Big Is Better

True to their band’s name, Papa T and J.D. of B.E.T. are indeed living BIG as they prepare to play at the Birthday Bash this weekend

Friday - July 20, 2007
By Darlene Dela Cruz
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J.D., top, and Papa T

performance at Don Ho’s restaurant. With numerous cameos on the albums of other local artists, and just as many music videos on TV, B.E.T.’s presence is ubiquitous. But by their own admission, that success is secondary to what they have been able to achieve for others through it.

“We once had a fundraiser for a girl with flesh-eating disease at Sea Life Park. She was about 3 years old at that time, and just recently, she came up to us after a show and wanted to take pictures with us,” Papa T says."It was amazing to see her - she’s now like 12 or 13. There aren’t too many success stories like that.”

As they gear up for another Birthday Bash, B.E.T makes a homecoming to spend time savoring their off-stage success stories: their families. Papa T and J.D. are devoted family men, with J.D. being the proud father of a 10-year-old daughter and Papa T having two sons and a daughter of his own. And in their family ties lies a secret to the success of their long-enduring friendship, as well.

“(Papa T) is married to my cousin,” J.D. says. “So we’re really brothers.”

Having risen from the chairs of the Waikiki Shell, where B.E.T. once looked on at their local music idols, B.E.T. has now set the stage with a 14-year brotherhood of song that has led them to become local music idols to others. They send appreciation to all those who have helped them get there - the folks at South Pac Entertainment; their web designer, Nessa (http://www.bigeverytime.info); Tracy at Fiah Clothing - and relish the support of their fans.

“Not a day goes by that we don’t get recognized,” J.D. says."Nothing beats people showing appreciation for your music.”

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