It was an evening loaded with nostalgia when Janaka Palapathwala took the stage to Welcome to his World the large audience present to enjoy his music. And his music comprised the many hits of Elvis Presley, Jim Reeves and popular Italian songs. Here in Sri Lanka, Janaka displayed the same emotion in song and appearance as did Elvis Presley to his fans. The same can be said when he sang the Jim Reeves’ hits.
‘Welcome To My World’ at the Bishop’s College Auditorium was a sold-out concert, despite the inclement weather.
This concert by Janaka came after a lapse of three years and according to some of the audience they were not going to miss it come ‘rain or shine’. From the opener the theme song ‘Welcome to My World’ followed fast by ‘From A Jack to A King’, Janaka created the same sentiment as did Jim Reeves.
There were other favourites too: “That’s When I See The Blues”, ‘Yonder Comes A Sucker’, Mexican Joe and many more.
He paid an emotional tribute to his father whom he lost by singing the sing Silver Haired Daddy of Mine to a hushed audience.
His father he said, guided him in achieving success in his career, watchful of his voice pitching and enunciation. Since these were important areas when performing abroad.
At the intermission the well known Music Director Harsha Makalande spoke highly of Janaka’s performance and the orchestra led by Dinesh Subasinghe kept the audience in their seats with interesting pieces of music. On his return to the stage, Janaka proved his versatility by singing ‘O Solo Mio’ and reached out to the audience with the introduction of Oscar Harris’ ‘Song For The Children’ with the participation of children.
Other pop hits were Judy, Don’t Be Cruel, Rhinestone Cowboy, Delilah, Jailhouse Rock to name a few.
In the years he was out of the island, Janaka performed on many stages – Toronto, London, Amsterdam, States and Australia.
The New Year 2019 looks to be even brighter for Janaka as he is scheduled to perform, as confirmed, in New Zealand, the States, Dubai and Toronto. From music lovers in Sri Lanka here’s wishing Janaka all the best for the future.