My Uncle Spanky, the Rock Star Who Left It All Behind

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My Uncle Spanky, the Rock Star Who Left It All Behind | Pop-Up Magazine

Рет қаралды 440,282

4 жыл бұрын

Journalist Albert Samaha tells the story of his uncle Spanky, a baggage handler at SFO who left behind a burgeoning career as a rock star in the Philippines to pursue the American Dream. Back in Manila, Spanky was a member of the pioneering 1970s disco band VST & Company - known as "the Bee Gees of the Philippines."
“Uncle Spanky” was first performed in 2018 for POP-UP MAGAZINE. We produce unforgettable stories and live experiences, including our acclaimed live magazine, which sells out grand, historic venues across the country. While the touring show is on pause, POP-UP MAGAZINE has moved online with stories we love, an all-new Spring Issue, and much more. All with support from Google. Subscribe to our channel (bit.ly/pumsubs...) for the latest stories. More at popupmagazine.com.
ALBERT SAMAHA is an investigative journalist at BUZZFEED NEWS. His reporting freed a man from prison, got a police chief fired, and changed laws in six states. His work has appeared in THE NEW YORK TIMES, THE VILLAGE VOICE, and others. He’s the author of two books, NEVER RAN, NEVER WILL and the forthcoming CONCEPCION, which explores how immigrant optimism crashes into American reality. www.albertsamah...
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CREDITS
Story by Albert Samaha
Music by VST & Company
Original photography and film by Erin Brethauer
Featuring Magik*Magik Orchestra:
Travis Andrews, Guitar
Liana Berube, Violin
Debbie Neigher, Keyboard
Jason Slota, Drums and Vibraphone
ADDITIONAL PHOTO CREDITS
Alamy, CO-ED Magazine, Parade Magazine, Teen World, The 5 Network, Tony Pionilla, Spanky Rigor Images
ADDITIONAL MUSIC CREDITS
“Magsayawan”
Music and lyrics by Charo Unite and Ernie dela Pena
Published by ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.
Performed by VST & Company
Courtesy of Vicor Music Corp.
“Awitin Mo at Isasayaw Ko”
Music and lyrics by Vic Sotto
Published by ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.
Performed by VST & Company
Courtesy of Vicor Music Corp.
“Swing”
Music and lyrics by Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon
Published by ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.
Performed by VST & Company
Courtesy of Vicor Music Corp.
“Kiss...Kiss”
Music and lyrics by Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon
Published by ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.
“Magsayawan” from Swing It...Baby!
Produced by Lea Productions
Copyright © Pop-Up Magazine Productions
www.popupmagazi...

Пікірлер: 944

@Lilmanman5 4 жыл бұрын

I work with him! I had no idea! He’s a legend

@Karenluv 4 жыл бұрын

I'm a Pinoy DJ here in Germany and grew up listening to VST. It's now 2020 and all the Filipinos here still request for VST songs during big Filipino events and festivals.

@tigertoker 4 жыл бұрын

I totally respect a man who turned his back on all the comforts of life in the PH to be with his family. I get it.

@javiervaldes5884 4 жыл бұрын

yes i believe that is the only resson he left the philippines. because its not easy to live in the u.s.

@nelsondiazfrancia 4 жыл бұрын

Come home spanky, im sure you will be respected here back home. Its in your hands now, you can still make to the big league its not too late yet.

@PinoyFlavor 4 жыл бұрын

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

@grizzy3727 4 жыл бұрын

Yes me too. That could be the reason. To be with his family. It's all in the video.

@foodfam7651 2 жыл бұрын

@@nelsondiazfrancia he is in north america. Thats the big league. better to be homeless in a first world country than to be a president of a third world country.

@MiabellaFierce 4 жыл бұрын

I grew up in Manila. I went to the US and stayed for a while and I went back home to the Philippines. I just had to come back here. I can’t live elsewhere.

@jayquintos56 4 жыл бұрын

Id be like you. But this is why i appreciate the immigrants. Proud ako sa mga sisters ko na kinaya yung change ng pamumuhay sa abroad.

@aquinoj99 4 жыл бұрын

He’s truly a Rock Star. Not just because of his fame, but for his appreciation of American life with hard work and humility. Inspiring.

