by Benjie de Ubago

They come and they go.  There are many Filipino entertainers who land on  Australian shores –  and yes, they entertain – but rare are those who manage to really warm our hearts.  As temperatures dropped in June so did we swoon. Filipino singer & entertainer, Raymond Lauchengco was here and he did more than just entertain – he captured and warmed our hearts.

Raymond Lauchengco’s Aussie tour brought by Bradters Entertainment included three states – Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, plus side trips to Canberra and Newcastle. He was the guest of honour at two Philippine Independence Day celebrations – in Sydney and in Canberra.  “He definitely is the quality performer we should have at our independence day events when we can proudly boast of the best of us!” said a Filipino dignitary. Despite his busy schedule, Raymond still found time to graciously drop in at other Independence day events to say hello to his fans.

Celebrating his 40 years in the entertainment industry, his shows revived the music of the 80s – a time when everything was “big” – big belts, big hair, shoulder pads, wide pants and fun  was huge. But none was bigger than  Raymond Lauchengco himself, who was the “big” thing in those times. “I’m embracing the era that gave me my big break,” said Raymond.  Yet, his shows today manage to cross over generations – the ones before and after the 80s were instant fans.

“I  got wonderfully blessed” said Raymond. Despite a detour to other creative endeavours, he still enjoys singing best.

Dressed simply in black and sun shoes, he worked the stage (or floor) to get close to the audience.  Lucky were the ones who managed to get a selfie! While normally, quiet and reserved, as soon as he stepped on the stage, he switched on the magic. And yes, the audience broke in a rapturous shrill! He got everybody up their feet, with pump fists waving in the air and  shaking their booties.

Every hit song is wrapped in emotions and still sounds as fresh as the first time he sang it.  “I try and refresh it for the audience. I also have a new appreciation for the fans who have stayed with me throughout the years” says Raymond.  “I got lucky, ” he adds.

More importantly, every song he crooned stirred our hearts, and captured emotions and memories of a bygone era. Ever so professional, charming, gracious and accommodating.  But one word sums him all up – Raymond Lauchengco is simply ‘class!’

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