User:Ron.lawas0404/sandbox


 * 1) Gigi Vibes Band


 * 1) Introduction

"Music is expressing real life. It is the language of the soul." - Lorenz Arquero


 * 1) Impact Amidst the Pandemic

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the music industry faced unprecedented challenges. Live gigs were prohibited, concerts canceled, and people confined to their homes. Bars and venues fell silent as live performances became a casualty of the pandemic. However, amidst these challenging times, the Gigi Vibes Band emerged as a source of solace, entertainment, and positivity for Filipinos.


 * 1) Pioneering Live Streaming

The Gigi Vibes Band's live streams resonated with audiences both in the Philippines and abroad. They quickly gained recognition as a staple in the world of international music reaction videos. With their music, the band brought people together, inspiring them to sing along, share tears, and laughter. The band's songs composed a poignant soundtrack to a difficult period in global history.


 * 1) Origin and Roots

Gigi Vibes started as session musicians for Serenata Strings, collaborating with the late Lorenzo "Lorenz" Orate Aquereo and his son LA Arquero. The band's musical roots lie in contemporary upbeat jazz and alternative genres, including bossa nova, samba, and standard jazz. Gigi De Lana, the band's lead vocalist, received training in jazz standards, bossa nova, and pop music under Sir Lorenz in 2010. During this time, Romeo Marquez pursued a decade-long career as a session drummer, while Jon Cruz honed his keyboard skills for Serenata Strings.


 * 1) A Catalyst for Change

In 2015, Erwin Lacsa, formerly of the Ryan Cayabyab Singers, collaborated with LA Arquero to establish Serenata's New Perspective, which included Chuck Joson as the Musical Director and Chuck Menor as the Drummer. Tragically, the band lost its leader, Sir Lorenz Arquero, following his untimely passing in 2016.

This unfortunate event served as a catalyst for changes within the band. Gigi De Lana stepped into the role of lead singer, while Jake Manalo joined the band through a successful audition.


 * 1) Evolving Lineup

Subsequent years brought further transformations to the band. Chuck Joson left the group to pursue work as an arranger for a television network. Chuck Menor also decided to explore a different musical direction, leading to his replacement by Romeo Marquez. Meanwhile, Jon Cruz joined the band as both its pianist and musical director.


 * 1) Transition to Live Streaming

In 2020, amid the global pandemic that led to the shutdown of the live music industry, Gigi Vibes Band transitioned to live streaming on various social media platforms. This adaptation allowed them to continue sharing their music and connecting with their audience during a challenging time.


 * 1) Gigi Vibes Emerges

In July 2020, the band began streaming under the name "GG Vibes." Unfortunately, quarantine restrictions prevented other band members from participating in the show regularly, leading Gigi to rely on instrumental tracks. However, as quarantine restrictions relaxed, Jon Cruz returned to the live stream in August 2020, followed by Romeo Marquez in November 2020.

As 2021 dawned, the band reunited with the full lineup, as Jake Manalo and LA Arquero returned in January. In February 2021, the band officially adopted the name "Gigi Vibes."


 * 1) Notable Achievements

The band's journey has been marked by several significant milestones, including the acquisition of two Silver Play Buttons and one Gold Play Button on social media platforms. Their content frequently trended, and they amassed millions of followers.


 * 1) Legacy

In the face of adversity, Gigi Vibes Band continues to inspire and uplift with their music, proving that even in the toughest times, the music endures.


 * The Music Continues...*