Arnel Pineda, the Pinoy singer of American rock band Journey took to social media to address criticism about his performance at "Rock in Rio" recently.
Note a video of him seemingly faltering vocally while performing the band's classic "Don't Stop Believin'" there, has been uploaded on Facebook, going on to earn a huge amount of hate comments.
In his social media accounts, Arnel started his message by thanking all those who have supported him since he joined the band.
"I appreciate you so much...and not only that, every time that I'm on stage with the band, I feel this immense gratitude, humility and honor," he said.
He then acknowledged the existence of the video saying, "No one more than me in this world feels so devastated about this… It's really amazing how one thousand right things you have done will be forgotten just cause of THIS. And of all the places , it's in Rock In Rio… mentally and emotionally, I've suffered already, and I'm still suffering..."
Arnel went on to issue a challenge to fans and critics alike.
"I am offering you a chance now (especially those who’s hated me and never liked me from the very beginning) to simply text GO or STAY right here. And if GO reaches 1 million…I'm stepping out for good."
So far, many of those who responded want him to stay.
Some of the comments:
"There is no one who could do what you do better, with the energy you give, with the voice that you have, with the heart that you share! You are the reason I come to every show that I possibly can. I love everyone else as well, but you are a genuine soul with amazing talent. We love you and you MUST stay!"
"I’d rather see someone perform live, imperfect, showing emotion and loving performing with heart than someone who’s autotuned and lifeless on stage. @arnelpineda2007 like I’ve said a thousand times before you have a beautiful gift and don’t let anyone take that from you."
"Don’t let the negativity drown out your light. You are loved and admired by so many for the person you are. Stay strong, my friend."
Arnel joined Journey in 2007 after being discovered by guitarist Neal Schon on YouTube.
Apart from "Don't Stop Believin,'"Journey is behind the hits "Open Arms," Faithfully," "Any Way You Want It," "Separate Ways," among many others.