Philpop 2013 finalist: Johnoy Danao

MANILA, Philippines – Johnoy Danao borrowed his first guitar from his uncle when he was 16, and it has since then become his best friend. Although he claims to have only a vague concept of a “best friend,” he would have to give that title to his guitar, his companion in musical expression.

His song, “Kung ‘Di Man” (Otherwise), is inspired by his loving relationship with his girlfriend. It’s a love song meant to woo and capture all the passion, giddiness and depth of romance.

“Kung ‘Di Man” is performed by Ney Dimaculangan. 

Video transcript:

Unang gitara ko? Sixteen ako noon. Hiniram ko sa uncle ko, naging akin na. Wala akong masyadong konsepto ng best friend eh, pero ‘yung gitara ko, best friend ko ‘yun.

When it comes to a musician, ‘yung sarili mong gitara, ‘yung makakasama mo siya eh, sa tugtugan eh. Makakasama mo sa first attempt mo to write a song.

Gaano ka-importante sa akin ang musika? Sabihin na natin na siya ang dahilan kung bakit ako babangon sa umaga. Kung bakit ako umiibig. Kung bakit ako nasasaktan. Every aspect of my life, pwede mong kantahin.

Meron akong nobya ngayon, tsaka mahal na mahal ko siya. Kaya ko naisulat yung “Kung ‘Di Man.” 

(Singing) Buksan mo pa ang aking dibdib, basahin mo ang talambuhay ko. (Singing stops)

Sinulat ko yung “Kung ‘Di Man” kasi nami-miss ko na makarinig or makabasa ng awitin na talagang nanliligaw.

(Singing) Timbangin mo aking damdamin, habang buhay ko itong papasanin. Wala akong magagawa, ako’y para sa ‘yo. (Singing stops)

Watch and listen to the music video:

– With reports from Sai Villafuerte/Rappler.com

Here are the profiles of the Philpop 2013 finalists: