Get ready for a night brimming with passion, nostalgia, and soulful melodies as two OPM legends—Ella May Saison and Jay Durias of South Border—come together for the first time on stage in Soundtrip Sessions Volume 3. Set to take place on Nov. 9, 8 p.m., at The Theatre at Solaire, this once-in-a-lifetime concert promises an unforgettable celebration of love and music.

Presented by Dragon Arc Events Management, the concert will feature timeless classics that have captured the hearts of generations, taking hopeless romantics, couples, and music lovers on an emotional journey. Whether reminiscing about first loves, rekindling old feelings, or simply immersing in good music, Soundtrip Sessions is the perfect escape.

A groundbreaking collaboration

Jay and Ella May will unite on stage for the first time, creating a musical chemistry bound to leave the audience breathless. Jay, known for leading South Border to OPM greatness with hits like “Love of My Life,” “Kahit Kailan,” and “Habang Atin Ang Gabi,” promises to revisit these beloved songs with a fresh twist. “Uungkatin ulit ‘yung nga nasa baul, pero ang bago dito is yung collaboration with Ella May. First time na magkasama sa stage,” he says.

For both artists, this collaboration is about more than just performing familiar tunes—it’s a way to honor their deep love for music and the arts. Jay and Ella May share a passion for creating music that moves people’s hearts, and both hope their contributions to OPM and soul music will cement their legacy.

“We want to be remembered as artists who poured their passion and love into their craft,” they express. For them, this concert is not just a performance but a testament to the artistry and dedication that has defined their careers.

Ella May Saison: The soulful soundtrack of heartbreak

Ella May has long been celebrated for her emotional depth and soul-stirring performances. Her hits like “Till My Heartaches End” and “If the Feeling is Gone” have become national anthems of longing and heartache, profoundly resonating with Filipinos through the years. Known for her unmatched vocal control and emotional delivery, Ella May continues to inspire new generations of music lovers with her enduring sound.

Adding a personal touch to the night, Ella May will be joined on stage by her siblings—Elke Saison-Ortiz, lending her voice for harmonies, and Elmir Saison, who will serve as the musical director. As a family affair, their performance promises to bring an even deeper emotional connection to the evening.

With an eye toward future collaborations, Ella May has also expressed hopes of working with other OPM greats like Martin Nievera, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, Lani Misalucha, and Gary Valenciano. But she is focused on delivering a performance that will make every listener feel the magic of love and nostalgia. “We will transport the fans back to the ‘80s, ‘90s and spread nostalgia all over. We will make everyone fall in love,” she says.

Jay Durias: The genius behind South Border

As the heart and soul of South Border, Jay has shaped the sound of OPM with his distinctive voice and soulful compositions. Under his leadership, South Border became a household name with relevant hits even decades later. Known for his mastery of music and lyrics, Jay has created songs that resonate with fans across different generations.

Durias’ passion for music has been the driving force behind his career, and he hopes that his work will leave a lasting impact on Filipino music. “I want people to remember the passion and love I put into every song,” he shares. His dedication to his craft is evident in the band’s hits and how he reinvents them for every live performance.

A legacy of music: Soundtrip Sessions lives on

Since its launch in 2019, Soundtrip Sessions has become a go-to event for OPM enthusiasts. The first edition brought together Luke Mijares and Jinky Vidal, while the second volume in 2023 featured Nyoy Volante and Juris. Now, in 2024, Volume 3 takes things to a whole new level with the electrifying collaboration between Ella May Saison and Jay Durias, promising a night that will be remembered for years.

This concert is more than just a showcase of talent—it is a celebration of the artists’ shared love for music and a tribute to the emotional power of OPM. It’s an invitation to relive unforgettable moments through songs that have touched lives, broken hearts, and rekindled love.

Whether you are reliving fond memories or creating new ones, Soundtrip Sessions Volume 3 offers a rare opportunity to experience two of OPM’s finest artists at their best. Tickets are now available via Ticketworld or Dragon Arc Events Management on Facebook.

Join Ella May, Jay, and South Border as they take you on a soul-stirring journey filled with timeless music and heartfelt performances. Let this be a night where passion meets nostalgia—a concert celebrating the love for music and the arts, one song at a time. (Contributed by Jemuel Cainglet Salterio)