Category: Music

MLD Entertainment’s new Filipino boy group New:ID is ready for their debut with confident determination!

MLD Entertainment opened the social media channels of their newly introduced boy group, New:ID, and is now in heavy preparations for debut targeted by the end of the year.

With the opening of their channel, the revealed logo video had a glitch effect together with the name New:ID, catching the eyes of many. Curiosity is rising because it has the names and other information of the members in various shapes.

New:ID is a group formed with 5 members, Thad, Wilson, Jom, L, and Macky who showed a prominent presence in the Korea-PH collaborative survival audition program “Dream Maker” like HORI7ON. The boys received a lot of love and support from global fans during the airing and are now about to take on a new challenge as they debut.

As much as New:ID was able to show their different talents on the final stage of “Dream Maker”, people are excited for their upcoming global movements.

New:ID is set to show their colorful content before their official debut and is now heading on to their countdown.

Following his recent return with new tracks ‘Blindside’ & ‘A Year Ago’, James Arthur today announces his fifth, brand new studio album Bitter Sweet Love – out January 26th, 2024 on Columbia Records.

As well as featuring the two recently released singles, Bitter Sweet Love is James back to his very best, producing thirteen bites of world-class music. After being on stage, it struck him how his fifth album should sound. A sold-out crowd was singing along to his hits, immersed in the emotion that James could hear in his own voice.

Within days of the tour ending in the States, James began sessions with different producers to see who could click with his vision. His final stop was in L.A. with Steve Solomon, with whom he co-wrote his 2016 megahit ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’.

Back in Britain, James attempted to write with more producers, but none came close to his bond with Steve, who flew over to finish the album at Miloco Studios in South London last summer, and produce a mature body of work, full of depth and oozing the impeccable songwriting quality that has defined James’s esteemed career to date.

The Middlesbrough-born, recent Brit Billion-certified artist has scored 4 top 10 albums, with 2016’s Back From The Edge hitting the Number 1 spot and over his career has collaborated with the likes of Anne-Marie, Sigala, Rudimental, Marshmello & many more.

James is one of the world’s biggest streaming artists, with over 38 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone. ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’ became his breakthrough hit in the US. It was officially the UK’s most-streamed song in 2016 and has gone on to be enjoyed via 4 billion streams while the song’s official video has achieved 1.5 billion views on YouTube. Earlier this year, the track became his first RIAA Diamond Single with 10 million certified units – making James one of just 100 recipients of an RIAA Diamond Single certification in the program’s history.

Other huge hit singles include: ‘Impossible’, ‘Can I Be Him’, ‘Sun Comes Up’, ‘Naked’, ‘Empty Space’, ‘Rewrite The Stars’, ‘Falling Like the Stars’, ‘Train Wreck’ and ‘Lasting Lover’, which are all certified platinum records. The song ‘Cars Outside’ is currently becoming another global hit for James.

Back from the Edge was released on October 28, 2016, and entered the UK Albums Chart at #1. James’ last album, 2021’s It’ll All Make Sense In The End, was a lockdown project recorded at home that leaned heavily on programmed beats.

“The more albums you make and the more success you have, the more the pressure tends to be upon you. But I genuinely felt like a kid again, just making music I loved, not worried about trying to please everyone.”

Cornerstone Entertainment’s newest boy group consists of four young boys Ash (Leader/Lead Vocal), JC (Main Dancer), Axl (Main Vocals), and Alex (Main Rapper). Upon the first look, the boys are oozing with a pleasing and endearing aura that will just make you smile.

Coming strong with not one, but four tracks, AJAA offers a colorful sound with “Hany,” “Best Day Ever (BDE),” “Cuppy Cake,” and “Torpe” from their “4 Ü” debut EP which drops on the evening September 7.

The New Boys in Town: AJAA!

What’s in a name? As a lot of unique group names are being introduced lately, AJAA is actually a very simple and notable name as each letter represents the boys’ names – Ash, JC, Axl, and Alex.

It may also be derived from the Korean phrase meaning “fighting” or “good luck,” which is the exact feeling that the boys of AJAA promise to deliver with their vibrant tunes.

