Sassa Dagdag was a shy 12-year-old when she emerged as one of the final four finalists of Season 2 of “The Voice Kids PH” in 2015. Two years after gaining much popularity through the said competition, the talented singer has evidently blossomed into a beautiful, vivacious young woman, as seen during the recent launch of her debut album.
Aptly titled “Sassy Sassa,” the album contains five original feel-good pop tracks that showcase the girl’s world-class singing voice. Sassa’s vocal chops have led to comparisons with international stars Alicia Keys and Beyoncé, who admittedly is also Sassa’s number one idol and spirit animal.
Sassa, now brimming with confidence at 14, has definitely come into her own. Her sultry voice cruises through all five tracks with surprising finesse, from the pop and R&B infused “Itatago Na Lang” and the carrier single “Kumakaba;” to the jazzy rhythm of “Parang Pag-Ibig,” the catchy groove of “Dyan Ka Lang” and the endearing “Forever Love.”
In an interview during the press launch, Sassa admitted that she still feels awkward listening to her songs.
“I don’t like listening to myself,” she says sheepishly.
However, she does love listening to the songs of other artists. Aside from Beyoncé, she counts Ed Sheeran and Bruno Mars among her favorite foreign acts.
Sassa has high regard for Bamboo Mañalac, who taught her valuable lessons as her coach on “The Voice.” She also admires Morrissete Amon, Charice Pempengco and Jessica Sanchez—three artists which she hopes to collaborate with someday.
Sassa has become more industrious and altogether more passionate about her craft. She has acquired the habit of having singing practice every day—something she wasn’t doing before. And singing every single day has turned out to be quite enjoyable for her.
Being a recording artist has not interfered with her studies. An incoming 9th grader in high school, Sassa is grateful for the support and understanding of her teachers whenever she has work-related commitments to attend to.
On the other hand, her brother, Bryant, who also taught her how to play the guitar, continues to be one of the most supportive people in her life. Bryant still plays the accompaniment for her covers, which she normally posts online.
While releasing an album is something that other up-and-coming artists can only dream of, the sassy teen has this milestone down pat early in her career. Sassa shared that she doesn’t let the pressure of such an achievement and being in the limelight and get to her.
““I just feel really happy about it. I’m just enjoying it kasi this is what I love to do,” she said.
“Sassy Sassa” under PolyEast Records is available at all Odyssey, Astroplus. Astrovision and PolyEast pop-up stores. You can also listen to the full album on iTunes, Deezer or Spinnr.
Watch Sassa perform a track from her debut album:
