I AM GLAD that the entertainment industry in General Santos City is thriving again after being devastated by COVID-19 in recent years. I wasn’t here for three years, so I can only experience it during this visit. During the pandemic’s peak and the year afterward, the industry was severely impacted, affecting many freelance musicians, performers, singers, duos, bands, and artists. Those were tough years. I spoke with several freelance professionals at that time, including one insightful online interview with a lady singer-musician on my talk show, Woman Talk.
Thus, in this trip, courtesy of lovely friends, I was able to check four hangouts in the city: Cabin Brewery (Cabin Bistro), the top floor of Metro J Hotel, Liam James, and on Sunday night, South Bay, which is relatively closer to the house. Having had a feel of the entertainment each bar-restaurant (bar-resto) provided, I was inspired to write a story about it. After all, don’t articles come from inspiration?
Each bar-resto carries its own distinct brand of music. I would say that’s exactly right. It’s their attraction to new guests and holding power over habitués. In Cabin Bistro, a duo performed that night, vocalizing the latest hits with unmistakable energy that reverberated throughout the entire compound, especially when the genre turned to music that propelled the guests to hit the dance floor! I believe they were Gen Zs who really had a blast that night. And their voices were impeccable. I naturally danced with gusto. How can you not, with upbeat music, spacious setting, and good company! Young friend, Laarni Valmoria Tawagon, described the fun event as “The jollity of having bona fide friends over exquisite food and music!” On her end, “Having fun with the girls is excellent for mental health,” said Dr. Gal, who was humming Cyndi Lauper’s “Oh, girls just wanna have fun.” That summed up the experience that night!
At the top floor of Metro J Hotel, there was a solo performer who belted out music with an acoustic rhythm combined with bossa nova renditions. It took some time before she segued into fast tunes, goading us to sway once more! Oh boy, what’s life without dancing, huh! According to an article I read, “Dancing can be a way to stay fit for people of all ages, shapes, and sizes, and can improve your muscle tone, strength, endurance, and fitness.” But more importantly, it is fun and pleasurable!
Next stop: Liam James. I had been there twice in 2022, but I didn’t hear much of the music because I was in separate meetings. This time, upon prodding by my musician neighbor, Prof. Russtum Pelima, together with his fellow performer, Leonil “Tata” Novida, popularly known as the Bad Rodeo Duo, I was able to hear them croon their signature folk songs while adeptly strumming their respective guitars. I was with long-time friends Betty Mejos-Celda with hubby, Bert, and Dr. Gal Yumang. And delightfully, I was able to sing two songs. If all the elements work in your favor, then you will have your precious seconds of fame, haha! How true is that!
The fourth gig was at the controversial South Bay in Barangay South, this city. Well, this isn’t a political article, so we will keep that aside. Let’s just focus on how the place impacts a new guest like me. Since I was born in an island province, Bohol, I have always preferred spots that put me beside the sea or on structures extending to the sea, enjoying its breeze, and appreciating its expanse. Simple joys. Dr. Gal and I were there on a Sunday evening, again hearing the Bad Rodeo Duo render their repertoire. The only thing that hampered the otherwise smooth performance was a wiring concern.
I was delighted to be in a place where I could see the glistening sea, with the soft breeze gently touching my face and lightly blowing my hair, and the lights from the distant port beckoning. How romantic is that! I suddenly remember someone, darn! Naturally, Tuna Panga was the best food to complete the #SouthBayExperience on a chill Sunday night in General Santos City.
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Woman Talk with Belinda Sales is taking a wellness break. You may send your email to belindabelsales@gmail.com. Follow us on X at @ShilohRuthie./PN