Dubbed “The New Boys in Town,” AJAA’s overall energy brings out youthful vibes, and it is evident not just with their charm, but with their music as well. “While listening to our music, we want the audience to feel reconnected to their childhood and to be happy whenever they’re stressed or not in a good mood,” Alex mentioned.

Revolving around the adventures of youth – from having adolescent crushes to spending an afternoon with the gang – AJAA just exudes memories of being young and free. Expect a lot of bubblegum pop and cutesy tracks that are widely loved by Pinoy Pop music fans.

The group names PPop groups KAIA, SB19, and their sibling groups VXON, G22, and Yes My Love as their biggest inspirations. Stating them as trailblazers in the ever-growing PPop industry.

“It is with those groups that we truly appreciated PPop and pushed us to join the industry. When we saw their videos, since we love dancing too, we wanted to see ourselves performing as well,” JC shares.

On riding the PPop wave, the group is very pleased to be part of the industry that they’ve been fans of. “It’s really this time that PPop is rising as there are many groups that are being formed now, and we’re very proud to be part of that. We will do our best to continue to uplift Pinoy talents” Ash expressed.

Arriving with AJAA

After a year of training under Cornerstone Entertainment and signing with Republic Records under Universal Music Group (UMG) Philippines, the boys of AJAA are no doubt geared up for stardom. Although the boys of AJAA are still very young, they are no strangers to the PPop community and the entertainment industry. In fact, AJAA’s debut is one of the most awaited events for PPop fans.

In 2021, Ash and JC were part of a reality survival show created by Kumu, Cornerstone Entertainment, and TV5. Ash was eliminated from the show, while JC survived until the finale of the show, but failed to reach the final line-up of winners.

Meanwhile, Axl is widely popular in the digital world, specifically in TikTok where he gained his own fans from uploading dance covers and trends.

Lastly, Alex has done stints in TV commercials and short films and was previously scouted by a South Korean Entertainment agency.

“Entering this industry gave us so much knowledge, challenging siya kasi we’re young pa especially for me since I’m still juggling school and training and some of us were away from home, but it’s really fun! We’ve learned so much and until now we’re still learning,” Axl shared.

Davao’s up-and-coming multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter joem continues to surprise fans by collaborating with video creator and co-Davaoeño, Katik for his “Pangako” music video. Watch it below:

If you’re not familiar with joem’s new muse, Aira Denielle, or better known as Katik, is the creator behind the viral “Die For You” dance challenge. The contrast between her quirky, budots-styled choreography and the mellow tune of this song by Japanese singer-songwiter, Joji was an instant sensation. Katik’s videos were even reposted by Joji’s record label, 88rising.

With Katik in joem’s “Pangako” music video, fans can see how the production referenced her colorful personality, while maintaining joem’s vulnerability as an artist. In-synch with the upbeat tempo of the song are the warm, butterflies-in-your-stomach moments that someone who had a teenage love can relate to.

But just like every young love, there’s a melancholic undertone in joem’s “Pangako” and it’s revealed at the very end of the video so make sure to watch until the very last minute: joem.lnk.to/pangako/youtube.

About joem

18-year-old joem of Davao City is a multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter who first made waves when he won his first ever music competition, Globe Virtual Hangouts GoJAM On Stage Talent search in 2022. Then only 16-year old, joem made a brave feat after flying all the way from his hometown, Davao to defeat more experienced finalists.

After earning nods from music executives and producers, he was awarded a record contract with Kroma Entertainment, Inc. One of the competition’s judges is multi-award winning producer, Brian Lotho who believed in the young blood by collaborating with joem for his new song, “Pangako” out now in all streaming platforms.

About “Pangako”

“Pangako” takes on an upbeat tempo but with a melancholic undertone as joem sings of a love that’s lost and a broken promise. He’s holding on to hope even if it’s just a wishful thinking—the next anthem of every sawi, no matter where you are in the Philippines.

“Pangako” was seeded at number 1 spot in Spotify’s Fresh Finds Philippines playlist and the 28th spot in New Music Friday Philippines on the first week since its release. Then it was followed by major editorial playlists such as OPM Rising, OPM Says Chillax, Relax Tayo, Pinoy Indie Mix.