@PinoyAbnoy 9 ай бұрын

is protestant work ethic healthy?

@noelsuministrado 4 жыл бұрын

The emigrant's destiny: The foreign country has not become home, but home has become foreign. --Alfred Polgar (1873-1955), Der Emigrant und die Heimat Salamat for this feature!

@papajupri1070 4 жыл бұрын

Im gonna borrow this. Thank you! 😊

@roizeldiez3500 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks

@TheMigsTorresExperience 4 жыл бұрын

Oh, wow. This is deep and quite melancholic at the same time.

@cel6247 3 жыл бұрын

Sad but true…

@norielbaclig5288 4 жыл бұрын

Spanky never left the Philippines, his music stayed.

@jayquintos56 4 жыл бұрын

Amen

@ItsJericho 2 жыл бұрын

@mariahfem1073 9 ай бұрын

True!

@mitchdep 4 жыл бұрын

He could actually come back now and sidle up to his old buddies and live the life. Again. No doubt. Pinoys still remember him and their songs and shows and still love him. It would be nostalgic if a reunion would happen. C'mon man, bring him back!

@taraletswithjudeandrhea8884 4 жыл бұрын

Your Uncle is a legend! Much love from the Philippines ❤🇵🇭

@olofsensei7042 4 жыл бұрын

Sir Spanky is just living the life, just like Diogenes, "the less you want, the happier you will be"

@johnchristiancanda3320 4 жыл бұрын

The King of "Knock, knock" and "Use in a sentence" jokes.

@jologamer9972 4 жыл бұрын

T.O.D.A.S.

@rolandohuertas935 4 жыл бұрын

yup he is that guy.

@arparreno4217 4 жыл бұрын

Hahaha, todas

@BLUEMOONinDECEMBER2 4 жыл бұрын

No doubt about it! We still prefer to play the VST hits on road trips and long drives! Just doesn't fail to keep us awake and uplifted!

@bhengcorales6667 4 жыл бұрын

Yep!! He was a rockstar then.. and still a rockstar today! Im sure he will still get all the cheers and scream if he comes home.

@arkijona_ 4 жыл бұрын

his reason for staying in the US with his family in exchange of the life money and fame he couldve had in the PH makes it all worthwhile... much respect! 🙏🏻

@rossonero9536 4 жыл бұрын

Absolutely fascinating story, who knows how many times I've passed him at SFO without having any idea....

@dadcation 4 жыл бұрын

Spanky! I remember him very well growing up in Cubao, QC. He was the bass player for my brother's band "The Purple People". I remember him as a very nice guy and always was fond of playing in the band with my brothers.

@27Lorie 4 жыл бұрын

H'e's looking so Happy with He's Family Around him..living a simple life,this is what he wanted,,it's the choice he made...Thank you so much Mr.Spanky Rigor for giving Filipinos A music to dance and to enjoy.

@hiko082673 4 жыл бұрын

His a Musician & TV Comedian Icon in the Philippines. Their musics still being played from different Filipino Young or Old generations. Maybe he went to US just to spend a simple life.

@holiday07 4 жыл бұрын

hiko seijuro heck yeah, my little nephews still know their music because their teachers use them for school dance. Their music are timeless hits. I’m sure he will be warmly welcomed by adoring fans in case he wants a come back or a reunion gig, but it looks like he is no longer looking for that.

@ItsJimdevera 4 жыл бұрын

"He's"

@tol4dude 4 жыл бұрын

I perfectly remembered him in the comedy show Todas (its like the SNL in the Phils) the cast are mostly ex members of the band, I think... Their songs are mostly classic hits. One cant help but jive and get on your feet, whenever you'd hear them, even their slow rock ballads. Mostly hear it on gatherings now -- yep, birthdays, school or family reunions, christmas and new year's eve gatherings... That will be a legacy and memory that VST, specially your Uncle Spanky will be leaving for generations, forever...

@roizeldiez3500 4 жыл бұрын

“At least here in the States, they leave you alone to do your thing to the best of your ability.” He is so right. One thing we don’t have here in the Philippines, sadly

@littlesusieofficial 4 жыл бұрын

Oh so true! Lived in the US for awhile when I was younger...Parents decided to go back in Manila. The biggest mistake my parents ever made! 😔

@juanchosantiago6762 4 жыл бұрын

Hello, that thinking is so so 60’s.

