Rachel Alejandro on cousin Nino’s ‘Voice PH’ audition

MANILA, Philippines – Singer Rachel Alejandro said that during her cousin Nino’s blind auditions on The Voice of the Philippines, she and Nino’s wife Michelle were more stressed out than he was.

In a e-mail to Rappler, Rachel said she thinks The Voice is a big help to artists who want a second chance in their career.

“The thing about the music industry, not only in the Philippines but all over the world, is that you have to make it big within your first two years in the scene. If not, you’re quickly discarded as a slew of newer artists take your place. It’s almost impossible to jumpstart your career after that and I believe that’s where being on The Voice helps. Artists get that second chance,” she said.

Rachel said that Nino deserves the chance to be heard because of what he has shown especially his dedication and passion for music.

“Nino, for instance, has more than paid his dues, honed and developed his voice, learned to play every rhythm section instrument and yet he is still relatively unknown beyond the loyal following he has in the bars where he gigs.

Playing sometimes 3 sets into the wee hours of the morning most nights of week is not easy. It takes its toll on the body but Nino never complains. I’ve never seen him give a half-baked performance, whether he was tired or not, whether it was a full house or with two people in the audience. He is on, all the time.

“Through the years, I’ve witnessed Nino suffer disappointments and heartaches in his career and personal life but his positive attitude and resilience never waned. I got emotional when after turning her chair for him, Lea Salonga said everything I’ve been thinking. I looked around and saw some of The Voice‘s production staff crying, too,” Rachel said.

In the end, all she wishes “is for the whole country to finally see Nino for what he is – a true star.”

In his blind auditions, Nino sang the song “Highway to Hell,” joining Lea’s team. He recently performed with Rachel, Ali, and Eddie and uncle Hajji in the family concert In The Blood at the Music Museum, which will have another run on November 29. – Rappler.com