Norwegian artist and songwriter Peder Elias Eriksrud Kjørholt releases “Call My Name” via Sony Music.
“Call My Name” is a song about wanting to be there for someone, especially if they’re going through hard times. I lead a busy life, but it would really break my heart if the people closest to me didn’t trust me to drop anything to be with them if they need me.”
The 28-year-old wrote “Call My Name” in London with Alex Charles, Ryan Bickley and producer Freedo (Zara Larsson, The Chainsmokers) and shared that the collaboration and creative process was seamlessly organic.
“We work well together, and the whole creative process felt right from the start. Not because it’s effortless, but because I feel challenged in a good way. And on a personal note, it feels as if Call My Name shows how I’m maturing as a person and a songwriter.”
Pop music is a surprisingly common source of comfort for a lot of people. Both directly with how the music makes them feel, and how they relate to the lyrics, but also the sense of community from knowing that someone else has gone through similar things and felt similar emotions.
“As much as I rely on talking with those closest to me when life overwhelms me, I’ve always taken a lot of comfort in the music. Making it and listening to it. And that’s what I hope my music can do for others. I can’t describe how motivated and privileged I feel when fans share stories of how my music and lyrics has touched them and even impacted their lives. It is such an honour to know that my music helps them through difficult times”.
After recently showcasing his sense of humour with “If I Got a Dollar” , “Call My Name” is even closer to Peder Elias’ heart and he’s excited to share it with whoever needs to tell someone that they are here for them, or who simply needs to feel comforted.
Peder Elias is currently touring Southeast Asia playing for fans in new cities and countries.
“On the day of release, I’m actually travelling between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Manila in the Philippines. I’ve never been to Malaysia before, but I visited the Philippines last year and had a great time doing promo and meeting fans. And tasting the fantastic desserts. I think I’d like to celebrate the release with leche flan and halo-halo which I’ve craved since I first tasted it.”
“Call My Name” by Norwegian pop-sensation Peder Elias is out everywhere on Friday 11th April.
The barkada-themed track premiered this week on Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition.
Fresh off the success of their heartfelt ballad “Tomorrow With You,” Ben&Ben returns with “Saranggola,” a moving tribute to the enduring power of friendship amidst life’s inevitable changes.
Exploring themes of nostalgia, emotional connection, and change, the anthemic song reflects on cherished moments shared with friends, while acknowledging the inevitability of growing apart. But amidst shifting seasons and distances, the track affirms how love and respect remain steadfast.
“Saranggola is inspired by the ever-changing seasons amongst a group of friends,” Ben&Ben shares in a collective statement. “It is about the fleeting nature of youth and the reality that while we may not always be ready for change, we eventually learn to embrace it. What has passed becomes something worth appreciating, both in the present and in hindsight.”
The song made its debut this week in an episode of Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition and will be featured in the upcoming deluxe edition of The Traveller Across Dimensions, set for release in 2025. Written by Paolo Benjamin and Miguel Benjamin, and arranged and produced by the whole band in collaboration with long-time friend and producer Ziv, “Saranggola” marks a graceful return to form: reminiscent of their earlier works, yet imbued with the artistic depth and growth that they’ve nurtured over the years.
The multi-awarded band takes a minimalist approach at the outset with just an acoustic guitar, a cajon, and all nine members singing in unison, before gradually building into a soaring, guitar-driven jam worthy of a barkada sing-along.
“Coming from just having recorded and worked on a whole album, the experience of working on this song came by fairly smoothly,” the band explains. “Everyone focused on their own experience of what this song means to them, while maintaining a balance between melancholy, nostalgia, energy, and grit.”
Beyond the music, the track holds deep personal meaning for Ben&Ben. As they describe it, the song symbolizes their shared journey of “listening to the winds of fate and grasping the present moment.” The nine-piece collective adds, “It’s a reflection of the years we’ve spent together thus far and a reminder of the importance of every now and then going back to and rediscovering your roots.”
