Richard Poon Legends’ Press Conference

Richard Poon

Crooner Richard Poon bids farewell to big band (for now) as he returns to his pop roots for his latest album Legends under his new label Universal Records. A press conference was held recently at the Hotel Celeste in line with the release of this new record.

Having established himself as the leading big band vocalist in the Philippines, it comes as a surprise to many when they find out that Richard actually started his music career as a pop singer. He used to be a member of Sunny Side Up, For the Road and U-Turn before shifting gears and venturing into the big band/jazz sound reminiscent of Frank Sinatra, Tony Benett, Harry Connick, Jr. and Michael Bublé

Richard has shifted gears once again with Legends, a 12 track album featuring songs by legendary pop artists such as Lionel Richie, Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, Madonna, and Barry Manilow to name a few. The lead single for this album is the song Truly which was originally recorded by Lionel Riche. The music video for this song features Maricar Reyes, Richard’s real life girlfriend. Fellow Universal Records artist and friend, Christian Bautista appears on the track The Girl is Mine, a Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney original.

As an album chunk full of familiar tunes, arranged in relaxed style that is perfectly suited to Richard’s effortless baritone, Legends is sure to please his target Adult Contemporary market. I just find it odd that if Richard’s return to pop meant to make him more current, the decision to do covers of songs that were released at least two decades ago look like a definite step back. And to think that Richard has a knack of giving current hits the big band treatment which sets him apart from any other vocalist in the industry.

During the press conference Richard mentioned that he has composed songs for other artists like Charlie Green and sister duo of Krissy and Ericka. And that one of his dreams, now that he has a new record label, is to come up with an album featuring his own compositions that are recorded by different artists. This album is similar to Ogie Alcasid’s The Songwriter and the Hitmakers that is also released by Universal Records. Again, this is a source of surprise to some who isn't aware that Richard is also a songwriter.

Lastly, when I give Legends a spin, I am reminded of Christian Bautista’s first release under Universal which is Romance Revisited, an album made up of Jose Mari Chan’s songs (which Richard claimed was supposed to be his had he been allowed to switch labels sooner). And after this album, Christian subsequently released records that explored musical horizons and ultimately showcased his artistic growth and maturity. That’s why I have high hopes and expectations that Richard and Universal will do just the same with the follow up to Legends.

Richard Poon’s Legends, released by Universal Records is now available in record stores nationwide. Truly and the rest of the tracks are also available in digital format via MyMusicStore Philippines and iTunes.

Legends

Tracks:

1. All at Once

2. All in Love is Fair

3. And I Love Her

4. Crazy

5. Truly

6. Evergreen

7. Borderline

8. A Song for You

9. Can't Help Falling in Love

10. The Girl is Mine

11. If I Keep My Heart Out of Sight

12. Ready to Take a Chance Again