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Heart Evangelista steps up the tempo
from Manila Bullitin Online
By Rein EscaÑo
Some kids just have it – the spin and the talent to pursue a career in the
entertainment industry. For them it is fun being able to do what they love
best and seeing people acclaiming them is a bonus. The schedule may be
grueling and they may have to go through special schools to keep up with,
but you can’t stop them.
For Love Marie Payawal Ongpauco, more popularly known as Heart Evangelista,
she knew that she wanted to be on screen even before she could read.
“I always wanted to be an artista kaso ayaw ako payagan ng dad ko. Buti na
lang may magandang opportunity na dumating so at least parang wala ng effort
na nakuha ko. I told my dad I just wanted to learn how to act,” the sweet
and perky Heart started.
Now, it’s hard to ignore the fact that she’s everywhere. From her regular TV
appearance on “Berks” as Gwyneth, TV guestings, movie performances, product
endorsements (she’s endorsing major products like Close-Up Lemon Fresh,
Tekki Yakiudon, Smart and Vaseline Shampoo), to veejaying on the number one
music channel “MYX” to recording an album.
She worked hard to claim the spotlight and now she’s considered as one of
the most bankable young stars we have.
Like every artists must know, she believes that she is only as good as her
last performance. This keeps her ready and always reinventing herself to
keep the people interested in her.
Heart shared, “When I do something, I’m not really contented with the
outcome. I always think that I need more time and experience. I put in mind
that this is what I chose so I should love it and I try to improve my
weaknesses.”
Although her days are packed with loaded showbiz commitments, don’t mistake
her frenzied schedule as a zealous quest for fame. Heart has also nobler
plans with studies to complement her charm and good upbringing. Right now,
Heart is on her third year with home study program and wants to take up
Interior Designing in college.
True to brainy babe form, the 18-year-old VJ said, “Gusto ko kasi more on
arts and field ko. And I really want to do my own designs especially I have
plans of buying my own condo unit.”
When with friends, Heart won’t be seen in her celebirty way. No big matters
since she describe herself as a friendly, bubbly and a real person. “Madali
akong kasama. Lahat friends ko. As much as possible gusto ko kaibigan ko
lahat. I think people in the business whom I respect, respects me also,” she
humbly told us.
When she turned 18 last June, Heart recalled all the great things that
changed her life. “Wow! The feeling is great! Now, my parents treat me as an
adult. They allow me to go out na though may chaperone. Payagan lang ako
lumabas with my friends is already a big deal.”
These days proved to be more favorable for the Norah Jones and Many Moore
fanatic. Aside from her showbiz engagements, her first album under Star
Records, marks Heart’s transformation from being just another personlity who
can also sing. Simply titled as “Heart,” the album contains intense and
evocative melodies driven by her soulful pop voice. Her first single off the
album is called “One,” an irresistably pop tune with an upbeat vibe that
will stick in your head. Currently making waves in your favorite FM
stations, “One” marks Heart’s talent in the music league, thus, earning the
title “Pop Jewel.”
Her 10-track album features the acoustic-inspired “Wag Na Lang” and “Di Na
Mahihintay” to the hip-hop track “Sulat” (featuring the budding rapper Gloc
9) up to the inspiring song “You Can Make It Happen.” The album also have
Heart’s emotional rendition of Mr. Big’s classic “To Be With You,” 2003
Himig Handog Love Songs Listeners and Texters Choice Awardee “Love Has Come
My Way” and the sentimental love song “Please Be Careful With My Heart,” a
duet with John Prats.
Releasing this album brought Heart into a more ecstatic feeling which she
spoke, “Kinakabahan ako. I don’t know if I did good or what. I’m nervous but
then I’m happy and excited!”
Speaking of John, Heart admitted that both of them are doing good. In fact,
they are doing their launching movie for Star Cinema. When asked who between
John and Luis Manzano (rumors say that her co-MYX VJ is courting her) won
her heart, she related with girlish mirth, “Si John! Si John! Si John! Luis
is a good friend. Yeah, we go out with my sister. It’s more of a barkada
thing.”
Heart looks happy and contented with what she has so far and is determined
to set her goals even higher. Definitely, she’s one to look out for in days
to come.
(Today watch out for her TV launch on “ASAP Mania.” Afterwards, she will
also be at the M Star Las Piñas for the Pop Jewel Mall Tour and autograph
signing. “Heart” is now available on CDs and cassettes at record stores
nationwide) |