Ben&Ben’s “Saranggola” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Ed Sheeran presses play on a new era with the release of his new single ‘Azizam’ on 4th April 2025.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of “Azizam“. A Persian term of endearment that means “my dear” or “my beloved,” Ed’s new song is a return to joy, to light, to love, and to fun!
“Azizam” began as a meeting of minds in the studio with Swedish/Iranian producer Ilya Salmanzadeh (Ariana Grande, Charli XCX, Ellie Goudling, Sam Smith). Driven by Ed’s relentless curiosity, they soon realised how much Persian and Irish folk music have in common and how only Ed could set those influences in a pop context. The result is a hedonistic technicolor call to action to live the moment “in between the dancing lights” on the dancefloor until the Sun rises. A celebration of cross-cultural collaborations brought to life, this rhythmic pop song is about the universality of emotion.
Ed said…“Even though it’s completely different from anything that I’ve ever done before, Azizam feels familiar to me. I wanted to create a party atmosphere in a song and Ilya Salmanzadeh, who I worked with on the track, helped bring that to life. He was so inspiring to work with.”
Photo by Petros Studio
In the video accompanying the single release, Ed embarks on a journey across the US and UK with a pink, heart-shaped balloon in tow. He takes in the sights of New York from an iconic yellow taxi, cruises through Los Angeles in a classic open-top car, and braves the elements in rural Massachusetts. Along the way, he leads a street party in New Orleans and makes stops in Boston and Nashville. And, of course, no trip would be complete without a visit to his beloved Ipswich Town FC. Watch Here
After closing the chapter on his Mathematics era, Ed Sheeran is finally back and stepping boldly into a fresh new phase for 2025. An artist who has continuously pushed himself and his craft into new territory, Sheeran has collaborated with producers and writers from across the globe on his upcoming album, which promises to be one of the year’s defining pop records (details of which will be released soon).
The highly anticipated return of the global pop group HORI7ON is marked by their third and most recent digital song, “COLD,” which is now available on all major streaming music platforms.
Showcasing HORI7ON’s distinctive fusion of strong vocals, energetic rap, and complex choreography, “COLD” ushers in a daring new era in their musical career while delving into a more sophisticated, reflective sound. The song captures the cold connection that frequently follows a breakup by examining themes of emotional distance, loss, and resiliency.
Top-tier hitmakers produced “COLD,” which showcases the group’s range and development since their debut with a hard-hitting beat laced with eerie melodies. The song’s powerful lyrics and eye-catching imagery will enthrall fans and establish HORI7ON as one of the most promising up-and-coming bands in the world of music.
The song’s frosty vibe was further enhanced by HORI7ON’s gorgeous music video, which was shot in the Philippines and included bold storytelling and slick cinematography. The music video was released alongside the single.
“COLD” is currently accessible on all of the main streaming services in the world, including YouTube, Apple Music, and Spotify.
NOVOCRANE, the indie rock project of Kylene Sevillano, returns with Safe and Sound, an introspective anthem that wrestles with the paradox of emotional isolation—where solitude can feel like both a sanctuary and a prison.
Built on fuzzy guitars, washed-out melodies, and a raw, unfiltered edge, NOVOCRANE thrives in the space between nostalgia and noise, distilling deeply personal emotions into a sound that feels both distant and familiar.
Rooted in the grit of ‘90s indie rock, interwoven with oscillating shoegaze textures and lush dream pop, Safe and Sound captures the push-and-pull of self-imposed solitude. The song’s verses float in a dazed detachment, only to swell into a cathartic chorus—walls of sound crashing like waves, echoing the realization that shutting the world out can be just as confining as it is protective.
“In Safe and Sound, I wanted to portray that feeling of isolation as a form of freedom,” saysSevillano. “But over time, you realize that it’s okay to want connection, to seek someone toshare your life with.”
