Celebrities mourn death of rock legend Joey ‘Pepe’ Smith

FILE: “Pepe Smith holding up high Juan Dela Cruz Band’s Dangal ng OPM 2011 Award. He didn’t perform that night but the crowd chanted and he did some sampol!” (Photo: Kris Rocha/Facebook)

Filipino musicians, politicians, and celebrities express their grief after the announcement of the death of rock legend Joey ‘Pepe’ Smith at the age of 71 last Monday, January 28.

The news of Pepe’s death was initially confirmed by his daughter Daisy Smith-Owen in the morning on Facebook, posting a photo captioned, “Thank you for everything, my papa bear. Thank you for being the best dad in the world. I know you’re in the best place now, no more pains Papa. I will see you in a few days. I love you to the moon in back.”

After the announcement, numerous personalities who joined Pepe in the industry showed their sadness, Apo Hiking Society member Jim Paredes tweeting, “Another OPM legend bites the dust. With deep sadness, I say farewell Pepe Smith. Gentle travels,” while Ogie Alcasid states, “We lost another national treasure.” Geneva Cruz chips, “With deepest sadness, I say good night to Pinoy Legend, Pepe Smith. Salamat sa iyong musika (Thank you for your music),” while in Gary Valenciano’s words, he says, “The Philippine music scene would’ve never been the same without you in it. I salute and thank you Sir Pepe Smith. You rocked our world.”

Pepe Diokno, who created videos for Pepe, wrote, “I can’t believe the news. Rest in peace, Piyaps. Thank you for your music, stories, jokes, the profound conversations, and your creative generosity. The playful way you looked at the world will always be an inspiration. You really were the King of Rock.”

Young local artists shared their thoughts as well, Kean Cipriano tweeting, “Rest in peace Sir Pepe Smith,” while Myrene Academia wrote in Filipino, “Very many thanks for everything, Pepe Smith. You left us with so much. You are in the blood of every Filipino musician and music lover.”

Pepe Smith became a Philippine Rock N’ Roll household name with his contributions to the band Juan de la Cruz, which started back in 1974 and became known for hits “Himig Natin,” “Beep Beep,” and “No Touch.” In 2005, Pepe released a solo album called “Idiosyncrasies.” However, in 2017, Pepe suffered his third stroke, which left him with a speech impediment, resulting in his eventual troubled breathing.