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{{short description|Filipino-American singer, songwriter, record producer, actor and model (born 1981)}}
{{Multiple issues|
{{peacock|date=November 2018}}
{{fanpov|date=November 2024}}
{{BLP sources|date=November 2018}}
{{citation style|date=November 2024}}
}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2018}}
{{see also|Jay-R Siaboc}}
{{Distinguish|JR (disambiguation)}}
{{Infobox person
| name               = Jay R
| image              =
| caption            =
| birth_name         = Gaudencio Sillona III{{#tag:ref|Jay R is a United States citizen. Thus, he does not possess his mother's maiden name (Aquino) as is the convention in the Philippines.|group = fn|name = sur}}
| birth_date         = {{birth date and age|1981|2|1}}
| birth_place        = [[Glendale, California]], U.S.
| occupation         = {{flat list|
*Singer
*songwriter
*record producer
*actor
*model
}}
| years_active       = 1997–present
| nationality        = [[Filipino Americans|Filipino-American]]
| children           =
| parents            =
| relatives          =
| website            = {{URL|Jayrsmusic.com}}
| module             = {{Infobox musical artist
| embed           = yes
| instrument      = {{flat list|
*Vocals
}}
| genre           = {{flat list|
*[[Contemporary R&B|R&B]]
*[[Soul music|soul]]
*[[Pop music|pop]]
}}
| label           = {{flat list|
*[[Universal Records (Philippines)|Universal]]
*Homeworkz
}}
| associated_acts = {{flat list|
*[[Kyla (Filipino singer)|Kyla]]
*[[Kris Lawrence]]
*[[Q-York]]
}}
}}
| signature          =
| alias              =
| spouse             = {{marriage|[[Mica Javier]]|March 1, 2020}}
| partner            =
}}
'''Gaudencio Sillona III'''{{#tag:ref|Jay R is a United States citizen. Thus, he does not possess his mother's maiden name (Aquino) as is the convention in the Philippines.|group = fn|name = sur}} (born February 1, 1981), known professionally as '''Jay R''', is a [[Filipino Americans|Filipino-American]]<ref name=jayrhunkyheart>Ricky Lo (April 11, 2004) "[https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2004/04/11/245693/jay-r-heart-hunk Jay R: The Heart of The Hunk]", ''[[The Philippine Star]]''</ref> singer, songwriter, [[record producer]], actor, and model. In 2003, he released his debut album, ''Gameface'', under [[Universal Records (Philippines)|Universal Records]].<ref>{{Citation |title=Jay R - Gameface |date=2003 |url=https://www.discogs.com/release/9790801-Jay-R-Gameface |access-date=2023-08-25 |language=en}}</ref> The album was [[certified platinum]] by the [[Philippine Association of the Record Industry]] (PARI), receiving several awards and earning him the number one single, "Bakit Pa Ba".
Jay R, known as the "R&B Prince," gained fame in his early career alongside Kyla, the "R&B Princess," with their fanbase collectively referred to as "JayLa." They are recognized in the music industry as the R&B Royalties. In 2006, he established a recording studio in his mansion and launched a label initially named JAYRS Music, later rebranded as Homeworkz Records. That year, he released the Christmas album ''Christmas Away from Home'', dedicated to his late uncle Reny, which was re-released in 2008 with proceeds benefiting the GMA Kapuso Foundation. His 2008 cover album ''[[Soul in Love]]'' became his highest-rated and best-selling work. Jay R made his film debut in the 2004 movie ''Happy Together'' and released his self-titled second album in 2005.
He released an all Tagalog language album early in 2010, ''[[Jay R Sings OPM Love Classics]]'', which consists of revivals of [[Original Pilipino Music]] love songs. Later, he recorded a [[Indonesian language|Bahasa]] song, which is slated for release in [[Indonesia]]. He is part of the TV musical variety show ''[[Party Pilipinas]]'' on GMA and hosts the Philippine adaptation of the dating game show ''[[Take Me Out (Philippine game show)|Take Me Out]]'' on the same network.<ref name=takemeout>Bong Godinez (April 26, 2010) "[http://www.pep.ph/guide/5968/Jay-Rs-%3Cem%3ETake-Me-Out-%3C-em%3Edebuts-today,-April-26 Jay-R's Take Me Out debuts today, April 26]", ''Philippine Entertainment Portal''</ref>
After more than 10 years with [[GMA Network]], he transferred to the rival network [[ABS-CBN]] in 2014. After more than three months, he joined the impersonating competition ''[[Your Face Sounds Familiar (Philippine TV series)|Your Face Sounds Familiar]]'' as his first reality show on the network.
==Early life==
Jay R was born on February 1, 1981, in [[Glendale, California]], and raised in Barangay [[U.P. Campus, Quezon City|U.P. Campus]] and Daan Tubo in [[Quezon City]]. His father, Gaudencio Sillona Jr., is a [[pianist]], and his mother, Amparo Aquino-Sillona, is a singer. He is the grandson of the late Gaudencio Sillona Sr. He is the youngest of four siblings. On his father's side, he has five brothers, saying "Before my parents got together, my father was married to somebody else." As of 2004, he was managed by his aunt, choreographer Geleen Eugenio.[1] He speaks fluent [[Tagalog language|Tagalog]]. Among his musical influences as a young man were [[Stevie Wonder]], [[Luther Vandross]], and [[Gary Valenciano]].<ref name=jayrhunkyheart/>
==Music career==
=== 1997–2002: Early works and debut ===
At the age of sixteen, Sillona was in a group called FI (First Impression). The group consisted of five members, namely Mike Gabriel, Alex Bacani, Jay R Sillona, Jimmy Martinez (who came with him to [[Manila]] and is now Jimmy Muna), and Owen Amurao. When Mike, Owen, and Alex went their separate ways, he and Martinez continued the group by adding another talented singer named Kris Cadevida (later known as [[Kris Lawrence]]). They would do gigs in Los Angeles, [[San Francisco]], and [[Michigan]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Jay R biography |url=https://www.last.fm/music/Jay+R/+wiki |access-date=2024-11-08 |website=Last.fm |language=en}}</ref> He was also the lead singer, with his sister Jhing, of another band that was led by his uncle, Robert Sillona, called The Howlers. Later, Jhing collaborated with him in creating hit songs.