The track marks NOVOCRANE’s second release, further cementing Sevillano’s ability to craft immersive, emotionally charged experiences. What started as a spontaneous solo project has since evolved into a fully realized artistic vision—one that channels raw emotions into soaring soundscapes, offering a deeply personal yet universally resonant listening experience.
The single drops on March 28, 2025, and will be available on all streaming platforms.
The track introduces Rock Opong as a promising singer-songwriter and producer.
Rock Opong is making a bold entrance into the music scene, officially debuting as a recording artist who not only performs, but also writes and produces his own material.
Hailing from Iloilo City, Rock Opong’s journey has been anything but easy. Coming from humble beginnings, he spent years trying his luck to penetrate the local music industry, often facing setbacks that nearly made him give up on his dreams. Just when hope seemed to fade, fate intervened: a chance encounter with Balcony Entertainment led to his discovery, ultimately securing him a management contract and a record deal with Sony Music Entertainment.
For his first official single, the 19-year-old crooner embraces a more soulful direction on “Marahuyo,” pouring his heart into every lyric and melody of the material. Penned by Rock Opong himself, the song captures the intense emotions of longing for someone and passionately pursuing love against all odds.
“That inspired me to create a song with a similar emotional depth, one that speaks to the beauty and intensity of love,” the rising solo artist admits. “My music has always been rooted in acoustic pop, but with this song, I wanted to explore something new—modern R&B. This genre has a smoothness and depth that allows emotions to flow effortlessly, making every note feel like a reflection of love itself.”
Rock Opong produced the song with the invaluable help of Rico Blanco, whose expertise and guidance played a critical role in shaping its final sound. For the promising multi-hyphenate, the goal was clear: to deliver a simple yet captivating R&B ballad that allows raw emotions and vulnerability to shine through.
“I want to strike a perfect balance where the melody and instrumentation enhance the song’s message without overpowering it,” says the charming newcomer. “I wanted every note, every chord, and every beat to complement the lyrics in a way that makes listeners feel the depth of the song’s meaning.”
Beyond “Marahuyo” Rock Opong is actively writing new material, acknowledging that there’s so much work to be done and stories to be told. He is passionate about the creative process behind music and is currently preparing for the release of his upcoming tracks.
“My music has undergone a paradigm shift—it’s something fresh, different, and unlike anything I’ve done before,” says the talented newcomer. ‘This evolution allows me to express myself in a way that truly reflects who I am as an artist. I can’t wait to share my growth, my sound, and my story with the world.”
Rock Opong’s “Marahuyo” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch out for the music video of “Marahuyo” on Rock Opong’s official YouTube channel.
From her humble beginnings in the streets of Mandaluyong City to her unwavering success as a female emcee, Illest Morena has proved that authenticity is necessary when making art, evident in her newly released visual for ‘Stinkalink,’ a crowd favorite track from her debut album ‘Morenita.’
2024 was an interesting year for Illest Morena—she released her full-length album, headlined several shows including Billboard’s Mainstage Concert, and received the Top Kalye Song Award for ‘Faded (Raw)’ at the 2024 Spotify Wrapped Party.
Despite being the illest in the game, the 23-year-old artist has no plans to stop. However, just like everyone else, her priority is to live life to the fullest.
In an exclusive interview, she shared her daily routine to get in the mood for her errands — “I light up an incense because it makes me feel relaxed. Then, I would make my coffee, journal my feelings, and work,” she highlighted.
Love For Community The rapper shared that her upbringing in Mandaluyong City played a pivotal role in her music taste, citing her community as an inspiration for her artistry.
“I used to live in Addition Hills, the most congested, most populated area in our city. So, the houses are very close to each other. My neighbors would often play songs from Pinoy hip-hop artists such as Ron Henley, which I’m a huge fan of,” she reminisced.
She also mentioned her household as the catalyst for her love of R&B. Songs like “Bakit Pa Ba?” by Jay-R stuck with her as a little girl.
“Although I’m a rap artist, I love exploring R&B when it comes to my music because it really takes me back to a time when things were simpler and life felt lighter,” the artist explained.
