"Happy Birthday, Jesus" might as well be the first Original Pilipino Music Christmas song for kids, performed by kids, co-written with a mother who sadly passed away on Christmas Day, 14 years ago (2006).
It's comebacking songwriter was once a co-lyricist of Jose Mari Chan (of the now classic "Christmas in Our Hearts") - Rina Caniza.
Rina is a lyricist, a two-time Awit Award winner (1st for co-writing the lyrics of the song "Christmas In Our Hearts," 2nd for co-writing the lyrics of "Everlasting Love"- first hit of The Company).
Several songs of hers have also been recorded by Joey Albert, Martin Nievera, VerniVarga, ManilynReynes, Gino Padilla, Donna Cruz, Joanne Lorenzana, Paola Luz, etc.
She also co-wrote the song, " Only A Mem'ry" which became a most requested song on the radios- sung by Joey Albert.
Rina's new song, "Happy Birthday, Jesus," was co-written with her mother, Trina Caniza and friend, Jen Bautista.
Music is by her mom, lyrics are by Rina and additional music by Jen.
Star Music handles Digital Distribution and Realease on digital platforms.
Star Music launched the lyric video of the song in November 13 on their Star Music Channel and on their Kids' Channel. They will also be releasing it on Youtube, Spotify, etc.
Rina shares: "I produced the song. My good friend, Moy Ortiz line produced and vocally arranged it. "When I first showed the song to Moy Ortiz, he said, 'Rina, this is a song for kids. Kids should sing it.'
"And he is right. I also got excited when- during the recording, Moy said, 'Rina, this could be the first OPM Christmas song for kids!
"The singers of the song are all kids- between 8 and 13 years old.
"The singing credits are, as follows: "Bree Bautista and the Playshop Kids (Cheska Rojas, Eli Luis, Twyla Alabastro and Basti Santos).
"Bree Bautista is the lead singer. Her grandfather (Angel Bautista) is a first cousin of Sen. Bong Revilla. Bree is a very talented and promising singer and showbiz runs in her blood. She loves to sing theater songs.