Support Filipino music. Listen to joem’s “Pangako” out worldwide: joem.lnk.to/pangako

Follow joem online:
Facebook: facebook.com/joem.officialmusic
Instagram: instagram.com/joem.officialmusic
Twitter: twitter.com/joem_official
TikTok: tiktok.com/@joem.officialmusic
Spotify: http://spoti.fi/3NWYazn
Apple Music: http://apple.co/3NKFQcy
YouTube: http://t.ly/RYC7

Her dance-pop track is also a hit in the country, charting on Spotify’s Viral 50 – Philippines for weeks

French pop sensation JAIN is the latest addition to the international acts who have experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks to her global hit “Makeba,” which has recently peaked at No. 8 on Spotify’s Viral 50 – Philippines a few weeks ago.

Originally released in 2015 as part of her debut album, Zanaka via Spookland Records and Sony Music France, the explosive track is spreading across the world like wildfire. Its overwhelming traction in the short video app, TikTok even inspired a dance trend with Filipino celebs and influencers Regine Tolentino, Kitty & Kakai, and Fabe Twinz hopping on the viral wave.

With 4 million creations and 6 billion views on TikTok over the past 3 weeks, the track is now rocketing the charts across the board. “Makeba” has just reached #1 on the Global Shazam Chart, and it’s charting across 152 markets worldwide. The track has also entered the Top 200 Global Chart and is currently charting in 23 countries on Spotify, as well as in 36 markets on Apple Music. “Makeba” has already gathered 158M streams worldwide, with a triple-digit streaming growth this week.

With 80% of streams for “Makeba” originating outside of France, JAIN’s home country, her music transcends borders and is captivating audiences across Europe, the UK, Africa, and Latin America, with its infectious colorful energy.

The track’s stratospheric journey began as a dance trend, best enjoyed and shared with others, inspired by the positive vibe of the track and the playful artistic universe of the artist – Zanaka meaning childhood in Malagasy, her mother’s native country. Combining odes to South African singer and civil rights activist Miriam Makeba with throbbing club beats and fade-outs, the distinctive “ooohe” vocal hook became a powerful gimmick that spearheaded the trend.

Born in France and primarily raised in the United Arab Emirates and Congo, JAIN released her debut album Zanaka in 2015. The album sold over 1 million copies worldwide, and the singles “Come” and “Makeba” from the LP quickly climbed the charts. The latter earned JAIN her first Grammy nomination for “Best Music Video” in 2018.

In 2018, her sophomore album Souldier (2018) reached #1 in France and achieved double platinum status, while the single “Alright” was certified diamond. That same year, Rolling Stone named JAIN an “Artist You Need To Know.” She has appeared on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” and “Later… with Jools Holland,” opened the Ryder Cup in 2018, and the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019, and performed over 300 shows in 17 countries across Europe, America, and Asia including prestigious festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza.

Earlier this year, JAIN released her new album The Fool, which she co-produced with long-time collaborator Maxim Nucci/Yodelice. The album also features contributions from Metronomy founder Joseph Mount and renowned DJ and producer Gesaffelstein. The international pop and folk album chronicles the various stages one experiences during a fresh start: fear, excitement, innocence, doubts, letting go, and epiphany. Listen to The Fool here.

While the new album draws inspiration from artistic influences such as Kate Bush and Stevie Nicks, JAIN’s music originally blended a myriad of genres such as Arabic percussion, African rhythms, electro, reggae, soul, and hip hop.

JAIN’s “Makeba” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Spookland Records and Sony Music Entertainment.

Sony Music Entertainment (SME) Philippines has formed a strategic partnership with Offshore Music, a Philippine-based indie label known in the country for its cutting-edge artistry and focus on creative integrity.

Under the partnership, Sony Music Entertainment Philippines will distribute Offshore Music’s catalog globally and work together to build strategies in marketing, media promotion, artist development, brand partnership, and synchronization.

Offshore Music is headed up by Ely Buendia, a Filipino rock icon responsible for writing and producing some of the most commercially and culturally successful songs in the country, including music for ‘90s alternative legends, The Eraserheads. The Manila-based label is home to carefully handpicked artists and bands, including Apartel, Ena Mori, Pinkmen, Sulo, Sansette, Eliza Marie, and Toni Panagu.

