IT all started in 2008. Six musicians were struggling for something catchy to name their group, which was ready to compete for a local “battle of the bands” competition. Eventually they settled for the name, The Draybers.
Founder and lead vocalist Mitoy Yonting, rhythm guitarist and cofounder Mylo Yonting, keyboardist Edwin Garcia, drummer Jude Santos and lead guitarist Cesar Uy Salazar comprise the crew of The Draybers, one of the most enduring pop-rock bands in the country today.
Known for the band’s spot-on renditions of Air Supply, Queen, Survivor, Journey and Bon Jovi hits, among others, The Draybers has toured internationally for Filipino communities and is one of the most sought-after live acts today.
In 2011 they started a journey that saw them at Resorts World Manila’s (RWM) Bar 360 stage, where they landed a long-term contract, paving the way for their claim to three-time “Best Performers in a Lounge, Bar and Hotel” wins in 2012, 2013 and 2017.
After winning The Voice of the Philippines, frontman Mitoy gained more popularity by being cast in Philippine Ballet Theater’s Sayaw at Serye (2013) and became a part of Lea Salonga’s supporting act for her concert series, Playlist (2013). Television audiences also know him as L.A. in the ABS-CBN sitcom Home Sweetie Home.
Mitoy’s decision to stay with The Draybers even after his newfound fame that led him to perform all over Asia and the United States as a solo act was a testament to the depth of the frontman’s ties with his bandmates.
With an undeniable onstage chemistry that combines Mitoy’s versatile vocal range, Mylo’s second voice and rhythm guitar, and the perfect pitch harmonies of Edwin, Lucky, Jude and Cesar, The Draybers’ journey to a decade of music remains to be as it was when they first started: strong and unfailing.
On Biyaheng Diyes: the Draybers’ 10thanniversary concert, the band will share the stage with some of the country’s top talents, including “Asia’s Diva” Dulce, “Mr. Shades” Randy Santiago, “King of Philippine Acoustic Pop” Nyoy Volante, Tawag ng Tanghalan finalist Ato Arman and champion Noven Belleza, as well as theater star Tanya Manalang.
Tickets for “Biyaheng Diyes” are now available at the RWM box office and via Ticketworld. Visit rwmanila.com or download the RWM mobile app for more upcoming entertainment events at Resorts World Manila.