@user-tt8pj8cb5k Жыл бұрын

@@juanchosantiago6762 their idea of the philippines is thru their parents, who grew up in the 60s. That's the disconnect between filipinos and filams. Look at jokoy's material, it's so 90s

@PinoyAbnoy 9 ай бұрын

@@juanchosantiago6762 "leave you alone to do your thing" while america's involvement with neocolonialism

@samking1930 4 жыл бұрын

VST songs are classic ! This is 2020 but i still hear them being played in radio, t.v. and even in parties.

@thisiangarcia 4 жыл бұрын

He's not just a rock star. He's also an actor, comedian, singer/performer, songwriter, TV host, etc. I guess, that makes him a Philippine icon 👍

@panchang810 4 жыл бұрын

Excuse me, Spanky was a rock star. You perhaps ONLY equate the "literal" meaning of rock stars to rock bands and/or metal rock singers which is no longer true nowadays. Here in the U.S. when we say "rock star" it may even be attributed to someone who's attained some form of greatness or admired fame even not related to music, like Elon Musk is a rock star, or President Obama was a rock stat etc. So nowadays being a "rock star" doesn't necessarily mean being literally a rock star. And yes SPANKY RIGOR WAS A ROCK STAR, literally and figuratively speaking.

@thisiangarcia 4 жыл бұрын

@@panchang810 i didn't say he wasn't. And I know what a "rock star" means, not being limited to rock bands or rock music. What I meant was that he was more than that, for having contributed much to Philippine music, television and cinema. Kindly read what I previously wrote again. Thanks.

@maning04 4 жыл бұрын

I have a huge respect for your uncle. He chose to live a normal life rather than live a life of fame and luxury. Even for all the hardships he has gone through at least he has still achieve his dream.

@innoc3ntbystndr Жыл бұрын

Very well written piece about your uncle! Bravo! As an immigrant here in Canada, your story about your uncle almost made me cry. We just want a better and peaceful life.

@nythunter_11 4 жыл бұрын

this hits home brother, i'm a 70's kid and grew up with your uncle's songs - thank you!

@nelsongutierrez7959 4 жыл бұрын

Spanky is a practical Men. He proved that He is one of a Hard Working Man

@gandhiabad9402 4 жыл бұрын

I was told that in his time, he was one of the best instrumentalist in the Philippines.

@jimimey 4 жыл бұрын

He looks the same! I used to watch him as a kid in T.O.D.A.S. But you know, without the bad governance and the extreme corruption, PH is just like the US, or baka better pa nga. You study hard, work hard and you succeed. And generally people leave you alone. If you're poor you can get out of it. For sure there are people, who just do not get the kind of opportunities that the moneyed has, yet still, it is possible to get to where or to what you want if you really try. I should know. On the plus side, we don't have as much Karens and we wear masks. 😜 We might have a better chance in the future, we now have a new batch of politicians who govern well. We just need more Filipinos to vote wisely. This pandemic, I feel that they now know what they get when they do not. Thanks so much for this. I've always wondered how Mr. Spanky Rigor is doing.

@bluemarshall6180 4 жыл бұрын

So what about the U.S.

@jocelynlope531 4 жыл бұрын

I love Spanky Rigor. He is a legend!

@dodonggoldblum2085 4 жыл бұрын

Oh, I don't know how anyone be able to start a family in America, even the less expensive ones would still drive one to poverty.

@waldovonzar8243 4 жыл бұрын

It's scarier to live in the US nowadays.

@dr.annedaviddelossantos2020 4 жыл бұрын

Truly a rock star! I grew up hearing their music! Loved their music too I am so proud of you uncle spanky! Wow! Thank you for sharing his story! We still rock over their music in our family! Our bee gees back home!

@junanacletomangaser4667 4 жыл бұрын

nice piece, Albert.! your other Uncle Snaffu, my husband's CHS classmate is another Filipino icon, a prolific songwriter. Both Snaffu and Spanky emerged to the Philippine music scene and contributed much to the art of Philippine songs and performances.

