Renowned Filipino jazz singer Jacqui Magno died of pancreatic cancer at 4:05 p.m. on June 21 at the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay (UERM). She was 65.
In a Facebook post, international singer Lea Salonga, a friend of Magno, wrote, “Rest In Peace, Jacqui Magno. I still remember the first time we took a trip to Singapore as ASEAN representatives with Ray-An Fuentes, Grace Amilbangsa, Lorrie Ilustre, Florante de Leon and Tony Espejo. Your voice which was able to soothe even the most savage of beasts is something I’ll never forget. Rest with the angels now.”
Magno started her professional career as the female singer of Genesis Band where legendary balladeer Basil Valdez was also a member.
Her singing career was cut short when she got pregnant.
Three months after she gave birth, Magno went back to singing, this time with the famous Circus Band.
Other prominent members of Circus Band included Basil Valdez, Hajji Alejandro, Tillie Moreno, Pat Castillo, Richard Tan and Pabs Dadivas, with musicians Boy Katindig, Gerry Paraiso, Paco Gamboa, Rudy Lozano, and Walter Calinawan.
Again, her stint with the Circus Band didn’t last long and decided to be a full-time mom instead.
After a few years, Magno went back to professional singing and live appearances.
In a reunion concert with the Circus Band & New Minstrels held on Sept. 28, 2013, at the Waterfront Hotel, Cebu City, Magno was able to perform her signature song, “Bridges”.
