Sam Concepcion Talks ‘Bago,’ Evolution as an Artist, and What Keeps Him Passionate

Since emerging as the champion of Little Big Star in April 2006, Sam Concepcion has continually reinvented himself to become one of the most recognized personalities of his generation. Being more than just a triple threat — he can sing, act (on film and on stage), dance, host and do some jockeying — it has been his mantra to keep on growing and never stop learning, pushing him to do better at staying on top of his game endeavor after endeavor.

On his return to Wish 107.5 Bus last August 30, the 23-year-old artist talked about “Bago,” his latest album under Universal Records, and gave insightful thoughts and pieces of advice on how to keep one’s passion for his craft burning.

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Why is your album called “Bago”?

There are a few reasons why it’s entitled “Bago.” First, there’s a song in the album that’s called “Bago.” Second, because it’s something new. This is my first album that’s all original.

With this effort, I think I did my part in giving my contribution to OPM. At one point I guess, you kind of have to take responsibility — not just me, but everybody, all the young artists that are out there. We have to understand that no one’s going to do it but us, so we need to step up and make new original Filipino music.

You’ve entered the industry early. How did your experiences help you to be who you are now as an artist?

It’s always weird when people mention that ‘Oh you’ve been here for 10, 11, 12 years.’ It feels funny when I hear that because I’m only 23 and I do feel like I’m still beginning. I just started very early, I guess. I had a long head start and I wouldn’t had it any other way of course. All the experience and everything that I learned through the years, I think, really added up to who I am today.

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What keeps you interested and passionate?

I really don’t know what’s the secret, but if you’re really into something, you’re going to find ways to keep growing. You don’t stop at one point. I love to do different things but I don’t want to stop doing just that. I want to maximize my talent and see how far I can take myself into.

You already mentioned that you love to do different things. What’s something you’d like to try?

Maybe directing, it’s something I’ve never done. Hopefully in the future, I’d be able to direct my own… it could be videos, live performances, TV shows, movies — I don’t know but I’m always open to trying.

How do you think have you evolved as an artist?

I think I’m still in the process of evolving, meron pa akong ilang steps. Siguro nasa first evolution pa lang ako. I don’t believe that anyone should stop growing. But in any way, artistry is about knowing who you are at the moment. Kunwari, ‘yung album ko is who I was when I was making it. Even right now, things are already changing. So, I don’t know what kind of music I’m going to make this year or in the next two, five or ten years. It can all change depending on where life takes me.

“Bago” is now available in all record stores nationwide.