@lauraflores4683 4 жыл бұрын

Yes, I remember that name too, Snaffu

@rolandohuertas935 4 жыл бұрын

@@lauraflores4683 snaffu is the name mam

@lauraflores4683 4 жыл бұрын

@@rolandohuertas935 yes, I know it is a name, a familiar name

@reevrob 4 жыл бұрын

This is a great thing Pop-up Magazine and Albert did for his uncle. Spanky's reasons for leaving the rock n roll life was sad and true...but honorable and praiseworthy. Easily a loved (and funny) celebrity! I hope he still gets royalties from his songs!

@Patrick........ 4 жыл бұрын

One of the best Icons here in Ph! Their music still hits hard here! The best choice your uncle made. To be with his family that he truly loves and have a simple life. In life, the simplest things gives you the mountain of happiness! Cheers!

@kollapsiblelungs 4 жыл бұрын

...i love how the story came to the 80s, when he migrated to SF to live and work. it really shows that life gives out opportunities hot and favorable to anyone who dares to try it. he made the right decisions. he's a great guy. he's the man. and he looks like my dad's brother as well. Mabuhay ka, Sir Spanky!

@cianleonizoabad 4 жыл бұрын

Finally! Manila Sound got some recognition around here : ‘)

@MrTastytae 4 жыл бұрын

I was watching TODAS weekly as a kid seeing him on the set then suddenly he's gone. Even if it's not easy, he has found fulfillment in the States. Except for a slight delay on his dance moves and some gray hair... he has never changed. Rock on Tito Spanky... you are awesome!

@jocelynlope531 4 жыл бұрын

Yup, because fulfillment & happiness is not all money & power. I think he has lived with the joy & comfort just being with his family... I love Spanky & his music lingers so with Snaffu, two brothers who are exceptionally very talented in their own ways!

@AIRx77 4 жыл бұрын

"Aawitin Ko..." was one of my favorites. Their band was awesome and we all loved them!!! More power Spanky!!!

@mackymaca 4 жыл бұрын

Dayum, righteous! Always wondered whatever happened to him all these years. Spanky Rigor is LEGEND. The music he helped make has spanned generations and still swings and rocks to this day. Thank you, Spanky!

@vicks827 4 жыл бұрын

I think you forgot to mention that Spanky still performs with the band occasionally here in the US and abroad. So he continues to be a rockstar!

@denickcarullo904 3 жыл бұрын

Congratulations Albert for giving your Uncle Spanky a tribute. I enjoyed it! I was in high school when VST & Co. lorded it over the airwaves in the late 70s to the early 80s. I'm here in Vancouver, 8 years now, and 58 yrs old. Your uncle's band VST & Co. is on my top list of OPM singers that accompany me in my everyday drive and especially long drives with my family. I'm a fan of your Uncle Spanky. Idol namin sya ng barkada. He is known for his falsetto. Please extend my regards to him.

@tomcIII 4 жыл бұрын

Fantastic job Albert! I was one of those who lived and dance to your Uncle Spanky and VST and Co's music way back. I still cherish those memories by having one of their all time hits "Awitin mo, isasayaw ko" on a flash drive stuck on my daily drive. My 20 year old daughter knows that song by heart. It takes a brave man to leave all that fame and glory behind to be with family. Now that for me, is a true Filipino. Mabuhay ka Spanky Rigor! Thanks for music!!!

@ExPresident 4 жыл бұрын

wow! haven't heard about Spanky for decades. you're right he's still famous here and probably would always be famous. he will always be that filipino rockstar!

@themykster 4 жыл бұрын

I wasnt born yet when VST made it big but because of my parents, I got hooked into their music, (and of Bee Gees ofcourse hehe).

@KusinaNiBibay 4 жыл бұрын

Living proof that happines and contentment have no price. Salute to the living legend.😍

@jeanrenzocaldito6665 4 жыл бұрын

This is not just a history telling segment but a documentary!!! I learned a lots! . Just looking forward for them to reunite!

