By MITCH MEÑEZ
Photos by LITTLE WING LUNA
The lights were dim. The bluish white hue of incandescent bulbs cast a bluesy feel to the place.
The Bar1951 in M. Adriatico St. in Malate, Manila on a Friday night usually brings in a lot of teenagers and expats looking for a different night out. The bohemian feel of the bar also lures in the artsy crowd
One recent night, the people were a mix of professionals, corporate type business men, art graduates, rock stars, writers, photographers and even one or two stragglers.
They were there for Jun Lopito.
To string musicians, Jun Lopito is a guitar god. He is a legend.
The son of the late TV host and comedian Lopito, Jun was a child of Rock and Blues. At the young age of 17, he was already playing with music icons such as Joey Pepe Smith and the late great Edmund Fortuno. He also played for and with Tropical Depression, Blitz, The Jerks, Cocojam, Anak Bayan, and Runaway Boys among others.
Lopito is sick with Hepatitis C. His daughter, Bebop Lavalan reached out to relatives and friends for financial help for Lopito’s treatment.
“We are reaching out to concerned, kind souls who are interested and willing to offer assistance to Jun. You can get in touch with us at buddhabluesyou@gmail.com where we will continue to forward info, updates, and developments.” Lavalan appealed.
Hearts of Music, a non-government organization by musician Skarlet Brown is helping Lupito.
Last week’s gig was a fundraiser for Lupito’s medical expenses.
Performers were Rolly Maligad of Cocojam, the Bleu Rascals with Blue Way, Lagkitan, and Paul Puti-an of Coffee Break.
There will also be a June 18 fundraiser at Saguijo where Skarlet will be one of the featured artists.