Jeri Violago – OPM star rising

Newcomer Jeri Violago’s journey to musical stardom has been one of patience and promise, culminating in a collaboration with veteran composer Vehnee Saturno and the release of two hit singles under ABS-CBN’s Star Music.

The 22-year-old newcomer with the award-winning composer Vehnee Saturno

“It’s an honor and a blessing to work with Vehnee Saturno,” shares 22-year-old Jeri Violago, his gratitude apparent as he embarks on his journey as a recording artist.

After more than a year in the making, ABS-CBN’s Star Music is finally unveiling Jeri’s debut tracks, not just one but two, crafted especially for him by the award-winning Saturno.

Saturno, known for classics like “Be My Lady” and “Til My Heartaches End,” recognized something extraordinary in Jeri, describing him as a fresh and unique voice in the music scene. “Sabi ko, there are a lot of artists we get to watch on Channel 2, Channel 5, Channel 7, so I wanted to hear something different. And [that singer] is Jeri Violago,” declared the industry legend behind some of the country’s biggest hits.

The potential he saw in the newcomer is Jeri’s ability to bring a unique sound to contemporary music. Proof is in their collaborative efforts, “Gusto Kita,” a heartfelt love song, and “Hindi Ka Nag-iisa,” an ode of reassurance to a beloved.

Jeri’s creative process is deeply personal, as he shared in an interview, “When I make music, I try to observe how my body would respond to it, how I would naturally move with the music. That’s how I make my songs.”

Graduating cum laude in Business Management from Ateneo de Manila University, Jeri signed a three-tier contract with Star Music, solidifying his roles as an artist, composer, and record producer.

Jeri Violago

His music journey began with a heartfelt conversation with his parents, entrepreneurs Joselito and Chiqui Violago. Despite his father’s generous offer for Jeri to join the family-owned rice mill business, the nevertheless devoted son asked if he could follow his passion for music.

His parents, especially mom Chiqui who is now very hands-on in Jeri’s career, gave him their blessing, only seeking their son’s happiness.

Jeri, who has always loved music, backs his decision with accolades from his time at Ateneo, including victories at the Musikapella and the Ateneo Grade School Singing competitions. These early triumphs underscore his versatility as a singer.

Waiting just over a year to find the perfect debut single, live performances have been Jeri’s initiation into the OPM industry. And based on reactions from his front acts for more prominent singers and sets at posh lounge shows, it is where he truly shines, transitioning effortlessly between pop, jazz, swing, R&B, soul and even Broadway.

His repertoire includes classics from musicals such as “The King and I,” “Annie” and “South Pacific,” as well as beloved OPM hits and smooth jazz standards reminiscent of Michael Buble’s style.

From what this artist has shown the past year – talent, attitude and determination – Jeri Violago is poised to leave an indelible mark on the music scene. His collaboration with Vehnee Saturno is just the beginning of a promising career. Keep an ear out for more from this rising artist as he continues to captivate audiences with songs that are uniquely his own.

Listen to these fresh jams under ABS-CBN Music via streaming across leading music platforms.