It was only a matter of time before she started honing her music with the help of her fellow Mandaleño artists, which enabled her to embrace a unique yet authentic style.
“There was a certain time in my early music days when I couldn’t write and they [Guddhist Gunatita and Ghetto Gecko] invited me to their studio so we could make some songs. I feel like it really created this great foundation for me in terms of lyricism because I hung out with some of the greatest hip-hop artists from Mandaluyong,” she highlighted.
As a result, her coming-of-age journey as an artist became the motif of her album, a story-driven project inspired by lust, love, and dreams.
From Sneaky Link To Stinkalink When preparing for her album, Illest stumbled upon a beat given by her producers Radical and SEIS titled ‘Sneaky Link.’
Following her musical intuition, she gravitated towards the beat but had to reframe its meaning. She clung to her life experience as the main inspiration for the song, alluding to how she and her boyfriend started dating.
“During this time, I wrote ‘Slow Burn,’ a song about my boyfriend and our romance. So, when the beat [for Stinkalink] was given to me, I was already in a relationship and didn’t feel like writing something about sneaky links. And it sort of pushed me to instead reminisce about the early stages of our relationship since we started as friends and I wasn’t so sure if he liked me back at the time,” she expressed.
This story also became the blueprint of the music video’s storyline, referencing 2000s chick flicks such as Mean Girls and White Chicks.
“We had two weeks to prepare for the music video. I’ve always wanted to fulfill my early 2000s chick flick fantasy and I tried doing that for ‘Pick Up,’ but we didn’t have the budget at the time. As for the storyline, it was inspired by the period when my boyfriend and I used to party and we weren’t honest about our feelings. But we would get clingy with each other only when we’re drunk,” she said.
The star-studded music video included cameos from Sassa Gurl, Zae, Arkin Magalona, and Jonas Belgica.
She shared that one of the reasons behind Sassa’s appearance is their supposed resemblance according to netizens. Meanwhile, her dance battle with Zae is a homage to the female artist who came before her.
“We decided that Sassa would play the old version of me since I get a lot of comments about how we look alike. Then, my dance battle with Zae was so fun to shoot since I was doing it with the artist who made me feel like it was possible to be a female rapper in this country,” she shared.
As for the love interest, she wanted someone that resembled his partner. “Jonas is a good friend of mine and we go way back in 2019—when we used to dance together in a group called Aces. I thought that he could play the role well,” the artist recalled.
Arkin Magalona’s cameo is the cherry on top, continuing his late father’s legacy in the local hip-hop scene. “He [Arkin] is one of the few people I always meet during parties and I knew that he would kill the role of a party boy,” she said.
But for Illest, the presence of her long-time fans made the experience memorable and special. “My relationship with my fans is very tight. They inspire me as much as I inspire them. It started off as a small group and I made a group chat for us to directly talk to each other. Then, I invited them to my secret session where they listened to the album way before its release. And they all loved ‘Stinkalink’ so I knew I had to include them in the shoot,” she shared.
The Past and The Future While she is mostly known for her top hits ‘Pick Up’ and ‘Faded (Raw),’ Illest expressed her gratitude for the success that the songs have given her.
“You know, it’s really validating. It made me realize that if I did it once, then I could do it again. And it just keeps me motivated to push harder into creating what I want without thinking about the ‘formula,’ or what other people would say. When I made those two songs, I was only expressing myself and I feel like if I keep doing that, there’s nothing else that really matters. I don’t have to try to create a hit song. I just make a song and then I let it have its moment,” she said. This unapologetic demeanor resonates with the current landscape of the Filipino music industry, where artists can now freely express themselves without immense pressure from the public eye. However, for Illest, there is a price to pay.
“In exchange for that freedom, you will experience a lot of hardships and sacrifices. But what matters the most is that you should never lose your authenticity as it would really affect your relationship with your craft. I’m just very grateful because people’s tastes are more open to genres that were once frowned upon by the masses, especially hip-hop,” she mentioned.
