Rising stars Isha Ponti and Andrea Gutierrez

Rising stars Isha Ponti and Andrea Gutierrez | Daily Tribune

After years of being front acts for veteran singers, two young artists are finally taking centerstage. Asia’s Pop Sweetheart Isha Ponti and The Bossa Nova Princess Andrea Gutierrez are joining forces for a back-to-back concert titled “The Next Ones,” happening on December 13 at the Music Museum in Greenhills, San Juan City.

Presented by Ponti Entertainment Production, the show promises to be an exciting collaboration between two rising voices who represent the next generation of Filipino music. The concert will feature direction by Calvin Murphy Neria and musical direction by Adonis Tabanda, both of whom have worked closely with the artists in crafting a repertoire that highlights their individuality, style, and range.

“We want to manifest that they will be the next ones in line,” said Neria. “They belong to the next generation of artists who are ready to take their place. We want to give them their moment to shine.” He emphasized that the concert aims to stay true to each artist’s musical DNA—avoiding forced imitations of big divas like Mariah Carey or Celine Dion—and instead focus on authenticity and enjoyment.

For Isha, the concert marks a significant milestone. Known for her soulful vocals reminiscent of Nina and Kyla, the 19-year-old pop singer says this is a chance to prove herself as a true performer. “Before, we were just front acts with limited time and song choices,” she shared. “Now, we can show who we really are—Andrea as the Bossa Nova Princess and me as the Pop Sweetheart.”

Andrea, meanwhile, plans to show a new side of herself. Apart from singing bossa nova hits, she will also showcase her dancing skills in several numbers. “The audience will see something they haven’t seen from us before,” she teased.

Adding prestige to the show is the legendary Rey Valera, who will appear as a special guest and mentor. The veteran singer-songwriter not only lent his support but also gave Isha and Andrea two of his timeless hits—“Kung Maaalala Mo Ako” and “Walang Kapalit”—to record and perform. “Sir Rey believes in their talent,” said Tabanda. “He even supervised their recordings personally and reimagined his classic songs with a Gen Z touch.”

The concert’s setlist will include solo performances, duets, and tribute numbers that celebrate both the artists’ youth and their reverence for OPM’s legacy. Other guest performers include Nathan Randall, P-pop group Div9, Aster, and 11-year-old WCOPA artist Maurice.

For both Isha and Andrea, “The Next Ones” is more than just a concert—it’s a statement. “We’re not in the mainstream yet,” Isha admitted. “But this is our chance to break out of our cage and show what we can do.”

As the title suggests, “The Next Ones” is a bold declaration that the future of OPM is here—and it’s shining bright with passion, promise, and purpose.