After 26 years dominating the retro pop scene with his band REtroSPECT, seasoned singer-songwriter and producer JMRTN returns to the music scene as a solo artist.
Known for his electrifying live performances, JMRTN is eager to showcase Filipino-American talent both locally and internationally through his company, JARO Productions USA.
The decision to go solo came in response to economic challenges posed by the pandemic.
“To be honest, I decided to go solo due to economic reasons. I need to stay afloat, and since this is what I do best, I figured it was time,” JMRTN said.
One of his most anticipated projects is his new song collaboration with Asia’s Nightingale, Lani Misalucha. Titled “lisa Lang,” the song was co-written by JMRTN, Mandy Placheta, and Emil Pama, and is released under his label Godspeed Music through Star Music.
“Why collaborate with Lani? Everyone knows who Lani Misalucha is. I’ve admired her amazing vocals since I saw her perform in local bars in Makati before she became famous. My dream of singing a duet with her is now a reality with ‘lisa Lang,’” JMRTN said.
The emotional ballad, which captures the essence of love, was recorded and filmed in Las Vegas. “lisa Lang” is now available on Spotify.
Their collaboration will also extend to live performances, with JMRTN and Misalucha scheduled for bar tours. They will perform at Bar IX in Molito, Alabang on Nov. 14, followed by a show at Bar 360 at Newport World Resorts on Nov. 15.
In addition to the tour with Misalucha, JMRTN had solo performances lined up, including a gig at Bar 360 on Oct. 11, and a special appearance at the M.A.D.Z. Festival on Oct. 12 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
JMRTN will be a guest performer at the Rated GIGI 2.0 concert in Guam, USA on Nov. 23.
JMRTN, along with REtroSPECT, is a three-time ALIW Awards Hall of Fame Awardee for Best Performance in Hotels, Bars, and Music Lounges in 2008, 2009, and 2010.