Dexter Quito - a long way from singing at his church
Monai Montion
Issue date: 3/27/08 Section: Entertainment
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Originally from the Philippines, he came to Los Angeles four and a half years ago. His family moved to Stockton where they are currently living.
Quito grew up in a non-denominational church and said he has been blessed to be able to sing every day. He first started performing in the church - singing, playing piano, guitar, bass and drums.
After graduating this May, he said he hopes to move to Nashville to perform and find a record label to sing Christian music and record.
"I was involved in preaching, worship and music when I was 16," he said, "and I knew I wanted to be a part of what God was doing around the world in worship."
In order to do this, he said knew he had to go to college to get his music degree and sing his music to as many people as he could. He learned that music is powerful and brings people together no matter your religion or race.
Quito said that music is very powerful in the United States and he said he liked that music touches peoples lives. He compared singing to doing drugs and how drugs are addicting and not good for you but music is powerful and motivating and a positive aspect to his life and it is his addiction.
He said he is trying to focus on songwriting, producing and playing music right now in his life.
He had NDNU student Claire Karley sing his song "First love" and he played the piano while she sang. "I don't really get nervous when I perform but I do get excited and that's like an adrenaline rush."
Quito said he loves that people praise him for singing from his heart and something he loves to do.
In the future, he wants to write and produce his music for international media distributions, but he wrestles with what may lay ahead.
"It's hard to gain recognition and not compromise your integrity. . .
"In my music I want to create an atmosphere in which people can welcome God's presence and to sing music that gives excellence to God".
Quito will perform his Senior Recital at 7:30 p.m. today in Cunnigham Chapel.
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