“Ely Buendia has always been an integral part of the Sony Music family, as The Eraserheads’ catalog is with our label,” said Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Philippines, Sony Music Entertainment. “With this partnership, we are thrilled to be working with him more closely moving forward. There is not a more gifted and inspiring mentor to our country’s current generation of talented, young musicians.”

According to Buendia, the unique partnership seeks to establish a bright and successful future for Filipino musicians, crafting compelling campaigns that push the boundaries of music creatively and commercially, which in turn, expand their audiences inside and outside the country. “We’re hopeful that this unique partnership is the start of a fresh new era for the Filipino music scene,” said Ely Buendia.

One of the first titles under the partnership is Ena Mori’s reimagining of her 2022 single “VIVID.” Re-released with a darker and sparser arrangement and a visual accompaniment shot in the cold, mountain town of Sagada, the new version of “VIVID” offers a strong sense of poise and direction, and an ethereal vocal performance that brings great rewards. Its video features cameos from Ely Buendia, the band Sulo, and the rest of the Offshore Music family.

The single is the second offering from SOS’s upcoming EP titled ‘It Was A Moment’—their first with Alonzo and under Careless Music—out on September 29.

SOS continues to explore new directions and expand their repertoire with their latest track, “Roses,” the second single from their forthcoming EP.

“Roses” is the follow-up to last year’s “Seryoso,” the band’s first Filipino-language track which starred award-winning actor Jericho Rosales in the accompanying visual. Both will be part of the upcoming EP, which marks SOS’s first release under local label Careless Music.

The single dovetails SOS’s renewed approach to songwriting and music production, which they started delving into in the 2020s The Other Side EP after they announced the band’s name change from She’s Only Sixteen last year.

“‘Roses’ is a little more intimate than most of our songs,” explains vocalist Roberto Seña. “It has a feeling of lushness that I always aim for when producing songs lately. It’s rare that we write a love song free from the angst and jadedness that I think we have become known for.” Seña adds the production was inspired by the 1980s, incorporating synths and guitar work from the pop-dominated decade, but still grounded on the familiar sound fans have enjoyed from SOS over the years.

More lyrically optimistic than their pre-pandemic releases, “Roses” also continues to employ new and more varied stylistic choices reflective of the rest of the EP, with each song meticulously going through the band’s “musical cutting board,” shares guitarist Andrew Panopio.

Titled It Was A Moment, the five-track EP is due on September 29, 2023. The band committed to a two-week production schedule for the project, says drummer King Puentespina. “We set schedules, deadlines and did a proper pre-prod to solidify our intentions for the project. The concept of the songs revolves around the moments and the anxieties of growing up and facing these emotions.”

Also following last year’s significant change to the Manila-based band’s decade-long career is the addition of Ram Alonzo on keys. He has been a session player for SOS since their time in college and has long been considered an unofficial member.

Alonzo recalls being asked to join the band lineup earlier this year formally. “Seña asked if I was game to join the band. I only had one answer in mind: ‘Hell yeah.’ And then we all drank to it. I’ve been playing with SOS since 2014 and joining the band felt right.”

“With all the different experimentation with samples, keys, and synths, we thought it was about time to add a new member. In the studio, Ram glues in all our musical ideas together because of his knowledge of music theory and vast musical taste,” shares Seña.

Bassist Anjo Silvoza adds, “There’s so much more depth to how we sound live that I think has been missing all these years.” Especially now that he felt the new EP serves as a transitional era to SOS. “We’ve not boxed into categories anymore, we’re taking the good things we’ve learned from our listeners and fans and building off of that, and hopefully ‘Roses’ and the rest of our upcoming releases will be able to stand alone.”

Sydney-based act, BIRDEE 王煒, is in Manila this week for a series of shows ahead of the release of her new single.

BIRDEE 王煒 is slated to release her triumphant new single ‘Best Mistake I Never Made’ via Disruptive Entertainment. According to the alt-pop singer-songwriter, the electro-pop track is about someone pleading for another chance, despite the situation being completely irreparable.

BIRDEE 王煒 shares, “Best Mistake I Never Made is about a boy who wanted another chance that I never gave. You can call it a diss track, but to me, it’s being selfishly confident in having healthy boundaries. We tend to focus on the mistakes we have made, but we never reflect on the mistakes we narrowly avoided.”

