Alden Richards' Self Titled Album Press Conference

Alden Richards

While doing some shopping at TriNoma one Sunday afternoon, I managed to take a glimpse at the commotion caused by actor Alden Richard’s launch of his self titled debut album over at the mall’s Activity Center. I was very much surprised to see on stage a man who couldn’t contain his giddiness since Alden was just an arm’s length from him. I wondered what is it in Alden that could’ve driven a grown man into such an excited state. Alas, I couldn’t linger long to watch at that time to find out. But some time later, I was able to have those questions answered and know about Alden more when he had a press conference held at Universal Records office.

When Alden entered the room, I figured out right away a partial answer to my question. The man at the launch probably got that giddy since he was able to see Alden’s dimples up close. But we all know that it was more than just the dimples that landed Alden a recording career at Universal Records. His self titled debut album contains seven tracks composed of six cover songs and one original which is Sa Aking Tabi which is penned by Vince Katindoy. The lead single for the album is another track written by Katindoy which is Haplos originally done by Shamrock. The song, used as the love theme of the tv series Mundo Mo’y Akin, also has a music video featuring actress Louise de los Reyes. Other songs in the album include Naalala Ka, Can Find The Reason,  Di Na Mababawi, Akin Ka Na Lang and Everytime I See You.  

Alden told the press and bloggers present that he is aware that there will be doubters over his venturing into the music scene. He recalled turning to producer Ito Rapadas and vocal coach Kitchie Molina to whip his vocal cords to shape during the recording process. He explained that he tackles each song as an actor. He pours his heart into the song and aims to express the proper emotions when its time for him to deliver the songs. This response, I admit caught me off guard for it was a different way to approach a singing venture. Alden stressed that he doesn’t consider singing to be just a mere side project, the focus and attention he puts into it is the same as any other project that he takes.

After a single spin of the album, it’s unmistakable that Alden can carry a tune but hardly any of the songs were technically demanding.. The songs were carefully selected to stay within the comfort of Alden’s limited vocal range. The album doesn’t aim to revolutionize Filipino music but rather to please Alden’s fan base and bank on his status as one of the country’s leading matinee idols. This is supported by the album packaging with the lyrics printed alongside photos (featuring those dimples) and various facts about Alden like a magazine.

Alden Richards’ self titled debut album, released by Universal Records is now available in record stores nationwide. Haplos and the rest of the tracks are also available in digital format via MyMusicStore Philippines and iTunes.

Alden Richards

Tracks:

1. Haplos

2. Naalala Ka

3. Can Find the Reason

4. Di Na Mababawi

5. Sa Aking Tabi

6. Akin Ka Na Lang

7. Everytime I See You