The rapper assured that she is constantly making new music and plans to collaborate more with her peers.
“I’m always working on new music because I don’t want the feeling of being stagnant. Hopefully, I’ll get to do a concert soon but as of now, I’m just really focusing on creating more music and living life so that I could get more inspiration to write good music,” she shared.
Maki, Moira, Johnoy Danao, Ferdinand Aragon, Keith John Quito, Rinz Ruiz, and Sunkissed Lola’s Alvin Serito also took home awards.
Rising Filipino artists Tiara Shaye and Fana took home the coveted “Grand Champion” title at the PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival, held at the New Frontier Theater on Saturday evening.
Their winning entry, “Wag Paglaruan,” captivated the jury with its enduring songwriting appeal and contemporary artistry, standing out among the twelve finalists from the top Philippine songwriting competition. Tiara Shaye composed the award-winning piece, with both herself and Fana delivering a soulful take that further elevated the song’s crossover potential.
The competition also recognized other outstanding compositions. The Cebuano-penned track “Buhi,” composed by Keith John Quito and interpreted by Ferdinand Aragon, secured the first runner-up position, while the emotional ballad “Papahiram,” won second runner-up. Written by Rinz Ruiz and performed by acclaimed singer-songwriters Moira and Johnoy Danao, the song resonated deeply with both judges and audiences.
Other notable winners include “Kurba,” composed by Sunkissed Lola’s Alvin Serito and interpreted by chart-topping pop icon Maki.” The song received Smart People’s Choice Award and MYX Choice Award for Best Music Video. With nearly eight million streams on Spotify, it emerged as the most-streamed track in the competition.
Entries were evaluated based on artistic merit, composition, and originality. Jonathan Manalo, AVP/Creative Director of ABS-CBN Music explains, “The judges also evaluate a song’s uniqueness and its ability to stand out amongst the rest. This is usually seen in how the concept or the story is executed in a song or in the way the song is composed or arranged. Since it is also a pop songwriting contest, we also have to factor in a song’s relatability and appeal to the audience, especially with the younger fans.”
PhilPop Board Member and National Artist Ryan Cayabyab echoed this sentiment, praising the winners for embracing the modern sound of Filipino music and identifying with the younger fans. “We think these PhilPop Himig Handog songs stand out not just because of excellent songwriting and composition, but also because of their ability to relate to the stories of the Filipino audience.”
Among this year’s roster of the esteemed jury include Noel Cabangon, Jungee Marcelo, Trina Belamide, Nica del Rosario, Bret Jackson, Maribel Hernaez, and Yumi Lacsamana—a formidable team composed of multi-awarded composers, industry professionals, and music media executives.
PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival marks the first-ever collaboration between two of the country’s most prominent songwriting institutions. The collaborative venture between PhilPop and Himig Handog kicked off with an intensive two-month songwriting camp, culminating in the selection of the top 12 finalists who advanced to the main event.
PhilPop Executive Director, Dinah Remolacio, emphasized the festival’s significance in shaping the future of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), especially as it coincides with the movement’s 50th anniversary celebration. “The PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival’s goal was always to promote the excellence of Filipino songwriters and to push the possibilities of what Filipino music can be. We believe this is how we continue to celebrate the 50 years of OPM and how we continue to evolve the craft that makes us proud as Filipinos.”
While the finals night marked the culmination of the competition, the journey for these songs and their creators are far from over. According to Manalo, both PhilPop and Himig Handog are committed to providing ongoing support, which would eventually open doors to future opportunities for the finalists.
Even if the finals night is finished, he firmly stressed that they will continue to promote these songs because they represent the excellence of Filipino songwriting and music. “We can also expect the winners to become potential speakers and mentors for future songwriting camps so that they can share their story and their advice to other aspiring songwriters who would want to join our songwriting festivals in the future,” Manalo added.
About PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival
PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival is an initiative of PhilPop Music Foundation and Himig Handog and ABS CBN Music. 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 Water Services, Inc., Smart Communications, Inc., and in partnership with TV5, Cignal TV, and Tunecore.
Stream the top 12 on Spotify and all digital streaming platforms worldwide.
Filipino singer-songwriter Earl Agustin is making waves in the local music scene as his current breakout single ‘Tibok’ has officially claimed the #1 spot on the Spotify Philippines Chart.
The heartfelt and melodic track has captured the hearts of music lovers across the country, propelling Earl into the spotlight as one of the most exciting new voices in Original Pilipino Music (OPM).
‘Tibok,’ which blends elements of pop and ballad with deeply personal lyrics, has resonated with listeners thanks to its evocative storytelling and unforgettable melody. The song’s meteoric rise to the top of the chart is a testament to Earl Agustin’s ability to connect with his audience and craft music that speaks directly to the soul.
In a special interview, when Earl heard the news that the track had reached the #1 spot, he shared, “Syempre, kilig na kilig ako. Unexpected sobra kasi hindi ko siya pinangarap. Masaya lang ako na nakapagrelease ako ng mga kanta ko.”
As of today, Earl Agustin also holds the impressive position of #6 on the Spotify Philippines Top OPM Artists chart, further cementing his status as a key figure in the Filipino music landscape. With ‘Tibok’ gaining widespread recognition, this achievement marks a significant milestone in his career, as he continues to earn praise from both fans and critics alike for his fresh sound and authentic approach to music-making.
Reflecting on the story behind the said track, it was released last 2023 and Earl shared, “Actually ang funny nga eh kasi nakikita ko siya (‘Tibok’) sa Tiktok na parang ine-enjoy siya ng mga tao as a love song — pero sa totoo lang, sinulat ko siya at that time na sobrang heartbroken ako sa crush ko noon. As in dito ko talaga binuhos lahat (ng nararamdaman ko) so I would say na ito yung pinaka-honest na song na naisulat ko, na wala akong iniisip na magugustuhan ba siya ng mga tao. Dito ko talaga nabuhos yung genuine na nararamdaman ko at that time.” He found it amusing how the song had taken on a different meaning for others, something that he appreciated.
The song’s success has also brought exciting collaborations. When asked about the people who helped bring ‘Tibok’ to life, Earl credited his talented team: Jean-Paul Verona, who produced the track, and Kim Lopez, who arranged it. Their combined efforts along with his witty songwriting skills helped shape the song into what it is today.
In addition to its chart-topping success, ‘Tibok’ is also a part of the Official Soundtrack in the Viva One series Ang Mutya ng Section E, which Earl expressed great pride in – which was also included in Tibok’s Performance Video. When asked about his thoughts on the said series, “Masaya ako na yung ‘Tibok,’ hindi nalang siya music na papakinggan ng casual listener, meron na din siyang incorporation sa series na feel ko swak din sa overall story at vibe ng kanta.”
One of Earl’s favorite aspects of the trend surrounding ‘Tibok’ has been the way listeners have connected with the song. “Ang dami kasi talagang nag-viral ngayon na trend sa Tiktok kaya ang hirap mamili pero siguro sobra akong natuwa dun sa mga videos na nakikita nila siya (‘Tibok’) as a happy love song na ine-express nila how they’re yearning for someone at kung paano nila nagagamit yung song to express their feelings na hindi nila kayang maamin — kumbaga nagpaparinig nalang sila sa crush nila hoping na makita yung Tiktok nila.”
Evidently, we can see how Earl’s songwriting is driven by his objective to craft songs that resonate with others’ emotions since “Yung pinaka-goal ko din sa pagsusulat ay makagawa ako ng songs na merong shared human experience,” he said.
