The inspirational track is released just in time for the Holy Week
Renowned pop-balladeer RJ Dela Fuente collaborated with Gary Valenciano, the man behind Mr. Pure Energy, to create a poignant and emotional cover of Laura Story’s“Blessings,” which was published during Holy Week.
Their stirring duet provides a new interpretation of the well-known Christian classic and serves as a poignant reminder of healing, hope, and unwavering faith in God in the face of adversity.
Known for bridging the worlds of pop and gospel music, both artists bring a depth of emotion and sincerity to the song that resonates deeply with listeners. “But more than our styles complementing each other, it’s our united stand, belief, and faith in Jesus that I believe has made it a perfect fit. Probably one of my favorite duet recordings in my lifetime,” shares Gary Valenciano.
The track was produced and arranged by Mon Faustino, Gary’s musical director for more than 35 years, in collaboration with recording consultant Mike Jamir. Considered by both as one of their favorite Christian songs, “Blessings” stands as a personal anthem for each of them: a source of comfort during Gary’s own medical battles and a guiding light for RJ during his journey through grief, healing, and spirituality.
Gary reflects, “Not every blessing comes in an ideal, joyful, happy, celebratory manner. Blessings can come hidden behind trials that come in various forms, and our prayer is that our listeners will know that not all disappointments are failures but surely sometimes delays that God allows to hone our character into becoming more like His before we are given that which we have asked of Him. Big blessings may require heightened responsibilities on our part and God can use the trials to deepen our personal walks with Jesus and strengthen us for more battles and blessings we will surely face in the future.”
RJ Dela Fuente shares how the song’s message of unexpected grace resonates with his own story. “The original artist, Laura Story, talked about how her husband was faced with a brain tumor and health conditions, which was the story behind this song. She talked about how she had to find comfort and had to depend on God during that tough time. I myself also had to find peace and comfort in Him when my family and I were grieving the loss of my stepmom due to cancer. Tito Gary also had to face cancer and a heart problem and is a type 1 diabetic.”
Through the song’s message, RJ believes that God has a bigger plan for us and we can still find comfort and peace in Him. “He won’t ever leave us and will be alongside us if we allow him to be. We can still find His “blessings” through tough times.”
The two artists first performed the duet as a surprise during CBN Asia’s Beyond Measure concert, held at the Araneta Coliseum last year.
For Gary Valenciano and RJ Dela Fuente, who are working on different projects under Sony Music Entertainment and WATERWALK RECORDS, a label dedicated to introducing new Christian music to a new, streaming audience, the partnership also marks a significant turning point.
In contrast, RJ will be releasing an EP with the assistance and backing of Manila Genesis, WATERWALK RECORDS, and Sony Music Entertainment.
“Blessings” by RJ Dela Fuente and Gary Valenciano is currently available on all digital music platforms globally through WATERWALK RECORDS and Sony Music Entertainment.
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