Jojo Mendrez has released a new rendition of the OPM classic “Yakap,” originally popularized by Junior in 1979.
The singer said the track was personally significant to him and was selected during discussions with Star Music.
“It is a dream song for me,” Mendrez said. “Star Music selected the track during one of our meetings and said it suited me perfectly. I also expressed my wish to have Jonathan Manalo arrange it — and they made it happen.”
Mendrez has become known for recording revival tracks over the years. Among the songs he has reinterpreted is “Tuyo Na’ng Damdamin” by the Apo Hiking Society, which he previously performed on “Eat Bulaga.”
He has also recorded new versions of “Magkabilang Mundo,” originally by Jireh Lim, as well as “Sana” and “Handog” by Florante. His version of “Handog” received the Revival Song of the Year award during the 11th Star Awards. He also recorded a version of “Valentine,” originally performed by Jim Brickman.
One of Mendrez’s widely viewed performances was his rendition of “Somewhere in My Past,” originally performed by Julie Vega and composed by Mon del Rosario. The performance generated more than 50 million views on social media.
Mendrez said he is now preparing new recordings of “Boy,” originally by Timmy Cruz and composed by Mon del Rosario, as well as “Bakit Ba Ganyan” by Dina Bonnevie, “Tamis ng Unang Halik” by Tina Paner and “Pangako” by Kindred Garden.
Aside from revival tracks, Mendrez has continued to release original songs including “Basta Ikaw,” composed and arranged by Andrei Dionisio, along with “Diwa ng Pasko,” “Kahit Sandali” and “Mula Nang Mawala’y Sayo.”
He also wrote “Minahal Kita,” which appeared on his debut album “Inspirasyon,” distributed by Ivory Records.
Mendrez also thanked Star Music for supporting his original recordings “Nandito Lang Ako” and “Ngayong Pasko’y Ikaw Pa Rin,” both written by Jonathan Manalo.
“Yakap” is now available on digital streaming platforms.
