One of the pioneers of Pinoy rock passed away this morning at 71 years old. Joey Smith, affectionately known as Pepe, was confirmed dead by his daughter Daisy Smith-Owen in a Facebook post.
“Thank you for being the best dad in the world. I know you’re in the best place now,” wrote Smith-Owen.
Smith was brought to the hospital in the morning on Monday, January 28. He suffered his third stroke in November 2017, which severely affected his voice and guitar-playing.
But the late rockstar must be better remembered for his contributions to the music industry. Smith was one-third of the Juan de la Cruz Band, who brought iconic songs that blared the radios in the 1970s. Among their songs are: Ang Himig Natin, Balong Malalim, Titser’s Enemi and Beep Beep.
Despite several health concerns, his ailments did not tamper the rock star’s indomitable spirit. He pioneered The Pepe Smith Rockfest in 2018, a collaboration of 74 bands in the local landscape of rock and roll. He also starred in the film “Above the Clouds” with Ruru Madrid four years before.
Here are his notable contributions to the ad indsutry:
Aray Mo, Galing Natin Pilipinas
In this testimonial for Unilab, Smith lauded Manny Pacquiao for the pride he brings to the country as an athlete. He also mused that Pacquiao’s intensity in his fights marches his intensity in love.
Legends
The 30-seconder ad by J Walter Thompson only took three words, “Rock and Roll” from Smith to show that a gulp of Red Horse would signify Ito ang Tama.
RJ CUSTOM SHOP: Joey “Pepe” Smith of Juan dela Cruz Band
RJ Guitar Center tapped Pepe Smith to promote the Skycaster by drawing similarities between the two: both world class and both Philippine made.
Throughout his life, Smith collaborated with brands he believed in. This authenticity make generations of Filipinos not only mourn his loss but also salute to the tall, thin man who devoted his last ounce of strength to his craft.
(Photo source: Inquirer)
