Where were you when in the late 1990s and early 2000s?
I was in high school. And OPM band Freestyle was a huge part of it. The iconic group that rose to fame with their impressive covers is a symbol of nostalgia for me. Their rendition of “Do You Believe in Me?” inspired me to have the song as my high school ringtone. And that song became my never-ending LSS (Last Song Syndrome) pick — the one track that was so sticky that it kept playing in my head.
I remember watching Freestyle perform live at Alabang Town Center and Paseo de Sta. Rosa [Laguna] in 2002 with my high school friends, moments that showcased how deeply I loved (and I still do) their music. Their playlist has a timeless quality that continues to evoke fond memories for fans like me, making each concert a chance to relive those carefree days and reconnect with their and their music’s charm.
Freestyle is undeniably one of the most long-lasting bands in the local music scene. With a rich musical history spanning over twenty years, they have created a legacy that withstands the test of time.
They boast numerous hits that continue to connect with music fans across different generations. Songs like “Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang? (with Pops Fernandez)”, “Before I Let You Go”, “This Time”, “Para Sa ‘Yo”, “Till I Found You”, “So Slow,” and “Once in a Lifetime” remain unforgettable.
These hits propelled the band to stardom. Known for their melodies, lyrics, and live performances, Freestyle has established itself as one of the country’s premier musical acts.
They have released four successful studio albums: their self-titled debut “Freestyle,” “This Time,” “I Wanna Get Close,” and “Once in a Lifetime.” Additionally, they have three live albums: “Freestyle Live at the Araneta Coliseum,” “Freestyle All Hits Live,” and “Freestyle Love Concert (The Album).”
It’s notable that a band that achieved massive success in 1998 remains at the top of their game. Today, they still enjoy relevance, admiration, and love from a wide fanbase. Led by front vocalist Top Suzara, whose influence has always driven the band forward, they continue to charm audiences with their sound.
Currently, aside from Top, Freestyle is composed of Ian Tan, Gibson Viduya, IJ Garcia, and Buoy Manalo. They continue to produce popular new songs such as “Let Love Win,” “Bespren,” “Maybe,” and “Walang Ibang Ikaw.”
This coming September 19, 2025, the iconic OPM band will hold a concert titled “It’s About Time” at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. During this event, they will debut a new song titled “Surrender You,” with music and lyrics penned by Top himself.
Top shares that the concert’s theme, “It’s About Time,” marks a long-awaited moment. “It’s been a long time coming, and everything has already been about time. I believe it’s always His time, His timing, not ours. I’m very excited for this show and hope everyone will join us!”
Many fans wonder what keeps them afloat. Top admits he’s unsure of the secret, especially since he left the band in 2005 and rejoined as their frontman three years ago. However, he believes that a key ingredient is the commitment to making and sharing music together.
Besides performing “Surrender You,” Top promises a spectacular musical experience for concert attendees. He shared, “Apart from the many original songs we’ve chosen for the show, we’re also bringing some playful songs that serve as time machines into memories we hope many will cherish as well. We’re excited to debut a new song live, one with a very different story—something everyone will recognize too well!”
The band Neocolours, another popular ‘90s group still loved today, will be the special guest for the event.
Produced by Full House Theater Company and NY Entourage Productions, “It’s About Time” promises to be worth your time. Tickets are available now at TicketWorld and the Newport World Resorts Box Office.
