Journalist Albert Samaha tells the story of his uncle Spanky, a baggage handler at SFO who left behind a burgeoning career as a rock star in the Philippines to pursue the American Dream. Back in Manila, Spanky was a member of the pioneering 1970s disco band VST & Company — known as “the Bee Gees of the Philippines.”
“Uncle Spanky” was first performed in 2018 for POP-UP MAGAZINE. They produce unforgettable stories and live experiences, including our acclaimed live magazine, which sells out grand, historic venues across the country. While the touring show is on pause, POP-UP MAGAZINE has moved online with stories we love, an all-new Spring Issue, and much more. All with support from Google.
ALBERT SAMAHA is an investigative journalist at BUZZFEED NEWS. His reporting freed a man from prison, got a police chief fired, and changed laws in six states. His work has appeared in THE NEW YORK TIMES, THE VILLAGE VOICE, and others. He’s the author of two books, NEVER RAN, NEVER WILL and the forthcoming CONCEPCION, which explores how immigrant optimism crashes into American reality. http://www.albertsamaha.com
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CREDITS
Story by Albert Samaha
Music by VST & Company
Original photography and film by Erin Brethauer
Featuring Magik*Magik Orchestra:
Travis Andrews, Guitar
Liana Berube, Violin
Debbie Neigher, Keyboard
Jason Slota, Drums and Vibraphone
ADDITIONAL PHOTO CREDITS
Alamy, CO-ED Magazine, Parade Magazine, Teen World, The 5 Network, Tony Pionilla, Spanky Rigor Images
ADDITIONAL MUSIC CREDITS
“Magsayawan”
Music and lyrics by Charo Unite and Ernie dela Pena
Published by ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.
Performed by VST & Company
Courtesy of Vicor Music Corp.
“Awitin Mo at Isasayaw Ko”
Music and lyrics by Vic Sotto
Published by ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.
Performed by VST & Company
Courtesy of Vicor Music Corp.
“Swing”
Music and lyrics by Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon
Published by ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.
Performed by VST & Company
Courtesy of Vicor Music Corp.
“Kiss…Kiss”
Music and lyrics by Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon
Published by ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.
“Magsayawan” from Swing It…Baby!
Produced by Lea Productions
Copyright © Pop-Up Magazine Productions
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