By Request: Dessa, Troy Laureta, DK Tijam together on stage at the Music Museum
By Request these three Filipino talents—Dessa, Troy Laureta, and DK Tijam—will share the stage for the first time in a one-night concert. “By Request: Your Playlist Live Onstage,” on August 16 at 8 PM at the Music Museum.
DK Talents and Orange Magazine, in collaboration with Backstage Entertainment, present the concert.
This isn’t the first time Dessa has performed with DK. Aside from online shows, she invited him to Las Vegas when she had a show at a Filipino bar there. She also performed with DK in her recent show in Los Angeles.
I met DK Tijam during the pandemic. We were both streaming online and became very close on Kumu. Now we’re best friends.
admits Dessa.
Dessa has also done shows with Troy in LA and at his recent successful big show, “Harana,” with Martin Nievera, Pia Toscano, Loren Allred, Morissette Amon, Jay R, Wendy Moten, and Josefina in Las Vegas.
I met Troy through DMs. When I guested on ‘ASAP’ in Las Vegas in 2022, I saw him there with his sister Cheesa, and we became friends.
Dessa shares.
For the Music Museum concert, DK, Dessa, and Troy will perform songs they love or that people will surely enjoy.
Classic OPM songs arranged by Troy. We’re doing medleys of beautiful love songs. I’ll be performing some of my original songs. DK and I will also have some duets and production numbers that people will love.
says Dessa.
Dessa expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to continue doing what she loves. She beamed as she reflected on her busy schedule, noting, “Thank God, I’m busy with gigs here and there with my band.” She mentioned that she performed almost every weekend across the US.
On weekdays, I’m busy with family. I also have a small business, which I truly enjoy because I love bags. I run an online pre-loved bag business. I buy and sell bags. I’m also trying to get into life insurance. I’m in the process of learning and studying to become an insurance agent here in Nevada. I still do shows around the US.
Dessa shares.
By Request: Dessa, Troy Laureta, DK Tijam together on stage at the Music Museum
Although it’s not the first time Dessa and Troy are performing together, this will be Troy’s first time sharing the stage with DK. Troy discovered DK through his beautiful and soulful singing on live streams. Troy shared that they had been aware of Ms. Dessa for some time through TFC (The Filipino Channel). He knew her hits such as “Saan Ka Man” and “Lipad ng Pangarap.” He noted that they had performed together on a few occasions and that she was also part of his “Harana” concert.
Moreover, Troy helped curate some of the songs in DK’s and Dessa’s setlists. He also serves as the musical director for the concert.
Yes, together we created a setlist that showcases each artist’s voice and versatility. We also highlight how eclectic we are while staying true to what’s authentic to each of us. We explore the genres we love and the catalogue of music each artist has contributed to the entertainment and OPM world.
he says
Troy is currently the musical director for Singaporean artist JJ Lin’s world tour. He is also preparing to headline a tour called ‘Harana’. A show which features artists from around the world performing OPM classics and beloved western hits. It’s slated to launch in October, and they’re planning to bring ‘Harana’ to the Manila stage soon.
Two decades after DK became a finalist in the first “Star in a Million” in 2003, he remains active in the music scene. Even after moving to Canada, he continued performing.
“Star in a Million” holds a special place in DK’s heart. He reflects on its impact, noting that it introduced him to Philippine TV. Moreover, it’s heartwarming to be recognized by people who watched the show on social media. Additionally, DK appreciates the opportunity it gave him to pursue his passion and earn from it.
DK moved to Canada in 2006, which was one of the most pivotal decisions he made in his early 20s.
I wasn’t always involved in music in Canada, and around 2010, I almost gave up. But I realized that my love and passion for music are integral to my existence. A few years after the move, it really hit me hard. I missed my family, friends, and the life I thought I wouldn’t miss. When you’re young, your perspective isn’t fully developed, and your decision-making isn’t always reliable.
I’ve always believed in kindness, but I was a rebel in my younger years. I wanted to try something new. But yes, I had some regrets. Having said that, I’ve accepted and embraced the life I chose. Now I’m truly happy.
he shared
Earlier this year, DK had an “epiphany.” He asked himself if he didn’t focus on music this year, when would he?
As we get older, we realize how fleeting life is. It’s best to seize the day and do the things we love most while we still can.
DK says.
Tickets and other information
Joining the stage in “By Request” are Kayleigh Cerezo, Keeana Cerezo, Antoinette Targa, Chelsea Star, and Bella Magbag of DK Talents.
Special thanks to Orange Magazine, PLDT Home, Beautéderm, airasia Philippines, AirAsia Move, Grab, TaiChi, Moringa Vita, PascualLab, ALPAS Consultancy, AGENTS International Persuasion Specialist, Joy~Nostalg Hotels & Suites, Grand Westside Hotel, and Mang Inasal.
Tickets are available at Ticketworld, the Music Museum, or through Dianne Edosma (0935-205-7132) and Owlan Alvar (0927-593-9673).