Sillona later started performing gigs all around [[southern California]]. He also did back-up vocals for major artists, whose albums were released in the United States, [[Latin America]], the Philippines, and other territories. Later, he started co-writing songs with international artists. He collaborated with Ray Brown, Troy Johnson, Jason Edmonds, 3 AM, Steve Singer, Gary Brown, The Triangle, Dutch Cousin, Chuck Cymone, and many other talented producers.
=== 2003–2005: ''Gameface'' and self-titled album ===
In 2003, Sillona signed a contract under [[Universal Records (Philippines)|the Universal Records]] label. His first album, entitled ''[[Gameface (Jay R album)|Gameface]]'',  consists of twelve tracks, containing two original Tagalog songs—"Kaibigan", written by his sister Jhing Sillona, and "Bakit Pa Ba", written by Vehnee Saturno. Most of the other songs on the album are R&B cuts and were co-written by him. Ten of the tracks were produced by respected American producers Troy Johnson, Ian Boxhill, and Bryson Evans. His first single, "Design for Luv",<ref name=jayrtp>"[http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=124 Jay R's Titik Pilipino summarized biography and early career] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100131152504/http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=124 |date=2010-01-31 }}". ''titikpilipino.com'' Retrieved February 8, 2010</ref> is an [[Contemporary R&B|R&B]], [[Hip hop music|hip-hop]] single, and had its music video filmed and produced in [[Hollywood, Los Angeles, California|Hollywood]] with the help of good friend Ray Brown. Following the first single, he released a Tagalog ballad penned by Vehnee Saturno, entitled "Bakit Pa Ba". It became the biggest hit not only from the album but also from the artist. In 2004, the album was re-released with two new songs that were later used as singles. The album was well-received both commercially and critically. It was certified Platinum by the [[Philippine Association of the Record Industry]].<ref name=gfcdbaby>"[http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/jayr1 Gameface tracks and info, it went Platinum]". CDBaby.com Retrieved August 29, 2010</ref> It was also nominated in numerous categories of major music awards. On the 2004 [[MTV Pilipinas Music Awards]], "Bakit Pa Ba" won Sillona the [[MTV Pilipinas for Favorite Male Video|Favorite Male Artist]] award, also allowing him to grab the "Best Ballad" title at the [[Awit Awards]] of the same year. In April 2004, he accomplished his first ever three-night solo major concert which was entitled Gameface the Concert<ref name=gameface1concert>"[http://www.mb.com.ph/node/161258 Jay R's first major concert at the Music Museum entitled Gameface the Concert] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110608222606/http://www.mb.com.ph/node/161258 |date=2011-06-08 }}". ''[[Manila Bulletin]]'' Retrieved September 3, 2010</ref> at the Music Museum, immediately followed by Gameface Reload in September 2004.
After the success of his debut album, Sillona focused on creating a more complex R&B sound. He [[Cover version|covered]] the [[Billy Joel]] original "[[Just the Way You Are (Billy Joel song)|Just the Way You Are]]" in a completely different arrangement. In addition, he recorded an alternate version of the song, featuring [[Ireland|Irish]] pop singer, [[Samantha Mumba]].<ref name=jayrselfalb>Antonette R. Valdez, Showbiz, "[http://www.mb.com.ph/node/66771 I won’t run away from my responsibility — Jay-R]", ''[[Manila Bulletin]]'', March 19, 2006</ref> Alongside the single, his [[Jay R (Jay R album)|self-titled album]] was released.<ref name=jayrselfalb/> Among the album's collaborators are rappers Young Clipp, Jdimes, and Sillona's best friends, Jimmy Muna and Kris Lawrence.<ref name=jayrselfalb/> "Ngayo'y Narito", another ballad by Saturno, was released as the album's second official single. The album received positive reviews, with ''Titik Pilipino'' stating "I can't find a bad word for Jay R (the artist and ''the album'') because he and his album are good".<ref name=jayrreview>"[http://www.titikpilipino.com/album/reviews.php?albumid=704 Jay R album review on titik pilipino] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307234243/http://www.titikpilipino.com/album/reviews.php?albumid=704 |date=March 7, 2012 }}". ''titikpilipino.com'' Retrieved 2010-009-03</ref> Despite high ratings, it failed to gather any award it was nominated for. Still, the album managed to reach gold status by the PARI. In 2005, he was part of ''[[Footloose (musical)|Footloose: The Musical]]'', together with Iya Villania.<ref name=footloose>Michael Ancheta (June 4, 2007) "[http://www.pep.ph/guide/713/High-School-Musical-lights-up-Meralco-Theater-on-June-23/1 Footloose musical in 2005 headlined by Jay R and Iya]", ''Philippine Entertainment Portal''</ref><ref name=footloose2>STAGES, News, "[http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/index.php?aid=553 Footloose the Musical] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070626081117/http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/index.php?aid=553 |date=June 26, 2007 }}", ''Titik Pilipino'', August 28, 2005</ref> In the same year, he appeared on [[Karylle]]'s album, ''You Make Me Sing'', as a featured artist, songwriter, and producer.<ref name=ymmskar>Ryan Mark (August 14, 2005) "[http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=291584 Bag-ong album ni Karylle 'materiales fuertes']", ''[[The Philippine Star]]''</ref>
