The inspiration behind Odette Quesada’s 40 years of musical brilliance

Image: oqpied/Instagram

LOS ANGELES – Filipino composer and songwriter Odette Quesada is known for her timeless hits that have become classics in the Philippine music scene. With a career spanning over four decades, her music continues to captivate audiences worldwide, transcending generations and leaving an indelible mark in the industry.

Quesada marks her 40^th anniversary milestone with “Odette Quesada All Hits Concert Series“  on May 11 at the Alex Theatre in Glendale, Calif. and on May 12 at the Fox Theatre in Redwood City, Calif. Joining her are special guests Raymond Lauchengco, Felson Palad and Jaya.

In a recent media huddle to promote the back-to-back shows, ABS-CBN International Head of Events Business Development Kerwin Du said TFC’s goal in bringing events to the US is to showcase world class Filipino talents on the world stage. “We at TFC consider Miss Odette Quesada as a generational talent, having produced multiple hits since the 80s,” he said.

With the overwhelming reaction and three sold-out shows in Manila last year, AIP Entertainment Co-Founder Saripaz Villar said they are so excited to share this anniversary concert with Filipinos all over the world.

Quesada’s enduring impact on the music industry and her ability to resonate with audiences across different eras is undeniable.

Du said partnering with AIP and Crossover events  to bring Quesada’s 40^th anniversary tour to the US as part of TFC’s 30th anniversary lineup of offerings is a perfect fit.

The creative process

Quesada’s creative process, as revealed in the conversation, is as diverse and spontaneous as her compositions themselves.

“Sometimes, I am prompted by a phrase, a line, a word, or a feeling, or something I’m watching on TV, or somebody’s life,” Quesada said.

From drawing inspiration from real-life experiences to meeting deadlines with unwavering commitment, her approach to songwriting reflects a blend of passion, intuition and dedication.

Reflecting on her fastest masterpiece, Quesada shared, “Of all the songs I’ve written, ‘Don’t Know What to Do,’ which was originally ‘Hopeless Romantic,’ only took about 20 minutes to write.”

It was her 17^th birthday, and she was watching an interview with singer-songwriter Michael Johnson. When the interviewer asked Johnson how he would describe himself, he said, “I’m a hopeless romantic.” Quesada then turned off the TV, got her guitar, and wrote the huge hit originally performed by the late Ric Segreto.

Generational talent

When asked about the significance of being a generational artist, Quesada admitted that she never imagined lasting this long. She expressed gratitude for the enduring love her music receives, saying, “I’m just very, very happy to be here and to have my songs played and performed the way they are, and that they continue to be part of people’s lives.”

Crossover Events Head Rio Manotoc said Quesada’s songs are “songs that we grew up with, fell in love with, cried with, graduated with.”

Timeless songs indeed that have become companions to many Filipinos during pivotal moments in their lives.  Manotoc looks forward to bringing the whole experience to Filipinos in Los Angeles and San Francisco through the show.

Be there for the 40^th anniversary tour presented by AIP Media Productions, Inc., TFC, and Crossover Events – “Odette Quesada All Hits Concert Series” on Saturday, May 11 at the Alex Theatre in Glendale and on Sunday, May 12 at the Fox Theatre in Redwood City for an unforgettable time, honoring the remarkable career of a true icon.