music)
7. Mr. Simple - Super Junior (Universal Records)
8. 21 - Adele (Warner Music)
9. Teenage Dream - Katy Perry (Polyeast Records)
10. The Hottest Hits… Ever - Various Artist (MCA Music)

OPM

1. Kendeng Kendeng - Willie Revillame (Viva Records)
2. Patuloy Ang Pangarap - Angeline Quinto (Star Records)
3. Basil Valdez - Basil Valdez (Vicor Music)
4. Syempre - Willie Revillame (Viva Records)
5. With Love - Gary V. (Star Records)
6. No Water, No Moon - Bamboo (Polyeast Records)
7. Annebisyosa - Anne Curtis (Viva Records)
8. Today’s Favorite Love Songs Unplugged, Vol. 7 -Various Artists (Ivory Records)
9. Forevermore - Juris (Star Records)
10. Stay Alive - Nina (Universal Records)

Astrovision/Astroplus Top-Sellers
January 30 – February 05, 2012

Overall

1. Up All Night - One Direction (Sony-Ivory)
2. The First - Shinee (Polyeast Records)
3. Walang Hanggan OST - Various Artists (Star Records)
4. Patuloy Ang Pangarap - Angeline Quinto (Star Records)
5. Live At The Royal Albert Hall - Adele (Warner Music)
6. Grammy Nominees 2012 - Various Artists (MCA Music)
7. Syempre - Willie Revillame (Viva Records)
8. Teenage Dream - Katy Perry (Polyeast Records)
9. The Hottest Hits… Ever - Various Artists (MCA Music)
10. With Love - Gary V. (Star Records)
11. Basil Valdez - Basil Valdez (Vicor Music)
12. Byahe - Noel Cabangon (Universal Records)
13. Speak Now: World Tour -Taylor Swift (MCA Music)
14. The Boys - Girls Generation (MCA Music)
15. Forevermore - Juris (Star Records)
16. 21 - Adele (Warner Music)

OPM

1. Walang Hanggan OST - Various Artists (Star Records)
2. Patuloy Ang Pangarap - Angeline Quinto (Star Records)
3. Syempre - Willie Revillame (Viva Records)
4. With Love -Gary V. (Star Records)
5. Basil Valdez - Basil Valdez (Vicor Music)
6. Byahe - Noel Cabangon (Universal Records)
7. Forevermore - Juris (Star Records)
8. Kendeng Kendeng - Willie Revillame (Viva Records)
9. No Water, No Moon - Bamboo (Polyeast Records)
10. Songs From The Vault - Aiza Seguerra (Star Records)

Spotlight: ABC's The River

This new suspense drama will premiere in the U.S today on ABC. I liked the trailer, it gives a creepy feeling. I think this has a shot to do well on the network. It's quite different from any broadcast network offering right now. And never underestimate the audience's appetite for horror. The first season only has 8 episodes and if this becomes a hit, the second season will air non-stop next season probably midseason again ala Lost and 24 (speaking of Jack Bauer's wife stars here in this show! haha!) Anyway, I haven't seen the pilot though (but I will soon) so this is basically first impression thoughts.

Chart Recap 184 (Philippine Music Charts)

Here is this week's recap of weekly music charts in Mega Manila FM radio stations. These charts are first gathered and first posted at the Philippine Music Charts Thread over at Pinoyexchange.com. If you want to check out last week's recap then you can find it here and as for the latest available albums charts just go here

My Music Store Philippines Top 20 Songs
as of Feb. 3, 2012

1. We Found Love - Rihanna feat David Guetta
2. Moves Like Jagger - Maroon Five feat Christina Aguilera
3. One Thing - One Direction
4. Hey Daydreamer - Somedaydream
5. Bakit Pa Ba - Sarah Geronimo
6. Domino - Jessie J
7. Wait - David Archuleta
8. Ours - Taylor Swift
9. The One That Got Away - Katy Perry
10. What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) - Kelly Clarkson
11. You Da One - Rihanna
12. Stargazer - Sponge Cola
13. Princess of China - Coldplay feat Rihanna
14. Ako na Lang - Zia
15. Questions - Bamboo
16. Marry The Night - Lady GaGa
17. Super Bass - Nicki Minaj
18. Ang Sarap Maging Single - Eevee
19. Beautiful to Me - Christian Bautista
20. Tinamaan Ako - Anne Curtis

Rest of the Top 100 is here

MYX Hit Chart
February 5-11, 2012

1. One Direction - One Thing (3rd week at #1)
2. Sarah Geronimo - Bakit Pa Ba
3. Yeng Constantino - Pag-Ibig
4. Donghae & Eunhyuk - Oppa Oppa
5. David Archuleta - Wait
6. Taylor Swift - Ours
7. Greyson Chance - Hold on 'Til the Night
8. Never the Strangers - Alive
9. Sponge Cola - Stargazer
10. Christian Bautista - Beautiful to Me
11. Lady Gaga - Marry the Night
12. Slapshock - Ngayon Na
13. Rihanna - You Da One
14. Zia Quizon - Dear Lonely (new entry)
15. Kelly Clarkson - Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)
16. Katy Perry - The One That Got Away
17. Gloc-9 feat. Denise Barbacena - Hari ng Tondo
18. Eevee - Ang Sarap Maging Single
19. Chicosci - Unbelievable
20. Kamikazee - Tagpuan (new entry)

Pinoy MYX Countdown
February 4-10, 2012

1. Sarah Geronimo - Bakit Pa Ba (3rd week at #1)
2. Yeng Constantino - Pag-Ibig
3. Never the Strangers - Alive
4. Sponge Cola - Stargazer
5. Christian Bautista - Beautiful to Me
6. Slapshock - Ngayon Na
7. Zia Quizon - Dear Lonely (new entry)
8. Gloc-9 feat. Denise Barbacena - Hari ng Tondo
9. Eevee - Ang Sarap Maging Single
10. Chicosci - Unbelievable
11. Kamikazee - Tagpuan (new entry)
12. Hijo - Di Mo na Kaya
13. Kiss Jane - Tayong Dalawa
14. Krissy & Ericka - 12:51 (new entry)
15. Sitti - Sinong Mag-Aakala (new entry)
16. Karylle - Basically
17. Kilos - Heart of Legends
18. Giniling Festival - Burgis
19. The Bloomfields - It's Complicated (new entry)
20. 1:43 - Sa Isang Sulyap Mo (new entry)

Pick of the Week
GnB feat. Kai Maningo and Dice - Don't Lose Control

MYX International Top 20
February 4-10, 2012

1. One Direction - One Thing (3rd week at #1)
2. Donghae & Eunhyuk - Oppa Oppa
3. David Archuleta - Wait
4. Taylor Swift - Ours
5. Greyson Chance - Hold on 'Til the Night
6. Lady Gaga - Marry the Night
7. Rihanna - You Da One
8. Kelly Clarkson - Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)
9. Katy Perry - The One That Got Away
10. Super Junior - Superman
11. One Direction - What Makes You Beautiful
12. Westlife - Beautiful World
13. Kis-My-Ft2 - We Never Give Up
14. ZE:A - Watch Out
15. Beyoncé - Dance for You
16. Selena Gomez and the Scene - Hit the Lights
17. Pitbull feat. Chris Brown - International Love
18. Rihanna feat. Calvin Harris - We Found Love
19. Adele - Turning Tables (new entry)
20. JYJ - In Heaven (new entry)

