December 10, 2024 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — Last Nov. 29, singer-songwriter Juan Karlos Labajo, a.k.a. JK, mounted his first-ever major concert, “Juan Karlos LIVE.” A crowd of nearly 12,000 fans gathered to witness this milestone, turning the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena in Pasay City into a hub of celebration for JK’s decade-long journey in the industry.
In what became a fun and unforgettable evening of music and surprises, JK showcased why he remains one of the most exciting young artists in the OPM scene. From the outset, he established a vibe that was distinctly his own — describing the evening as a “jamming session” and delivering a concert that, while brimming with the grandeur expected of a venue of this scale, felt as cozy and laid-back as if you were hanging out in his living room. He made sure the audience felt like part of the action, not just spectators.
“Wag kayong mahiyang sumabay, kaya natin ‘to,” he told the crowd with a grin, making everyone feel at home.
The show opened with powerhouse performances by former “Tawag ng Tanghalan” champion Janine Berdin, who impressed the audience with her own songs, like Mahika, and a hauntingly beautiful rendition of My Chemical Romance’s The Black Parade.
During the main event, Janine joined JK onstage for a playful performance of their collaboration, Pancit, showcasing their camaraderie and shared musical chemistry.
The stage was a spectacle in itself, designed in a 360-degree layout to ensure every fan, no matter where they were seated, had a perfect view of JK.
Featuring understated yet powerful visual effects, the production amplified the impact of JK’s music without overshadowing it — all thanks to production house Nathan Studios, under the leadership of actress-producer Sylvia Sanchez.
Nathan Studios, which has produced or co-produced cutting-edge films like “Topakk” and series like “Cattleya Killer” and “The Bagman,” made its first foray into live events with JK’s Mall of Asia Arena debut.
“Juan Karlos LIVE” officially marked Nathan Studios’ grand entrance as a major player in the Philippine concert scene.
Directed by Paolo Valenciano, the event featured transparent LEDs — a unique creative element Valenciano had long envisioned but had never had the opportunity to bring to life. Thanks to the forward-thinking team at Nathan Studios, he finally got the green light to make it happen.
Throughout the nearly three-hour show, JK kept the energy high, performing a mix of his hits, fan favorites and collaborations with some of the country’s most beloved artists.
Moira dela Torre joined him for Medyo Ako, while Gloc-9 and JK delivered an electrifying rendition of Sampaguita. Zild performed Gabi alongside him, and Ben&Ben’s Paolo Benjamin teamed up with JK for Tapusin Na Natin ‘To.
Even in the absence of Kyle Echarri, who had a prior commitment, JK managed to surprise the audience with a virtual collaboration for the Visayan song Kasing-Kasing.
The concert’s standout moment came during JK’s performance of Manhid. As he seemingly left the stage, a live video feed revealed him strapping into a body harness backstage. Moments later, he appeared outside the arena, carrying a GoPro and serenading fans inside and outside the venue. The unexpected move left the crowd cheering and laughing. Social media buzzed with approving reactions, with JK later apologizing on X (formerly Twitter) for having to ignore fans during his impromptu outdoor serenade.
“Juan Karlos LIVE” proved to be a star-studded affair, drawing such attendees as Arjo Atayde and Maine Mendoza, Ria Atayde and Zanjoe Marudo, Ben Chan, Dr. Vicki Belo, Hayden Kho, Lorna Tolentino, Martin Nievera, Eula Valdes, Sarah Geronimo, and Matteo Guidicelli.
Nathan Studios’ Sylvia Sanchez with Ben&Ben’s Paolo Benjamin.
JK’s gratitude was palpable as he closed the night with heartfelt thanks to everyone who had supported him. “Sobrang weird nito. Ang weird na makita kayong lahat dito. There are a lot of people,” he began, his disbelief a humbling reminder of how far he has come since his “The Voice Kids” days.
“Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat na nandito ngayong gabi. Maraming maraming salamat,” he added, visibly moved.
Fittingly, JK ended the concert with his two biggest hits, Buwan and Ere, leaving fans euphoric and the arena buzzing with energy.
As the evening’s final notes rang out, it was clear that “Juan Karlos LIVE” was more than just a concert. For JK, it was a defining moment in his career, proving his ability to break boundaries and connect with his fans like no other. For Nathan Studios, on the other hand, it was seeting a new benchmark for creativity and innovation in live production.
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