Jose Mari Chan reveals Lea Salonga nearly became part of ‘Christmas in Our Hearts’

Did you know that Lea Salonga almost became part of Jose Mari Chan’s hit holiday song, “Christmas in Our Hearts?”

On Friday’s “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” Jose Mari recalled inviting Lea to do a duet with him.

“At that time, Lea Salonga was a hit because of ‘Miss Saigon.’ So I approached her and asked her if she would do a duet with me,” he said. “And sabi nya, ‘Yes, I’d be glad to!’”

Lea liked the melody and the words, but the collaboration did not push through because “her recording company would not allow her to record for a competing label.”

Jose Mari’s next choice was Monique Wilson, who was an understudy for “Miss Saigon.”

“Unfortunately, that weekend, she went to Tagaytay…she lost her voice,” he continued.

“I guess the Holy Spirit was leading me towards my daughter…And so, I went to my daughter’s bedroom,” he said.

Jose Mari asked his daughter, Liza, “Can you learn this song quickly? ‘Cause I’d like to record this with you,” and the rest is history!

In the interview, the prolific singer recalled writing the melody of "Christmas in our Hearts" in 1988 for a poem written by a friend. "I never thought that two years later, I'd use that melody for a Chrismas song," he said. 

According to Jose Mari, he never expected the massive success of the song. "As a matter of fact, the producers of Universal Records said 'masyadong Christian tong kantang 'to.' Why don't you come up with a romantic Christmas song?"

Jose Mari gave in to their request and wrote "A Perfect Christmas," which the record label people loved. They were so sure it will receive good radio airplay, the singer said. "They didn't expect 'Christmas in our Hearts' will become a big hit."

Aside from "Christmas in Our Hearts,” Jose Mari is iconic for his songs "A Perfect Christmas” and “Beautiful Girl,” among others.

The legendary singer, along with The Company, is set to hold a concert tour in Canada in November.

They will kick off their tour on November 10 in Vancouver before heading off to Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, and Toronto. — Carby Basina/LA, GMA Integrated News