Jobert Bryan has always loved music—and music is an integral part of his life, but he never imagined himself becoming a singer and performing onstage someday. He was eight years old when he began to develop a love for music.
”I was inspired by my family. My cousin, a bassist in various bands, and my aunt, a jazz singer in bars and clubs, influenced me from an early age. At 13, I received my first guitar as a gift from my parents. By 15, I was performing with bands and writing my own songs,” Jobert revealed. This was just the beginning of his story, though. Over the years, Jobert would continue his musical journey and every year, his passion for creating stories through music deepened.
Jobert is one of the many talented local artists in the Cagayan de Oro music scene. He is a true-blooded Kagay-anon whose passion led him to pursue a Bachelor of Music Education major in Piano at Lourdes College. However, he had to rethink his priorities after losing his father during the pandemic. Jobert had to stop studying. “To support myself, I started working, initially selling barbecues. Over the past three years, I have transitioned to working as a digital associate and engaging in networking. Currently, I also play as a musician in services at my local church, which brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment to my musical journey.”
Although he had to give up his educational goals, what Jobert went through during the most challenging time of his life did not stop him from continuing to pursue his passion for music. In fact, he is now more determined and ready to share his talent with Kagay-anons. He now sees music the best way to connect with others.
After years of hard work and continuously improving his craft, Jobert is finally ready for a bigger stage. On Friday, June 27, his single, Patintero, will be launched on various digital platforms, including Spotify and YouTube.
I had the chance to talk to Jobert and asked him to share some interesting facts about his music and himself. Let’s get to know him through our Q&A session:
- Have you always wanted to be a singer? How old were you when you first discovered you wanted to be one?
Initially, I didn’t see myself as a singer. I used to perform in a band as a lead guitarist, and in church, I primarily played the keyboard. While I’ve always loved singing, my real passion has been in sharing and expressing emotions through songwriting. However, as I’ve grown in my musical journey, I’ve come to realize that singing my songs is a powerful way to connect with others. Now, I’m slowly embracing the role of a singer, understanding that it’s an important part of bringing my stories to life.
2. What are your first memories, the most unforgettable ones, as a singer?
When I sing my songs, I often find myself getting hoarse, which makes me think that singing might not be my strong suit. However, one of my most unforgettable memories was releasing my first song as Sulat ni Bryan. Seeing the audience genuinely engage with me as I performed was an incredible moment. It reminded me of the power of connection through music, despite my initial doubts about being a singer.
3. Have you had professional training? If you didn’t, what did you do (and continue to do) to hone your skills?
Currently, I am undergoing voice coaching with Sir Donie Galigao, who is guiding me in developing proper techniques and skills in singing. He teaches me how to deliver my songs effectively, focusing on articulation, diction, and overall performance. This training has been instrumental in helping me grow as a vocalist and a storyteller through music.
4. Who are the artists that you look up to? What about the artists who you believe influenced your music or artistry?
I look up to TJ Monterde, who has been a significant inspiration to me. His humble beginnings and how far he has come resonate deeply, especially since he’s also from Cagayan de Oro City. My musical influences also include local artists like Johnoy Danao, Project Romeo, Tothapi, and the timeless Rey Valera. These artists have shaped my approach to music and storytelling, inspiring me to create songs that connect with people on a personal level.
(Jobert also shared that when he started performing with bands and writing songs, he was influenced by pop, emo, and punk bands like Boys Like Girls, All-American Rejects, Secondhand Serenade, Simple Plan, and the Jonas Brothers.)
5. Your single, Patintero, is a love song that evokes nostalgia. What’s the story behind it?
Patintero is a love song for those hearts that once hoped and loved, but were left unrequited. The song draws from the bittersweet parallels between love and the game of patintero—no matter how hard you try to catch someone, they always seem just out of reach. But with every pursuit, the heart learns and grows stronger. It’s a nostalgic reminder of the lessons and resilience that come from unfulfilled love.
6. Have long have you been writing/composing songs? What inspires you to write?
I started writing songs in 2013, so it’s been about 12 years now, exploring different genres. Songwriting has always been my way of expressing emotions that are difficult for me to convey in words. When I write and pair those feelings with melodies, it becomes easier to communicate my inner world.
For love songs, in particular, I’ve often been a “torpeng tao”, and songwriting became my way of expressing feelings I couldn’t say out loud—like sending someone a heartfelt letter. In many ways, my songs also serve as a diary, capturing moments and emotions from my life.
7. Why should people, especially Kagay-anons, support your music?
Kagay-anons should support my music because it offers a fresh yet nostalgic sound that resonates deeply with our roots. It brings back the traditional way of expressing love, like the timeless art of harana, reimagined for today’s generation. Most importantly, my music reflects the pride and passion of being a Kagay-anon, and I hope it inspires others to embrace and celebrate our local talent and culture.
- What is your ultimate goal as a performer? Is singing something that you intend to do for the rest of your life?
My ultimate goal is to bring our local music to bigger and international stages, showcasing the richness of our talent to the world. I want to leave a lasting legacy for future generations, spreading love and passion through music. By doing so, I hope to inspire the next wave of artists to dream big and continue creating meaningful music that touches lives.
9. What advice can you give young artists like you who want to pursue their artistic goals?
Stay grounded always, and strive to balance your skills with a strong and positive character. Pursue your art with purpose—sharing light, hope, and love with your audience. Keep practicing, remain disciplined, and never lose sight of the impact your music can have on others.
There you have it, Kagay-anons, another genuine talent, bright and promising, that we should all support.
Jobert’s single, Patintero, will be launched this June 27 in all the major streaming platforms. Let’s support him and his music, and help him fulfill his dream of bringing local music to a bigger stage, to more audiences.
Good luck on your musical journey, Jobert!✨
-xxx-
Patintero credits:
CREDITS:
Lyrics & Music By: Jobert Bryan C. Espedido
Record Label: DBA Studios PH
Album Cover Design: Donie M. Galigao
Photo by: HAPPY HOUSE Studio CDO Downtown
Backing Vocals by: Jobert Bryan C. Espedido
Bass: Loremer Lagrosas Jr.
Percussion: Bam Roa
Guitars: Marc Harris Elizaga
Mastered by: Bam Roa
Mixed By: Bam Roa
Recorded At: Bammerstudio
Executive Producer: Donie M. Galigao