Tambayan 101.9 Top 20
February 4 - 10, 2011

1. Moves Like Jagger - Maroon 5 feat. Christina Aguilera (4th Week)
2. Tinamaan Ako - Anne Curtis
3. I Won't Last A Day Without You - Sarah Geronimo
4. Kaba - Sam Milby
5. Halik - Kamikazee
6. Give Me Everything - Pitbull feat. Neyo, Afrojack & Nayer
7. Paano Na Ang Puso Ko - Bugoy Drilon
8. Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay - Sponge Cola
9. Kulang Ako Kung Wala Ka - Erik Santos
10. Gisingin Ang Puso - Liezel Garcia
11. Saan Darating Ang Umaga - Angeline Quinto
12. Hindi Kita Iiwan - Sam Milby
13. Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala - Bugoy Drilon & Liezel Garcia (NEW)
14. God Gave Me You - Bryan White
15. Di Bale Na - KC Concepcion
16. Mahalin Ng Totoo - Toni Gonzaga
17. Ako Nalang - Zia Quizon
18 Marry Your Daughter - Brian McKnight
19. If You Ask Me To - Eric Santos & Angeline Quinto (NEW)
20. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar w/ Gloc9

99.5 RT 30 'RT 30 Countdown
Feb. 3, 2012

30. Safetysuit - Get Around This
29. Pupil - 20/20
28. Katy Perry - The One That Got Away
27. The Naked and Famous - Young Blood
26. Kashmir - Electrified Love
25. Two Door Cinema Club - Undercover Martyn
24. The Knocks feat. Gary Go - Magic
23. 311 - Count Me In
22. The Black Keys - Howlin’ For You
21. Morgan Page feat. Greg Laswell - Addicted
20. Foster The People - Pumped Up Kicks
19. Reform The Resistance - Tonight We Ride
18. Cage The Elephant - Aberdeen
17. The Drums - How It Ended
16. Death Cab for Cutie - Underneath The Sycamore
15. Four Years Strong - Just Drive
14. The Bloomfields - It’s Complicated
13. Angels and Airwaves - Surrender
12. The Subways - It’s A Party
11. Friendly Fires - Hurting
10. Icona Pop - Nights Like This
9. Cake - Mustache Man
8. Never The Strangers - Alive
7. Mutemath - Blood Pressure
6. Florence and the Machine - Shake It Out
5. Penguin Prison - Don’t Fuss With My Money
4. Foster The People - I Would Do Anything For You
3. Kidda - The Whistler
2. Blink 182 - After Midnight
1. M83 - Midnight City

Mellow 947 10 Strong Countdown
Feb. 3, 2012

1. Push - Avril Lavigne
2. Turning Tables - Adele
3. Heartbeat - The Fray
4. A Thousand Years - Christina Perri
5. The One That Got Away - Katy Perry
6. You Da One - Rihanna
7. Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) - Kelly Clarkson
8. It Will Rain - Bruno Mars
9. Young, Wild and Free - Snoop Dog and Wiz Khalifa feat Bruno Mars
10. Ours - Taylor Swift

Wave 891 Soul Review Countdown
February 3, 2012

1. Talk that Talk - Rihanna feat Jay-Z
2. Slide Over - Baby Bash feat Miguel
3. Ride 4 U - Far East Movement feat Kid Cudi and Chip the Ripper
4. Sabotage - Wale feat. Lloyd
5. Only Wanna Give It To You - Elle Varner feat J. Cole
6. The Woman You Love - Ashanti feat Busta Rhymes
7. If You Want - Brandon Starz feat Sammie
8. Already There - John West feat Big Sean
9. The Champ - Nelly
10. A-- Back Home - Gym Class Heroes Ft Neon Hitch
11. Naked - Dev feat T-Pain
    
12. Young, Wild and Free - Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa feat. Bruno Mars
13. T.H.E (The Hardest Ever)- will.i.am feat Jennifer Lopez and Mick Jagger
14. Faded - Tyga feat Lil Wayne
    
15. Fireball - Willow Smith feat Nicki Minaj

97.9 Home Radio Easy 10 Countdown
February 3, 2012

1. Safe & Sound - Taylor Swift feat Civil Wars
2. Marry Your Daughter - Brian McKnight
3. A Thousand Years - Christina Perri
4. Lighthouse - Westlife
5. Born This Way - Maria Aragon
6. Constant Change - The Manhattan Connection
7. Moves Like Jagger-Maroon5 feat. Christina Aguilera
8. Waiting for Daylight - A1
9. Tinamaan Ako - Anne Curtis
10. Ours - Taylor Swift

RX 93.1: The Countdown Top7 and The Wannabees

1. What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) - Kelly Clarkson (2nd week at #1)
2. I Won't Give Up - Jason Mraz
3. Marry The Night - Lady Gaga
4. Set Fire To The Rain - Adele
5. Criminal - Britney Spears
6. Dear Lonely - Zia Quizon
7. What Makes You Beautiful - One Direction
8. Astronaut - Simple Plan
9. Safe & Sound - Taylor Swift feat Civil Wars
10. Young Wild and Free - Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa
11. Lonely Boys - The Black Keys
12. Take Care - Drake feat. Rihanna
13. With Your Love - Cher Lloyd feat. Mike Posner
14. The One That Got Away - Katy Perry
15. Don't Stop - Foster The People
16. Fight for You - Jason DeRulo
17. Without You - David Guetta feat. Usher
18. You Da One - Rihanna
19. A Thousand Years - Christina Perri
20. International Love - Pitbull feat. Chris Brown

Seven

Today my blog turns 7! Woot! Up to now I'm amazed that somehow I managed to keep this blog alive especially that this blog started when I was just exploring the world wide web for the first time. Yes, I only became "Internet literate" in 2004 when I entered c0llege and Blogger is one of the first sites I experimented with. This blog is so different now when it first started and as you can see in "About Forg Files" on the right side, my blog is now a hodgepodge of personal stories and pop culture posts but this will always be personal. Friendster, Multiply, Plurk, Twitter and Facebook came and go but I still stuck with this. Once again thank you to my readers for visiting my blog :) Anyway, to celebrate my blog's 7th anniversary let me dish out 7 notable blog entries:

1. Dreams, frustrations, inhibitions, decisions..... (February 4, 2005)

My very first blog entry and this is where I opined some issues I had as a college freshman. Reading it (and the comment I received) makes me smile.

2. Things I Learned from My Subic trip (May 5, 2005)

This blog entry was special because the Bianca Gonzales posted a comment! Well, this was her pre-PBB days and back then she would reply to all the bloggers who comments on her site. You don't know much "kilig" I felt on that day.

3. Reasons why stereotypically I'm not a man (January 7, 2006)

This is where I list down the reasons why some people thought that I was gay. And you know what reading that blog entry again made me smile because some of those "man stereotypes" that I don't have I actually found in some gay men I know so yeah never stereotype guys ;) And well except for #9, I still have those "unmanly" qualities. Well thinking about it #4 does not exactly apply to me anymore but I never go that far and I'm still polite :D

4. The Biggest Challenge (April 2007)

This is where I shared how I felt when it was announced that I would be the Editor in Chief of Heraldo Filipino Team 22. If you check out my very first blog entry, who would have thought that day would ever happen at all. Definitely it was one of the happiest days of my life.

5. Saddest Birthday (September 2007)

I celebrated my 20th birthday a few days after my beloved grandmother Mama Iyang passed away. Whenever I remember that day it still makes me sad.

