Kuh Ledesma at 70: A look back on the OPM icon's career-defining moments

It's the birthday month of Kuh Ledesma, who turned 70 last March 16 and has gracefully handled time and trends.

- JERRY DONATO

She radiates such an effortless beauty and youthful glow and possesses that zest for life and for her craft.

Her decades-spanning career as an Original Pilipino Music (OPM) icon is an inspiration to emerging local artists. It is one of the many feats Kuh is grateful for.

And she is sharing that gratitude with everyone in a showcase titled "My Kuhl 17th Birthday Show" tonight at the Hacienda Isabella. Singer-actress Mitch Valdez is joining Kuh as the latter's guest artist.

In a recent e-mail chat, The STAR asked Kuh to look back on and list down seven milestones that paved the way and defined her illustrious music and recording career.

First on the list is her double-vinyl, one-of-a-kind Ako Ay Pilipino album that features "a collection of beloved Filipino love songs from the past," said she. "What made this album groundbreaking was its fusion of traditional and contemporary elements — ethnic instruments were masterfully incorporated, creating a unique Filipino sound."

Described as a true labor of love, the album gave Kuh the opportunity "to record the patriotic song Ako Ay Pilipino, a powerful anthem that expresses the deep pride of being Filipino. The song resonated with people from all walks of life and, over time, became like a second national anthem, embraced by Filipinos regardless of political affiliation," said she.