@ggo6610 4 жыл бұрын

Heavy comments putting philippines in a bad light.... Coming from someone who didnt know it... Put your video in right perspective. Im a fan of vst but this video is something else

@grizzy3727 4 жыл бұрын

The nephew's time line is so off in the middle of the video. Also why insert Martial Law in the video? What is the ML's relevance to his uncle's story? It seems he did not know that the artists and musicians during martial law were respected an supported. Imelda Marcos even built a metro theatre for the artists and there is also Folk Arts theatre constructed for the artists. Government spent money not only to benefit the farmers and other projects. The artists and musicans also benefited from the Marcos government. The Marcos family probably even danced to the VST Co music ... who knows? Let's not forget the yearly competition of Metro Pop Music Festival. The booming of OPM composers and singers. Hope the nephew gets the story straight and not add things that has no relevance to his uncle's story. Mr Spanky Regor's best years in the Philippines was during F.E. Marcos time. It's the fact because I was there. And the narrator nephew was not even born yet.

@oannedava6451 4 жыл бұрын

True!! Please research more why Marcos declared Martial law....It's because of Ninoy and Joma Sison!!

@caigualberto2684 4 жыл бұрын

we all know that being an immigrant is not at all a bed of roses... he struggled... he survived.. but it doesn't mean that it's bad here in the Philippines... it was his choice to leave... and there's no price to pay if he had stayed on, just like the rest of us

@sure.bol.999 4 жыл бұрын

He needs the drama to sell his story. I mean, what happened to Vic and Tito, with all the success they have now, just contradicted his point. Typical brainwashed millenial.

@redgarcia5893 4 жыл бұрын

As someone who is part of a younger generation of musicians, Spanky is still one of the Greats, Pioneers of the OPM. I personally take a lot of inspiration from his music. Hope he's doing well! Thank you for this

@georgemateos 4 жыл бұрын

Whoa! Thanks, man VST was my favorite band during my high school days. So glad to hear Spanky is doing okay. Bless you.

@jjms7065 4 жыл бұрын

I like their music album and still playing even nowadays. How I wish, one of these they'll be having a reunion on stage.

@thebrandshoppe 4 жыл бұрын

We had the chance to watch VST Rigor brothers: Spanky, Roger and Male with Celso Llarina at their concert in Anaheim before the pandemic. They were backed by a band of great (non Filipino) session musicians. Fantastic experience.

@kabsatvvlogs8803 4 жыл бұрын

My all time favorite band up to now, i even downloaded nonstop of their music, i could play them the whole day every day!!! Hope for a full reunion, that would be amazing!!!

@rrrx689 4 жыл бұрын

YOUR UNCLE IS VERY POPULAR ( 70'S) AND A LEGEND OF PHILIPPINE MUSIC !VST is one of the most succesful Filipino band on the late 70's and the original proponents of OPM .Spanky is one of the best and very talented music artist !

@sfryderz81 4 жыл бұрын

Rigor was one of my leads at United before I became a lead myself. Great guy. Great story!

@ceciliaculverhouse8718 4 жыл бұрын

Inspiring and touching! Thank you and Spanky for sharing Spanky's story.

@josephorlyespedido302 4 жыл бұрын

Salute to your uncle SPANKY RIGO. Music legend. His music with VST is Golden ages of Pinoy Music. His always remember as one of the VST and TODAS 80’s.🇵🇭🇰🇼

@AkilezNewEngland 4 жыл бұрын

My mother promoted VST in Cebu City NC Promotions. The drummer was my friend i was only 9 years old. I still have the pictures of the concert and VST and Company. My mother also promoted the WEA Dancers in Cebu City. My mother was the Regional Manager of Jem Recording the Company that introduced Hajji Alejandro.

@MouXina 4 жыл бұрын

Man! His legacy will live on for years to come. Hope to meet him one day. Greetings from Fresno, CA!

@porsche911gtrs5 4 жыл бұрын

Sir Spanky and the entire VST & CO. were all my brother’s friends in the US. My brother used to play bass guitar when the group were performing in US. Even on my brothers funeral, the group went back to the Phils. for their last respect to my brother.

@anthonyramos1610 4 жыл бұрын

aaah VST & Co.... the best band in the history of the Philippines... for us filipinos, family always wins over fame and glamour...

