“Queen of Latin Pop” Thalia is one of the most best-selling Mexican artists of all-time, securing her place as a worldwide superstar. Her sultry yet captivating charisma onstage helped her create music and image of her own, making her one of the icons in the Latin category.
One of her hits, “Maria Mercedes,” remains one of her memorable releases, and 3 of our talented ka-Familiars gave their own take to the song, channeling Thalia on the ‘’YFSF” stage.
Denise Laurel (YFSF Season 2, 2015) - “Maria Mercedes”
It was as if Thalia herself visited “YFSF” when Denise Laurel transformed into the Mexican icon to sing her hit “Maria Mercedes” in a fiery red dress and lipstick. Denise didn’t just sing---she delivered, showcasing her dance skills while grooving the energy of salsa.
Denise continued to exceed the expectations of the judges, most especially Jed Madela. Calling it his favorite performance of hers, he remarked, “I didn’t write anything on my notes here… that was just perfect.”
Meanwhile, teacher Georcelle Dapat-Sy appreciated Denise’s allure, calling her hot and sexy. “Kung gaano ka-hot si Thalia, nakuha mo talaga. Nag-enjoy ako sa performance mo,” she said. Following this, Judge Gary Valenciano was truly impressed as well, “I’m really happy na ito ‘yung ginawa mo. You did a great job,” he added.
Denise was hailed the grand winner of the season.
Xia Vigor (YFSF Season 1, 2017) – “Maria Mercedes”
“YFSF Kids” had their own version of Thalia through Xia Vigor. Channeling an icon far from her sweet, cutesy vibe, Xia revealed a different side of herself this time as she sang in Latin while moving at her best.
The perfect word to describe Xia is “charming,” and Judge Ogie Alcasid agreed. “Paglabas mo pa lang, nagngingitian na ‘yung mga tao. Ikaw na ‘yung mini Thalia na nakita ko,” he expressed. As for Judge Sharon Cuneta, Xia delivered another great performance this week, affirming that she is indeed the little version of Thalia. “Kahit anong ipagawa sa’yo, you really give it your 100%,” she added.
Commending Xia for enjoying her performance, Judge Gary Valenciano noted that her positive energy resonated with everyone in the studio. “Continue doing what you’re doing. Nakikita at nararamdaman ng lahat na nag-eenjoy ka,” he said.
Xia placed 5th at the end of the season.
Alexa Ilacad (YFSF Season 4, 2026) - “Maria Mercedes”
Beaming in red, Alexa Ilacad once again stepped up her game as Thalia to sing “Maria Mercedes.” She brought out her sultry side while still exuding total performer energy. After her performance, Alexa looked back on the moment when she played the young Maria Mercedes in the teleserye of the same title back in 2013, seeing this chance as a manifestation.
Alexa also opened up about her struggles while preparing for the transformation. She shared, “Medyo confusing siya sometimes. Nahirapan ako na minsan napapagpalit ko ‘yung [words]. But because I’m quite familiar with the song, medyo hindi naman po siya sobrang naging mahirap para sa akin.” Later on, Alexa was surprised by her “YFSF” family as they celebrated her birthday.
The judges were completely in awe of Alexa’s number. Judge Sharon Cuneta noted how gifted Alexa is, “She’s beautiful, talented. We’re so proud of you, Alexa. Gayang-gaya mo ‘yung boses,” she said. Next up was Judge Ogie Alcasid, who gave Alexa a standing ovation after her performance, agreeing that she embodied Thalia perfectly.
Confessing that he had been critical of Alexa since she was portraying a Latina star, he ultimately gave her his seal of approval, “Nakuha mo eh. Sobrang sensitive ka sa pabago-bago ng tiyempo ng kanta. That takes musicality.” He praised Alexa for being technical even in those aspects, appreciating her as an artist.
Alexa clinched the top spot of the week for her performance.
Relive the timeless magic of icons reimagined on “Your Face Sounds Familiar,” weeknights at 7:15 PM across Kapamilya Channel sa ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live (KOL), and iWant.