6. Maintain This Frequency! (March 2008)

This post actually talked about the resurrection of Campus Radio via Campus FM 99.5 (which lasted for 5 months unfortunately). This blog entry is special because I also talked about my "renewed" love for radio that led me to start the Philippine Music Charts Thread which as you may notice became the bread and butter of this blog :D

7. The Third First Day (July 2, 2009)

This refers to my first day of job for the third time haha! And well I'm really glad that after two short-lived failures jobs, I finally landed one that suits me and I'm still here two and a half years later! This job ain't perfect and I do have some issues but I learned a lot from here and I'm very thankful that God led me to this job. I don't know what the future holds for me but for now I'm holding on because well I can see a future so let's wait and see...

***

Let me also share my seven most viewed blog entries based on Blogger Statistics and it's no surprise that 6 out 7 are all about charts! Although it should be noted that Blogger Statistics coverage started on May 2009 only so my posts before that are not counted. I'm surprised though that my most viewed post is a movie review! I guess thank you to the Mara Clara, Kathryn Bernardo, and Julia Montes fans :D

1. Review: Way Back Home [August 21, 2011]
2. Billboard Hot 100 (Issue Date: September 11, 2010) [September 23, 2010]
3. Swift Leads Billboard 200, Eminem Soars Back to #2 [January 6, 2011]
4. Chart Recap 104 (Philippine Music Charts) [July 26, 2010]
5. Chart Recap 101 (Philippine Music Charts) [July 5, 2010]
6. Chart Recap 108 (Philippine Music Charts) [August 4, 2010]
7. Chart Recap 107 (Philippine Music Charts) [August 6, 2010]

Billboard Hot 100 (Issue Date: Feb. 11, 2012)

Another double victory for Adele as Set Fire to the Rain logs a second week atop the Billboard Hot 100 while her album "21" spends its 18th week at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart. Adele is set to perform on this year's Grammy awards where she is expected to rack up a lot of awards so there's a strong chance she'll own the chart for the whole month. But it's no lock as Kelly Clarkson's Stronger (What Doesn't Killy You) zooms #8 to #2 this week and is currently the best selling song in the US right now. Clarkson's song still lags behind in airplay but is increasing rapidly so this will be a close fight. If Stronger manages to hit the top spot it will be Clarkson's 3rd #1. No American Idol alum has netted two, let alone three #1 songs.

Some notable songs on the rise are Jessie J's Domino (up #10-#8), Pitbull and Chris Brown's International Love (climbs #18-#13), Gym Class Heroes and Neon Hitch's Ass Back Home (ascends #24-#19), Gotye and Kimbra's Somebody I Used to Know (zooms #50-#31) and The Wanted's Glad You Came (leaps #64-#40).

Here are the ten longest running songs on the chart as led by Adele yet again:

1. Rolling in the Deep: 56 weeks
2. Party Rock Anthem: 45 weeks
3. Give Me Everything: 44 weeks
4. Pumped Up Kicks: 40 weeks
5. Just a Kiss: 39 weeks
6. Stereo Hearts: 33 weeks
7. Love You Like a Love Song: 32 weeks
8. Moves Like Jagger: 32 weeks
9. Someone Like You: 30 weeks
10. You Make M Feel Good.: 29 weeks

Failing to land a 40th week on the chart this week is Nicki Minaj's smash hit Super Bass which drops out (and goes recurrent) after 39 weeks on the chart.

Here is this week's Billboard Hot 100 as posted at Pulse Music Board:

1 1 22 Set Fire To The Rain, Adele
2 8 6 Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You), Kelly Clarkson
3 2 19 We Found Love, Rihanna Featuring Calvin Harris
4 3 18 Good Feeling, Flo Rida
5 4 9 Turn Me On, David Guetta Featuring Nicki Minaj
6 6 18 It Will Rain, Bruno Mars
7 7 22 Sexy And I Know It, LMFAO
8 10 16 Domino, Jessie J
9 5 16 The One That Got Away, Katy Perry
10 11 10 Rack City, Tyga
11 9 25 Ni**as in Paris, Jay Z Kanye West
12 12 16 Young, Wild & Free, Snoop Dogg & Wiz Khalifa Featuring Bruno Mars
13 18 13 International Love, Pitbull Featuring Chris Brown
14 14 17 Dance (A$$), Big Sean Featuring Nicki Minaj
15 13 32 Moves Like Jagger, Maroon 5 Featuring Christina Aguilera
16 21 11 The Motto, Drake Featuring Lil Wayne
17 15 22 Work Out, J. Cole
18 20 25 Not Over You, Gavin DeGraw
19 24 7 Ass Back Home, Gym Class Heroes Featuring Neon Hitch
20 16 45 Party Rock Anthem, LMFAO Featuring Lauren Bennett & GoonRock
21 19 30 Someone Like You, Adele
22 17 22 Without You, David Guetta Featuring Usher
23 23 32 Love You Like A Love Song, Selena Gomez & The Scene
24 22 33 Stereo Hearts, Gym Class Heroes Featuring Adam Levine
25 26 18 I Don't Want This Night To End, Luke Bryan
26 30 11 Take Care, Drake Featuring Rihanna
27 27 14 Red Solo Cup, Toby Keith
28 25 12 You Da One, Rihanna
29 29 17 I Like It Like That, Hot Chelle Rae Featuring New Boyz
30 31 16 Make Me Proud, Drake Featuring Nicki Minaj
31 50 4 Somebody That I Used To Know, Gotye Featuring Kimbra
32 35 20 Paradise, Coldplay
33 32 13 Blackout, Breathe Carolina
34 37 15 You, Chris Young
35 34 21 Mr. Know It All, Kelly Clarkson
36 33 25 Headlines, Drake
37 38 39 Just A Kiss, Lady Antebellum
38 45 10 Tonight Is The Night, Outasight
39 36 29 You Make Me Feel..., Cobra Starship Featuring Sabi
40 64 3 Glad You Came, The Wanted
41 47 21 All Your Life, The Band Perry
42 51 7 Strip, Chris Brown Featuring Kevin K-MAC McCall
43 41 56 Rolling In The Deep, Adele
44 46 14 Lotus Flower Bomb, Wale Featuring Miguel
45 39 44 Give Me Everything, Pitbull Featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer
46 44 12 Ours, Taylor Swift
47 48 24 Brighter Than The Sun, Colbie Caillat
48 43 19 Drink In My Hand, Eric Church
49 42 40 Pumped Up Kicks, Foster The People
50 53 8 Alone With You, Jake Owen
51 54 15 A Thousand Years, Christina Perri
52 57 9 Can't Get Enough, J. Cole Featuring Trey Songz
53 60 15 Heartbeat, The Fray
54 63 7 You Gonna Fly, Keith Urban
55 40 18 5 O'Clock, T-Pain Featuring Wiz Khalifa & Lily Allen
56 55 18 Keep Me In Mind, Zac Brown Band
57 52 2 Faded, Tyga Featuring Lil Wayne
58 59 18 Strange Clouds, B.o.B Featuring Lil Wayne
59 RE-ENTRY 2 Stupid Hoe, Nicki Minaj
60 66 6 A Woman Like You, Lee Brice
61 73 7 T.H.E (The Hardest Ever), will.i.am Featuring Mick Jagger & Jennifer Lopez
62 69 11 Levels, Avicii
63 89 6 We Are Young, Fun. Featuring Janelle Monae
64 58 20 Let It Rain, David Nail Featuring Sarah Buxton
65 83 3 Drive By, Train
66 75 12 Home, Dierks Bentley
67 74 12 Reality, Kenny Chesney
68 71 17 I'm Gonna Love You Through It, Martina McBride
69 81 11 Love On Top, Beyonce
70 76 6 I Do, Young Jeezy Featuring Jay-Z & Andre 3000
71 67 12 Lonely Boy, The Black Keys
72 61 19 Tattoos On This Town, Jason Aldean
73 68 15 You The Boss, Rick Ross Featuring Nicki Minaj
74 79 4 Gotta Have It, Jay Z Kanye West
75 RE-ENTRY 2 Better Than I Used To Be, Tim McGraw
76 96 3 Dancin' Away With My Heart, Lady Antebellum
77 94 5 Talk That Talk, Rihanna Featuring Jay-Z
78 72 4 I Won't Give Up, Jason Mraz
79 78 12 The Trouble With Girls, Scotty McCreery
80 84 6 Lights, Ellie Goulding
81 NEW 1 Drink On It, Blake Shelton
82 80 9 Bait A Hook, Justin Moore
83 77 17 Party, Beyonce Featuring Andre 3000
84 85 11 Storm Warning, Hunter Hayes
85 82 14 Shake It Out, Florence + The Machine
86 100 2 No Church In The Wild, Jay Z Kanye West Featuring Frank Ocean
87 RE-ENTRY 2 Over You, Miranda Lambert
88 97 3 Don't Stop (Color On The Walls), Foster The People
89 92 6 Round Of Applause, Waka Flocka Flame Featuring Drake
90 95 4 Where I Come From, Montgomery Gentry
91 90 15 Countdown, Beyonce
92 NEW 1 Sorry For Party Rocking, LMFAO
93 65 12 Marry The Night, Lady Gaga
94 99 2 Love's Gonna Make It Alright, George Strait
95 87 4 Kyoto, Skrillex Featuring Sirah
96 93 9 Camouflage, Brad Paisley
97 98 2 Mr. Wrong, Mary J. Blige Featuring Drake
98 RE-ENTRY 3 Princess Of China, Coldplay Featuring Rihanna
99 NEW 1 Do It Like You, Diggy Featuring Jeremih
100 RE-ENTRY 4 Wild Ones, Flo Rida Featuring Sia