=== 2006–2009: Homeworkz Records ===
Early in 2008, Sillona released another studio album, ''[[Soul in Love]]''. It was his second [[cover album]], containing classical R&Bs and [[jazz]]es that he grew up listening to. The album has received the highest ratings among Jay R albums, and has even sold impressively, certifying gold in the Philippines without any initial promotion.<ref name=silgold>Nerisa Almo (July 9, 2008) "[http://www.pep.ph/news/18231/Jay-R-denies-rumors-about-jumping-to-the-other-network Jay R denies rumors about jumping to the other network]", ''Philippine Entertainment Portal''</ref> It has also helped him gain new audience and group of fans. ''Titik Pilipino'' gave the album a perfect rating of five out of five stars, saying "As everybody should be well aware of by now, Jay R is a very talented artist".<ref name=titikpilrev>Lorelie Dino, Album review "[http://www.titikpilipino.com/album/reviews.php?albumid=1590 Soul in Love – Jay R] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307232607/http://www.titikpilipino.com/album/reviews.php?albumid=1590 |date=March 7, 2012 }}", ''Titik Pilipino'' Retrieved September 3, 2010</ref> It has also earned Sillona numerous awards and nominations on awarding events. On the 2008 Philippine Hip-Hop Awards, he won the R&B Artist of the Year award for the first time.<ref name=philhip>"[http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=1043 List of Philippine Hip-Hop Awards 2008 winners] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110510023946/http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=1043 |date=2011-05-10 }}". ''Titik Pilipino'' Retrieved September 3, 2010</ref> It also gave him a Best Male Soul/R&B Artist nomination on the first ever [[Wave 89.1]] Urban Music Awards in 2009.<ref name=waveurban>"[http://www.wave891.fm/urbanmusicawards.html List of Wave 89.1 Urban Music Awards 2009 nominees and winners] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091119094839/http://www.wave891.fm/urbanmusicawards.html |date=2009-11-19 }}". [[Wave 89.1]] Retrieved August 3, 2010</ref> On July 10, 2008, he went to Japan to further increase in sales and popularity. Later, the album turned Platinum in the Philippines. From 2008 to 2009, he appeared on Iya Villania, [[Kris Aquino]], [[Kris Lawrence]], [[Billy Crawford]] albums.<ref name=fiyapep>Jocelyn Dimaculangan (October 30, 2008) "[http://www.pep.ph/guide/2838/Iya-Villania-enters-recording-scene-with-Finally Jay R does a duet with Iya for 'Always']", ''Philippine Entertainment Portal''</ref><ref name=tglkrispep>"[http://www.pep.ph/guide/2648/Kris--Aquino-launches-The-Greatest-Love-album Jay R covers Boyz II Men for Kris Aquino]", ''Philippine Entertainment Portal''. September 28, 2008</ref><ref name=molkrispep>Ricky Calderon (June 23, 2009) "[http://www.pep.ph/guide/4146/Kris-Lawrence-wants-people-to-remember-him-for-Careless-Whisper Jay R contributes on Kris Lawrence album]", ''Philippine Entertainment Portal''</ref>
In 2006, Sillona built the Homeworkz recording studio inside his two-story mansion. He started the label JAYRS Music. In an interview about his recording studio, he explained "It's a necessity for a recording artist [...] It saves a lot of money in the long run and it's very convenient. You can work on the recordings at any time of the day". The studio occupies a large room that was originally one of the bedrooms. Sillona himself was the one who conceptualized the look, which pictures a modern [[bachelor pad]] with dark carpeting and sofas, and a bar for small parties. Recording equipment he acquired in the U.S. includes a personal computer, a black [[upright piano]], and a recording booth.<ref name=homeworkzmb>Dennis Ladaw, Homeworkz Records, [http://www3.mb.com.ph/node/240349/hou House Music] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100725085757/http://www.mb.com.ph/node/240349/hou |date=July 25, 2010 }}, ''[[Manila Bulletin]]'', January 26, 2010</ref> In 2008, he renamed it Homeworkz Entertainment Services, Homeworkz for short.
In November 2006, he released his first-ever [[Christmas album]], ''[[Christmas Away from Home]]''. The album consists of classic [[Christmas song|Christmas songs]] and two originals, one featuring his sister Jhing entitled "Spread the Love". It, also, was inspired by and dedicated to his late uncle Reny. He stated, "The entire album is inspired by him [...] His death triggered something in me, and I knew that a tribute was the best way to thank him and cherish his legacy". Produced by JAYRS Music, it marks his initial attempt at running his independent record label. He single-handedly produced, arranged, mixed, mastered, and attended to all details.[10] The album was re-released in 2008 as ''[[Christmas Away from Home#Holiday of Love|Holiday of Love]]'', including six additional Christmas songs, replacing the three [[Instrumental|instrumentals]]. Album sales and proceeds were entirely donated to [[GMA-7]]'s Kapuso Foundation. He stresses the album's title, saying "It's Christmas after all [...] it's only fitting that I practice what I preach. It's all about giving".[11] In 2007, he was featured on Amber's song, "FYI".