@rozzanaverder-aliga1712 4 жыл бұрын

Wow, what a COMPELLING and INSPIRING story! I did not know this part of his life. I was a fan of VST band and LOVED their music! I met him 2 years ago through friends Lilibethl Ranillo de Rivera and Cecile Azarcon Inocentes. I wondered for many years where VST members are now. His brother, Roger Rigor was a school mate of mine at UP Prep High School. I did not know till 2 years ago that he’s been in Vallejo for many years!!! Spanky remains humble and low key to this day, I had to take a photo with him when I first met him and posted him on my FB page. So honored and glad that he is here in Vallejo!

@shirleyschoeneck155 4 жыл бұрын

Salamat for sharing your family story!! I'll be looking for you next time I fly thru SFO!! Best wishes for continued life blessings!!

@prv3110 4 жыл бұрын

I remember Spanky's wife used to be our Children's choir Directress at the Sacred Heart Parish Church in Kamuning, QC. I just can't remember her name. I'm also now based in the US east coast.

@ilovelucyrealty 3 жыл бұрын

Her name is Grace "Ging" Concepcion.

@prv3110 3 жыл бұрын

@@ilovelucyrealty than you so much. Now, I remember. Your name sounds familiar. Are you related to Grace or Ging? Take care

@ilovelucyrealty 3 жыл бұрын

@@prv3110 Yes I am her sister.

@prv3110 3 жыл бұрын

Wow, now everything is coming back. I remember you too from the Children's Choir in Kamuning. I remember you have other sisters as well. Please extend my greetings to Ms. Grace. She might not remember me because there's a lot of us children back then. I'm now based here in Delaware, USA. I wish you and your family and your sister well.

@ilovelucyrealty 3 жыл бұрын

I am the youngest of 4. Grace, Lyn, Mae, myself.

@jaymagallanes3294 4 жыл бұрын

Ask your uncle about the show TODAS! that is where He became a regular face on TV, that is like the Saturday Night live of the Philippines, a lot of people from that show had a long showbiz career, and by far is the first full comedy show of the Philippines that everyone followed. your uncle is an ICON!!!! much respect!!

@Kilusan2020 2 ай бұрын

Uncle Spanky will never be forgotten by the Filipinos around the world! One of the legends. 🔥🤘🙏❤️🇵🇭😉

@julieannserrano7400 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing his story. You made me missed my dad. He was a big fan of VST.

@none2839 4 жыл бұрын

Why cant VST do a reunion concert in North America where there are millions and millions of Filipinos. All these years i thought VST is just Vic Sotto Tito Sotto. I never knew Spanky is a major part of the band.Time to give recognition to Spanky come and lets rock in North America

@elchichosantana6410 4 жыл бұрын

He was. His Falsetto voice brought spices to all VST songs.

@ertalusig 4 жыл бұрын

Hmmm interesting that you didn’t know. His bass lines are legendary :-)

@felixgonzales5965 4 жыл бұрын

Yes, a VST reunion concert in America will be highly accepted. I’ve seen Hotdog and Pelita Corales do concerts here in Chicago area.

@leighannjorin2918 4 жыл бұрын

Wow what a fun video and story...I was traveling in the Philippines in 1977-78 and well remember this music blaring in the jitneys in Manila right along side the songs of Saturday night fever!

@ellmanncayetano5551 4 жыл бұрын

Once a rockstar, always a rockstar. Thanks for making this. I wasn't even born yet when VST was rocking the waves but grew up listening to their music because of my dad.

@angieharper7173 4 жыл бұрын

Technically he's a pop star. I love your uncle's music. As a kid in Manila during the 80s, I remember laughing at all his jokes when he was on tv.

@allantolentino4437 4 жыл бұрын

Glad to stumble into your vid, i always wondered his whereabouts... i still listen VST music almost every week while driving on and off from work... it feels home.

@jimboyfederigan6598 4 жыл бұрын

Hey bro... thanks for this write up I enjoy watching ur uncle growing up in the philippines.. I really love todas watching him 😂.. then suddenly he was gone ... thanks for this he would be my forever idol...

@mrs.d8921 4 жыл бұрын

Albert Samaha, your tribute to your Uncle Spanky is lovely. Your admiration and appreciation for his life of sacrifice and love speaks volumes in this piece. Kudos to your recognition of the struggles our parents and grandparents experienced so that we, the following generation, could live better lives.

