Martin Nievera on Timelessness and Keeping OPM Alive

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He has one of OPM’s most passionate and recognizable voices. And throughout a well-celebrated career that spans over four decades, he has proven, time and again, that he is the Philippines’ Concert King.

Martin Nievera — who has breathed life into timeless classics such as “Be My Lady,” “Say That You Love Me,” “Kahit Isang Saglit,” and “You Are My Song” — was recently hailed as the 9th Wish Music Awards’ KDR Icon of Musical Excellence.

The awards night was held on January 14, 2024, at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Exuding gratitude

During his acceptance speech, Nievera underscored the importance of passion and commitment while putting the limelight on the unsung heroes of the music scene.

“First of all, thank you so much to Wish 107.5 for this great honor. OPM is in great hands… You guys are really the future of the music industry. I’m just so proud and so happy to still be alive to witness greatness,” he remarked, speaking before an audience that includes some of today’s best OPM-makers.

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Speaking about receiving one of the highest accolades of the night, which recognizes the unparalleled contributions of OPM luminaries, Nievera added, “You all should be proud of yourselves not just because of the music, not just because of the hits on all the different platforms, but because you know how to recognize the people who paved the way for you. This, for me, is the greatest achievement that all of you youngsters can be proud of,” he remarked.

Previous awardees include National Artist for Music Mr. Ryan Cayabyab, Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, and esteemed hitmaker Rey Valera. Louie Ocampo, a visionary composer and arranger — and Nievera’s frequent collaborator — was last year’s recipient.

“Understand that all the songs I’ve done [were songs] of someone else except for ‘You Are My Song’; I’m proud to say I composed that song. But from recording companies who put their faith in me — from Vicor to PolyEast to Vicor again — to those who trusted me with their music… It’s the songwriter, it’s the producer, it’s the engineer — these are the unsung heroes who never get the round of applause that they deserve. I am but one voice,” he continued.

On timelessness

Nievera’s passion and body of work are indeed timeless. His decades-long career is an inspiration. When asked about the secret to longevity, he shared that it’s all about enjoying what you love to do.

“I think the secret to being timeless is don’t wear a watch. Don’t tell the time. Don’t ask the time. Enjoy the moment. Don’t make your passion your work, and you’ll see time fly,” he said in an interview on the sidelines of the 9th Wish Music Awards.

“For as long as you’re not in it for the fame, for as long as you’re not in it for your ego, and you’re in it to make a difference… then you’re on the right track. Next thing you know, [you’ve changed] the world with one song,” the balladeer remarked.

Succinctly sharing advice that is both timeless and ever-so-timely, he stated, “I’ve been doing this for 41 years, and I’m proud to say: Singers, keep singing. Writers, keep writing. And Wishers, keep wishing.”

Watch his Wishclusive performances below:

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Missed the winning moments at the 9th Wish Music Awards? Watch the event’s digital stream on February 4, 2024, Sunday, at 7 p.m. PHT on the Wish YouTube channel.

READ NEXT: COMPLETE LIST: 9th Wish Music Awards Winners

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