Early in 2008, Sillona released another studio album, ''[[Soul in Love]]''. It was his second [[cover album]], containing classical R&B and [[jazz]] that he grew up listening to. The album has received the highest ratings among Jay R albums and has even sold impressively, certifying gold in the Philippines without any initial promotion.[12] It has also helped him gain a new audience and group of fans. ''Titik Pilipino'' gave the album a perfect rating of five out of five stars, saying "As everybody should be well aware of by now, Jay R is a very talented artist".[13] It has also earned Sillona numerous awards and nominations for awarding events. At the 2008 Philippine Hip-Hop Awards, he won the R&B Artist of the Year award for the first time.[14] It also gave him a Best Male Soul/R&B Artist nomination on the first ever [[Wave 89.1]] Urban Music Awards in 2009.[15] On July 10, 2008, he went to Japan to further increase in sales and popularity. Later, the album turned Platinum in the Philippines. From 2008 to 2009, he appeared on Iya Villania, [[Kris Aquino]], [[Kris Lawrence]], and [[Billy Crawford]] albums.[16][17][18]
Jay R also played a lead role on ''[[Dear Friend (TV series)|Dear Friend]]'''s episode, "''The Three Bachelors''", starring opposite longtime music partner [[Kyla (Filipino singer)|Kyla]].
=== 2010–2012: ''Jay R Sings OPM Love Classics'' and International exposure ===
On January 5, 2010, Sillona released his first ever all-Tagalog album, ''[[Jay R Sings OPM Love Classics]]'', still by Universal Records. It consists of thirteen Tagalog songs, which were originally recorded by popular [[Original Pilipino Music|OPM]] acts in the 1980s and 1990s, and handpicked by the singer himself. He loved the songs that he chose but admitted the challenges of remaking the materials, having said that they already have identities marked in them. On a song in the album, entitled "Muli", he collaborated with "Asia's Soul Siren" [[Nina Girado|Nina]].[19] The album was critically successful. ''[[Philippine Daily Inquirer|Inquirer Entertainment]]'' praised Sillona's outstanding vocal performance, stating "The singer (Jay R) is gifted with a voice suited for classy, urban R&B and he practically breezes through most of the ballads".[20] In the summer of 2010, he participated in another compilation by Kris Aquino, ''Blessings of Love'', singing a [[cover version]] of "[[Dance with My Father (song)|Dance with My Father]]".[21]
On September 2, 2010, Sillona went to [[Jakarta]], [[Indonesia]], to sign a three-year contract with Tarra Group Indonesia, and to record an original song in [[Indonesian language|Bahasa]]. It also included the launching of his album ''Soul in Love'' in the country. He did some TV guestings and also finished shooting a music video, slated for release in the country.[22] He collaborated with Indonesian pop singer Drimi on the song "Kau Dan Aku", which will be released as his first Bahasa single. He also co-wrote and co-produced the song "Beauty Queen" for his girlfriend [[Krista Arrieta Kleiner]] ([[Binibining Pilipinas 2010|Miss Philippines]]), which received an award for Miss Expressive, after she performed the song live at the [[Miss International 2010]] held in China.[23]
=== 2014: ''Elevated album'' ===
Jay released his ''Elevated'' album in 2014.  This was a statement album because it was launched under his own label Homeworkz.  Tonight featuring Mica Javier was an instant smash and rose to the top of the radio charts at No. 1.  The song also received the best R&B song of the year from Wave 89.1 FM and 93.1 Monster FM.  All the singles from the album also have music videos available on the Homeworkzmusic YouTube Channel. Singles from Elevated album: Falling For You featuring Marié Digby, Tonight featuring Mica Javier, Parachute, You're The One featuring Kris Lawrence & [[AJ Rafael]], You Are Not Alone featuring Kyla, Follow Me featuring DJ Riddler, Already Mine.  The song L-O-V-E written and produced by Jay R's good friend Marcus Davis was part of the Hollywood movie Bounce Back.  Starring Shemar Moore, Nadine Velasquez, Bill Bellamy, and more.  The album was a sweet victory for label owner Jay R because it reached Gold status and was awarded by PARI (Philippine Association of the Recording Industry) on ABS-CBN TV show ASAP channel 2.[24]
In 2016, Jay R was announced to be a member of the R&B group [[ASAP (TV program)|ASAP]] titled ASAP Soul Sessions, along with [[Jason Dy]], [[Daryl Ong]], [[KZ Tandingan]], and [[Kyla (Filipino singer)|Kyla]]. The group formed on May 15, 2016, and disbanded in late 2017.[25]
=== 2018–present: ''Kamusta Ka album'' ===
Jay R has always been the innovative type. That is why in 2018 he launched a new music technology that the Philippines had never seen before.  He dubbed it the "Artist Digi Pack".  The Artist Digi Pack comes with the Kamusta Ka album of 9 songs, 4 videos, a picture gallery of the album photoshoot, earphones, a 2GB MP3 player, and a to charge and access the exclusive files.  He is now promoting the singles on TV shows, radio, podcasts, and live shows.  In late 2017, Homeworkz launched a teaser single entitled Kabilang Dako written by Thyro and Jay R.  The song won R&B Song of the Year on Wave 89.1 FM and Wish FM Awards.  When 2018 struck he then started to release music videos for songs Kamusta Ka and Kabilang Dako which were shot in New Zealand.  Jay R then released a song with his Soul Brothers Kris Lawrence and Billy Crawford called Habang Buhay.  Within the music video, he surprised his girlfriend of 5 years Mica Javier by proposing to her while shooting.  She was happily surprised and said yes.[24]
In 2018, Jay R performed "Dito Lang Ako", which was written and composed by Jack Rufo, and produced by Blade Entertainment for the movie "Dito Lang Ako".[26] The song becomes the love theme for the 2019 [[romantic comedy]] film 12 Days to Destiny.
In 2018, Jay R signed up with Cornerstone Entertainment. Afterward, he would stage a collaborative concert titled SoulJa with [[Jaya (singer)|Jaya]] and [[Jason Dy]] in August of the said year.
