THE NEW MINSTRELS
The New Minstrels were a popular singing group in the Philippines during the 1970s, known for their exceptional vocal harmonies, charismatic performances, and a repertoire that blended pop and Filipino classics. Emerging as one of the premier show bands of their era, they gained widespread recognition for their polished stage presence and musical versatility.
In 1978, I joined the original New Minstrels on their European Tour, marking my first trip abroad. I was thrilled to visit different countries across Europe. Our base was in Germany, but we traveled extensively to Austria, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and London.
The touring group included Babes Conde, Annette Belen, Mei-Ling Gozum, Pia Santos (who substituted for Eileen Dolina as she was getting married), Ding Mercado, Vic Baclagon, Ray-An Fuentes (minus Eugene Villaluz), Jess Garcia (drummer/management), our manager Jun Guevara, and myself. It was a truly unforgettable experience for me.
Vic, Annette, Eugene, Eileen, Ding &\Mei-Ling
THE NEW MINSTRELS
In Austria with Ding, Jess, Jun, Pia, Vic, Meiling & me
In Germany with Babes, Annette,
Ray-An & Mei-Ling
Just me with the ladies!
Babes, Annette, Pia & Mei-Ling
Train ride in Germany with Ding and Jun
Bad Homburg Germany
With Jun, Vic & Jess
Ray-An, Jun & Jess
Rey, Annete, Ray-An, Me, Vic & Jess
Our first breakfast in Germany
Ray-An and I waiting for the bus
Rehearsing at the venue
