Yeng Constantino, isiniwalat kung paano niya nasulat ang 'Hawak Kamay' sa edad na 14

• Yeng Constantino revealed that "Hawak Kamay" was inspired by a deeply personal family experience she went through at the age of 14
• She said the song reflected her emotions after a cousin whom they had welcomed into their home decided to search for their biological family
• Yeng never expected the heartfelt composition to become a song embraced by generations of listeners
• She also shared that it paved the way for her breakthrough on "Pinoy Dream Academy"

Yeng Constantino shared the heartfelt story behind one of the most defining songs of her career, "Hawak Kamay," revealing that she penned the song when she was just 14 years old.

In an interview on Matteo Guidicelli’s "Matteo G Primetime," the Pop Rock Royalty revisited the journey that shaped her as both an artist and an individual. She looked back on key milestones in her career, including becoming the first-ever Grand Star Dreamer of "Pinoy Dream Academy" in 2006, and opened up about the real-life experience that inspired "Hawak Kamay," a song that has continued to resonate with listeners over the years.

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Yeng revealed that the song was inspired by a cousin whom her family had taken in while they were growing up. As the youngest in the family, she said she had been excited about finally having someone younger to grow up with.

"My inspiration back then ay 'yung cousin ko. Kasi parang I grew up in a household na ako 'yung bunso. Tapos nag-ampon kami ng cousin. I was really looking forward na mag-grow kami together ng pinsan ko kasi parang finally, nagkaroon ako ng younger na kapatid."

According to Yeng, her cousin eventually left their home to look for their biological family, despite having been welcomed into their household.

"But of course, ang tao ay naghahanap ng family. So kahit na nandoon kami bilang pamilya niya, naghanap talaga siya ng [biological] na pamilya. So, eventually, lumayas siya."

Yeng said the painful experience became the inspiration behind "Hawak Kamay." She explained that she wrote the song as a message to her cousin, hoping they would know that they would always have someone to return to.

"Sa sobrang lungkot ko na lumayas 'yung itinuturing ko na bunsong kapatid, nasulat ko 'yung 'Hawak Kamay.' Parang gusto kong sabihin sa kaniya na, 'No matter what happens, kung babalik ka, I'll still hold your hand, ha? Nandito pa rin ako para sa'yo.'"

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Yeng admitted that, even now, she is still surprised she was able to write lyrics like those at such a young age. She never expected the song, which began as a personal expression of her emotions, to become a timeless anthem embraced by so many people. She added that even now, she continues to be surprised by the blessings that come her way in her career.

Yeng likewise credited the song for opening the door to her journey on "Pinoy Dream Academy" Season 1.

"I owe 'Hawak Kamay' that opportunity to be on that stage. Hindi mo maarok bilang bata at that time na parang all of a sudden biglang may hit song ka na sa radyo, and people recognize you, and they sing your songs to you while you're onstage."

Years after its release, "Hawak Kamay" remains one of Yeng's signature songs, continuing to resonate with listeners through its message of unconditional love, hope, and unwavering support.

Yeng Constantino is a renowned Filipino singer who first gained fame after winning the title of Grand Star Dreamer on "Pinoy Dream Academy." She married Yan Asuncion on February 14, 2015, in a ceremony held at a resort in Tagaytay, Cavite. Yeng continues to be one of the Philippines’ leading pop-rock artists, releasing numerous hit songs and albums and earning praise for her powerful voice and heartfelt songwriting.

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Recently, Yeng and Gloc-9 shared their thoughts on joining the upcoming season of "The Voice Kids Philippines" as new coaches. In a report by Aubrey Carampel on "24 Oras." Yeng said becoming a coach has long been one of her career aspirations, while Gloc-9 expressed excitement about learning from both his fellow coaches and the young contestants. Julie Anne San Jose also offered advice to the duo.

Earlier, Yeng turned emotional after her manager informed her that tickets for her "Byaheng Bente" concert had completely sold out. She said the overwhelming support left her in disbelief and filled with gratitude. Yeng thanked her fans for their continued love and support. She also assured concertgoers that she would deliver her best performance at the Araneta Coliseum.

Source: KAMI.com.gh