The song starts off with a dreamy and atmospheric soundscape, with BIRDEE 王煒 in reflective mode, contemplating what went before: “Should’ve had everything, it would’ve been all mine, could’ve, but we didn’t try; you were the best mistake I never made.” The chorus then crashes in with an electronic immediacy, powerful synths, and thumping kick drums, giving a euphoric feeling of a close escape.

“Best Mistake I Never Made” follows her 2nd EP release, ‘On My Own’, and its accompanying headline tour in several cities across Australia.

BIRDEE 王煒 will also be staging a couple of shows in the Philippines, from August 9 to August 12 as part of the ‘On My Own’ tour. Check out the updated schedule for her shows:

A sensory artist, Birdee Sideris (BIRDEE 王煒) channels and blends her own lineage of Chinese, Greek, and Russian origins to craft her own sound and stories. Notably, Birdee’s artist name is a direct celebration of her English and Chinese given names.

Originally from rural Parkes in NSW – Birdee now resides in Eora/Sydney – and splits her time as a dedicated musician and Aged Care worker

‘The Little Mermaid’ star, Halle, delivers a powerhouse vocal performance on top of orchestral arrangements and a silky, R&B groove.

Global superstar Halle makes a splash with the release of her debut single “Angel.” Produced by GRAMMY® Award-winning producer, songwriter, and composer Theron “NeffU” Feemster (Michael Jackson, Justin Bieber, Ne-Yo), the track weaves a cinematic soundscape with an R&B groove punctuated by orchestral arrangements. This backdrop highlights her skyscraping range as the powerful, provocative, and passionate lyrics captivate, “Heaven knows your wings can weigh you down, but angels make a way somehow.”

After the widespread conversation around The Little Mermaid, “Angel” offers a reflection on Halle’s commitment to empowering and uplifting young women around the world, “but if we fall, we fall on clouds.” Listen to the anthemic track HERE.

The track arrives with an exquisite official video directed by Wendy Morgan (Alicia Keys, Janelle Monae, Lous And The Yakuza), watch HERE. “Angel” made its global premiere on BET Soul, BET Her, MTV Live, MTVU, MTV Biggest Pop, and across MTV’s global network of channels, as well as on the Paramount Times Square billboards.

“This song for me is so very special and near and dear to my heart,” says Halle. “With everything I’ve gone through the past 3-4 years, suddenly finding myself in this bubble of all these eyes and new opinions, it was easy for me to feel doubt in myself and who I was. This song for me was my climb out of those feelings, a mantra and promise to myself that the work I’m doing here on earth matters and that I matter. I wanted to be able to embrace and be proud of myself and who I am naturally through and through. I hope other brown and black girls and everyone in general feel embraced, respected, and inspired hearing the words of this song.”

Halle shines as a four-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated multiplatinum singer and songwriter, show-stopping performer, and dynamic actress across film and television. She initially captivated audiences as one-half of the acclaimed R&B duo Chloe x Halle alongside her sister Chloe Bailey. The pair delivered two fan-favorite full-length albums, including The Kids Are Alright [2018] and Ungodly Hour [2020]. The latter bowed in the Top 20 of the Billboard 200 and Top 3 of the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Chart in addition to yielding the platinum single “Do It.”

Along the way, they notably gathered four GRAMMY® Award nominations, including “Best New Artist.” Beyond magazine covers and television performances, they ignited the stage during the On The Run II Tour co-headlined by Beyoncé and Jay-Z. Simultaneously, Halle landed a recurring role on the hit Grown-Ish as Skylar “Sky” Forster before breathing new life into Disney’s 2023 live-action blockbuster reimagining of The Little Mermaid. Next up, Halle stars in the remake of The Color Purple in the classic role of Young Nettie Harris. Produced by Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg, and Quincy Jones, it opens in theaters everywhere this fall.

The 8-track release shows their affinity for earnest songwriting and soul-baring production

Filipino alt-rock outfit NOBITA has finally released their highly anticipated debut album, BETTERFLY via Sony Music Entertainment.

The 8-track album finds the band expressing their introspective take on life, optimism, and companionship with an affinity for soul-baring production and vulnerable songwriting. The record is co-produced by constant collaborator Isagani Palabyab of Monostery Studio, and was written and co-arranged by NOBITA.

