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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Music and Concerts devider Over the rainbow: Josh Groban inspires Manila

Over the rainbow: Josh Groban inspires Manila

Published Feb 22, 2026 11:07 am  |  Updated Feb 22, 2026 01:50 pm
Josh Groban performs at SM Mall of Asia Arena
Josh Groban performs at SM Mall of Asia Arena
What could be more magical than spending your night swept away by the soaring voice of Josh Groban live in concert?
The air brimmed with nostalgia and theatrical wonder as "Josh Groban’s Gems World Tour" transformed the SM Mall of Asia Arena into a haven of inspiration and artistry on Feb. 18, brought to life by Willbros Live.
The concert began with the song "You Are Loved," followed by "The World We Knew." Tapping into his theatrical side, Josh performed the song, "Pure Imagination" from the film "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory."
Returning to the Philippine stage, Josh radiated humility and gratitude, expressing his deep gratitude for being reunited with his Filipino fans in a night destined to spark lasting memories.
"I am so happy to be back here in this incredible city. 
I'm so privileged and honored to be back in front of all of your wonderful selves. Thank you so much for having us back here now. For the third time, it is never something that we take for granted to be here," Josh said.
Josh Groban wows fans in PH
Josh Groban wows fans in PH
As the crowd gives its loudest cheers, Josh performs the song "Granted", "Wandering Kind," a fan favorite "February Song", and "Angels."
Just when the fans thought they were going to hear English songs, Josh took it to another level, performing an Italian song, "Alle Luce," and a Spanish song, "Alejate."
Professing his love for Filipino fans and Pinoy talents, Josh didn't hold back on bringing local talents on stage to join him during the concert. Bringing the life to his back vocals is the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus.
Sparkle artist Julie Anne San Jose got her full circle moment as she did a duet with Josh on the song "Both Sides Now."
Meanwhile, Concert King Martin Nievera made his way on the stage and performed "Say That You Love Me." After sharing a quick chat with Josh on stage, the two did a duet on the song "What I Did for Love."
Josh Groban and Julie Ann San Jose
Josh Groban and Julie Ann San Jose
Josh Groban and Martin Nievera
Josh Groban and Martin Nievera
Josh Groban and Regine Velasquez-Alcasid
Josh Groban and Regine Velasquez-Alcasid
Asia's Songbird, Regine Velasquez, got to perform a timeless song, "On The Wings of Love," and "All I Ask of You" with Josh.
Showing no signs of slowing down, he continued the concert with "To Where You Are” and his powerful rendition of 'Skyfall, the theme from the movie of the same title.
As a heartfelt tribute to his Filipino fans, Josh inspired the crowd with soul-stirring renditions of "She’s Out of My Life," "Be Alright," and "You Raise Me Up." He returned for an unforgettable encore, lifting spirits even higher with "Over the Rainbow" and “Bridge Over Troubled Water."
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