==Acting career==
In 2004, Sillona appeared in a recurring role on [[GMA-7]]'s drama series ''[[Narito Ang Puso Ko]]''. It was immediately followed by a main role on an episode of ''[[Love to Love (TV series)|Love to Love]]'' entitled "Duet for Love", where he was teamed up with [[Toni Gonzaga]]. He played the role of Marvin, an Amboy who went on vacation to a beach resort and met a girl named Tammy, with which he shares the same things in common like singing.[1] In December 2004, he made his film debut on [[Regal Films]]' entry for the year's [[Metro Manila Film Festival]], ''[[So Happy Together (film)|So Happy Together]]''.[2] He portrayed the minor role of Brent, a young man who later became [[Kris Aquino]]'s love interest in the movie.[3] In the summer of 2005, he was cast on another episode of ''Love to Love'', entitled "Haunted Lovehouse". He played Bogart, a guy who inherited his grandfather's land. Unfortunately, Nadia ([[Chynna Ortaleza]]) built a house on his land, forcing them to share the house.[4] He later starred in a [[feature film]], ''Hari ng Sablay'', which was released on November 30, 2005.[5] Before the year ended, he played the [[antagonist]] role of Haring Bagulbol on ''[[Exodus: Tales from the Enchanted Kingdom]]''. The film was Regal's entry for [[2005 Metro Manila Film Festival|the 2005 Metro Manila Film Festival]].[6] It was critically acclaimed, earning ten awards and numerous nominations.[7] In addition, the film was praised due to its impressive use of [[visual effects]].
In 2006, Sillona played a recurring role on ''[[Encantadia: Pag-ibig Hanggang Wakas]]''. He portrayed Azulan, a strong and gorgeous leader of the Bahaghari, who fancies Sangg're Amihan ([[Iza Calzado]]). On January 1, 2008, he starred in another [[Metro Manila Film Festival]] entry entitled ''Desperados''. He played the sexy role of Vito, an [[underwear model]] who works for Courtney ([[Marian Rivera]]), and likes Isabella ([[Ruffa Gutierrez]]), but cannot get her to commit.[8] In October of the same year, he portrayed Pato, a recurring role in the Filipino adaptation of ''[[LaLola (Philippine TV series)|LaLola]]''. Before 2008 ended, ''Desperados'' was immediately followed by its sequel, rushed as Regal's entry at the [[2008 Metro Manila Film Festival]]. Sillona reprised his role, Vito, for the film, where it was reported that Gutierrez did not approve of having a kissing scene with him.[9] In 2009, he played Vince, a lead role on ''[[Dear Friend (TV series)|Dear Friend]]'''s episode, "The Three Bachelors", which featured his opposite longtime music partner [[Kyla (Filipino singer)|Kyla]].
==Other ventures==
Sillona has admitted himself to being a business-minded person, saying that, unlike show business, he wanted something stable and something that's already working. In 2007, he built a recording studio in his house called JAYRS Music, which was later renamed Homeworkz Studio. With a studio, he had to follow it with a recording label, and so he did. It was named as Homeworkz Records.[1] Under the label, he self-handedly writes and produces songs, and has recorded three of his albums—''[[Christmas Away from Home]]'', ''[[Soul in Love]]'' and ''[[Jay R Sings OPM Love Classics]]''. In 2008, the song "Kayan Natin Ito", a tribute to the victims of the 2009 [[Typhoon Ondoy]], was recorded in his Homeworkz Studio, together with various [[Original Pilipino Music|OPM]] artists. Under Homeworkz Records, he is managing an alternative band called Kley, wherein the lead singer is his very talented and beautiful [[niece]] DeeJay.[2]
In February 2007, Sillona launched a club at [[Glorietta]], called Rock Candy. However, it blasted as it was part of the [[2007 Glorietta Explosion]] in October 2007.[1] He lost millions of his investments, stating "I never recovered my capital as it happened at a time when the club was already picking up".[3] After the disaster, he decided to just focus and invest in a [[Ministop]] outlet that he bought at Wilson Street in [[Greenhills Shopping Center]], instead of reconstructing his club. He stated in an interview that [[Katya Santos]] was the one who recommended him to go into this kind of business. He also had ideas of owning a [[Burger Machine]] branch, but as he inquired, he knew that the business had no franchise. He expressed interest in having a branch of [[Mang Inasal]] but has not pursued it yet, since it requires ₱7 million for the area and twenty-eight persons for manpower. He also stated that he wants to have his water station, and not a franchise.[4]
Sillona has done commercials and theme songs for products like [[Sun Cellular]], [[Tropicana Products|Tropicana]], and [[Colgate (toothpaste)|Colgate]].[5][6] He is also a commercial model for Bench Body, Atlas Shippers International, Techno Marine, Unisilver, [[Adidas]], [[Skechers]], and Calayan Surgicenter.[7][8][9][10]
==Philanthropy==
In 2008, Sillona re-released his 2006 Christmas album, ''[[Christmas Away from Home]]'' into ''Holiday of Love'', under his label called Homework Records.[1] Sales of the album were donated to [[GMA-7]]'s Kapuso Foundation.[2] In 2009, he was part of the recording for the song, "Kaya Natin Ito", a tribute to the victims of [[Typhoon Ondoy]]. The song was recorded in his Homeworkz studio. All proceeds from the single's sales went towards [[Philippine Red Cross|the Philippine Red Cross]] and [[Gawad Kalinga]].[3] On June 30, 2010, he performed with [[Kyla (Filipino singer)|Kyla]], [[Nina Girado|Nina]], and [[Jed Madela]] at the victory street party of [[Philippine President]] [[Benigno Aquino III]], after the president's [[Inauguration of Benigno Aquino III|inauguration]].[4]
==Personal life==
On March 1, 2020, Jay R married singer-actress [[Mica Javier]] in an outdoor ceremony at the Lind in [[Boracay]], [[Malay, Aklan]].
