Grentperez on Growing Up, Touring in Asia, and Having His Own Fanboy Moments
The Filipino-Australian singer-songwriter was recently in Singapore to headline Block A, a youthful vibey hangout for fans.
To say that Grentperez had a busy 2023 is an understatement. The Filipino-Australian singer-songwriter released a wildly successful fourth album, performed at his own sold-out tours in North America, opened for Rex Orange County a bunch, and got covered by Hanni from NewJeans. It’s the life of a burgeoning pop star, at just 22 years of age.
After a quick breather in January and a couple of performances in Bangkok, he’s back in Singapore to headline Block A, a youthful, vibey hangout for fans, as part of his regional tour. We take the opportunity to have a quick chat with him, before he’s rushed off to his next adventure.
Hi Grant! Last year was massive for you, starting with the release of your fourth EP When We Were Younger. What do you miss most about your younger self?
I guess the curiosity. When you’re a little kid, you just question everything. And while I still do that today, I feel that it’s not on the same level as it used to be. Having that wonder of the world and whatnot. So being carefree, in a way, is what I miss. [Laughs]
You just turned 22 — that’s still pretty young.
Yeah still a baby in the industry.
What’s the best and worst thing about growing up?
The best thing has to be the freedom. And learning how to be yourself, that’s an interesting element of life. The worst I guess would be having responsibilities and all that. Also, not knowing where you’re going is always unnerving.
What are you looking forward to most in the Asia leg of your “growing up?” tour?
Honestly, just breaking the ice with a lot of these countries that I haven’t been to. Like Thailand; I was there yesterday for the first time. I just want to see these new faces and show them who I am. In Southeast Asia, I’ve only played the Philippines and Singapore, really. But this is a pretty short leg, so I want to continue that in the future, playing in Taiwan, Malaysia eventually.
How do you feel when you perform?
I usually feel great. But I think as of recently, with the amount of tour dates I’ve had and my lack of experience, I’ve started to feel the weight of it. Started to feel a little tired, here and there. But I’m pulling through because it’s worth it, you know. And the people are definitely great.
When did you start performing?
My first ever show was in 2022, after Covid. And from then on I’ve just been going in blind — this is how we do it! [Laughs] Last year we did around 80 shows, and I think almost 30 of them were consecutive. So it was a pretty big push. I’m going in full force, to see what I like and what I don’t — I guess that’s part of the growing up.
Besides putting out new music and kicking off your own tour, you’ve got to experience some pretty cool fanboy moments as well. What was it like opening for Rex Orange County during his tour?
Aww man yeah I’m definitely a huge fan! I was very honoured that he looked in my direction for an opener. That was really cool. It was awesome to meet him, and I’m glad he’s an awesome dude.
How did you two connect?
Instagram! I messaged him in 2019 after I covered one of his songs on YouTube, and he replied. Fast forward to 2023, he messaged me while I was in the Philippines, and he was like “Hey, would you want to open for me?” So, of course, I postponed my Europe leg for that.
Then there’s that Hanni (from NewJeans) cover.
Oh my gosh, she did it twice! She did “Us Without Me” last year, and this year she sung “Only By Love”, which is one of my other songs. I would love to get connected with her, or just NewJeans in general, but I’m sure their management is pretty tight. I probably should cover one of their songs, since I definitely listen to them quite a lot!
So 2023 was definitely a big year for you. Is there anything you regret not doing?
To be honest no. I’m really happy with the way it went. If there’s anything that I moderately regret, it’s not creating more music. But that’s okay because I’ll have time to do so this year. I’m glad that I got to show my face to a lot of these people.
How do you enjoy your downtime?
I love drawing. Mainly still life; I like to draw what I see. Lately I’ve been trying to do more creative stuff, but I always bring a book with me. I would love to play games again too, but I haven’t been home in awhile so I don’t really have the chance do that.
Lastly, what’s one difference between “Grant” and “Grent”?
They’re actually pretty similar! I feel like I can be really truthful with my community, but I guess “Grant” is me amplified — much more relaxed, a little more vulnerable, you know what I mean? I show my emotions on stage as well, but “Grent” is more reserved, and is energetic and entertaining instead. But when I’m back home I’ll be myself. Right now you’re getting “Grant”, I feel like. [Laughs]