@leoayuyao2612 4 жыл бұрын

Nice story. I love the VST company songs. I would always sing“Ikaw ang Aking Mahal” in every videoke sessions.

@thephyrexianhipster 4 жыл бұрын

I've always wondered what happened to Spanky. Thanks for bringing his story into light.

@JoelAgatep 4 жыл бұрын

I grew up to their music. I could easily have passed by him and greeted him never knowing he was the Spanky of the band I loved. I wish I could go for coffee with him someday. Amazing story.

@ggrivas786 7 ай бұрын

thanks for telling his story.....he's my age now and I love his songs.....thank you Spanky

@DiktadorHeneral123 4 жыл бұрын

I remember him in Gag Show TODAS in the 80's

@jvill2024 4 жыл бұрын

Innocent people are not being killed purposedly in war against criminality here in the Philippines. Sometimes they are caught in the crossfire. Unlike in the US, people are killed because of their color.

@siegtv3227 4 жыл бұрын

I am a very proud Filipino, that loves the Manila Sounds

@roncuyos1595 3 жыл бұрын

Great Content. I always say that Spanky is the greatest bassist of the Philippines. Those groovy bass lines will never die. Thanks for this. Give my Regards to Uncle Spanky. 🤘

@crossoneheart 4 жыл бұрын

Wonderful video thanks for this!

@lizalavisores1043 4 жыл бұрын

He's so funny actor too. Singer , comedian

@rjlagman9320 4 жыл бұрын

One of the reasons I picked up a bass guitar is because of his cool riffs and patterns. He chose what he thinks would be best for him and his family by living in the States. But he knows it, if and whenever he comes visits the Philippines, he'll always be a rock star. Idol!

@iggypopbowie2073 Жыл бұрын

Sorry but the basslines of vst and company is done by mr roger herrera not by spanky.

@dayuhanspace 4 жыл бұрын

what a nice way to honor your uncle, he has a natural talent for music and comedy. No one else can sport that mustache in philippine tv nowadays. but i guess you really have to make a sacrifice to save your family to have a better life. Im also thinking of moving in cali from ph

@mikapooh12360 4 жыл бұрын

Loved VST, I enjoyed their songs back in the day! Spanky was a great singer! I know Spanky's niece, Pilar Rigor, back in high school in Quezon City - and she's got a great voice, too! Ahhh, genetics! Time flies, where is she now?... :)

@flintalan6691 4 жыл бұрын

Likewise

@pastorsex6639 4 жыл бұрын

I dont know

@MrPacoArespacochaga 4 жыл бұрын

Awesome content. Much respect to your tribute to Spanky Rigor, a true icon of OPM music.

@wavermoon 4 жыл бұрын

For me the best pinoy bass guitar player ever. Dondi ledesma is my second. His immortal bass line in vst songs is world class. Specially in disco fever song. Mabuhay ka spanky salamat sa malaking contribution mo sa opm.

@paulgagasajr2458 4 жыл бұрын

All time favorites.. im a musician too here in ph, and i loved to play vst and company..

@paulponce7089 4 жыл бұрын

Every time I watch “Eat Bulaga” with the original Tito,Vic & Joey on youtube.Then, I always wondered if Spanky Rigor is still alive? Or, if he still alive, where can he be? .... Back in the late 70’s I used to watch “Iskul Bukul” on TV Channel IBC13, a comedy school show. Where Escalera brothers(Tito & Joey) with Marvic as Vic Ungasis, Miss Tapia, kuya Tim-i ( itim) . Then, Spanky Rigor.. .......... Now, I know where he is... I thank his nephew very much.

@melanieasis7426 4 жыл бұрын

Yes.. I thought about that too.. TODAS days.. Wow! He is an icon..

@paulponce7089 4 жыл бұрын

Melanie Asis ... “Ikaw ang aking mahal” performed by VST & Co. the song written by Richie (da horsey) Reyes. RIP. Thought I let you know.

@melanieasis7426 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you.. I love that song here in the Philippines that is one of those most favorite songs in Videoke bars..

