David Benoit certainly knows how to put on a show.
Call it experience, or simply his unwavering passion for music that has endured for five decades and counting.
During a press conference held a few days before his concert titled An Evening with David Benoit, produced by DMC Philippines, the American jazz pianist and composer appeared reserved as he graciously answered media questions and mingled with attendees.
At one moment, while walking on the platform, he nearly tripped—a disconcerting sight given that David is already 70.
But on Saturday, July 20, 2024, on the night of the concert at The Theatre at Solaire in Parañaque City, David, looking sharp in a white suit, was in his element.
For two hours, David played with zest, vigor, and enthusiasm.
Occasionally, he would step away from his piano and briskly walk across the stage.
He shared anecdotes about his life and music, injecting humor between his stories that brought smiles to the audience's faces.
Even more admirably, David played his masterpieces with great precision, looking every inch like the legendary musician recognized by critics and peers alike as one of the founders of contemporary jazz.
A MAESTRO AT WORK
The night began with Asia's premiere vocal group, The Company, dishing out a medley of their hits.
From "Muntik Na Kitang Minahal" to "Pakisabi Na Lang" and "Now That I Have You," among others, Moy Ortiz, Annie Quintos, Sweet Plantado, and OJ Mariano revisited the group's classic songs that have endeared them to both young and old listeners.
The group also did an acapella rendition of the '70s disco tune "Pick Up the Pieces" by the Scottish funk and R&B group, Average White Band.
After a brief break, the man of the hour emerged from the closed curtain.
David Benoit took his place at the piano, accompanied by a Filipino band featuring exceptional woodwind and brass players, along with drummer Vinnie Aguas.
Also joining David's backup musicians that night was bassist extraordinaire and songwriter-producer Roberto Vally, whose illustrious career includes performing with Spyro Gyra, Michael Franks, George Benson, Christopher Cross, Al Jarreau, and many other renowned artists.
David kicked off the concert with the 1979 track "Can You Imagine," followed by "Cafe Rio" and "Fuzzy Logic" from his latest album, Timeless.
Next in line was "Kei's Song," a heartfelt tune penned by David for his wife.
He first met her several years ago in Hawaii during a layover on his way to the Philippines for a concert.
"We've been married for 39 years," David proudly said, noting how the Philippines has played a significant role in the many milestones of his life.
The three-time Grammy nominee also mentioned undergoing a kidney transplant in 2023, acknowledging the care provided by Filipinos—likely referring to healthcare professionals from the Philippines based in the U.S.
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From there David went on to play "If I Can Reach Rainbows" (1998), "Freedom at Midnight" (1987), and "Every Step of the Way" (1988).
Major props to saxophonists Dix Lucero, who played with David way back in 1981, and Archie Lacorte, for their fantastic playing, which further enlivened the songs and added more groove to the numbers.
ROLLING OUT THE DISTINCT HITS
With The Company in the house, David called the quartet back to the stage to render vocals to the songs that made him a certified hitmaker.
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It was a nostalgic treat to hear songs such as "Promise Me a Carousel," "The Key to You," and "Land of the Loving"— originally recorded by Diane Reeves of "Better Days" fame — with Annie Quintos on vocals.
David capped off the special night with the memorable tunes "You Never Loved Me the Same Way Twice" and "Take A Look Inside My Heart" with OJ Mariano singing.
Responding to the audience's chant for "more," David returned to the piano and delivered two more songs, delighting a satisfied crowd.
It was an unforgettable night for those who grew up listening to David and those who are just discovering the renowned musician's vast catalog.
Once again, David demonstrated his ability to seamlessly blend jazz with pop, enabling him to crossover effortlessly to mainstream radio and garner commercial success.
In one of his speeches, David expressed his desire to return to the country once more, saying he hopes it won't take him another decade to do so.
David had been to the Philippines several times, with the last one happening in 2014 during a benefit concert for the victims of Typhoon Yolanda.