This is the moment that Erik Santos only dreamed of 20 years ago.
Celebrating two decades of making unforgettable music that has touched the hearts of his legions of listeners, he looks back on his journey and pays tribute to the most special people who ushered him into this one-in-a-million milestone – his family, especially his late parents.
To thrive in the cutthroat world of show business is no easy feat. It takes unwavering motivation, which Erik gets from his family. A loving son and ‘kuya’ through and through, he will never get tired of making music and performing on stage, thanks to his family who breathes him support and inspiration.
“I always offer everything to my family, especially to my parents,” he said.
Although he’s gone through a devastating season after losing both of his parents in less than a year, and almost lost his faith because of it, Erik has found a moment to reflect on what still lies ahead. At the end of the day, he revived his faith knowing it's his only weapon in days of grief.
“Sa mga ganitong pagsubok sa buhay, wala ka talagang ibang kakapitan kundi ‘yung pananampalataya mo sa Panginoon.” He also holds on to the values and strength that his parents were able to instil in him. They may be gone but their love will remain in Erik and his siblings.
“Minsan may mga times na we’re okay. Most of the time, we’re not okay,” he said of his and his siblings’ hurting period. “Bilang kuya, sinasabi ko sa mga nakababata kong kapatid, pati rin sa Ate ko, na let’s just take it one day at a time. Kasi mahirap talaga itong pinagdadaanan natin. Magkasunod tapos hindi natin inaasahan ang mga pangyayari. So, ibang pagsubok ‘to pero kakayanin namin ‘to.”
He looked back on his last memories with his parents, specifically going on a European tour with his dad after his mom’s passing. Learn more in the podcast!
In the next portion of the episode, Erik reflects on his career, of which one of the highlights was performing on the same stage with OPM icons Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid. He also treasures the friends he’s found in the industry, including Jona and Ogie Diaz, who both made a surprise appearance and talked about all the good qualities of the Pop Ballad Royalty.
Join the insightful conversation with Eric and the momshies Regine, Jolina Magdangal, and Melai Cantiveros in this episode of Magandang Buhay The Podcast.