==Discography==
{{Main|Jay R discography}}
* ''[[Gameface (Jay R album)|Gameface]]'' (2003)
* ''[[Jay R (Jay R album)|Jay R]]'' (2005)
* ''[[Christmas Away from Home]]'' (2006)
* ''[[Soul in Love]]'' (2008)
* ''[[Jay R Sings OPM Love Classics]]'' (2010)
* ''Elevated'' (2014)
* ''Kamusta Ka'' (2018)
* ''Pangako with CLR'' (2020)
* ''Seryoso'' (2020)
* ''Undeniable with Kyla'' (2020)
==Filmography==
===Film===
{|class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year
! Film
! Role
|-
| 2004 || ''[[So Happy Together (film)|Happy Together]]'' ||Brent
|-
| rowspan="2"| 2005 || ''[[Hari ng Sablay: Isang Tama, Sampung Mali|Hari ng Sablay]]'' || Adonis
|-
| ''[[Exodus: Tales from the Enchanted Kingdom]]'' || Haring Bagulbol
|-
| 2007 || ''[[Desperadas]]'' || rowspan="2"| Vito
|-
| 2008 || ''[[Desperadas 2]]''
|-
| 2015 ||''[[Beauty and the Bestie]]'' || Himself
|}
===Television===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year
! Title
! Role
! Network
! class="unsortable" | Notes
|-
| 2003–2010 || ''[[SOP (Sobrang Okey Pare)|SOP]]'' || rowspan="3" | Himself || [[GMA Network]] || 2003/2010
|-
| rowspan="3"| 2004 || ''[[MYX]] shows'' || [[myx]] || [[MYX#MYX Celebrity VJs|Celebrity VJ]] (March 2004, December 2005, April 2010)
|-
|''[[Narito ang Puso Ko (TV series)|Narito ang Puso Ko]]'' || rowspan="8" | [[GMA Network]] || Recurring role
|-
| rowspan="2"| ''[[Love to Love (TV series)|Love to Love]]'' || Marvin || Episode "Duet for Love"
|-
| 2005 || Bogart || Episode "Haunted Lovehouse"
|-
| 2006 ||''[[Encantadia: Pag-ibig Hanggang Wakas]]'' || Azulan || Recurring Role
|-
| 2008–2009 || ''[[LaLola (Philippine TV series)|LaLola]]'' || Pato || Recurring role (2008/2009)
|-
| 2009 || ''[[Dear Friend (TV series)|Dear Friend]]'' || Vince Gonzales || Episode "The Three Bachelors"
|-
| rowspan="3"| 2010 || ''[[Party Pilipinas]]'' || rowspan="3"| Himself || 2010/2013
|-
| ''[[Take Me Out (Philippine game show)|Take Me Out]]'' || Host
|-
| ''[[Channel V Philippines]] shows'' || [[Channel V Philippines]] ||[[Channel V Philippines#V.I.P. (Very Important Pinoy) Featured Artist of the Month|V.I.P. Artist]] (May 2010)
|-
| rowspan="2"| 2011 || ''[[Magic Palayok]]'' || Nico || rowspan="3"| [[GMA Network]] || Recurring role
|-
| ''[[Time of My Life (Philippine TV series)|Time of My Life]]'' || Michael || Guest
|-
| 2013 || ''[[Sunday All Stars]]'' || rowspan="2"| Himself || 2013/2015
|-
| 2015 ||''[[It's Showtime (Philippine TV program)|It's Showtime]]'' || rowspan="5"| [[ABS-CBN]] || Guest Hurado
|-
| 2015–present || ''[[ASAP (variety show)|ASAP]]'' || Himself/Performer || 1st Regular Show On [[ABS-CBN]]
|-
| rowspan="2"| 2015 || ''[[Your Face Sounds Familiar (Philippines season 1)|Your Face Sounds Familiar 1]]'' || Himself, Contestant-Performer || 3rd placer
|-
|''[[It's Showtime (Philippine TV program)|It's Showtime]]'' || Himself || Guest Hurado / Contestant on "Ansabe?"/ Guest Performer
|-
| 2016 || ''[[We Love OPM]]'' || Himself/Mentor || Team Hot Spots
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2020 || ''[[SNL]]'' || rowspan="2" | Himself/Artist ||[[NBC Peacock]]
|
|-
| ''[[ASAP (Philippine TV program)|ASAP Natin 'To]]'' ||[[ABS-CBN]]
|
|-
|}
==Awards and nominations==
{| class="wikitable"
! Year !! Award Giving Body !! Category !! Nominated Work !! Results
|-
| rowspan="6" |'''2004'''
| [[Aliw Awards]]
| '''Most Promising Male Entertainer'''
| style="text-align:center;"| Jay R (himself)
| {{won}}<ref name=aliw4>"[http://www.sarahgeronimo.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1320 Aliw Awards 2004 winners list]". ''sarahg.com/forum'' Retrieved January 18, 2010</ref>
|-
| rowspan="3" | [[Awit Awards]]
| '''Song of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;" rowspan="5"| "Bakit Pa Ba"
| {{nom}}<ref name=04nom>"[http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/index.php?aid=285&offset=0&expanded=1 Awit Awards 2004 nominees list] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307232427/http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/index.php?aid=285&offset=0&expanded=1 |date=2012-03-07 }}". ''titikpilipino.com'' Retrieved February 18, 2010</ref>
|-
|'''Best Ballad'''
| {{won}}<ref name=04win>"[http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/index.php?aid=288&msgid=23853&offset=80 Awit Awards 2004 winners list with Jay R grabbing the Best R&B award] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307232456/http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/index.php?aid=288&msgid=23853&offset=80 |date=March 7, 2012 }}". ''titikpilipino.com'' Retrieved February 18, 2010</ref>
|-
|'''Music Video of the Year'''
| {{nom}}<ref name=04nom/>
|-
| rowspan="2" | [[MTV Pilipinas Music Awards]]
|'''Favorite Male Video'''
| {{won}}<ref name=mtv4>"[[MTV Pilipinas for Favorite Male Video|MTV Pilipinas Awards winners for Fave Male Artist category]]". ''wiki.org'' Retrieved January 18, 2010</ref>
|-
|'''Favorite New Artist in a Video'''
