Juan Karlos Labajo is set to celebrate his 10th anniversary in the music industry with his first-ever major concert, ‘juan karlos Live,’ happening on November 29, 2024, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Produced by Nathan Studios, owned by Sylvia Sanchez’s family, the concert marks a significant milestone for the singer-actor, who is stepping onto a bigger stage after years of performing in smaller venues.
During the media conference for the event, JK expressed excitement, calling it a “dream come true.” He revealed that Sylvia Sanchez, who he fondly refers to as “Ibyang,” had been encouraging him for some time to hold a major concert. However, JK admitted he was initially hesitant, feeling he wasn’t ready for a large-scale event. But after realizing how much his fans wanted to see him perform on a bigger platform, he decided to take the plunge.
“The concert’s production team is working hard to polish all the elements needed in order to provide the greatest possible concert experience for everyone. Of course, they’ll hear and see me perform my hits as well as a few songs that have influenced me as an artist,” JK shared.
The decision seems to have paid off, with the SVIP section of the concert already sold out, bringing excitement to JK and his team. The show will be directed by Paolo Valenciano, with Karel Honasan serving as the musical director.
In a post-conference group interview, JK was asked about his relationship with fellow ‘The Voice Kids’ alum Darren Espanto. The two, once close friends, had a public falling out in 2018, which fans have followed closely over the years. Many are still hoping for a reconciliation.
JK was candid but said he didn’t want to dwell on the issue. However, he made it clear that he’s open to the possibility of rekindling their friendship. “It’s not something I wanna talk about, definitely. It’s not something that’s part of my day to day thoughts,” he said.
He emphasized that there’s no negativity on his end and that he has moved past the conflict. “I’ve always been fine, I’ve always been open, and I’ve always been kind. For me, the issue is done,” he added. “Ako naman, on my end, without mentioning anybody, it’s really… we’re all grown-ups here and ako, more than anything, love is what matters most.”
When asked about a potential collaboration with Darren, JK responded positively, saying he’s open to working with everyone, including Darren. “So, alam mo ‘yun, my door is open wide in terms of… Diyos ko naman, talagang mag-i-stress pa ba tayo sa mga ganyang drama? Ang dami kong drama sa buhay. I’ve always been fine, actually, I’ve always been open, I’ve always been kind and I will never speak on other people’s behalf. For my end, ako, there’s nothing negative on my end,” he remarked.
“Again, not talking about somebody, mentioning anybody specifically but we have amazing artists here and we have amazing performances and all of these issues and things aside, it doesn’t take away that kind of talent and skills that these people have,” he added.
Although no formal offer for a collaboration has been made, JK believes that time and growth heal all wounds. “It’s always there. But then again, more that anything, it’s really time that heals all wounds. It’s really time and growth that heal all wounds.” He is now focused on his concert, leaving the past behind. “And again, in relation to this topic, anything for my end, I’m open and I am way past all of those things and now, I’m just really focused on the concert,” he shared.
‘juan karlos Live’ promises to be a showcase of JK’s journey as an artist. Tickets are available at all SM Tickets outlets.
