Monday, October 19, 2009

MiG Ayesa Shining a Light on Ondoy Relief

MiG Ayesa has given of his talent to support wonderful causes, and today there's a cause he's asking others to support - relief efforts for the victims of Typhoon Ondoy in the Philippines. MiG was born in the Philippines, and although he moved to Australia when he was two, he returned many holidays to visit his family. MiG's love for the people of the Philippines makes this cause near and dear to his heart.

MiG performs at Philippine American Friendship Day in New Jersey in June - photo by Wanda

Filipinos have endured the onslaught of two storms - Typhoon Ondoy on September 26, and Typhoon Parma on October 3. Storm-ravaged areas brace for another challenge, as Typhoon Lupit approaches and is expected to reach landfall in a few days with 109-mile per hour winds. Consider these facts:

More than 2 million people affected by flooding. 80 percent of Manila flooded. 189,000 still in evacuation centers. More rainwater than Hurricane Katrina. A second hit by Typhoon Parma that destroyed 55,000 homes. A death toll from the two storms that nears 1,000.

The destruction is massive, the situation desperate, but hope lives. It lives in the relief workers who carry on in spite of weariness and lack of supplies. It lives in the parents who stay strong in the face of almost insurmountable odds, to keep the light flickering in their children's eyes. It lives in neighbors, who share what little they have with others.

It lives in you.

It lives in you with every prayer, every dollar and every moment you take to spread the word. MiG has given us a way to make a difference through his labor of love - a song he composed called United As One. He wrote the song to honor relief workers and inspire hope among those impacted by the storm. MiG didn't record it at a topnotch recording studio...he recorded it in his home. He did it all himself, singing and playing all the instruments (Tagalog translation by Freddie Santos). United As One is gorgeous, and even more beauty lies in its sincerity and simplicity, and in its potential.

MiG created a video of United As One that reveals scenes of the destruction (with assistance from Shax Siasoco). He also provided an e-card to share.

MiG's E-card for United As One
MiG e-card for United as One

To listen to the song, see the video, get the e-card or read about how you can help, check out this page on mig-music.com.

When we unite as one, hope will live on.

Keep the light shining and pass it on,

Kay
Team MiG Global

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Magical MiG Memories Countdown - #2 and #1

Today's the day - revealing the top 2 in the countdown of the Top 10 Magical MiG Memories, in honor of Team MiG's four years of supporting MiG Ayesa. To see a photo album of the Magical MiG Memories, visit Team MiG on Facebook. The countdown so far looks like this:

#10 - Rockstar: INXS
#9 - Cleveland Gigs
#8 - Team MiG Photo Shoot in LA
#7 - QUEEN Rock & Symphonic Spectacular
#6 - We Will Rock You Tour and Online Community Project
#5 - The Release of MiG's Debut Album
#4 - Rockstar Supernova Tour - Chicago
#3 - Canal Room, New York City

The #2 memory is.....

#2 - BiG MiG Chicago Weekend
This was certainly a "BiG MiG" weekend, with nine MiG GiGs in three days. We darted from a Lunch in the Loop gig, to a personal appearance at fye, to gigs at 3rd Coast Cafe & Wine Bar, Rockit Bar, Carmines and Market Days. We especially enjoyed hanging out and enjoying musical ecstasy at 3rd Coast, which has hosted several MiG shows. They never fail to come through with great food, terrific customer service and an appealing ambiance.

Having a ball onstage at Market Days - photo by Cammy D.

MiG's radio interview on WCKG 105.9 FM added extra excitement to the weekend, because he sang one of his most gorgeous originals, One Sunset at a Time, live. It was the first chance people had to hear the song on the radio. Based on the quality of the voice, jazzy melody and deep lyrics, it should be just the beginning. The words paint such a beautiful, lasting picture in one's mind, and the message inspires perseverance and a quiet strength.

There was nothing quiet about Team MiG and friends this weekend, however. A large group from Team MiG traveled from various points across the country to partake in the fun. We street teamed at every turn, telling others about upcoming MiG events and passing out drop cards from Universal/Decca with a download of MiG's She Loved.

Singing with expression at 3rd Coast Cafe - photo by Cammy D.



Everyone basked in the glow of spending time with MiG and each other, and of hearing MiG sing his heart out in Chicago. Due to the number of gigs and some boisterous accompaniment he had to sing over on one occasion, the last night MiG wasn't quite as confident in his high notes. But never fear...Team MiG and friends came to the rescue. We love his music and know many of the words, so sang the high notes for MiG. We laughed together and had a blast, knowing it was the perfect way to end an unforgettable weekend.

