ATLANTIC CITY—Feelings of nostalgia fused with the joy of Christmas filled the autumn air as long-reigning Concert King, Martin Nievera returned to Atlantic City last Sunday, November 9, for a sentimental solo concert at the House of Blues–Showboat Casino. The one-night only performance is part of the celebration of his 25 years in the entertainment industry, where his songs and talent have lasted a long time. Martin brought with him his entire 10-piece band—Big Mouth Band from Las Vegas; along with Lorrie Ilustre as Musical Director. The show also had a very special added attraction, featured guest Asia’s Nightingale—Ms. Lani Misalucha.
Avid fans came all the way from Virginia, Maryland, DC, New York, Pennsylvania and Connecticut to experience the much awaited concert and celebrate his silver anniversary with him. The Concert King began the show at exactly 2 pm with Christmas carols and some songs from his newly released album titled, Ikaw ang Pangarap. Produced by Star Records, it is his first ever all-Tagalog collection, which marks another milestone in his successful career and is still part of his quarter of a century in showbiz celebration. Twenty-five years from now, people will still listen to these immortal songs and will appreciate how they are presented in the unique Martin Nievera way.
Martin still has the same, if not even more, charm and good looks, which made the ladies scream and break into loud cheers as he serenaded them with Be My Lady, a show-stopping rendition of Broadway hits, and of course the Barry Manilow medley. Not forgetting about his younger fans, he also sang Time of My Life by most recent American Idol winner, David Cook. The audience was entertained and laughed along as Martin showed off his comedic side by thanking the sponsors along the tune of 12 Days of Christmas. He also introduced his band by transforming the lyrics of Grown-up Christmas List to their names.
Special guest Lani Misalucha walked on stage looking as vibrant as ever while she sang her first song, Leona Lewis’ Bleeding Love. People were in awe as she belted out Conti Par Tiro, and everyone’s hearts melted when she sang The Prayer with Martin. The duo’s chemistry on stage had the audience wanting for more. Soon after the show ended, both Martin and Lani enthusiastically met and greeted their eager fans by signing autographs and taking pictures with them.
Ironically the Showboat Casino Hotel was exactly where Martin performed his first solo concert in New Jersey, Martin’s Madness Goes to Atlantic City, exactly 12 years ago on November 16, 1996. Martin is obviously no longer a stranger in Atlantic City, having performed at several venues. He then returned with special guest Lani Misalucha in Nov. 2001, performing a sold-out concert at the Showroom of Tropicana, followed by another sold-out concert in 2002, this time with his ex-wife Pops Fernandez, at the Boardwalk Hall.
The sentimental concert was a huge success and was brought to you by Dr. Ramon & Mrs. Ching Legarda of Group Ole, Inc. Major Sponsors include Max’s Restaurant—coming soon in Jersey City and The Blakely Hotel. Participating sponsors also include Perlas ng Silangan Restaurant, Topnotch Electronics and MP Grafix.
(www.asianjournal.com)
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