George Canseco facts for kids

George Masangkay Canseco (born April 23, 1934 – died November 19, 2004) was a famous Filipino composer and a former politician. He wrote many popular songs in both Filipino and English. His music touched the hearts of many people in the Philippines.

Early Life and Career

George Canseco studied at the University of the East in the Philippines. He earned a college degree in Liberal Arts, which means he studied many different subjects.

After finishing school, he worked as a journalist. He wrote for newspapers like The Philippines Herald and for a news agency called The Associated Press. He also wrote scripts for movies and TV shows in Manila.

A very important moment in his early career was when the former First Lady of the Philippines, Imelda Marcos, asked him to write a special song for the country. This song was called "Ako ay Pilipino" (I am Filipino).

A Career in Music

George Canseco became well-known for his beautiful songs. One of his classic songs was "Kapantay ay Langit" (Equal to Heaven). This song was first sung by Amapola and later became a huge hit for Pilita Corrales. It was so popular that it became her signature song, meaning it's the song she's most famous for.

"Kapantay ay Langit" even had an English version called "You're All I Love." An American singer named Vic Dana sang this version, and it even included some Tagalog words! The song won the Best Song Of The Year Award at the Manila Film Festival in 1972.

Canseco also wrote the English version of Freddie Aguilar's very famous song "Anák" (Child). This English version was simply titled "Child." He wrote many songs for popular Filipino singers like Sharon Cuneta, Basil Valdez, Regine Velasquez, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Martin Nievera, and Kuh Ledesma. Another famous songwriter, Rey Valera, even wrote lyrics for two of Canseco's songs.

George Canseco said that Vic del Rosario, who owned Vicor Music Corporation, gave him his biggest chance in the music world. Canseco was also elected as the President of the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, Inc. in 1973. This group helps protect the rights of composers and writers.

Besides his music career, George Canseco also served as a politician. He was elected as a councilor for the First District of Quezon City. He served two terms: from 1988 to 1992 and again from 1998 to 2001.

Later Years and Passing

George Canseco passed away on November 19, 2004, at the age of 70. He died from cancer at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute in Quezon City, Philippines. His music continues to be loved and remembered by many Filipinos.

Awards and Recognition

George Canseco received many awards for his amazing musical talent.

See also

In Spanish: George Canseco para niños