| {{nom}}<ref name=mtv4nom>"[http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=238 MTV Pilipinas Awards nominees for 2004] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100131224048/http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=238 |date=2010-01-31 }}". ''titikpilipino.com'' Retrieved February 8, 2010</ref>
|-
| rowspan="3" |'''2005'''
| [[Aliw Awards]]
| '''Best Male Major Concert'''
| style="text-align:center;"| Gameface Reload
| {{nom}}<ref name=aliw5>"[http://garryokecruz.wordpress.com/2005/08/07/18th-aliw-awards-nominees/ Aliw Awards 2005 nominees list]". ''garryokecruz.wordpress.com'' Retrieved February 18, 2010</ref>
|-
| rowspan="2" | Philippine Hip-Hop Music Awards
| '''Male R&B Artist of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;"| Jay R (himself)
| {{nom}}<ref name=philhip8>"[http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=397 List of Philippine Hip-Hop Awards 2005 winners and nominees] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307234652/http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=397 |date=2012-03-07 }}". ''Titik Pilipino'' Retrieved September 2, 2010</ref>
|-
| '''R&B Video of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "Bakit Pa Ba"
| {{nom}}<ref name=philhip8/>
|-
| rowspan="5" |'''2006'''
| rowspan="2" |[[Awit Awards]]
| '''Best Performance by a Duet'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "Say That You Love Me"<br /><small>(Jay R and [[Kyla (Filipino singer)|Kyla]])</small>
| {{nom}}<ref name=06nom>"[http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=689 Awit Awards 2006 nominees list] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715210141/http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=689 |date=2011-07-15 }}". ''titikpilipino.com'' Retrieved February 18, 2010</ref>
|-
|'''Best R&B'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "You Make Me Sing"<br /><small>([[Karylle]]; co-produced by Jay R)</small>
| {{nom}}<ref name=06nom/>
|-
| rowspan="3" | [[MYX Music Awards]]
|'''Favorite Male Artist'''
| style="text-align:center;"| Jay R (himself)
| {{nom}}<ref name="MyxMusicAwards2006">{{Cite news|url=https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2006/05/01/334347/list-1st-myx-music-awards-nominees/amp/|title=List of 1st MYX Music Awards nominees|publisher=[[PhilStar]]|author=Baby A. Gil|date=May 1, 2006 |access-date=September 12, 2020}}</ref>
|-
|'''Favorite Collaboration'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "Say That You Love Me"<br /><small>(Jay R and Kyla)</small>
| {{nom}}<ref name="MyxMusicAwards2006"/>
|-
|'''Favorite Urban Video'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "[[Just the Way You Are (Billy Joel song)|Just the Way You Are]]"
| {{nom}}<ref name="MyxMusicAwards2006"/>
|-
| '''2007'''
| Philippine Hip-Hop Music Awards
| '''R&B Artist of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;"| Jay R (himself)
| {{nom}}<ref name=hip3>"[http://www.ninasoulsiren.com/awards/ Phil Hip-Hop Awards 2007 R&B Artist of the Year Award goes to Soul Siren Nina] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090422102048/http://www.ninasoulsiren.com/awards/ |date=April 22, 2009 }}". ''NSS.com/awards'' Retrieved February 18, 2010</ref>
|-
| rowspan="2" |'''2008'''
| [[ASAP (variety show)|ASAP 24K Awards]]
| '''Gold Record Award'''
| style="text-align:center;"| ''[[Soul in Love]]''
| {{won}}
|-
| Philippine Hip-Hop Music Awards
|'''R&B Artist of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;"| Jay R (himself)
| {{won}}<ref name=hip4>"[http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=1043 Phil Hip-Hop Awards 2008 winners list] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110510023946/http://www.titikpilipino.com/news/?aid=1043 |date=2011-05-10 }}". ''titikpilipino.com'' Retrieved February 18, 2010</ref>
|-
| rowspan="9" |'''2009'''
| ASAP Platinum Circle Awards
| '''Platinum Circle Award for Certifying Platinum'''
| style="text-align:center;"| ''Soul in Love''
| {{won}}
|-
| [[Awit Awards]]
| '''Best Performance by a Duet'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "Back in Time"<br /><small>(Kyla and Jay R)</small>
| {{nom}}<ref name=09nom>"[http://www.awitawards.com.ph/nominees.html Awit Awards 2009 nominees list] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100129021453/http://www.awitawards.com.ph/nominees.html |date=January 29, 2010 }}". Retrieved February 18, 2010</ref>
|-
| rowspan="2" | PMPC Star Awards for Music
|'''R&B Album of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;"| ''Soul in Love''
| {{nom}}<ref name=1pmpc>{{cite news|url=http://www.pep.ph/guide/music/4883/1st-star-awards-for-music-to-be-held-at-the-skydome-sm-north|title=1st Star Awards for Music to be held at the Skydome, SM North|work=Philippine Entertainment Portal|date=October 13, 2009|access-date=April 30, 2011}}</ref>
|-
|'''R&B Artist of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;"| Jay R (himself)
| {{nom}}<ref name=1pmpc/>
|-
| RX 93.1
|'''OPM Song of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "Back in Time"<br /><small>(Kyla and Jay R)</small>
| {{won}}<ref name=rx09>"[http://www.stir.ph/LM/articles~level2/id-1264383625604_1/ai-null/article.html RX 93.1 Year End Countdown winners]". ''stir.ph''retrieved January 31, 2010</ref>