Chart Recap Extra: Album Sales 70

Aside from the best selling albums here in the Philippines per the records of Astroplus/Astrovision and Odyssey outlets, I'm also now including the top selling albums of the newest online music store My Music Store Philippines! I will not post all the Top 100 though, just the top 20. As always, these charts are first posted at the Philippine Music Charts Thread at Pinoyexchange.com

My Music Store Philippines Top 20 Albums
as of February 3, 2012

1. Teenage Dream - Katy Perry
2. No Water, No Moon - Bamboo
3. Awit Para Sa'Yo - Erik Santos
4. Talk That Talk - Rihanna
5. Zia - Zia Quizon
6. Speak Now World Tour Live - Taylor Swift
7. Mylo Xyloto - Coldplay
8. Byahe - Noel Cabangon
9. Patuloy ang Pangarap - Angeline Quinto
10. With Love - Gary Valenciano
11. Stronger (Deluxe Edition) - Kelly Clarkson
12. I'd Do Anything For Love - Jovit Baldovino
13. Glee: The Music Vol. 7 - Glee Cast
14. Limiters of the Infinity Pool - Pupil
15. Sorry for Party Rocking - LMFAO
16. Who You Are - Jessie J
17. Middle-Aged Juvenile Novelty Pop Rockers - Parokya Ni Edgar
18. Long Time Noisy - Kamikazee
19. Alter The Ending - Dashboard Confessional
20. I Love Acoustic 4 - Sabrina

To see the full TOP 100, click here

Odyssey Top-Selling Albums
January 16 – 22, 2012

OPM

1. Kendeng Kendeng
   Willie Revillame (Viva Records)
2. Patuloy Ang Pangarap
   Angeline Quinto (Star Records)
3. Basil Valdez
   Basil Valdez (Vicor Music)
4. With Love
   Gary V. (Star Records)
5. Annebisyosa
   Anne Curtis (Viva Records)
6. Full Blast 3, Maximum Pop Hits
   Various Artist (Ivory Records)
7. Breathe Again
   Jed Madela (Universal Records)
8. One Heart
   Sarah Geronimo (Viva Records)
9. No Water, No Moon
   Bamboo (Polyeast Records)
10. Songs From The Vault
    Aiza Seguerra (Star Records)

OVERALL

1. SM Town Winter: The Warmest Gift
   Various Artist (Universal Records)
2. Kendeng Kendeng
   Willie Revillame (Viva Records)
3. Patuloy Ang Pangarap
   Angeline Quinto (Star Records)
4. The Hottest Hits… Ever
   Various Artist (MCA Music)
5. 21
   Adele (Warner Music)
6. Grammy Nominees 2012
   Various Artist (MCA Music)
7. Basil Valdez
   Basil Valdez (Vicor Music)
8. Live At The Royal Albert Hall
   Adele (Warner Music)
9. Teenage Dream
   Katy Perry (Polyeast Records)
10. With Love
    Gary V. (Star Records)

Astro Chart: Astrovision/Astroplus Top Sellers
January 16-22, 2012

1. Various Artists - SM Town Winter - Universal Records
2. Katy Perry - Teenage Dream - PolyEast Records
3. Erik Santos - Awit Para Sa'Yo - Star Records, Inc.
4. Zia Quizon - Zia - PolyEast Records
5. Taylor Swift - Speak Now World Tour Live - MCA Music
6. Aiza Seguerra - Songs From The Vault - Star Records
7. Adele - Live At The Royal Albert Hall - Warner Music
8. Angeline Quinto (Official) - Patuloy Ang Pangarap (Expanded Premium Edition) - Star Records
9. Super Junior - Mr. Simple - Universal Records
10. Gary Valenciano - With Love - Star Records
11. F(X) - Pinocchio 1st Album - Universal Records Philippines
12. Willie Revillame - Kendeng Kendeng - Viva Records
13. Adele - 21 - Warner Music Philippines
14. Jovit Baldivino - I'd Do Anything For Love - Star Records, Inc.
15. Various Artists - The Hottest Hits... Ever! - MCA Music
16. Basil Valdez - Basil S. Valdez - Vicor Music
17. Juris - Forevermore - Star Records
18. Richard Poon - I'll Take Care Of You - MCA Music
19. Various Artists - Super Hits - PolyEast Records
20. Red Hot Chili Peppers - I'm With You - Warner Music

source

Review: Nina's Stay Alive

This is an album review I wrote for PhilCharts.com

Soul Siren Nina is entering a new phase in her career as she releases “Stay Alive” under her new label Universal Records. “Stay Alive” is a mix of club tracks, power ballads and r&b beats and is in general a departure of the acoustic covers that made the Soul Siren a top selling recording artist. One has to commend Nina’s attempt to introduce a new side of her despite the current trend in the local music industry of stripped-down covers of pop hits which she arguably help establish.

In “Stay Alive”, Nina only has two covers while the rest of the twelve-track CD are all originals. Nina offers various types of sounds in her original tracks showing the singer’s versatility as an artist. It’s quite a risky move, commercial wise, but the product is solid although the mix of different genres in one album has its disadvantages as well. For one, the album suffers a lack of cohesion and general direction as tracks shift from uptempo beats to soaring ballads that makes for an awkward listening experience. There’s no unifying factor among these tracks and it feels like it simply can’t decide it’s identity. Nevertheless, judging the individual tracks is quite a pleasure as each has its own merits and something to offer in the table.