BETTERFLY is led by the track “Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan,” which captures the immediacy of romantic love, and the inescapable thrill that it brings to people. The soulful ballad reflects NOBITA’s core competencies as lyricists and musicians, delivering heartfelt sentiments with bluesy chops and ‘60s-style harmonies.

The much-awaited release also contains new songs such as “Hay Buhay,” which honors the beauty of being alive and in love, and “Bukang Liwayway,” a strings-laden ditty that confronts challenges with a hopeful, persevering tone. Both songs encapsulate NOBITA’s self-assured musical direction: never hurried and deceptively simple, but coming from a place of sincerity and warmth.

Track list:
Kahit Sandali
Sa Ulan
Hau Buhay
Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan
Totoo
Paano Uusad
Bukang Liwayway
Kalangitan

The band’s rapid rise to mainstream acclaim is no stranger to the public. The Pinoy five-piece act hit it big with “Ikaw Lang” and “Unang Sayaw,” which currently rank as two of the most streamed OPM tracks in Spotify history. The pop-rock outfit has built an impressive portfolio by releasing songs that capture the beating heart of the young generation, and bringing light, love, and inspiration to as many people as possible.

NOBITA’s new album, BETTERFLY is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, and even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

The two music institutions have recently launched PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival, an initiative that champions the next wave of recording superstars and industry titans.

PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival continues its commitment to empowering the future generation of music industry professionals and hitmakers through its sustainable, world-class mentorship program.

The collaborative project, which was produced and presented by songwriting institutions PhilPop and Himig Handog, kicked off with a Digicamp series that is carefully designed to develop the skill set of aspiring participants in the fields of songwriting, music arrangement and recording, branding, marketing, career development, and intellectual property.

After organizing a two-month workshop-based training and songwriting class for some of the most promising industry hopefuls, the country’s top songwriting competition has finally selected 12 of the best entries that will advance to the main competition:

In alphabetical order, here are the finalists who made it to the PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival:

The entries went through multiple rounds of adjudication, headed by an esteemed panel of Board Members, producers, key leaders, prominent songwriters, and decision-makers affiliated with both PhilPop and Himig Handog.

According to ABS-CBN Music Creative Director Jonathan Manalo, one of the considerations for picking the top songs was based on quality in terms of songwriting and composition. He explains, “It was important to us that the songs were up to the standard that were set by both PhilPop and Himig Handog. We also wanted to see how effective the fellows were in applying the lessons and insights that they’ve learned from the PhilPop Himig Handog DigiCamp. We wanted to challenge the fellows to break borders and push the boundaries of Filipino pop music. Lastly, we also had to factor in the appeal and marketability of the entries since our goal was also for the top songs to appeal to a wide range of Filipino music listeners.”

This year’s PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival promises to be bigger and bolder as two of the most important songwriting organizations in the country team up to bring export-ready Pinoy Pop to the crux of global dominance. With combined resources and expertise to discover potential greats that could command cultural conversations beyond borders, the collaborative project aims to promote OPM on a scale that’s never been done before: break new territories and captivate the international audience with music that is distinctly global yet very Pinoy.

“We’re excited with this batch of finalists from the PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival because it’s going to showcase how talented and brilliant Filipino Songwriters are,” said PHILPOP Executive Director Dinah Remolacio. “Fans of both PhilPop and Himig Handog can expect a diverse set of songs, not just in style but also in terms of representation and languages, among others. We also believe that longtime listeners of both organizations can also expect fresh tracks that have the potential to really grow the fanbase of Filipino Pop music. The songs of the Top 12 Finalists are a great representation of the current feel and the latest trends in Filipino Pop Music.”

PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival is an initiative of Himig Handog and PhilPop Music Foundation. This year’s game-changing event remains unwavering in its obligation to come up with innovative approaches in music-making and songwriting that are at par with international standards. The event is co-presented by Maynilad, Smart Communications, Inc., and TuneCore.

Music luminary and multi-platinum, GRAMMY® Award-winning artist will.i.am delights fans with the release of his highly anticipated new single “MIND YOUR BUSINESS,” featuring the incomparable Britney Spears. This exciting collaboration marks their first reunion since their timeless, triple-platinum hit “Scream & Shout” in 2012, which was the first-ever number-one song on Billboard’s Dance/Electronic Songs chart.

