Christian Bautista embarks on a new journey with “Stories of the Heart”

The two-night Valentine’s concert at Newport Performing Arts Theater, which also topbills Yeng Constantino and Erik Santos, will feature the trio in spot and group numbers. For his part, Christian will sing new and signature songs such as “Vertigo” and all-time fan favorite “The Way You Look at Me.”

For more than two decades now, Christian Bautista has been one of the most distinct local voices behind countless love songs. From swoon-worthy serenades to heartfelt ballads that echo through time, his music has been a constant companion for romantics and dreamers alike. This Valentine’s season, the singer-songwriter is set to embark on a new chapter in his musical journey with “Stories of the Heart” — a two-night concert alongside fellow OPM icons Erik Santos and Yeng Constantino.

Happening on Feb. 14 and 15 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, “Stories of the Heart” promises an unforgettable evening filled with iconic songs about love, heartbreak and hope. With their distinct musical styles, the trio is once more set to make hearts aflutter on stage.

For Christian, the concert is an exciting time in his career. In an exclusive interview with PeopleAsia, he revealed that he has entered a “new season” in his music, one where he wants to take more creative control. “For the past 20 years, they just give [songs] to me, and I sing them. Now, I want it to come from me more,” he shared.

This shift is evident in his latest single, “Vertigo,” which steers clear from the usual ballads he’s known for. Co-written and co-produced with Peej, the song offers a more introspective and raw sound — one that speaks to those nursing heartbreak rather than those reveling in love. “Not everyone is happy during Valentine’s Day. Broken hearts need to hum along to a tune, too,” he said.

Still, Christian remains deeply connected to the music that made him a household name. His 2004 hit “The Way You Look at Me” has reached over 110 million plays on Spotify, and he continues to embrace it as a defining moment in his career. “I can never be tired of it. It was the reason for my success,” he said. “Most of my listeners want me to sing it again because it makes them happy. If singing it a thousand times would make them happy, then great.”

“Stories of the Heart” is a must-see Valentine’s event. Tickets range from P2,300 (Bronze) to P9,500 (Platinum), and are available via Ticketworld. Read the full story on Christian Bautista in PeopleAsia’s latest issue, coming out next week.