The iconic OPM group Aegis has set the record straight regarding rumors that ‘The Voice Kids’ champion Lyca Gairanod will replace their late lead vocalist, Mercy Sunot.
During a press conference for their upcoming pre-Valentine’s concert ‘Halik Sa Ulan’, Mercy’s siblings and bandmates Juliet and Ken Sunot addressed questions surrounding the future of the group after Mercy’s passing in late 2024 due to breast and lung cancer.
Juliet, visibly emotional, emphasized that Mercy’s role in Aegis remains irreplaceable.
“Wala po. Iba pa rin po kay Mercy. Guest lang siguro pwede, pero si Mercy po, forever po siya sa Aegis. Wala pong mawawalang name na Mercy,” Juliet firmly stated.
This clarification comes after online speculation that Lyca Gairanod might join the band following the announcement of their concert.
The ‘Halik Sa Ulan’ concert, set for February 1 and 2 at the New Frontier Theater, will serve as a tribute to Mercy.
Juliet shared the emotional process of preparing for their first major show without her sister.
“Siguro iba kasi wala si Mercy, pero kailangan namin lalo galingan kasi iba talaga noong kumpleto kami,” Juliet said. “When we planned this concert, Mercy wasn’t with us anymore, but we wished she could be. We have no choice but to continue what we started. We will do our best.”
Ken, who has taken on a more prominent role, admitted the challenge of performing without Mercy.
“It’s really different now. Before, when I felt unsure, Ate Mercy would always say, ‘Kaya natin ’to, ako bahala,” Ken shared.
Juliet tearfully recounted how surreal it still feels to lose her sister.
“Marami. Hanggang ngayon talaga, hindi ako makapaniwala… Sabi ko talaga, para sa kapatid namin itong concert na ’to. Pero hindi po namin akalain na mawawala siya… Ngayon, tribute na talaga para sa kanya,” Juliet said, adding that they will release a new song during the concert as a tribute to Mercy.
‘Halik Sa Ulan: A Valentine’s Special’ promises an unforgettable night with special performances from powerhouse artists Morissette Amon, Jona Viray, Julie Anne San Jose, and Ogie Alcasid.
Tickets for the concert are now available through TicketNet. Fans can expect an emotional evening filled with Aegis’ timeless hits and a heartfelt celebration of Mercy Sunot’s enduring legacy.
The recent rumors suggesting that Lyca Gairanod would be replacing the late vocalist Mercy Sunot in the band Aegis have been officially denied by the band. These rumors sparked considerable interest and speculation among fans and the media, leading to a flurry of discussions on social media platforms. Aegis, known for their iconic sound and significant contributions to the Pinoy rock scene, has clarified the situation, aiming to set the record straight and address the concerns of their dedicated fanbase.
The band’s statement came in response to widespread rumors that began circulating online. These rumors suggested that Lyca Gairanod, a young and talented singer who rose to fame through a reality singing competition, would be taking over the vocal duties for Aegis following the passing of Mercy Sunot. The speculation gained traction quickly, with many fans expressing mixed reactions to the idea of a new vocalist joining the band. Some were excited about the potential fresh sound, while others were concerned about maintaining the band’s original identity and legacy.
Aegis, in their official statement, emphasized their commitment to honoring Mercy Sunot’s memory and contributions to the band. The band expressed deep respect and gratitude for Sunot’s talent and the impact she had on their music. They highlighted that Sunot’s voice was integral to their sound and that her passing left a significant void. The band’s decision to deny the rumors of a replacement underscores their dedication to preserving the essence of Aegis as it was known with Sunot as the lead vocalist.
The denial also addressed the speculation surrounding Lyca Gairanod. While acknowledging Gairanod’s talent and success, Aegis made it clear that there were no plans to bring her into the band as a replacement. The band stressed the importance of finding the right fit for their music and ensuring that any new vocalist would align with their artistic vision and the legacy they wish to uphold. This decision reflects Aegis’ careful consideration of their future direction and their respect for their fans’ expectations.
Fans of Aegis have responded to the band’s statement with a mix of relief and understanding. Many expressed their support for the band’s decision, recognizing the significance of Mercy Sunot’s role in shaping Aegis’ sound. Fans appreciated the band’s transparency and their commitment to honoring Sunot’s memory. The clarification helped quell some of the uncertainty and speculation that had been circulating, allowing fans to focus on remembering Sunot’s contributions and the band’s enduring legacy.
The situation also brought attention to the broader challenges faced by bands when dealing with the loss of a key member. Mercy Sunot’s passing was a significant event for Aegis, and navigating the aftermath required careful consideration and sensitivity. The band’s decision to deny the rumors of a replacement reflects their thoughtful approach to managing this difficult transition. It also highlights the importance of maintaining artistic integrity and respecting the legacy of departed members.
In the wake of these rumors, there has been a renewed focus on Mercy Sunot’s impact on the music industry. Sunot’s unique voice and charismatic stage presence were instrumental in defining Aegis’ sound. Her contributions to the band’s discography and live performances left an indelible mark on fans and fellow musicians alike. The denial of the replacement rumors serves as a reminder of Sunot’s enduring influence and the respect she commands within the music community.
The denial also opens up a conversation about the future of Aegis. While the band has ruled out replacing Sunot with Lyca Gairanod, they have not provided specific details about their future plans. This leaves fans wondering about the band’s next steps and how they will continue to evolve while honoring Sunot’s legacy. The uncertainty creates an air of anticipation, with fans eager to see how Aegis will navigate this new chapter.
In conclusion, Aegis’ denial of the rumors surrounding Lyca Gairanod replacing Mercy Sunot has brought clarity to a situation that had generated significant speculation. The band’s statement underscores their commitment to honoring Sunot’s memory and preserving the integrity of their music. While the future of Aegis remains uncertain, the denial highlights the band’s thoughtful approach to managing the loss of a key member and their dedication to their fans and legacy. As fans process this news, they continue to celebrate Mercy Sunot’s contributions and look forward to seeing how Aegis will move forward in the coming years.