|-
| rowspan="4" | [[Wave 89.1|Wave 89.1 Urban Music Awards]]
|'''Best Male Soul/R&B Artist'''
| style="text-align:center;"| Jay R (himself)
| {{nom}}<ref name=wavenom>"[http://www.wave891.fm/urbanmusicawards.html List of current Urban Music Awards Wave 89.1 nominees] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091119094839/http://www.wave891.fm/urbanmusicawards.html |date=2009-11-19 }}". ''wave891.fm'' Retrieved January 31, 2010</ref>
|-
|'''Best Remake'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "Tattooed on My Mind"<br /><small>(with [[D'Sound]])</small>
| {{nom}}<ref name=wavenom/>
|-
|'''Best Collaboration'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "Back in Time"<br /><small>(Kyla and Jay R)</small>
| {{won}}<ref name=wave09>"[http://www.stir.ph/LM/articles~level2/id-1264729896294_4/ai-null/Jay_Durias_Amber_Marcus_Davis_win_big_in_Urban_Music_Awards.html Big winners of the 1st Urban Music Awards]". ''stir.ph''retrieved January 31, 2010</ref>
|-
|'''Male Style Icon Award'''
| style="text-align:center;"| Jay R (himself)
| {{nom}}<ref name=wavenom/>
|-
| rowspan="5" |'''2010'''
| rowspan="2" | [[MYX Music Awards]]
|'''Favorite Song'''
| style="text-align:center;" rowspan="2"| "Back in Time"<br /><small>(Kyla and Jay R)</small>
| {{won}}
|-
|'''Favorite Collaboration'''
| {{nom}}
|-
| PMPC Star Awards for Music
|'''R&B Artist of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;" rowspan="3"| Jay R (himself)
| {{won}}<ref name=star2010>{{cite news |url=http://www.pep.ph/news/27036/Sarah-Geronimo,-Christian-Bautista-and-Erik-Santos-win-top-honors-at-the-2nd-Star-Awards-for-Music/2/2 |title=Sarah Geronimo, Christian Bautista and Erik Santos win top honors at the 2nd Star Awards for Music |work=Philippine Entertainment Portal|date=October 11, 2010 |author=William Reyes |access-date=November 3, 2010}}</ref>
|-
| rowspan="2" | [[Wave 89.1|Wave 89.1 Urban Music Awards]]
|'''Best Male Soul/R&B Artist'''
| {{nom}}<ref name=wave11>{{cite web|url=http://www.iamgab.me/entertainment/wave-89-9-2nd-urban-music-awards/ |title=Wave 89.9 2nd Urban Music Awards |publisher=iamgab.me |access-date=April 22, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110408013621/http://www.iamgab.me/entertainment/wave-89-9-2nd-urban-music-awards/ |archive-date=April 8, 2011 }}</ref>
|-
|'''Male Style Icon Award'''
| {{nom}}<ref name=wave11/>
|-
| rowspan="3" |'''2011'''
| rowspan="2" |[[Awit Awards]]
|'''Best Collaboration'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "Muli"<br /><small>(Jay R and [[Nina Girado|Nina]])</small>
| {{nom}}<ref name=awit11>"[http://www.awitawards.com.ph/winners.html Awit Awards 2011 current winners list] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331091814/http://www.awitawards.com.ph/winners.html |date=2012-03-31 }}" retrieved July 24, 2011.</ref>
|-
|'''Album of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;"| ''[[Jay R Sings OPM Love Classics]]''
| {{nom}}<ref name=awit11/>
|-
| [[MYX Music Awards]]
|'''Favorite Remake'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "Himala"
| {{nom}}
|-
| '''2018'''
| [[Wish 107.5 Music Awards|Wish Music Awards]]
| '''Wishclusive R&B Performance of the Year'''
| style="text-align:center;"| "Kabilang Dako"
| {{nom}}<ref>{{Cite web|title=Full List: 3rd Wish 107.5 Music Awards Winners|url=https://www.wish1075.com/full-list-3rd-wish-107-5-music-awards-winners/|access-date=2018-01-15|website=wish1075.com|date=January 15, 2018|language=en}}</ref>
|}
==See also==
* [[ALV Talent Circuit]]
* [[Party Pilipinas]]
* [[Kyla (Filipino singer)|Kyla]]
==Notes==
{{reflist|group=fn}}
==References==
{{Reflist}}
==External links==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100420103957/http://www.jayrsmusic.com/ Official website]
* {{AllMusic | class = artist | id = mn0000462619 | label = Jay R }}
* {{IMDb name|1830146|Jay R}}
{{Jay R}}
{{Protégé (Philippine TV series)}}
{{I Love OPM}}
{{authority control}}
[[Category:1981 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:American expatriates in the Philippines]]
[[Category:American musicians of Filipino descent]]
[[Category:Filipino male television actors]]
[[Category:Filipino male pop singers]]
[[Category:Filipino contemporary R&B singers]]
[[Category:21st-century Filipino male singers]]
[[Category:Filipino songwriters]]
[[Category:Filipino singer-songwriters]]
[[Category:Filipino male voice actors]]
[[Category:Filipino male models]]
[[Category:GMA Network (company) people]]
[[Category:Male actors from Glendale, California]]
[[Category:Writers from Glendale, California]]
[[Category:ABS-CBN people]]
[[Category:American contemporary R&B singers]]
[[Category:American soul singers]]
[[Category:20th-century American male singers]]
[[Category:20th-century American singers]]
[[Category:20th-century Filipino male singers]]
[[Category:21st-century American male actors]]
[[Category:21st-century American male singers]]
[[Category:21st-century American singers]]
[[Category:21st-century Filipino male actors]]
[[Category:Filipino male film actors]]