Known as the “Revival King,” Jojo Mendrez continues to captivate audiences with his latest single, “Yakap,” a deeply moving revival of the beloved classic originally popularized in 1979 by Filipino-Spanish singer Junior.
A defining love song of the late 1970s and early 1980s, “Yakap” became an enduring favorite among Filipinos after serving as the official soundtrack of the acclaimed film Good Morning Sunshine, starring Vilma Santos and Junior under the direction of National Artist Ishmael Bernal. Over the years, the song has remained a timeless symbol of love, comfort, and nostalgia, cherished by generations of OPM fans.
Today, Mendrez introduces the classic to a new generation while preserving the emotional essence that made it unforgettable. His heartfelt rendition has garnered widespread praise from listeners, music lovers, and online audiences, many of whom have described the revival as both touching and refreshingly sincere.
A Meaningful Endorsement from the Barretto Family
Among those profoundly moved by the song is Optimum Star Claudine Barretto, who openly expressed her admiration after hearing Mendrez’s version.
“OMG, I’m crying! The best rendition, Kapatid!” she shared.
Her reaction carries even deeper meaning, as Junior—the original singer of “Yakap”—was the uncle of the Barretto sisters, including Claudine herself. That personal connection makes her praise especially significant, adding another layer of sentiment to the song’s revival. For months, Claudine has been one of Mendrez’s most vocal supporters, consistently expressing admiration for his artistry, passion, and commitment to preserving timeless Filipino music.
Further adding to the growing buzz surrounding the single, Mendrez recently sat down with entertainment host and director Ronald Carballo for an intimate conversation about the inspiration behind “Yakap.” During the interview, he shared the emotional journey that led him to record the song and his deep appreciation for classic OPM masterpieces.
Carballo himself was visibly impressed by the revival.
“Ang ganda, ang ganda! Gusto kita yakapin!” he exclaimed, admitting that the song gave him goosebumps from beginning to end.
Fulfilling a Long-Held Dream
For Mendrez, recording “Yakap” was more than revisiting a classic hit—it was the fulfillment of a long-held dream. He revealed that the song had always been one of the projects closest to his heart, making the opportunity to revive it both meaningful and personal.
While staying faithful to the tenderness and emotional sincerity of the original, Mendrez infuses the song with a contemporary depth that resonates with today’s listeners. His signature vocal style brings a softer, more intimate quality to the timeless ballad, creating a listening experience that appeals to both longtime OPM enthusiasts and younger audiences discovering the song for the first time.
Preserving the Legacy of OPM
The success of “Yakap” further strengthens Mendrez’s reputation as the country’s premier revival artist. Over the years, he has earned acclaim for breathing new life into beloved classics such as Handog, Somewhere In My Past, and Tuyo Na’ng Damdamin, proving his unique ability to connect generations through music.
Mendrez also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to supporters who continue to embrace revival music in an ever-evolving industry. For him, revisiting classic songs is a way of preserving the beauty and legacy of Original Pilipino Music while ensuring that timeless melodies continue to inspire future generations.
With “Yakap,” Jojo Mendrez once again demonstrates why he remains one of the most respected names in the OPM revival scene. By honoring Junior’s legacy while adding his own heartfelt interpretation, he has created more than just a remake—he has crafted a moving tribute to the enduring power of Filipino music.
Supported by the heartfelt praise of personalities such as Claudine Barretto and Ronald Carballo, “Yakap” stands as a testament to the timeless beauty of OPM and the emotional connections that great songs continue to create across generations.
“Yakap” is now available on all major digital streaming platforms. Audiences can follow Jojo Mendrez on his official Facebook page for the latest updates on his music and upcoming projects.