Key Points
- TJ Monterde is a renowned singer-composer from Cagayan de Oro City, gaining fame for his heartfelt and relatable music.
- Being 'authentic' and tireless in songwriting are some of the keys to his success.
- He tied the knot in August 2020 with the acclaimed singer-rapper and the first-season winner of X-Factor Philippines, KZ Tandingan.
"Record, write your songs and upload [social media is free] just put your heart out," the Davao City-born singer's offer of advice for those like him who dream of becoming a well-known singer-songwriter, after revisiting Sydney, Australia for a concert with a friend and renowned singer-songwriter Moira Dela Torre.
He added that the path he is taking is not easy, but because of his love for music, he did not give up. He also considered it a significant success in his career to be able to inspire and give hope to others through his songs.
'Yong nagme-message sa amin na , 'thank you for your music, maraming salamat po it's helping me a lot these days, even if it's not a hit song, I mean it is more than enough as long as you inspire others in the songs that you make para sa akin, yon ang greatest achievement ko always."
The wedding day of young Filipino singer-rapper KZ Tandingan and singer-songwriter TJ Monterde last 28 August 2020. Source: TJ Monterde/Facebook
TJ shares that despite both of them being performers, there is no sense of competition or pressure in their married life. Instead, they perform together to create beautiful memories.
"Mantra namin kahit hindi sa akin basta sa atin, it's not about whoever has the win as long sa'yo yon tayo din naman dalawa yon, kung about pressure wala akong nararamdamang pressure , that's how she [wife KZ] makes me feel.
When she goes on tour, I'm there backstage in husband mode. Sometimes, when I'm on tour, there are times she's there, working as a makeup artist or ironing clothes in wife mode."
TJ hopes that one day, he will have the opportunity to be with his wife, KZ, for a concert abroad.
