Yabo Obien Voice Actor | Narrator | VO & Dubbing
RADIO
I started out in radio commercials. My first job ever was a radio commercial for Bank of America Travelers Checks. The client wanted a Hawaiian accent. My Filipino heritage was close enough. Imitating my Uncle Hermon's accent got me the job.
COMMERCIALS
Short-read :30 and :60 second commercials are a challenge because you have that long to tell the story. It focuses on keywords and an attitude to sell. Classically-trained actors are challenged by directors who just want them to be themselves. Tough for many.
DEMO REELS
How do you distill your best work in a minute or two. I couldn't, which is why I have this website. Here are some of my favorite reads. Especially the one on the left called "Narratus". Intimate and personal. I'm really more of the guy on the right.
FILM NARRATION
And who doesn't want to make the money of a Don LaFontaine doing movie trailers? He found his money voice early. I'm just thankful to be working. These were especially fun as they challenged me to use my accents and be somewhat sarcastic in the comedic bit.
TV
Nothing goes to waste. Everytime I audition, someone hears my work and my time will come. My parents taught me, "Man's rejection is God's protection." All those times I didn't get the job, I'm being prepared for something better. In the grand scheme of my life work...the best is yet to come.