In the world of music, there are moments of destiny that make a star shine even brighter. This is exactly what Stell Ajero, the “Heavenly Voice” of the popular Pinoy boy group SB19, experienced during his unforgettable performance with world-renowned music producer David Foster. But behind the perfect notes and applause from thousands of people, there is a story of intense anxiety, “internal panic,” and a decision that almost didn’t go through.
In her recent live stream, Stell opened up to share the details behind her viral rendition of “All By Myself.” According to her, the incident was like a scene from a movie she didn’t expect. “I was so lost in myself back then. It was so bad, I can’t even remember the moment it happened, I just sang,” Stell admitted [00:07]. Her seemingly effortless ability to reach the high notes was actually the result of a “spur-of-the-moment” challenge from Foster himself.
It all started when Stell went on stage for a sound check of his three songs as the front act. He was surprised to see David Foster already there on the piano. In the middle of their conversation, the maestro suddenly asked Stell if he wanted to try “All By Myself.” A song that was not on Stell’s list and that he had not prepared. “I was really surprised. I said, ‘What song?’ He said, ‘The song All By Myself, I’m practicing the keys,’” Stell recounts [03:48].
This is where Stell began what he calls his “internal panic.” The song was not in the producer’s or his management’s plans. Despite his fear, Stell could only say “if it’s okay with you, sir” when Foster said he wanted them to perform it on the night of the concert. After leaving the stage after the sound check, Stell immediately prayed in the dressing room, asking the Lord for guidance on whether he would be able to handle this challenge [05:31].
While performing as the front act, Stell admitted that she couldn’t get “All By Myself” out of her mind. “While I was performing, when I wasn’t singing, I was looking at the void… I was practicing that part more [in my mind],” she said [00:28]. In fact, she almost backed down in fear. But her determination and the trust of the people around her prevailed.
When the time came, Stell performed the song with great skill, making her the talk of the town not only in the Philippines but also in the international music scene. Her notifications were “exploding” with the amount of praise from fans and even “casual viewers” who had just heard of her talent [01:22]. Stell was very grateful to “A’TIN” (SB19’s fandom) who were present at the concert, because their cheers and support were what eased her extreme nervousness [08:43].
Stell’s achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a great honor for P-pop and Filipino talent. In the end, Stell shared that she will cherish that moment for the rest of her life—a proof that when talent is combined with faith and courage, no stage is impossible.
