Jojo Mendrez's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, woven with threads of hardship, talent, and ultimately, triumph. From a childhood spent counting buri midribs in Lucena to commanding millions of online views, Mendrez's journey is a compelling "rags to riches" tale.
Long before his name echoed across social media, Mendrez was a young boy with a dream. At the age of ten, he bravely took the stage in a local singing competition, his rendition of Mr. DJ capturing the hearts of the judges, even in defeat. This early encounter with performance, fueled by his admiration for Sharon Cuneta and Pops Fernandez, ignited a passion that would shape his future.
His dedication led him to Ryan Cayabyab's School of Music in his twenties, where he honed his skills alongside future stars like Jolina Magdangal. He began his musical career with well-received remakes, including Apo Hiking Society's Tuyo Na'ng Damdamin and Jireh Lim's Magkabilang Mundo, culminating in a PMPC Star Award for Music for his revival of Florante's Handog. His sold-out 2018 concert at The Newport Performing Arts Theater solidified his place in the industry.
Then came the opportunity to revive Julie Vega's iconic Somewhere in My Past. Chosen from hundreds of auditionees, Mendrez was entrusted with the beloved song. However, the path to its release was fraught with challenges. The Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with personal tragedies — including his own battle with the virus and the loss of his father — forced him into a three-year hiatus.
Despite losing his confidence, Mendrez persevered. In 2024, he finally completed the recording, masterfully arranged by Marvin Querido. The song's release in 2025 ignited a firestorm, garnering over 50 million collective views on social media and dominating radio airwaves nationwide.
Somewhere in My Past is more than just a revival; it's a symbol of Mendrez's resilience. As award-winning songwriter Jonathan Manalo attests, the song's themes of patience, sacrifice, and unconditional love resonate deeply with Mendrez's own life story.
This year marks a significant milestone for Mendrez. He has signed with Star Music, releasing his first original song, Nandito Lang Ako, to critical acclaim. Nandito Lang Ako has been praised by media outlets for its heartfelt melody and relatable lyrics. He is set to revive another classic, Tina Paner's Tamis ng Unang Halik, under the guidance of its original composer, Doc Mon Del Rosario.
However, Mendrez's resurgence has been accompanied by a whirlwind of speculation. A viral photo with actor Mark Herras sparked rumors of an affair. Despite initial denials, Herras's public gesture of presenting Mendrez with flowers at a media conference has fueled the controversy, leaving fans and media alike wondering about the nature of their relationship.
Whether it’s the viral success of Somewhere in My Past, the critical praise for Nandito Lang Ako, or the swirling rumors surrounding his personal life, 2025 is undeniably Jojo Mendrez’s year. He has emerged from the shadows, his voice stronger and his story more compelling than ever. He is, indeed, the Revival King.