October 12, 2006

Paalam, Drae!

Paul Andrae Wilde Ybanez

When did you first start to sing?

I sang before I spoke according to my mom. My first song was "Tomorrow" from Annie, but I sang it "Timarrow."

Do you have any formal singing training?

Only a couple of workshops but my mom trained me using karaoke when I was a young.

What other talents do you have?

I can do a good impersonation of a T-rex and scare the hell out of my nieces, I can host and act (stage play), I also draw using oil pastel.

Have you joined any singing contest in the past or is this your first time?

Yes, school and inter-school competitions and a TV program three years ago.

What made you decide to join Philippine Idol?

I was on a dead-end and getting ready to migrate but when I realized that winning Philippine Idol can help me financially and also help me revive a street kid organization, I decided to give it a go.

If you don't make it on PHILIPPINE IDOL, what will you do?

Losing is not an option for me and with faith like a child I believe that I will be the FIRST PHILIPPINE IDOL.

What are your personal goals in life?

To be a successful singing "ambassador" that would inspire Filipinos all over the world; to own a business so I could earn and also support Children's Garden.

What album would your friends be surprised you own?

Haha! A CD entitled BoldStar, a rock band of a friend of mine, Jerome (Echo), who is the lead singer and plays the guitar.

What was the first concert that you went to?

My cousin Ruth Rocabo-Bagalay's concert in Papuri in church. Outside church, The Dawn concert with my older brother who is a big fan.

What was the title of your first CD?

Jars of Clay.

If you will be given a chance to have a duet with your idol who will it be and what song are you going to sing?

Mind blowing! Mr. Gary V. singing my recent favorite When I hear you call. (Actually any song basta si Kuya Gary kasama ko!)

Do you have any rituals or things you do each time you perform?

I pray to God for anointing me so that I will effectively touch the people who will hear me. I also take Pei pa koa which helps soothe my throat before singing.

Most embarrassing moments?

Hmmm... Slam book eh?... It was grade school and I liked this girl so much in our theatre group. I was working on the bulletin board at the hall way when I saw her coming. Then she says, "excuse me" and so I looked at her with dreamy eyes and said "Yes?" Expecting her to ask for my name or something. Then she said, "excuse me, can I pass? You're blocking the way..." I felt horrible and stupid! Haha

What has been your proudest moment in life so far?

In my singing career, being in Philippine Idol.

If you couldn't sing, which talent would you most like to have?

Maybe an athlete (Gymnast or in track and field). You know how things would have been totally different if something is changed in your past?

What is your definition of a PHILIPPINE IDOL?

A Philippine Idol is beyond having the ability to sing and perform well. It's using your influence to impact a society that is going down the drain. Strictly speaking an IDOL is an object that is worshipped. If you are "worshipped" (and I know it sounds blasphemous) you must have a higher standard in your values and how you live your life.

Who is your favorite judge and why?

Like the rest of the finalists, I'll play it safe hehehehe....ALL OF THEM!

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

That I used to sleep on the floor in our living room for 6 months ; )

How has this experience changed your life?

The Philippine Idol experience is phenomenal. I have a better direction in life now and it taught me to pray more. I also became more sociable.

Do you have any lucky charms?

No, but I always wear my white band to remember my fight against poverty and graft and corruption.

Who are your heroes in life?

Spiderman? Haha... My dad, Judge Elihu Ybanez who is a symbol of integrity, My mom, Jane Arlene Wilde, who raised me up and loved me in spite of being a brat at times. My mentors (Kuya Ruben Aldea, Pastor Nuel Nanez, Jay Esteban, Stuart Yang, Pastor Caloy and Pastor Jaren Lapasaran). My three Anchas, Gen. Gudani, the Wenrichs (Dave, Beth, Luke, Donai and Bethany) and Che Guevarra.

What's been your toughest obstacle in life?

When I lost track and didn't know what I want in life.

Do you think the audition process was fair?

Yes, absolutely.

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