Edward Mico Joseph Agustin

American jazz pianist, producer, and composer David Benoit is back in Manila for a concert this weekend. 

Article (news)

American jazz pianist David Benoit recalls meeting Marcoses, Aquinos 

MJ Felipe

ABS-CBN News

<div><script data-wid="auto" type="text/javascript" src="https://content.viralize.tv/display/?zid=AAFz8gWM8iRADsJr&amp;cid=ABgC8JZ0w3nbaHX4"></script></div>American jazz pianist, producer, and composer David Benoit is back in Manila for a concert this weekend. This is his nth time in the country, and sitting down with ABS-CBN News, Benoit shared some highlights of his past visits, including meeting members of the Marcos and Aquino families. “I met Imelda (Marcos) the first time I came here in ’81, I met Imee and Manotoc. They were married. And that was weird ‘cause when I introduced them, the audience booed.”He continued, “Then I played for Cory Aquino, and I went to the palace in Malacanang, and then Ninoy (he meant Noynoy) in one of my recent concerts. Lovely gentleman. Had all my CDs.” “So I had the Marcoses and the Aquinos, I got everybody. Duterte, never met him.” He also recalled some moments during the Martial Law regime.“One time I did a presscon and they were apologizing. ‘I’m sorry that the presscon didn’t have many people ‘cause there’s a riot outside.&#x27; This was in ’83 when everything was under Martial Law.”“There were armed guards in all the hotels. It was interesting being there. But I’ve kinda been lucky to see some of the Philippine history and kinda live it.”  Asked if he got an invite to visit Malacanang, would he say yes? “Of course I would. It’s not about politics. It’s about doing good things. The palace is beautiful.”Benoit also said that he wants to explore more of the Philippines than the capital city. “My wife got a home in Japan, so we’re gonna be spending more and more time in Asia. I love it here.” “It’s the people - the Filipino people are the most kind, warm. I ask my agent when am I coming back to Manila? Next time, I have to see some of the other islands.” For his concert this Saturday at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, he will be performing with guests Lara Maigue and Gian Magdangal. Benoit has nothing but praise for Filipino talent.“Fantastic, especially the vocals.”     “I played here with orchestras. It’s nice to walk in an orchestra that they know already your songs. It’s very weird. Filipinos know my songs.”

American jazz pianist, producer, and composer David Benoit is back in Manila for a concert this weekend.