Jojo Mendrez: A new era for OPM’s 'Revival King'

After capturing the hearts of Filipinos with his soul-stirring revivals of Somewhere in My Past and Nandito Lang Ako, singer Jojo Mendrez is entering a bold new chapter—one that honors his journey, expands his artistry, and cements his legacy in Original Pilipino Music (OPM).

On July 29, 2025, at Pandan Asian Café in Quezon City, Jojo officially signed an exclusive management contract with Artist Circle Talent Management, helmed by CEO Ramel “Rams” David. The event marked not just a career milestone, but a celebration of faith, perseverance, and the power of second chances.

A musical journey rooted in resilience

Jojo’s story is one of quiet strength. Raised in Lucena City by hardworking parents—a cigarette agent and a market vendor—he learned the value of persistence early on, helping his family weave buri baskets to make ends meet. At age 10, he joined his first amateur singing contest. He didn’t win, but the P200 consolation prize sparked a lifelong dream.

To support himself, Jojo ventured into real estate, eventually becoming a top broker. But music never left his soul. He later trained at the Ryan Cayabyab School of Music alongside Jolina Magdangal and others, sharpening his craft and deepening his love for OPM.

His breakout moment came with his heartfelt renditions of Tuyo Na’ng Damdamin, Handog, and Sana—songs that showcased his emotional depth and vocal sincerity. In 2018, his revival of Sana won “Revival Song of the Year” at the PMPC Star Awards for Music.

Then came Somewhere in My Past—a turning point. Personally chosen by legendary composer Mon del Rosario, Jojo recorded the track during one of the most difficult periods of his life, having just lost his father and recovering from COVID-19. Despite the setbacks, he pushed through.

The result? A viral hit. With over 50 million streams and views, Somewhere in My Past became a national anthem of longing and resilience. It reestablished Jojo not just as a revivalist, but as an authentic voice for his generation.

The road ahead: New songs, new stories

Now signed under Artist Circle, Jojo is preparing to release a series of revivals and original singles under Star Music—a pivotal move that will culminate in his first-ever EP album under a major label.

Among the highly anticipated tracks:

• Tamis ng Unang Halik – the Tina Paner classic, arranged by Louie Ocampo and supervised by Mon del Rosario.

• Boy (Babe) – originally by Timmy Cruz, brought to life anew with Jojo’s romantic warmth.

• Pare Mahal Mo Raw Ako – the modern ballad made famous by Michael Pangilinan, showcasing Jojo’s fearless emotional depth.

• Yakap by Junior and Bakit Ba Ganyan by Dina Bonnevie are also in the works.

• A Christmas single by Jonathan Manalo is slated for release in the 2025 holiday season.

Jojo’s original songs will build on his growing legacy, blending the timeless appeal of OPM ballads with his own voice as a storyteller—one grounded in honesty, vulnerability, and heart.

A hero beyond the stage: “Super Jojo: Libre Ko Na ’To”

In true Jojo fashion, the artist is also turning his spotlight outward. With the launch of his personal advocacy brand “Super Jojo: Libre Ko Na ‘To,” he champions a life of compassion and generosity.

“Libre ko na ’to” isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a life philosophy born from Jojo’s own struggles. Having grown up with very little, he knows what it means to give without expecting anything in return. Through this initiative, Jojo plans to support underprivileged communities, assist fellow artists, and extend kindness in ways big and small.

The legacy in motion

With over 50 million cumulative views and streams across platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and Amazon Music, Jojo Mendrez is no longer just a revivalist—he is a force shaping the future of OPM.

And with Artist Circle behind him, his voice—already one of the most resonant in the revival space—is poised to reach even greater heights.

Jojo often says, “Kapag nakita ng Panginoon ang dami mong pinaghirapan, bibigyan ka Niya.”

That moment is now.

And for Jojo Mendrez, the best is just beginning.