Set against an enigmatic and captivating beat, will.i.am exudes charisma and confidence with his captivating vocals, while Britney’s unmatched attitude and energy elevate the song to new heights. The irresistible hook and infectious energy of “MIND YOUR BUSINESS” solidify its status as the definitive anthem of 2023.

This release follows will.i.am’s recent solo comeback after a decade with “THE FORMULA,” featuring Lil Wayne and Formula 1®. “THE FORMULA” was also the debut track of the partnership between will.i.am and Formula 1, with Formula 1 tapping will.i.am as their first ever “Global Artist in Residence”. As part of the partnership, more F1-inspired tracks will be released before will.i.am drops his latest solo album.

Both “THE FORMULA” and “MIND YOUR BUSINESS” serve as a prelude to will.i.am’s forthcoming fifth solo album. It marks his first album since 2013’s chart-topping #willpower, which featured the global smash “Scream & Shout” with Britney Spears. Always pushing boundaries and embracing innovation, will.i.am is poised to elevate his artistry to unprecedented heights throughout 2023.

will.i.am and Britney Spears’ new single “MIND YOUR BUSINESS” is available now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Epic Records and Sony Music Entertainment.

JVKE releases a new remix of the global hit single “golden hour,” with SB19!

Multi-talented viral artist, songwriter, and GRAMMY®-nominated producer JVKE celebrates hitting 1 billion streams for the all-conquering global hit “golden hour” with a brand-new remix featuring the multi-award-winning P-Pop boy group SB19, out now via AWAL.

Stream/download JVKE “golden hour (SB19 Remix)” HERE.

Produced by JVKE, “golden hour” is a classic love song that highlights his ability to articulate the feelings of romance and beauty through his lyrics. The vivid imagery is backed by a complex instrumental arrangement of a piano and strings that builds throughout the track. The remix of “golden hour” combines SB19’s incredible vocal harmonies with JVKE’s trademark production style, creating a stunning new bi-lingual version in Filipino and English.

On the release of “golden hour”, JVKE shared, “This might just be my favorite song I’ve ever written. It feels like a pause in time, with all your attention on that special someone. the sun is shining… it’s your golden hour. I wanted to capture the emotion that you feel when you see something beautiful. That feeling is the golden hour.”

Speaking on the remix SB19 noted, “It’s always fun collaborating with another artist – just like how it is when we, as members of a group, collaborate with each other. But it’s something else when there’s a collaboration of two cultures, which is what happened when we collaborated with JVKE. It’s really special how the embedded culture in each of us affects how we write songs and how we portray our experiences in a song, and we’re glad that we’re able to include some parts of our Filipino culture in this song.

JVKE added, “SB19 are crazy talented. As an artist, when I open my art to others so they can add their own interpretation, I never know how I’m going to feel about what they contribute. With SB19, I was just blown away. I hope this isn’t the last time we work together.”

The original “golden hour” is already a smash hit single worldwide having amassed over 1 billion streams along with over 3 billion views across YouTube, TikTok & Instagram, a #1 spot on the Global Spotify viral chart and hit the Top 20 on the Billboard Global chart. The track has also been flying high on radio airwaves around the globe including Top 10 on the U.S. Top 40 radio airplay chart. “golden hour” also hit the Top 50 on the global Shazam chart, alongside official single charts in U.S., U.K., and Germany, Norway, Netherlands, Switzerland, Australia, and New Zealand, while also hitting #1 on both Shazam and Spotify charts in Malaysia and Singapore. “golden hour” is now certified Platinum in the US, Double Platinum in Australia, Gold in New Zealand and Silver in the U.K.

Cumulatively, JVKE has amassed over 2 billion career streams, an awe-inspiring 35 billion views of his music across social media along with an ever-growing global audience of over 23 million followers. JVKE’s 2020 breakthrough smash “Upside Down” generated over 200 million streams to date and 15 million TikTok video creations and spawned a Charlie Puth remix. His 2021 follow-up track “this is what falling in love feels like” launched his career into the stratosphere, amassing over 390 million streams and 45 million views and reaching #33 U.S. Top 40 Radio. Last year JVKE recently released his stunning debut album, “This is what __ feels like (Vol. 1-4)”, a collection of songs written, produced, engineered, and recorded by JVKE and his brother ZVC that experiments with production, time signatures, tuning and style to create a truly unique listening experience.

