The New Minstrels REMIX Releases ‘SMILE’ Single

The New Minstrels REMIX continues to prove that music revival never goes out of style. With the announcement of their latest single ‘SMILE‘ after releasing their first, The New Minstrels (TNM) remake single, ‘Hahabol-Habol, ‘ last January 7, the group recently launched their unique take on yet another nostalgic song.

‘SMILE’ was written by esteemed composer Butch Monserrat in 1979; popularised by the 2nd Generation of The New Minstrels, it was arguably the most requested of their songs on the radio and in concert. The track’s timeless melody and infectious joy remain as captivating as ever.

The New Minstrels REMIX brings together 5 Generations of the Philippines’ most celebrated musical group. GOV Entertainment produces their new ‘SMILE’ single and, as with their previous single, features artists from different TNM Generations, including Ernie Mercado (Gen2), Zoe Zuniga (Gen3), Bobit Pablo (Gen5), Dingdong Fernando (Gen5), Jessica Cabasal (Gen2), Jaramie Zuniga (Gen3), Angie Wilson (Gen4) and Jinky Somera (Gen5). Edward Mitra is giving the revived ‘SMILE’ a new sound, a new breed of talented musical arrangers. Music Director Ernie Magtuto of Gen5 provided that distinct vocal harmony TNM is known.

Some things in music are timeless, and few musicians recognize that more than The New Minstrels REMIX. Just as artists worldwide, the challenge for the group is how to create when faced with unprecedented restrictions and obstacles. Yet while their songs have been around for decades, TMN Remix’s members continued to adapt to the times, collaborating across borders and against the odds. The group relishes creating music, recording songs, and reliving TNM’s music as their legacy— the perfect motivation.

With shared goals, the process is precise. TNM REMIX members have been convening weekly to organize the mother of all reunions, all the while juggling their personal lives as they navigate through a global pandemic. As most are working from home, the creative process had to adapt, with an instrumental and vocal arrangement, learning the music is done by each band member at home. And while the approach is remote, the spirit of collaboration is kept alive through their regular creative catch-up sessions.

The best songs tell a story, and to do so in such a big group, shared energy must be achieved. It’s no small feat to hear so many voices from across the world sing in unison, to feel the precise dynamics and rhythm. This sense of effortless harmony and flow is usually discovered in person in the studio. Without this real-life connection to lean on, TMN REMIX has to completely step out of their comfort zone, trusting their talent will shine through their online collaboration. With the release of ‘SMILE,’ this trust has proved the group’s unflappable ability to create iconic tunes.

The pragmatic way ‘SMILE’ brought an entirely new set of challenges for the members of TMN REMIX. Gone is the safety of the studio, the reassurance of the band. Closets are now vocal booths, with takes having to be meticulously planned around unexpected birds chirping and passing sirens. Post-it notes adorn bedroom doors displaying, “QUIET, I’M RECORDING!” Just because it’s possible to record studio-quality vocals just about anywhere nowadays doesn’t necessarily mean it’s easy. But it works, and TMN REMIX has done more than make it work. They’ve made some of their best music yet.

These stories behind their music give us a glimpse of The New Minstrels REMIX’s passion and commitment to their craft. It communicates just how much love they put into music. Seasons change, and the art of music evolves. Yet the group, composed of 5 Generations, continues to serenade us with the TNM music that has always enchanted our hearts through time. The New Minstrels REMIX presents ‘SMILE’ for fresh ears and full hearts. Catch the newly released single ‘SMILE’ on all digital platforms. Ems Bolaños; Eileen Dolina- Novak; David Novak (Contributors)