@melanieasis7426 4 жыл бұрын

@@paulponce7089 I also remember that he is the comedian who uses his native language as his forte.. He is ilokano?? I vividly remember that in one of his movie that starred TVJ..

@paulponce7089 4 жыл бұрын

Melanie Asis . Richie abused himself with heavy drugs. Tito, Vic & Joey helped him out to rehabilitate him. Then, he got back to it. The last time, he got locked up in jail with shabu,... Drug addictions killed him.

@edsumil917 4 жыл бұрын

Nah, 80's and 90's mid 2000 years ok pa dito sa America. Spanky came at the right time. Ngayon wala ng trabaho dito . Outsourced na lahat ng jobs ..Saan ? Sa India Mexico at Philippines

@sweetislandgirl3050 3 жыл бұрын

I still enjoy their music up until today and Always will! Much love for the group and the music they created that lives in our ♥️

@rolanduron7126 4 жыл бұрын

I saw him last year perform in San Diego. He still got it. Hopefully, there would be a VST & Co. reunion🙏❤️

@drenegade2010 4 жыл бұрын

It's a nice story without the propaganda comments on the dictator and govt killing his people. Lame! Your uncle spanky left the Phil when Marcos is already exiled, 1988. He decided to stay because he fell in love with the place and wanted to stay with his family. Spanky love his family and wanted it more than anything else. For that i salute your Uncle Spanky.

@johnmadrigal3191 4 жыл бұрын

Agree. ang catchy pa naman ng title ng video tas may biglang "Innocent people are still getting killed by the Philippine government after all" ayon hindi ko na lang inilike😅

@theparodymaker1801 4 жыл бұрын

@@johnmadrigal3191 who cares what you both think? entitled much and dutae lovers much?

@oteplang 4 жыл бұрын

gigil na gigil si pamangkin sa pagbanggit ng DICTATOR eh. hahahaha

@Mr.DMac123 4 жыл бұрын

Totoo namn kasi. Takot ang mga DDS sa katotohanan at history. Try ninyo research nangyari sa forex natin from 3 pesos nang 1964 naging 20 pesos by 1980. Yan ang ekonomiya ni Marcos.

@jbsace8984 4 жыл бұрын

Same thoughts.. it was ok until he turned it into a political comparison.

@modolliejournal 4 жыл бұрын

Yes, and we will always be his fans here in the motherland

@edwin_ac 9 ай бұрын

A very compelling video. Nice one. Back in the day, I remember when somebody asked them what VST stands for, they humorously say "Very Secret Talaga". And a minor correction, the Bee Gees of the Philippines are the Boyfriends, I think. But, it does'nt matter, VST sounds like the Bee Gees also. And on another note, pls tell your Uncle Spanky, it's 2023 and my 5-year old daughter just asked me to include "Awitin Mo at Isasayaw Ko" on her Spotify playlist.

@lordtraktv 4 жыл бұрын

Still one of my favorite comedian! i remember watching him in T.O.D.A.S.

@arielcalamity1106 4 жыл бұрын

Poor boy of how he pictured his homesoil very negative 🤨

@roat7934 4 жыл бұрын

Although Tito and Vic are still famous and rich, it does not mean that Spanky would have the same fate.

@ronniebarba3263 4 жыл бұрын

You never know....

@mayac.1345 4 жыл бұрын

@@ronniebarba3263 true but what matters now is the present... So "you'll never know" is a shoulda coulda woulda attitude. Either one lives the present or forever just dream or reminisce.

@juanastudillo129 4 жыл бұрын

Things could have been different, a lot of could haves... he chose his path and all that he could do is make the best of it. Like what spanky said there is always a price you pay. Thanks for sharing his story

@ChristianJavate 4 жыл бұрын

Or Tito and Vic’s fate could be different if Spanky stayed, it was not clear why he left the Philippines. I don’t want to make it controversial, I love Vst &Co. and really enjoy watching this video.

@ronniebarba3263 4 жыл бұрын

@@mayac.1345 >> coulda, woulda, shoulda are words of someone who's sorry about his past decision and present situation. You think he is ?? I don't think so. Look here, this is not about you or me. Mine was a simple response to a somebody else's post.