The dance tracks are good and the lead single “Dance’” has an irresistible beat that makes for a good club banger. I personally find “Only With You” as the best uptempo song in the album as it highlights a very polished production and an insanely catchy beat. I wished Nina had more dance/upbeat songs in this album as she really showed promised in the genre. Nina’s ballads in this album are okay but there quite a few like “Missing You” and “You Should Know” that are weak and forgettable. The standout ballad in the album is the inspirational song “Believe in the Dream” where Nina not only shows her impressive vocal range but she also heightens the song’s emotion through the rawness that exudes from her vocals. It’s probably the song where Nina gave her all. Lastly, the R&B tracks are impressive and where Nina shines the best. “Stay Alive” is a groovy track that has foreign influences in its production and “Laging Ikaw” is in my opinion the best song of the album as the song shines from its Pinoy-flavored R&B arrangement with a degree of sexiness in it.

All in all, ‘Stay Alive’ is a step in the right direction for Nina’s career. The album shows the potential of Nina to grow more as an artist. Unfortunately, the effort to reinvent herself in this album is only halfhearted but the glimpses we see in this album is promising. 7 / 10

Review: "Journey 2: The Mysterious Island"

Last night I attended the Journey 2: The Mysterious Island press screening at SM Mall of Asia IMAX. Thank you to Pinoyexchange, Warner Bros. Pictures Philippines and SM Mall of Asia IMAX [like them on Facebook www.facebook.com/IMAXSMCinema and follow them @IMAX_SMCinema on Twitter] . You can also read this review at Official PEx Movie Reviews

Journey 2: The Mysterious Island is a sequel to the 2008 movie Journey to the Center of the Universe but only one character, Sean, from the original movie returns. Essentially, it's a standalone movie but still exhibits the same vibe of the first one. It's fun enough to say the least but nothing really sticks out to make it a memorable movie experience.

Sean (Josh Hutcherson) receives a mysterious broadcast and with the help of his stepfather Hank (Dwayne Johnson) they decoded the message which reveals the location of the so-called “The Mysterious Island”. Sean suspects that the message came from his explorer grandfather Alexander (Michael Caine) who he thinks is in the island. Sean and Hank then went to Palau to look for the island and with the help of their tour guide Gabato (Luis Guzman) and his daughter Kailani (Vanessa Hudgens) they travel to find the island. The group faces a storm that ultimately led them to the mysterious island and there they find Alexander. However, the island is slowly sinking and the group needs to find a way to escape the island before it's too late.

Journey 2: The Mysterious Island basically follows the family adventure template. We have the adventurous but stubborn central character, the realistic parental figure, the quirky wise man, the comic relief and the hot girl love interest. They go on an adventure with half of the characters reluctant but goes along anyway. They face different troubles along the way but convenient plot devices will help them escape the ordeal. The group will be separated while each character will have their moment of realization. And the final act will have them in the brink of danger but [spoiler alert?] survives and lives happily ever after until the last scene teases a possible sequel.

With a storyline that you could easily tell how it ends from the beginning, the movie should have something that gives it an edge and that's where the production design and visual effects comes in. The design of the ecology in the island is interesting because a world where insects are larger than life is simply fascinating. However, the movie didn't maximize the world they are in and could have explored the place more and give us more exciting scenes. I feel like the sense of adventure was not fully accomplished here. The visual effects are solid except in a chase scene that involves bees wherein the use of green screen is so noticeable. The 3D incorporation is okay but nothing amazing although watching it in IMAX heightens the spectacle.

The acting is good and the cast gel together. Caine will always add “oomph” even to a stock character and Johnston is charismatic enough that he can pull off scenes like jiggling your pectoral muscles without looking pathetic. Hutcherson and Hudgens have the chemistry for their cutesy romantic subplot and Guzman is a scene stealer managing to make the audience laugh every single time he opens his mouth.

Journey 2: The Mysterious Island is a fun family flick but there's nothing more to it beyond that. There's nothing wrong with following a formula especially if it's expertly executed but with a predictable premise coupled with slightly flawed special effects it makes the movie a little stale. 7/10

Opens in Philippine cinemas on February 2, 2012 in 2D, 3D and IMAX 3D

Twenty Tunes 49

Here's my top 20 songs that I loved/lovin' this month of January 2012 :)

1. Don't Stop - Foster The People
2. Set Fire to the Rain - Adele
3. What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) - Kelly Clarkson
4. Lonely Boy - The Black Keys
5. Domino - Jessie J
6. The One That Got Away - Katy Perry
7. It Will Rain - Bruno Mars
8. Dear Lonely - Zia
9. I Won't Give Up - Jason Mraz
10. We Found Love - Rihanna feat Calvin Harris
11. Shake It Out - Florence + The Machine
    
12. Life's a Happy Song - The Muppets cast
13. Ass Back Home - Gym Class Heroes Ft Neon Hitch
14. Sabotage - Wale feat Lloyd
15. Arms - Christina Perri
16. It's Complicated - The Bloomfields
17. Alive - Never The Strangers
18. Safe and Sound - Taylor Swift feat The Civil Wars
19. Ang Sarap Maging Single - Eevee
    
20. Good Feeling - Flo Rida
    

Review: "My Cactus Heart"

My Cactus Heart is an interesting movie because while the premise is familiar there are new stuff in it worth checking out. Star Cinema is labeling it as a “mainstream-indie hybrid” as it is produced by their new indie outfit Skylight Films (ala Fox Searchlight of 20^th Century Fox) which I interpret as a commercial story produced under an indie budget. It's an experimental movie of some sort but while I could see the effort to take the Pinoy romcom genre to a different direction, they weren't brave enough to pursue it as they still settled for what is expected. Sandy (Maja Salvador) swears off love after her dad left their family when she was young. But Sandy's stance is challenged when she meets Karlo (Matteo Guidicelli) who is willing to do everything just to win her heart.

The movie opens with an animated sequence which is quite lovely and while the technical side of it is not as polished as RPG: Metanoia was, it was still captivating and quite artistic too boot. Seeing that sequence made me think that this movie could be unique. And true enough, the narrative style of the movie used various techniques and tricks in introducing the characters and the story. It's an interesting take as we actually don't know what to expect. Or so it seems. Sadly, the non-linear approach of storytelling was just halfhearted as the movie practically abandoned it in the second half in favor of the Pinoy romcom template. It was really disappointing because they could really do more if they didn't held back.

The script did a good job in developing the love story of Sandy and Karlo. While there's a cheesy soulmate angle squeezed in, the movie was still able to make you feel the natural progress of two people falling for each other. However, the script tends to over explain the characters' feelings especially Sandy's apprehension with love but the direction was competent enough to not let everything be spoonfed to the audience and just let the small moments speak for themselves.

Competent direction is supported by good performances from the cast. Maja Salvador might not be the biggest or most hyped star of her generation but this young actress' screen presence is strong. She delivers her lines with ease and makes you understand her character even more. Matteo Guidicelli is quite a surprise as he did a solid job and the only thing that held him back was his accent which is distracting at times. Xian Lim's role is not as important as the marketing of this movie would suggest otherwise but he did okay and has the charisma of a leading man (the girls in the theater where we watched this squealed when he first appeared on screen).