And the #1 Magical MiG Memory is....drumroll please.....

#1 - New York Gigs - August 2009
I could have chosen any of MiG's performances as #1, because there's something unique and special about each one. Regardless of whether it's a massive crowd bursting into the aisles, or an intimate, mesmerized group, MiG leaves it all on stage. He takes no prisoners, and everyone in the room is without a doubt a prisoner of his undeniable musical skill and engaging personality.

New York vaulted to the top as the best of the best. The week brought everything we could have yearned for from a musical standpoint - intimate gigs, a MiG jamfest with other gifted musicians, and a riveting MiG performance at the Pinoy Dance Showdown. We didn't want any of the shows to end.

Making music with the boys at Eight Mile Creek

Lost in the music


Once again, people came from throughout the U.S. to support MiG. This time we were also fortunate to enjoy the company of others from different backgrounds. Aussie charm was in full force at Eight Mile Creek, and Pinoys extended kindness and exuded talent at the Pinoy Dance Showdown. We also made a new friend from Singapore who was visiting the country and came to see MiG perform.

The trip was a bit less hectic than some previous MiG weekends. It offered the chance to soak it all in and appreciate each show. Sometimes you hear the most in the quiet moments. One thing that was impossible to miss was MiG's thoughtfulness. A scheduled gig was canceled, so those who traveled a long way to see MiG could have experienced disappointment and the cost of changing flights. MiG set up a new gig to replace the canceled show. Not many artists would take that into consideration and make such an effort. MiG asked for song requests and spent quiet time with us. He opened his heart, and that's why he has ours'.

The New York gigs opened my eyes even more to who MiG is. I knew he already possessed an embarrassment of riches, from singing to playing keyboard, to dancing and acting. I marveled at the entertaining way MiG communicated his comments as a celebrity judge at the dance competition, and was captivated by his musical prowess as he jammed with fellow musicians. I saw some completely new sides of MiG that left me speechless and extremely impressed.

Another reason the New York trip ended in such a lofty position is because it was the culmination of all that's come before. MiG is closer to his dream than ever. Living "One Sunset at a Time" has been the right approach. MiG's perseverance and quiet strength have brought him to the brink of major success, and I believe with all my heart that the time is nearing for him to achieve it.

Keep the light shining and pass it on,

Kay
Team MiG Global

Monday, October 5, 2009

Magical MiG Memories Countdown - # 4 and #3

We're getting close - read on to see #4 and #3 in the countdown of the Top 10 Magical MiG Memories, in honor of Team MiG's four years of supporting MiG Ayesa. The top memories shared so far are:

#10 - Rockstar: INXS
#9 - Cleveland Gigs
#8 - Team MiG Photo Shoot in LA
#7 - QUEEN Rock & Symphonic Spectacular
#6 - We Will Rock You Tour and Online Community Project
#5 - The Release of MiG's Debut Album

Let's bring on the next two!

#4 - Rockstar Supernova Tour - Chicago
The Rockstar Supernova Tour made a stop in Chicago, and Team MiG showed up in full force. MiG was in Chicago for about a week, so we "street teamed" with a vengeance. Nancy from Team MiG set up a few extra gigs so Chicago could see MiG in action. MiG was joined on the tour by his dear friend from Australia, Darryl Beaton, who is an awesome musician and great guy.

The day of the Rockstar show, a few of us ventured over to the Park West to explore the venue. The Supernova tour bus was parked at the curb, so we asked if we could check it out. We got the green light, so boarded the bus and looked around. When we came out, we were shocked to see MiG, but probably not as shocked as MiG was to see us emerge from the Supernova bus!

The show was simply fabulous, and MiG enthralled us from beginning to end. To get a little tour of your own of the Rockstar Supernova Bus, and to hear MiG sing Wrapped Around Your Finger (on his debut album) that night, watch this entertaining and humorous video that MiG made. Later MiG and Darryl rocked the house at Howl at the Moon - they were on fire! Those dueling pianos will never be the same.

MiG ready to rock


Darryl and MiG after melting the keys at Howl at the Moon


Our street teaming kicked into high gear the next day. Speaking of the moon, I asked for it...and got it. Toni, Mary Beth and I got MiG a gig at the AVP Beach Volleyball Tournament for two days. As MiG and the boys searched for a power source, we were hangin' at the beach....FREEZING! I was so cold my teeth were chattering, and I ended up being sick for two weeks. I must say it was quite worth it, however! The second day brought in an audience of 7,000 people, and a radio station interviewed MiG, so it was rewarding to know the street teaming paid off.

