Before the present generation got to enjoy P-pop kings SB19, previous generations idolized and grooved to boy groups formed in the early ‘90s. One of these groups was Streetboys, who became a household name as in-house dancers for the noontime variety show Eat Bulaga! alongside the girl group Sexbomb.
More than two decades after some members pursued individual interests, Streetboys is reuniting for a special dance concert.
Originally formed in 1993 by veteran director Chito Roño, the boys are back to relive their 31-year journey as a group, bringing nostalgia to “batang 90s” and earlier generations.
At a press conference last Sunday, Oct. 20, seven of the 11 members—Danilo Barrios, Maynard Marcellano, Joey Andres, Nicko Manalo, Joseph de Leon, and It’s Showtime hosts Vhong Navarro and Jhong Hilario—gathered to reflect on their journey as a group, friends, and brothers.
“This is the first time we’ll be complete for a dance. There are 11 of us—including Sherwin, Michael, and Spencer. That hasn’t happened before; usually, someone would be missing. So this is truly the first time we’re all together,” said Jhong.
The “Sample King” also expressed his joy about the upcoming reunion.
“I’m very happy. After 31 years, we’ve only just thought about having a reunion now. We said this is the time to go for it because we’re not getting any younger, and this is our way of thanking the fans who have been there since day one,” he added.
“We want to show everyone that after 31 years, we can still do it… I wish we had done this earlier. Now we’re starting to feel some back pain after rehearsing,” Vhong quipped.
Talking about their group’s upcoming concert, SB90s: The Streetboys, happening on Nov. 8 at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City, Jhong hoped fans who grew up watching them would remember the songs of the ‘90s.
“We want to bring that back. We want the kids from the ’90s to remember what music was like back then. Honestly, the music now is so different,” he stated.
For Vhong, the concert is a gift for their fans who continue to support them in their individual pursuits.
“We also want this to be a way to thank everyone who has supported Streetboys since day one, so this is our special gift to them,” Vhong expressed.
He also took the opportunity to thank director Chito for giving them opportunities they are forever grateful for. Besides forming Streetboys, Roño has served as a father figure over the years.
“In thirty-one years, it’s wonderful to think that with Direk Chito, we don’t have a contract. Our discussions about forming Streetboys were just verbal agreements. It’s amazing to say that after 31 years, we’re still together,” he continued.
“Direk Chito has taken on the role of a father figure for us, and he’s even become like a grandfather now because our kids are like his grandchildren. In fact, every year we’re together—during Christmas, New Year, and birthdays. I can’t imagine how long he’s put up with us. He’s still here, truly supporting us,” added Vhong.