My Cactus Heart attempted to be a step above of your typical local romcom but in the end it falls short. Overall, it's still a good movie but it just didn't live up to the potential and it's quite a shame. 7 / 10

Chart Recap 183 (Philippine Music Charts)

Here is this week's recap of weekly music charts in Mega Manila FM radio stations. These charts are first gathered and first posted at the Philippine Music Charts Thread over at Pinoyexchange.com. If you want to check out last week's recap then you can find it here and as for the latest available albums charts just go here

MYX Hit Chart
January 29-February 4, 2012

1. One Direction - One Thing (2nd week at #1)
2. Taylor Swift - Ours
3. Sarah Geronimo - Bakit Pa Ba
4. Donghae & Eunhyuk - Oppa Oppa
5. David Archuleta - Wait
6. Greyson Chance - Hold on 'Til the Night
7. Sponge Cola - Stargazer
8. Never the Strangers - Alive
9. Yeng Constantino - Pag-Ibig (new entry)
10. Slapshock - Ngayon Na
11. Lady Gaga - Marry the Night
12. Christian Bautista - Beautiful to Me (new entry)
13. Super Junior - Superman
14. One Direction - What Makes You Beautiful
15. Katy Perry - The One That Got Away
16. Rihanna - You Da One (new entry)
17. Gloc-9 feat. Denise Barbacena - Hari ng Tondo
18. Eevee - Ang Sarap Maging Single
19. Chicosci - Unbelievable
20. Kelly Clarkson - Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) (new entry)

MYX International Top 20
January 28-February 3, 2012

1. One Direction - One Thing (2nd week at #1)
2. Taylor Swift - Ours
3. Donghae & Eunhyuk - Oppa Oppa
4. David Archuleta - Wait
5. Greyson Chance - Hold on 'Til the Night
6. Lady Gaga - Marry the Night
7. Super Junior - Superman
8. One Direction - What Makes You Beautiful
9. Katy Perry - The One That Got Away
10. Rihanna - You Da One
11. Kelly Clarkson - Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)
12. ZE:A - Watch Out
13. Kis-My-Ft2 - We Never Give Up
14. Westlife - Beautiful World
15. Selena Gomez and the Scene - Hit the Lights
16. Beyoncé - Dance for You
17. Rihanna feat. Calvin Harris - We Found Love
18. Pitbull feat. Chris Brown - International Love
19. Willow Smith feat. Nicki Minaj - Fireball
20. Will.I.Am feat. Mick Jagger & Jennifer Lopez - T.H.E. (The Hardest Ever)
    

Pinoy MYX Countdown
January 28-February 3, 2012

1. Sarah Geronimo - Bakit Pa Ba (2nd week at #1)
2. Sponge Cola - Stargazer
3. Never the Strangers - Alive
4. Yeng Constantino - Pag-Ibig (new entry)
5. Slapshock - Ngayon Na
6. Christian Bautista - Beautiful to Me
7. Gloc-9 feat. Denise Barbacena - Hari ng Tondo
8. Eevee - Ang Sarap Maging Single
9. Chicosci - Unbelievable
10. Karylle - Basically
11. BBS feat. Kean Cipriano - Habang Buhay
12. Typecast - The Promise (Kono Yakusoku)
13. Kamikazee - Halik
14. Hijo - Di Mo na Kaya (new entry)
15. Kiss Jane - Tayong Dalawa (new entry)
16. Kilos - Heart of Legends
17. Giniling Festival - Burgis
18. Paraluman - Kapitan
19. Loonie feat. K.A. Antonio - From Saudi with Love
20. Young JV feat. Akiko - Alay

RX 93.1: The Countdown Top7 and The Wannabees
January 26, 2012

1. What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) - Kelly Clarkson (1st week at #1)
2. I Won't Give Up - Jason Mraz
3. Princess of China - Coldplay feat. Rihanna
4. Domino - Jessie J
5. Young Wild and Free - Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa feat. Bruno Mars
6. You Da One - Rihanna
7. We Found Love - Rihanna feat. Calvin Harris
8. Dear Lonely - Zia
9. 5 o' Clock - T-Pain feat. Wiz Khalifa, Lily Allen
10. Without You - David Guetta feat. Usher
11. Lonely Boys - The Black Keys
12. International Love - Pitbull feat. Chris Brown
13. Astronaut - Simple Plan
14. Mirror - Lil Wayne feat. Bruno Mars
15. The One That Got Away - Katy Perry
16. Fight for You - Jason DeRulo
17. Fly - Nicki Minaj feat. Rihanna
18. It Will Rain - Bruno Mars
19. A Thousand Years - Christina Perri
20. Set Fire to the Rain - Adele

97.9 Home Radio Easy 10 Countdown
January 27, 2012

1. Safe & Sound - Taylor Swift feat Civil Wars
2. A Thousand Years - Christina Perri
3. Lighthouse - Westlife
4. Born This Way - Maria Aragon
5. Constant Change - The Manhattan Connection
6. Dreams Don't Turn Dust - Owl City
7. Marry Your Daughter - Brian McKnight
8. Tinamaan Ako - Anne Curtis
9. Moves Like Jagger-Maroon5 feat. Christina Aguilera
10. Hold On Till The Night - Greyson Chance

Mellow 94.7: 10 Strong Countdown
January 27, 2012

1. A Thousand Years - Christina Perri
2. The One That Got Away - Katy Perry
3. Push - Avril Lavigne
4. Heartbeat - The Fray
5. Turning Tables - Adele
6. Young Wild and Free - Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa feat. Bruno Mars
7. It Will Rain - Bruno Mars
8. Criminal - Britney Spears
9. What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) - Kelly Clarkson
10. You Da One - Rihanna

Wave 891 Soul Review Countdown
January 27, 2012

1. Slide Over - Baby Bash feat Miguel
2. Ride 4 U - Far East Movement feat Kid Cudi and Chip the Ripper
3. Only Wanna Give It To You - Elle Varner feat J. Cole
4. Sabotage - Wale feat. Lloyd
5. Talk that Talk - Rihanna feat Jay-Z
6. The Woman You Love - Ashanti feat Busta Rhymes
7. If You Want - Brandon Starz feat Sammie
8. A-- Back Home - Gym Class Heroes Ft Neon Hitch
9. Young, Wild and Free - Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa feat. Bruno Mars
10. The Champ - Nelly
11. T.H.E (The Hardest Ever)- will.i.am feat Jennifer Lopez and Mick Jagger
12. Naked - Dev
13. Already There - John West feat Big Sean
14. Fireball - Willow Smith feat Nicki Minaj
15. Strip - Chris Brown

Tambayan 101.9 Top 20
January 28, 2012

1. Moves Like Jagger - Maroon 5 feat. Christina Aguilera (3rd Week)
2. Tinamaan Ako - Anne Curtis
3. I Won't Last A Day Without You - Sarah Geronimo
4. Give Me Everything - Pitbull feat. Neyo, Afrojack & Nayer
5. Kulang Ako Kung Wala Ka - Erik Santos
6. Halik - Kamikazee
7. Saan Darating Ang Umaga - Angeline Quinto
8. Paano Na Ang Puso Ko - Bugoy Drilon
9. Kaba - Sam Milby
10. Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay - Sponge Cola
11. Mahalin Ng Totoo - Toni Gonzaga
12. Gisingin Ang Puso - Liezel Garcia
13. Hindi Kita Iiwan - Sam Milby
14. God Gave Me You - Bryan White
15. Di Bale Na - KC Concepcion
16. Marry Your Daughter - Brian McKnight
17. Ako Nalang - Zia Quizon
18 Jar Of Hearts - Christina Perri
19. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar w/ Gloc9
20. Price Tag - Jessie J. feat. B.O.B

