De Jesus, a former gov’t official who plays the piano, flute, and guitar, will perform with her band on March 4 at Red Rhino.
“Groovy,” that vintage hippie term for something attractive and cool, has been adapted as a name by the band Groovy Beats.
No, its members are not necessarily old and grey and suffering from memory loss. But yes, they do love the music of the 1960s, among other classics from the past.
The Groovy Beats was formed many years ago by Lenny de Jesus, the former government official who grew up playing the piano, the flute, and later the guitar. She has a nice collection of guitars, including a Hofner bass (like the one Paul McCartney used as a Beatle).
Now De Jesus is reviving the Groovy Beats — with guitarist Roy Marinduque, bassist Nap Apolinario, drummer Benjie Santos, keyboardist Carlo Gaa, and lead singer Boy Mendez in the current lineup — for a one-night gig on March 4 at Red Rhino (Mayflower Street, The Hub, Greenfield District, Mandaluyong).
And dig this, joining them as special guest is Boy Camara — former poster boy of the Filipino band music scene of the ’70s. Also guesting for a few numbers is De Jesus’ daughter-in-law Kat, who’s said to have a soft spot for oldies music.
Business Mirror had an online chat with De Jesus.
You’ve taken a break from gigs for some time. What’s it like to be preparing to play music again after the pandemic?
It was a joyful experience to start practicing again for a possible gig after the long hiatus due to the pandemic.
What songs do you look forward to performing live at Red Rhino?
The Groovy Beats band has focused on music from the 1960s and other oldies that evoke a lot of memories especially for folks in my generation. We would like people to enjoy our pieces as much as we enjoy playing them.
The Groovy Beats will have Boy Cámara and Kat de Jesus as special guests. How did you convince Boy to come out of “retirement,” and tell us about Kat.
Boy Camara has been performing with us before when I revived the Electromaniacs. He’s a good friend, my tai-chi teacher, and I’m glad he agreed to perform with us again.
Kat Tiquia-de Jesus got married to my son in June 2023. We discovered she has a natural talent for singing. She also likes music from the ’60s, songs her family would sing together when she was growing up.
Do you see yourself playing again regularly, or maybe do special shows?
Hopefully. I truly find much joy in playing music.
Is it true that playing music makes people feel young and more alive than ever?
From my personal experience, it does, indeed!!!
Image credits: Pocholo Concepcion