Asia’s Pop Heartthrob Darren marked a decade of musical excellence with his highly anticipated tenth-anniversary concert D10, held at the Araneta Coliseum last June 1, 2024.
Ten years ago, Darren made a name for himself on The Voice Kids Philippines Season 1. Today, he’s celebrated as a versatile performer and someone whom Star Magic proudly showcases on the international stage. His tenth-anniversary concert, commemorating this journey, was a resounding success, attracting a sold-out crowd of fans, celebrity guests, and friends, all eager to celebrate Darren’s remarkable journey and musical achievements.
The concert showcased Darren’s talent and discography, featuring a well-rounded setlist that spanned his entire career, from tracks from his debut album like “Stuck” and “In Love Ako Sa’yo” to his trending cover of “Dying Inside to Hold You.” Fans were treated to electrifying performances of his biggest hits and exciting collaborations.
Special guest appearances included a duet with his thirteen-year-old self from The Voice Kids, his TVK coach Sarah Geronimo, co-finalist Lyca Gairanod, and OPM greats such as Erik Santos, Ogie Alcasid, and Gary Valenciano. “I was just so happy to be with them, kasi itong mga artist na ‘to are people I look up to ever since I was a kid. Walang dalawang-isip na mag-guest sa concert ko.” Darren shared his insights on these collaborations.
Darren considered his concert to be a ‘dream come true’. “Tagal ko nang hinintay ‘tong moment na ‘to. We’ve done several special events sa Araneta before pero iba pala talaga kapag alam mong sarili mong show,” he said.
Recently, Darren joined the It’s Showtime family as a mainstay in the noontime show, and among its performers were his co-host Vice Ganda and Ogie Alcasid, who went full support for Darren’s concert. “Si Ate Vice, isa sa mga sumusuporta sa career ko ever since The Voice Kids. Lagging siyang andiyan giving tips, not only for my career but also for my personal life. I want her to be part of my 10th anniversary kasi part siya ng journey ko,” Darren shared.
Asked about how he finds time to balance his endeavors with ongoing programs like It’s Showtime and ASAP, Darren shares how he manages his time to attend to all his commitments. “It’s nice to have a routine at ‘yun yung pang-start ko ng araw ko. Showtime muna at saka ako mag-rehearse. Pagdating ko sa rehearsals, ‘yung adrenaline ko andoon na kaagad. Nakatulong siya to prepare me for the day and calm my nerves,” he said.
Darren has also been taking on acting with his recent role as Stephen Tanhueco in the teleserye “Can’t Buy Me Love.” His character develops a love triangle with Caroline (played by Belle Mariano) and Bingo (portrayed by Donny Pangilinan).
When asked about future projects and collaborations, Darren names some artists he looks forward to working with at his next concert, among which he mentions Martin Nievera and Regine Velasquez. While he teased fans on what’s in store and his aspirations following his tenth-year milestone, “One of those things is recording as we’re finishing my first album under Star Music and to have a performance in the global stage, tulad ng ginawa ko dati sa Singer 2019, and of course, Showtime araw-araw,” he said.
With his tremendous success and innate talent, Darren shines as a standout gem of Star Magic. It’s certain that he has much more to achieve, and his journey is just the beginning of something greater.