Chillin' at the AVP Beach Volleyball Tourney



#3 - Canal Room, New York City

We were thrilled when MiG announced his first U.S. concert would be at The Canal Room in New York. The thought of a concert with all MiG - all the time proved too much to resist. A big group from Team MiG converged on the city, with some traveling across the country. It was a pleasure to meet face-to-face with friends from Team MiG and MiGNation. We made the most of our time in the Big Apple by going on shopping sprees for purses, having lunch in Little Italy, and ogling the mouth-watering pastries in shop windows.

The night of the Canal Room gig, we piled in Cheryl's car, and much to our surprise, managed to squeeze in about nine of us. As we passed a police officer, he smiled, probably knowing we were harmless and our only crime was laughing too hard.

We arrived at the Canal Room, and were excited to meet MiG's family. They were all so welcoming and such lovely people. As the concert approached, The Canal Room was electric. MiG lit up the place with his stage presence, talent and personality. We became the Team MiG paparazzi - snapping photos non-stop. (MiG has become accustomed to that!) MiG put on an outstanding show we couldn't forget. We considered ourselves lucky to be in attendance for the debut of MiG's original She Loved. He asked if we liked it...uh...YES! After I heard the line "she loved walking in the rain," it was over. Little did we know that the song would make MiG's first album and that his video would end up on MTV-Asia's playlist. Check out videos of two other standout songs from the show, Life on Mars (also on MiG's album) and Lola (videos by Donna).

MiG stayed for one of the longest Meet & Greets on record, with a line stretching across the room. He was incredibly thoughtful to devote his time to talking to each person, signing autographs and posing for even more photos. Cammy's husband, Doug, went above the call of duty by taking countless group shots with MiG, and having multiple cameras dangling from his arms! The trip ended much too quickly, but we still smile about the special night we shared.

Tomorrow #2 and #1 will be revealed!

Keep the light shining and pass it on,

Kay
Team MiG Global

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Magical MiG Memories Countdown - #6 and #5

The countdown continues in the Top 10 Magical MiG Memories, in honor of Team MiG's four years of supporting and promoting MiG Ayesa. Check out the Team MiG Facebook Fan Page to see a photo album with selected pictures from the Top 10 Magical MiG Memories. So far the countdown is:

#10 - Rockstar: INXS
#9 - Cleveland Gigs
#8 - Team MiG Photo Shoot in LA
#7 - QUEEN Rock & Symphonic Spectacular

Onward and upward....

#6 - We Will Rock You Tour and Online Community Project

As the star attraction of the We Will Rock You - Asia Pacific Tour, MiG jetted to South Africa for rehearsals, and then began an almost year-long tour. MiG gained legions of fans as he wowed crowds in New Zealand, Hong Kong, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand. It presented a wonderful opportunity for MiG, and we were happy that people in the Asia Pacific could get introduced to the same incredible person and performer that we knew. At the same time, it was important to keep MiG's existing fans in the U.S., Philippines, U.K., Australia, Canada and other countries connected for all those months. It also gave us another way to promote MiG.

MiG in We Will Rock You - Asia Pacific Tour



MiG during the We Will Rock You tour - photo by Su & JC (special thanks to Fuchsia)


Nicole and Davyd from Aussie Queens (a Queen fan site) and I launched an online community project to include major MiG fan sites. It offered a great chance to bring everyone together. MiG kindly agreed to provide updates, which included a letter, radio interview, and videos. The ultimate video involved fans. We asked each fan group to submit a question for MiG. While at his hotel in Hong Kong, MiG created a video and took great care in answering every question with such warmth and humor. I was blown away. I shouldn't have been, because MiG strives for excellence in everything he does. If you watch MiG's video with answers to fans' questions, you'll be impressed too.


#5 - The Release of MiG's Debut Album

MiG had a dream of becoming a recording artist, and we anxiously waited for that dream to become a reality. The news that he'd be working with a world-class team and recording at such places as Abbey Road like the Beatles did, whipped us into a frenzy. MiG was so deserving of that support and collaboration. We chomped at the bit for a chance to listen to MiG's impeccable vocals and unparalleled emotion on a CD, iPod and the radio. Even more than that, we were ecstatic that MiG would have within his grasp something he'd worked tirelessly to achieve. After encountering a couple delays along the way, MiG persevered. It couldn't happen for a more special person. The CD, "MiG," was released in the Philippines and Australia before being unveiled in the U.S. and Canada (you can get it on Amazon or in the Store on MiG's Web site). The wait was too much to bear...but thanks to Rah at MiGCentral and our friends at MAP (MiG Ayesa Pinoy Fans), we could get our hands on the first release.