99.5 RT 30 Countdown
January 20, 2012
source

30. Outasight - Tonight Is the Night
29. The Do - Too Insistent
28. The Subways - It’s A Party
27. Ed Sheeran - Lego House
26. Plumb - Drifting
25. Safetysuit - Get Around This
24. Angels and Airwaves - Surrender
23. Pupil - 20/20
22. Katy Perry - The One That Got Away
21. Andy Grammer - Fine By Me
20. Kashmir - Electrified Love
19. Penguin Prison - Don’t Fuss With My Money
18. The Naked and Famous - Young Blood
17. 311 - Count Me In
16. The Drums - How It Ended
15. The Black Keys - Howlin’ For You
14. Two Door Cinema Club - Undercover Martyn
13. Foster The People - Pumped Up Kicks
12. Icona Pop - Nights Like This
11. Cake - Mustache Man
10. Cage The Elephant - Aberdeen
9. The Bloomfields - It’s Complicated
8. Mutemath - Blood Pressure
7. Friendly Fires - Hurting
6. Foster The People - I Would Do Anything For You
5. Never The Strangers - Alive
4. Kidda - The Whistler
3. M83 - Midnight City
2. Florence and the Machine - Shake It Out
1. Blink 182 - After Midnight

99.5 RT 30 Countdown
(January 27, 2012)

30. Outasight - Tonight Is the Night
29. Reform The Resistance - Tonight We Ride NE
28. Plumb - Drifting
27. Safetysuit - Get Around This
26. Four Years Strong - Just Drive NE
25. Pupil - 20/20
24. Katy Perry - The One That Got Away
23. Kashmir - Electrified Love
22. Two Door Cinema Club - Undercover Martyn
21. The Naked and Famous - Young Blood
20. Death Cab for Cutie - Underneath The Sycamore HNE
19. 311 - Count Me In
18. The Black Keys - Howlin’ For You
17. The Subways - It’s A Party
16. Angels and Airwaves - Surrender
15. The Drums - How It Ended
14. Foster The People - Pumped Up Kicks
13. Cage The Elephant - Aberdeen
12. The Bloomfields - It’s Complicated
11. Never The Strangers - Alive
10. Icona Pop - Nights Like This
9. Friendly Fires - Hurting
8. Cake - Mustache Man
7. Penguin Prison - Don’t Fuss With My Money
6. Mutemath - Blood Pressure
5. Foster The People - I Would Do Anything For You
4. Florence and the Machine - Shake It Out
3. Kidda - The Whistler
2. M83 - Midnight City
1. Blink 182 - After Midnight

JAM88.3's Hit List
January 23, 2012

1. The Black Keys - Lonely Boy
2. The Joy Formidable - Endtapes
3. Arctic Monkeys - Evil Twin
4. The Drums - How It Ended
5. Florence + The Machine - Shake It Out
6. Empire Machines - Sweet Teeth
7. Red Hot Chilli Peppers - Monarchy Of Roses
8. Bastille - Get Home
9. Coldplay - Paradise
10. Snow Patrol - This Isn't Everything You Are
11. Said The Whale - Lines
12. Tennis - Origins
13. The Maccabees - Feel To Follow
14. Chairlift - Sidewalk Safari
15. States - Generation
16. Coldplay - Charlie Brown
17. Say Anything - Burn A Miracle
18. Low Suns - Never Gonna Care
19. M83 - Midnight City
20. Surfer Blood - I'm Not Ready
21. M83 - Steve McQueen
22. Snow Patrol - New York
23. Dog Is Dead - Hands Down
24. Techy Romantics - Escape
25. Tracey Thorn - Night Time

18th Screen Actors Guild Awards Winners

Here's the list of winners and well I was way off with my predictions!. Anyway, here's the list of winners and some comments

Film

Best Performance by a Cast Ensemble
“The Help”

Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role
Jean Dujardin – “The Artist”

Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role
Viola Davis – “The Help”

Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role
Christopher Plummer – “Beginners

Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role
Octavia Spencer – “The Help”

Best Stunt Ensemble
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2

The Artist may have lost the top prize to The Help but they are still a winner with DuJardin pulling off an upset over Hollywood A-Listers George Clooney and Brad Pitt. This is clearly a sign how well loved The Artist is and there's no doubt in mind it will win the Oscar. My gusty prediction of picking McCarthy didn't happen and Spencer still prevailed and is now unstoppable to win her Oscar next month. Ditto Plummer (although fellow 82 year old Oscar-less Max Von Sydown could be a spoiler). Davis is also on track to win her Oscar with this major win.

TV

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series
“Modern Family”

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series
“Boardwalk Empire”

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series
Alec Baldwin – “30 Rock”

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series
Betty White – “Hot in Cleveland”

Outstanding Performance a Male Actor in a Drama Series
Steve Buscemi – “Boardwalk Empire”

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series
Jessica Lange – “American Horror Story”

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
Paul Giamatti for Too Big to Fail

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
Kate Winslet for Mildred Pierce

Best Stunt Ensemble
Game of Thrones

Basically the same set of winners for the Series categories except Lange beat out last year's winner Margulies. Wow Baldwin won for 6 straight years already? I like him in 30 Rock but this is too much adoration by the guild. I love Modern Family though so I'm glad they won again and had the kids do the acceptance speech. Overall, tepid choices SAG.

My 18th Screen Actors Guild Awards Predictions

The 18th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards will be held on January 29, 2012 (January 30 here in the Philippines at 9 am via Velvet Channel with primetime telecast at 10 pm and replay on February 4, Saturday at 9 pm) and as always here are my predictions:

Film

Best Performance by a Cast Ensemble
“The Artist”
“Bridesmaids”
“The Descendants”
“The Help”
“Midnight in Paris”

Winner: “The Artist”
Close Second: “The Help”
Wildcard: “Bridesmaids”

I initially predicted The Help will easily win this but I think The Artist will take it all the way to the Oscars just like Slumdog Millionaire and The King's Speech did (they beat films with bigger ensembles and stronger acting showcases because they are the films to beat in the Oscars). But the large cast and strong acting of actors of both The Help and Bridesmaids should never be counted out.

Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role
Demian Bichir – “A Better Life”
George Clooney – “The Descendants”
Leonardo DiCaprio – “J. Edgar”
Jean Dujardin – “The Artist”
Brad Pitt – “Moneyball”

Winner: George Clooney for “The Descendants”
Close Second: Brad Pitt for “Moneyball”
Wildcard: Jean Dujardin for “The Artist”

George vs Pitt once again and both haven't won a SAG yet. Well Clooney did as part on the Ensemble of the TV drama ER in the 90s but no solo SAG for him yet and he has the momentum so I'm giving him the edge. If the votes split between the two A-Listers, I think the win will go to Dujardin.

Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role
Glenn Close – “Albert Nobbs”
Viola Davis – “The Help”
Meryl Streep – “The Iron Lady”
Tilda Swinton – “We Need to Talk About Kevin”
Michelle Williams – “My Week with Marilyn

Winner: Viola Davis for “The Help”
Close Second:Meryl Streep for “The Iron Lady”
Wildcard: Michelle Williams for “My Week with Marilyn"

Davis vs Streep but I think the Guild will give it to Davis since Streep already won in 2008 for Doubt so I think they will support Davis this year. A vote split could pave way for Williams sneaking in to get the top prize.

Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role
Kenneth Branagh – “My Week with Marilyn”
Armie Hammer – “J. Edgar”
Jonah Hill – “Moneyball”
Nick Nolte – “Warrior”
Christopher Plummer – “Beginners”

Winner: Christopher Plummer for “Beginners”
Wildcard: Nick Nolte for “Warrior”

I can't see anyone but Plummer winning this one (especially that Albert Brooks is not in the running) but if there's a potential upset here it should be Nolte for his powerful performance in Warrior.

Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role
Bérénice Bejo – “The Artist”
Jessica Chastain – “The Help”
Melissa McCarthy – “Bridesmaids”
Janet McTeer – “Albert Nobbs”
Octavia Spencer – “The Help”

Winner: Melissa McCarthy for “Bridesmaids”
Close Second: Octavia Spencer for “The Help”
Wildcard: Jessica Chastain for “The Help”

Admittedly this is a gutsy prediction as Spencer has the momentum right now but I think the TV actors in this guild will rally to support McCarthy and could give her a surprise win. Chastain is also pretty much in contention as her amazing body of work the previous year will speak well to the actors and give her the award instead.