JVKE also currently features on the international hit single “Angel” from the Fast X soundtrack alongside Charlie Puth, Jimin from BTS, Muni Long, Kodak Black, and NLE Choppa.

JVKE has also been featured as MTV PUSH global artist and appears prominently in the trending VOX documentary “We tracked what happens after TikTok songs go viral”. In addition to what the piece portrays, JVKE has been able to stand out amongst his peers and cut through the virality to establish himself as a truly multifaceted artist on the rise.

SB19 is a multi-awarded five-member group from the Philippines composed of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin. The “SB” in SB19 stands for “Sound Break,” which represents their aspirations of disrupting the music scene and bringing Filipino music and culture onto the international stage.

SB19 broke into the global spotlight as the first Southeast Asian and Filipino act to be nominated in the Billboard Music Awards as Top Social Artist in 2021.

They are also the first Filipino act to land on the international Billboard Social 50, Next Big Sound Charts, and also remarkably hit #1 on the Billboard Hot Trending Songs with “Bazinga”. The band debuted in October 2018 with their single “Tilaluh”’ and quickly gained popularity with their second single “Go Up”. Since their debut, SB19 has amassed fans across the globe – known as A’TIN – and was recognized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as the Philippines’ Youth Ambassadors.

SB19’s latest release “GENTO” debuted at #8 on the Billboard World Digital Sales Charts, ahead of the release of their new EP, “PAGTATAG!” in June this year.

SEE ALSO: SB19 Heralds New Era with Release of PAGTATAG! EP

Ben&Ben is also set to debut the electronic-leaning track live in their upcoming 5-city international tour!

After drawing more than 60 thousand fans for their homecoming concert last year and gaining accolades for their performance at Hong Kong’s Clockenflap Music & Arts Festival 2023, Filipino nine-piece collective Ben&Ben marks the introduction of a new era with the release of “Could Be Something” on June 30, Friday at midnight.

Signaling a new chapter of musical growth and evolution, Ben&Ben’s first single of 2023 is a big step forward. This time, the multi-awarded band infuses their guitar-driven folk/pop-rock roots with city pop elements, tropicalia beats, and twinkling production touches, for a more electronic-leaning track. Together with co-producers Timothy Run and Sam Marquez, they collectively brought a new dimension to Ben&Ben’s sound. “We wanted the instrumentation and production to capture a more mature kind of hope, so we used slightly darker chords, coupled with tight rhythms, to bring out a unique kind of catharsis for the listener, for our Liwanag,” Ben&Ben explains in a collective statement. “Together with our co-producers, we built the soundscapes to reflect a lush, yet tighter than ever sound for the band.”

According to the Pagtingin hitmakers, “Could Be Something” delves into the often-overlooked phase before taking a leap of faith. It candidly addresses moments of overthinking and overprocessing, providing a relatable narrative for all.

“Could Be Something is a song about turning doubt into belief,” Ben&Ben shares. “It’s the revival of hope after being caught in a very cynical place. It’s the feeling you get after meeting someone who unexplainably makes you believe in love again, or finding a new passion that sparks life in you.”

The nine-piece act reveals that, beyond being a love song, their new single doubles as an anthem for people grappling with doubt. “It offers a reminder to believe, surrender, and let go during challenging times,” the acclaimed Filipino group adds.

The band worked together with Ben&Ben Music Production, the management team behind the band’s entire operations, music production, and marketing efforts, to embark on this new journey. Since the pandemic, the band has been self-managed by a tightly knit, yet efficient team of people that the band believes in, and trusts wholeheartedly.

International Tour

Ben&Ben plans to debut a live performance of “Could Be Something” in the coming months, as they headline their nationwide tour in key cities across the country. Additionally, for the first time ever, they will be taking the song to an international audience with an international tour that kicks off in London, followed by Los Angeles, Toronto, Sydney, and Dubai. This is in collaboration with ABS- CBN Global and 1MX Music Festival. More details will be revealed in the coming weeks via their social media accounts and official website.

Ben&Ben’s “Could Be Something” is the first song to be will be out on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment on June 30, 2023.