Chemistry between two artists singing a duet track is best developed not during studio sessions, but on how they interacted prior to recording. In the case of Alisah Bonaobra and Myko Mañago, months of hosting a livestream show together proved valuable when it’s time for them to record a new song to feature their voices.
It’s easy to notice the two had real, fun time delivering their vocals for “Pangako,” the first duet release for RJA Productions, LLC, with two of its premier talents on board. The song, penned by vocal coach Arnie Mendaros, will be dropped in digital stores tomorrow, Friday (March 19).
The well-produced, searing pop ballad piece showcases their vocal strengths with equal aplomb.
For months now, the Alisah-Myko pair has been livestreaming for a weekly online show called Winner Ka Sa RJA. It’s a major plus that the songwriter has also been guiding them closely in artistic terms.
Arnie noted, “I’ve got great confidence with these artists since I’m their vocal coach. I know what they’re capable of and I believe they could do it right.”
Exactly the point. Listening to the track reminds one of the classic vocal pairings like those of Ray-An Fuentes and Tillie Moreno for “Umagang Kay Ganda” and Gino Padilla and Rocky for “Let The Love Begin.”
Somehow, it’s a blessing in disguise that the duo couldn’t do duets during their livestream appearances because of the usual syncing problem in live feeds. So, the sessions at Wild Grass studio (formerly Pink Noise) were highly anticipated by all those involved.
After several months together in the interactive online game show for followers of RJA talents, they have grown close to each other and developed deeper connections with their fans.
Alisah expressed delight on the outcome of their duet, saying, “Hindi ko ma explain ang excitement ko about the song which sincerely expresses yung ibig sabihin ng long and lasting love. Pati yung mismong project wherein nararamdaman ko talaga na we’re one family sa RJA.”
After proving her mettle in X-Factor UK and Voice of the Philippines stints, the internationally acclaimed siren has enjoyed a consistently growing fan base dubbed Alisah Warriors. The pride of the City of Manila even beefed up her resume as she is currently taking online music classes through the UST Conservatory, with emphasis on voice performance and piano playing. It’s a move partly initiated by RJA’s commitment to supporting its artists beyond producing and booking.
Also a noted vlogger and online gamer, Myko, who has released five songs last year, pointed out, “Sobrang privileged and honored ako na maka-duet si Alisah. Salamat sa nadevelop na bonding sa livestream. Walang ilangan nung nasa studio na kami.”
In “Pangako,” Myko sings, “Sa hindi inaasahang pagkakataon tayo’y pinagtagpo sa tamang panahon," while Alisah warmly responds, “Lungkot napawi na magmula nang makita ka.” The song’s integrity is sealed by the time they mesh it up singing “Walang ibang makakapigil sa pag-ibig natin.”