Try as he may to avoid performing in public, however, music and his love for it inevitably drew him to the stage. In 1982, beginning in little known folk houses and bars to underground watering holes, Noel steadily made a name for himself in the local music scene.
In the year 1987, Noel, Rene Boncocan, and Rom Dongeto formed the group Buklod. Buklod was more than just a music group, with their albums oriented toward social, political, and cultural issues. The group came out with three albums -- "Bukid at Buhay," "Tatsulok," and "Sa Kandungan ng Kalikasan,โ โ each album espousing the advocacies of the group from the plight of the peasant farmers, to the protection of human rights, and to the conservation of the environment.
When the group disbanded, Noel set out on his own, playing at music bars and singing at private events. The years saw the creation of a loyal following that sought him out, wherever he played. He also began recording his solo albums. To date he has released 6 solo albums, 4 of which were produced by the Jesuit Music Ministry, 1 by Ballyhoo Records, and the latest by Universal Records.
Noel has also performed around and out of the country, doing concerts and performances in france, belgium, germany, switzerland, while his many advocacies have brought him to brazil, india, kenya, thailand, and hong kong, among others.
Over the years Noel has written songs for the causes he believes in and matters close to his heart. He has also written songs for other artists. Some of his songs have also found their way into movies, the most recent of which was โAng Buhay Nga Namanโ for the indie film by Soxie Topacio, โDed Na Si Lolo.โ โDed Na Si Loloโ is also the Philippine entry into the 2010 Academy Awards.
Noel has also dabbled in theatre, as musical director, composer, or actor. He also teaches at the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), imparting his years of experience in workshops aimed at educating the younger generations on the importance of theatre.
Noel has had a long journey from being the shy boy who used to run from the audience, to the performer who never fails to awe and mesmerise his audience with his soulful voice and heartfelt music.
With almost 20 years of being a performer, and an untold number of years as a lover of music, Noel is still doing what he does best โ writing music, and singing about the things that matter most to him. Years from now there is no doubt that Noel will still be doing these, and doing them well.
Ang Panginoon Ang Aking Pastol
Noel Cabangon Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Pinagiginhawa akong, lubos
Handog niyang himlaya'y sariwang pastulan
Ang pahingaan ko'y payapang batisan,
Hatid sa kalul'wa ay kaginhawahan,
Sa tumpak na landas, Siya ang patnubay.
Madilim na lambak man ang tatahakin ko,
Wala aking sindak, Siya'y kasama ko.
Tangan niyang pamalo, sigla't tanggulan ko.
...akong lubo-os
The lyrics of Noel Cabangon's "Ang Panginoon Ang Aking Pastol" is a beautiful hymn that speaks of the relationship between the Lord and his followers. The song is written in the Filipino language and is a reflection of the Christian faith. The lyrics celebrate the comfort given by the Lord and his ability to provide a safe haven for all those who believe in him.
The first paragraph highlights that the Lord is the shepherd of the singer's life. The next line talks about how the Lord has given him solace and comfort amidst the turmoil of life. He has provided a peaceful and refreshing pasture where he can rest in the calming waters. The third line talks about how the Lord is the singer's guide and how he has shown him the right path in life. Whether in dark valleys or joyous paths, the singer is without fear because the Lord is with him.
The second paragraph talks about how the Lord is the true guide of life. The singer is not afraid of any challenges or obstacles because he knows that he has the Lord to hold onto. He sees the Lord's staff as his companion and guide. The last line highlights the strength he draws from having faith in the Lord. He is filled with joy and peace because he has complete trust in his shepherd.
Overall, the song is a beautiful affirmation of faith that celebrates the Lord's role in our lives. It is a comforting hymn that provides a sense of peace and assurance that the Lord is always with us, guiding us through the challenges and joys of life.
Line by Line Meaning
Ang Panginoon ang aking pastol
The Lord is my shepherd
Pinagiginhawa akong, lubos
He gives me complete comfort
Handog niyang himlaya'y sariwang pastulan
He offers me a fresh pasture as heaven
Ang pahingaan ko'y payapang batisan,
My resting place is a peaceful stream
Hatid sa kalul'wa ay kaginhawahan,
He brings contentment to my soul
Sa tumpak na landas, Siya ang patnubay.
He is my guide on the right path
Madilim na lambak man ang tatahakin ko,
Even if I go through a dark valley
Wala aking sindak, Siya'y kasama ko.
I will not be afraid for He is with me
Ang hawak niyang tungkod ang siyang gabay ko.
His staff guides me
Tangan niyang pamalo, sigla't tanggulan ko.
His rod strengthens me
Writer(s): danilo isidro sj, fruto ll ramirez sj
Contributed by Molly H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Josefa Meikle
on Paano
'Bought your CD the last time I was in Manila, Your rendition of Paano is so jazzy, just magic!