Best Stunt Ensemble
The Adjustment Bureau
Cowboys & Aliens
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2
Transformers: Dark of the Moon
X-men: First Class

Winner: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2
Close Second: X-men: First Class
Wildcard: The Adjustment Bureau

TV

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series
“30 Rock”
“The Big Bang Theory”
“Glee”
“Modern Family”
“The Office”

Predicted: "Modern Family"
Close Second: "The Big Bang Theory"

All but The Big Bang Theory won already and with Modern Family more popular than ever this season I think it's almost a certainty they will again this year. But The Big Bang Theory is very popular and they might reward the only non-winner in this category although the snub over two-time Emmy winner Parsons is making me think otherwise.

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series
“Boardwalk Empire”
“Breaking Bad”
“Dexter”
“Game of Thrones”
“The Good Wife”

Winner: "Breaking Bad"
Close Second: "Boardwalk Empire"
Wildcard: “Game of Thrones”

Tough category to predict and to bet against HBO but I'm guessing Breaking Bad speaks well to the actors and this might be the year they reward the show.

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series
Alec Baldwin – “30 Rock”
Ty Burrell – “Modern Family”
Steve Carell – “The Office”
Jon Cryer – “Two and a Half Men”
Eric Stonestreet – “Modern Family”

Predicted: Steve Carell for “The Office”
Close Second: Alec Baldwin for "30 Rock"
Wildcard: Ty Burrell for “Modern Family”

Baldwin won for the last 5 years but I think this will be the year it will end and SAG will honor the surprisingly Emmy-less Steve Carell for his memorable turn as Michael Scott in The Office. Emmy winner Burell could sneak in as well if the Modern Family love is strong

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series
Julie Bowen – “Modern Family”
Edie Falco – “Nurse Jackie”
Tina Fey – “30 Rock”
Sofia Vergara – “Modern Family”
Betty White – “Hot in Cleveland”

Winner: Betty White for “Hot in Cleveland”
Wildcard: Sofia Vergara for “Modern Family”

Legendary White just turned 90 recently and well she is still well-loved by this guild (she got a surprise nod for her Hallmark TV Movie!) so she will likely pull a repeat win here. Vergara is such a scene stealer and it's the type of performance that they usually honor (see David Hyde Pierce's and Megan Mullaly's multiple wins with Frasier and Will & Grace, respectively).

Outstanding Performance a Male Actor in a Drama Series
Patrick J. Adams – “Suits”
Steve Buscemi – “Boardwalk Empire”
Kyle Chandler – “Friday Night Lights”
Bryan Cranston – “Breaking Bad”
Michael C. Hall – “Dexter”

Prediction: Kyle Chandler for “Friday Night Lights”
Alternate: Steve Byscemi for "Boardwalk Empire"
Wildcard: Bryan Cranston for “Breaking Bad”

Chandler could repeat his Emmy win here although Buscemi might repeat as well. It's really a tough category especially that three time Emmy winner Cranston is in the mix. Cranston has never won a SAG award but this might be the year. But I'm pulling for Chandler, a long time TV actor will get his due for the final season of his critically acclaimed show.

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series
Kathy Bates – “Harry’s Law”
Glenn Close – “Damages”
Jessica Lange – “American Horror Story”
Julianna Marguilles – “The Good Wife”
Kyra Sedgwick – “The Closer”

Predicted: Jessica Lange for “American Horror Story”
Alternate: Julianne Marguilles for “The Good Wife”
Wildcard: Kathy Bates for “Harry’s Law”

Lange definitely made headlines with her performance in American Horror Story and her Hollywood status will cement her for the win. But never underestimate SAG darling Marguilles to win again or veteran Bates to pull off a surprise.

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
Laurence Fishburne for Thurgood
Paul Giamatti for Too Big to Fail
Greg Kinnear for The Kennedys
Guy Pearce for Mildred Pierce
James Woods for Too Big to Fail

Winner: Greg Kinnear for The Kennedys
Close Second: Guy Pearce for Mildred Pierce
Wildcard: Laurence Fishburne for Thurgood

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
Diane Lane for Cinema Verite
Maggie Smith for Downton Abbey
Emily Watson for Appropriate Adult
Betty White for The Lost Valentine
Kate Winslet for Mildred Pierce

Prediction: Kate Winslet for Mildred Pierce
Close Second: Maggie Smith for Downton Abbey
Widlcard: Betty White for The Lost Valentine

Best Stunt Ensemble
Dexter
Game of Thrones
Southland
Spartacus: Gods of the Arena
True Blood

Winner: Game of Thrones
Close Second: Spartacus: Gods of the Arena
Wildcard: Southland

Meeting Chico and Delamar

So yesterday I was at the The Best of Chico & Delamar's Morning Rush Top 10 Book Launch at Robinsons Galleria and wow it was an experience I will never forget. It's my first time to line up for any celebrity signing session ever! But it was all worth it. Been listening to Chico and Delamar since 2000 when they moved to the now-defunct 93.9 KC FM although I already heard about them way before but I was more of a fan of 93.9 WKC/KC FM when I was a child so didn't listen to them. Anyway, when KC FM folded up in 2002 I remembered I cried was teary eyed when Chico and Delamar said their goodbyes but then a couple weeks later they went back to RX 93.1 and stayed there ever since. I just love this tandem, they're fun to listen to after all these years. When I heard that they were going to have a book signing I said to myself that I should never miss this opportunity to finally meet them.

I arrived at Robinson's Galleria around 11 am and when I went to the activity center no one was there yet save for the people setting up the stage so I decide to stroll in the mall (it's only my second time there so I'm not familiar with it) and when I returned around 11:45 am, a lot of people were already there but still I was able to find a seat. When I was already comfortable sitting, they announced the registration for the book signing is ready and people rushed to be the first one in line so I ended up #86 which is OK because at least I got seat saved anyway. The hardcore rushers were hanging out near where I sat and I was actually busy reading their code names printed at the back of their customized book launch shirts. Around 12:15 pm DJ Gino arrived and the girls started squealing and flocked him immediately. I also saw Louie D of The Daily Survey and Countdown Top 7! Chico and Delamar arrived 15 minutes before 1 pm and wow the cheers were loud. I could see in their eyes that they were so happy with the huge turnout. During the event proper, it was really funny when they were reading out excerpts from the book and Chico says "basa!" ala Bubble Gang's Dating Doon segment before. Chico couldn't help but oblige when people started telling to do his "call center guy!"and "Jackie Tyanak" personas. Delamar was funny as well when she pointed that she made a joke but only one noticed it at all haha. The hardcore rushers kept on chanting "ODH!" as well for one of the most popular rusher Oscar Delahopia (who I also got to chance to meet). As Chico joked "Fans day eto ni ODH hindi book signing"

When it was my turn for the book signing, I was flattered when Chico said to me "Oh ikaw pala si Forg!" and then he announced on the stage "We also have here one of our regulars Forg, so nice to finally meet you" and I was touched because they did that to two earlier rushers who they met for the first time but those were really active Rushers and have entries on the book while I don't participate everyday so I wasn't expecting that they were familiar with my codename. I left around 3 pm and the lines were still long. I heard Chico and Delamar finished signing the books past 6 pm! Congratulations Chico & Delamar! You deserved all the love and success :)

As for me the long wait to finally meet them was definitely worth it. :)

Anyway, here's a picture of my signed book: