Beebop Smith

Beebop Smith Like Father Like Son

Most father would want their offspring to follow his career path. But not Pepe Smith. Pepe expressed his wish for Beebop not to follow his footstep.

But last March 23, 2019 – that wish was breached. Beebop Smith, personified Pepe Smith on stage. It was the 3rd Installment of Pinoy Rock Summit, Rhea Lipio, hinted the idea of Beebop taking the stage as a singer. Beebop actually is already in a band but only as a guitarist. “Kinakabahan ako, ngayon lang ako kakanta”, quips Beebop. This tribute gig was graced and supported by local bands namely; ACID BAND, TUMBLING DICE, ANGAS NG MANDALUYONG, MUD, EZZY ROCK, GROUNDSTAGE, THE DIABLONG BUANG BROTHERS, KWADRO and WALLY GONZALEZ.

The event was staged at the Junkyard Imus and the owner of the bar was kind enough to lend the place. Leo Blanco and Thor ilano, have been supporting Pinoy Rock since time immemorial.

True to Pepe’s antics and form, Beebop carried his tune in singing signature songs of his father; NADAPA SA ARINA, ROCK N ROLL SA MUNDO, and the hip HIMIG NATIN. Road Abutin, Managing Director of Rock Track Arts and Entertainment in Cavite City said “That 8 and a half-minute Himig Natin song had us mesmerized. And with Wally Gonzalez on the guitar, nothing could go wrong”. True enough, Beebop explored his father’s musical limbo. He even cracks jokes on stage just like Pyaps, “Pa, para sayo iong gig na to, mamaya kita tayo”. Mid-way to Himig Natin, Rosuela, Beebop’s mom and Pepe’s wife is in tears. “Hindi ko mapigil umiyak”, she confided to me. She stood up and walked away from near the stage where we are all are and sat at the back of the bar.

Everyone was emotional at that moment. Why wouldn’t they, it was the same spot where Pepe Smith performed last. “Dito ako tatayo, kung saan dito huling tumayo at nag perform si Papa”, remembers Beebop.

The music that night, had everyone cheering and enjoying everyone’s company. Wally follow suit with his signature WALLY’S BLUES instrumental. Peter Mendoza III, one of the Organizers as well, thought the event was a success. “Ang mahalaga- lahat tayo masaya, and we are thankful to all the bands who offered their talents to perform for free! Special mention of course to Mr.Wally Gonzalez, ang husay mo bro, walang pa din kupas!” says Peter.

I ask Beebop of his performance that night, “Konting hasa pa siguro, hindi ko talaga forte ang kumanta, buti andyan si Spanky Esquejo-long time friend at bassist ni Papa to assist me sa vocals, but for Papa’s tribute game ako.” Finishes Beebop.