Raymond Lauchengco celebrates birthday with concert, book launch

Singer-actor Raymond Lauchengco turns 60 this month.

- By ANNALYN JUSAY

Raymond Lauchengco, with his actress-sister, Menchu Lauchengco, holding a copy of his book 'Dance With The Wind.'

The moment isn't just a milestone for him, it's the perfect excuse to celebrate a life fully lived. On Nov. 28, the eve of his 60th birthday, he will hold his concert "Everybody Loves Raymond" at The Theatre at Solaire. The title, borrowed playfully from his favorite 1990s sitcom, reflects what he envisions as a night full of nostalgia and affection.

"Party with me as I turn into a senior Bagets!" Raymond laughs, referring to his breakout role in the 1980s teen film classic. "Now that I'm turning 60, I look back and I realize the most extraordinary thing about my life has been the people that God has put in it: my family, my friends, and every single audience member whom I have connected with through music."

The concert will debut Raymond's new single "My Favorite Story," which he says is a love letter to the people who have shaped his journey. It's written by Odette Quesada - the same songwriter behind his timeless hits "I Need You Back" and "Farewell."

"I wanted to offer something as a gift," Raymond said. "Instead of receiving gifts for my birthday, I wanted to give one back, a song that says thank you to everyone who has been part of my life. When you put together all those moments and stories, that's what makes a life."