
Wilbert introduces debut EP ‘Lampara’ alongside Awit nomination
Versatile actor and singer-songwriter, Wilbert Ross, is taking a significant step in his music career with the release of his first-ever EP titled Lampara.
Released to music platforms just over a week ago, Wilbert’s first-ever six-song extended-play album underscores his commitment to expanding his artistic horizons.
Adding to this momentous occasion, Wilbert has received a nomination in the upcoming 36th Awit Awards in the Best Male Performance category, a clear indicator for his dedication to his music.
While some music acts opt for a compilation of their prior singles as an EP, Wilbert takes a different approach with Lampara.
It boasts four entirely new, original tracks written by him and each designed to resonate with his listeners.
The EP is spearheaded by Handa Ako, a sentimental acoustic ballad that showcases the singer-actor’s mellow side and features singer Mika Salamanca.
In addition to Handa Ako, it also includes three more original tracks, all penned by Wilbert himself.
Byahe Ng Buhay takes listeners on a lyrical journey through life’s ups and downs, Dramatic Actor combines melodious vocals with a touch of drama, and BentengUkit is a captivating song that lingers in your head and heart long after you’ve heard it.
For dedicated fans, Lampara offers an extra treat with the inclusion of two beloved tracks, Nakangiti and Andito Lang Ako.
These songs have garnered a strong following and are thoughtfully added to the EP to create a well-rounded listening experience.
Wilbert’s venture into music is no one-shot deal aimed at propagating his name for fame’s sake.
At the start, he told his label, Viva Records: “I’d like to let everyone know that I’m serious with my music. I’m not doing this because I want to be known as an actor who can sing. I’m in this because this music is inside me. I’m saying this just so you know that I’m in this for the long haul.”
Sure enough, Wilbert has since been consistent with his music, releasing single after single, and collaborating along the way with the likes of Zeinab Harake for the official music video for his song Langga, which has since garnered over eight million views on YouTube and 13.5 million streams on Spotify.
Not bad for an actor who happens to seriously sing and write on the side.
That’s why getting a nomination for an Awit Award in the Best Male Performance category is an acknowledgment of his musical efforts.
The nod isn’t lost to Wilbert as Awit Awards is the most prestigious music acknowledgement in the local music scene.
“It’s feels good getting noticed this way,” said he, adding “it means I’m doing something right.”
With Lampara, the actor-singer is poised to make bigger strides when it comes to his music.
So far, he has amassed over 21 million streams and more than 350,000 monthly listeners on Spotify alone.
That number has nowhere to go but up at the rate Wilbert is releasing his brand of relatable pop songs and ballads.