The album featured a masterful collection of classic songs elevated by MiG's talent and interpretation. I was amazed by how brilliantly MiG struck the perfect balance between passion and control in every note. The addition of three MiG originals, She Loved, You and I, and Could It Be (U.S. version), made the album priceless. As wonderful as the classics were, the originals showcased MiG's immeasurable talent, creativity and beautiful soul. After listening, we couldn't wait to post reviews and spread the word about such an artistic accomplishment.

Check out #4 and #3 tomorrow!

Keep the light shining and pass it on,

Kay
Team MiG Global

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Magical MiG Memories Countdown - #8 and #7

In honor of Team MiG's birthday, I'm counting down the Top 10 Magical MiG Memories in our four years of supporting and promoting MiG Ayesa. Yesterday I shared:

#10 - Rockstar: INXS
#9 - Cleveland Gigs

And now to unveil the next two:

#8 - Team MiG Photo Shoot in LA
Not long after Rockstar: INXS ended, two of Team MiG's founders, Laura and Nancy, had the Team MiG gang at the edge of our seats. They piqued our interest with a surprise, saying they'd make "the big reveal" on a certain night. The night was upon us, and a large portion of the Team MiG crew scrambled to get online for the announcement. The news that MiG had done a photo shoot in Los Angeles had rabid MiG Ayesa fans reeling. In addition to having all those MiG photos to enjoy, we were over the top with excitement about having all that new material to use for promotional online banners and buttons.

Here are a few shots from MiG's photo shoot to feast your eyes upon...

Looking good in leather


Apparently MiG is ignoring the No "Smokin'" sign...


Posing with a mysterious statuesque woman


#7 - QUEEN Rock & Symphonic Spectacular
During the last two summers, MiG has performed in these popular concerts at picturesque locations throughout the United Kingdom. Queen fans and supporters of MiG and his co-stars have braved torrents of rain and dipping temperatures some nights. Team MiG members have had some special time with MiG and enjoyed the camaraderie with other friends and fans. And the shows were indeed spectacular.

Tomorrow....Magical MiG Memories #6 and #5!

Keep the light shining and pass it on,

Kay
Team MiG Global

Friday, October 2, 2009

Magical MiG Memories Countdown - #10 and #9

The celebration begins, as Team MiG Global marks four glorious years of supporting MiG Ayesa on October 6. Birthdays often bring thoughts of gifts, and this one is no exception. The gifts we've received haven't come covered with shiny wrapping paper or adorned with a bow. They've come in the form of friendships we've grown, and of a supremely talented guy who dreams of taking the world's breath away with his music.

Team MiG was born when MiG Ayesa stepped on stage for CBS-TV's Rockstar:INXS. In the four years since then, MiG has made many at Team MiG feel as though birthdays come much more than once a year. The heart beneath the rockstar makes every day of work worth it. We've been having a ball, and MiG has made it special.

To mark our 4th Birthday, let's revisit some of those special memories. Countless moments stand out...but I'll limit it to 10. Through October 6, I'll count down to reveal the Top 10 Magical MiG Memories. Here we go....

#10 - Rockstar: INXS
Rockstar: INXS has to be in the Top 10. It helped bring MiG and everyone from Team MiG together. During all those weeks, it was our mission to vote for MiG with reckless abandon, and we heaved a collective sigh of relief every time he survived for the next show. I remember being impressed with most of the people who considered MiG their favorite. MiG had a way of attracting kind, intelligent, talented and giving individuals. Those are traits they have in common with MiG.

#9 - Cleveland, Ohio Gigs
MiG hit the road on a national Hard Rock Cafe Tour with a stop in Cleveland. After one night at the Hard Rock, he followed it up with a night at McCarthy's. MiG took the time to greet everyone before and after the shows, and posed for pictures with people of all ages.

MiG's performance at McCarthy's was spellbinding. He treated us to two fabulous originals from his debut album "MiG" (Decca/Universal) - You and I and Could It Be. I still can't get enough of them.

MiG joking around at the Hard Rock - photo by Mary Beth


Singing with heart and soul


Our street teaming exploits for MiG in Cleveland amused some people, as our stealth operations focused on posting flyers for MiG's show in the most creative of locations. Some nice security guards refrained from giving us a hard time, so we escaped unscathed! The weekend was one to remember.

Tomorrow...Memories #8 and #7!

Keep the light shining and pass it on,

Kay
Team MiG Global