Three remarkable Filipino talents—Dessa, Troy Laureta, and DK Tijam—are coming together for the first time in a one-night-only concert, “By Request: Your Playlist Live Onstage.” The event is set for August 16 at 8 PM, taking place at the Music Museum. Presented by DK Talents and Orange Magazine, in collaboration with Backstage Entertainment, this concert promises a night of music that celebrates both timeless and contemporary hits.
For Dessa, this concert is a reunion of sorts with DK Tijam, as they have performed together on various occasions, including online shows on Kumu and live performances in Las Vegas and Los Angeles. “I have met DK Tijam during the pandemic days,” Dessa recalls. “We were both streaming online and we became very close in Kumu. Now we’re best of friends.”
Dessa also has a history of collaborating with Troy Laureta, having joined him in his recent “Harana” show, which featured an impressive lineup including Martin Nievera, Pia Toscano, and Morissette Amon. “I’ve met Troy through DMs,” Dessa shares. “When I guested on ‘ASAP’ in Las Vegas (2022), I saw him there with his sister Cheesa and from then on, we became friends.”
The concert will feature a mix of classic OPM songs, love song medleys, and original tracks, all with arrangements by Troy. “We’re doing medleys of beautiful love songs,” Dessa enthuses. “Me and DK will be doing some duets and production numbers people will surely enjoy.”
Dessa’s gratitude for being able to continue doing what she loves is evident. “Thank God, I’m busy with gigs here and there with my band,” she beams. “I do gigs almost every weekend in the US. On weekdays, I’m busy with family. I also have a small business which I truly enjoy because I love bags and stuff. I have an online pre-loved bags business. I buy and sell bags. I’m trying to do living life insurance, too. I’m in the process of learning and studying to be an insurance agent here in Nevada. I still do shows around the US.”
For Troy Laureta, this concert marks his first time performing alongside DK Tijam, an artist he discovered through DK’s soulful online performances. “This will be my first time performing with DK,” Troy admits. “I first learned of him on Kumu and his online covers. I’ve known about Ms. Dessa for a while through TFC and songs like ‘Saan Ka Man’ and ‘Lipad ng Pangarap.’ We’ve performed a couple of times together and she was a part of my ‘Harana’ concert.”
Troy, who is currently the musical director for Singaporean artist JJ Lin’s world tour, has also played a pivotal role in curating the concert’s set list. “Yes, together we put a set list that really showcases each artist’s voice and versatility,” he explains. “We also show how eclectic we are without drifting too far from what is authentic to each of us. We go through the genres we loved, as well as the catalogue of music each artist has brought to the entertainment and OPM world.”
Meanwhile, DK Tijam reflects on his journey since becoming a finalist in “Star in a Million” back in 2003, a milestone that has had a lasting impact on his life and career. “It has impacted my life in so many ways,” DK shares. “One being that I was introduced to Philippine TV and that’s why up to now, I find it heartwarming that some people who watched the show still recognize me (on social media). Secondly, I’ve gotten a chance to do what I love and earn something because of it.”
Despite moving to Canada in 2006, DK’s passion for music never wavered. He admits that the transition was challenging but ultimately rewarding. “A few years after the move, that was only when it really hit me hard,” he says. “I missed my family, I missed my friends and the life I thought I wouldn’t miss. When you’re young, your perspective hasn’t grown yet and your decision-making isn’t the most reliable. I’ve always believed in kindness but I was a rebel during those younger years. I wanted to try something new. But yes, I had some regrets back then. Having said that, I’ve accepted and embraced the life I chose. Now I’m happy, truly.”
Earlier this year, DK had what he describes as an “epiphany,” realizing that if he doesn’t focus on music now, he might never do it. “As we get older, we realize how fleeting life is,” DK says. “Hence it’s best if we seize the day and do the things we love the most and make the most of it while we still can.”
Joining the stage for “By Request” are Kayleigh Cerezo, Keeana Cerezo, Antoinette Targa, Chelsea Star, and Bella Magbag of DK Talents. Special thanks to Orange Magazine, PLDT Home, Beautéderm, airasia Philippines, AirAsia Move, Grab, TaiChi, Moringa Vita, PascualLab, ALPAS Consultancy, AGENTS International Persuasion Specialist, Joy~Nostalg Hotels & Suites, Grand Westside Hotel, and Mang Inasal for their support.
Tickets are available at Ticketworld, Music Museum, or through Dianne Edosma (09352057132) and Owlan Alvar (09275939673). Don’t miss this unique opportunity to witness three extraordinary talents share the stage in what promises to be an unforgettable evening of music.