Earl’s success doesn’t stop with ‘Tibok’ as four of his songs are now part of the Spotify Philippines Chart, including ‘Dalangin,’ ‘Dito Sa’kin,’ and ‘Aya,’ a feat that still feels surreal to him. Earl gets emotional as he reveals, “Sobrang surreal ng feeling kasi araw-araw ko inaabangan yung mga songs ko eversince nung nakapasok ako sa Top 200 Artists, nag-wonder lang ako everyday na ano kayang pwedeng mangyari? Kaya ngayon, sobrang saya and sobrang thankful ako — lalo na sa mga taong naniwala at sumoporta sa akin since day one.”
With his discography topping the charts and a promising future ahead, Earl Agustin is poised to continue making his mark on the OPM scene, captivating listeners with his unique sound and deeply personal artistry.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates as Earl Agustin teases us with an upcoming single soon?
Actor-singer Ashtine Olviga released her own rendition of Amiel Sol’s chart-topping song, “Sa Bawat Sandali.”
The track has become Amiel’s most successful song to date, reaching #1 on Spotify’s Daily Top Songs and Daily Viral Songs charts. An official soundtrack of Viva One’s “Ang Mutya ng Section E,” (AMNSE) Ashtine Olviga, the series’ designated mutya, stayed true to the song’s sincere emotion.
In a music video released on February 20, Ashtine starred alongside AMNSE’s male lead, Andres Muhlach.
Learning from Ivory Music label’s resident lover boy, Ashtine’s reimagination of “Sa Bawat Sandali” made it more intimate and meaningful with her soft vocals. With a captivating and moving rendition, her version sends a frisson of emotion, allowing listeners to feel the kind of assurance we all need and deserve.
Looking back at Ashtine Olviga’s career and discography, she was a former member of several Pinoy pop groups, including U Go Girls or UGG, PPop Generation, and LITZ. Although none of the groups are still active, all members have decided to pursue their solo careers.
In 2019, Ashtine made her solo debut with her take on “Sabihin Mo Na” which was originally performed by Top Suzara.
Ashtine Olviga’s version of Sa Bawat Sandali is out now on all streaming platforms.
On March 6, 2025, rising Filipino singer-songwriter Mrld took center stage at a media conference hosted by OC Records ahead of the release of her highly anticipated album, 7th Sense.
The event provided fans and the press with an intimate glimpse into the creative process behind the album, which has already been released on streaming platforms.
Mrld, renowned for her soft voice and contemplative compositions, called 7th Sense a very personal endeavour. “These are my feelings Na hindi ko kayang sabihin directly,” she said in the conference. This idea captures her unique approach of communicating emotions she finds challenging to describe in words by means of music. feelings she finds difficult to express in words. “The album is packed with different genres,” she added. The nine-track collection, featuring a blend of heartfelt ballads and atmospheric melodies, has already begun resonating with listeners, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Her singles solidified her status: “Ligaya” (over 135 million streams), “Ikaw Pa Rin” (over 106 million streams), a heartfelt ballad; and “Sandali” (nearly 60 million streams), showcasing her knack for blending folk-pop with emotional depth. Today, her monthly Spotify listeners exceeded 4 million, making her one of the most-streamed solo female Filipino artist on Spotify.
The media conference also served as a listening party where attendees experienced songs from 7th Sense. The event also included a Q&A session, where Mrld opened up about the inspiration behind the album—drawing from personal experiences and a desire to connect with fans on a visceral level. With this debut, she’s not just sharing music—she’s inviting listeners into her world, one unspoken feeling at a time. Fans can now stream 7th Sense on all major platforms.
Released on March 7, 2025, 7th Sense has become rather popular online thanks to its poetic sensitivity and realism. The title of the album, Mrld said, captures an almost extrasensory, intuitive grasp of the complexity of life—a theme running across the songs. She advised trusting that inner voice, that seventh sense, to lead you when words fall short.
Mrld has also shared that her dream collaboration is with TJ Monterde, admiring how beautifully he crafts love songs that resonate deeply.
Mrld has performed at Clark Aurora Music Festival, Plus63 Music Festival, UP Fair, and Indonesia’s Off The Weekend Festival (as the only Filipina artist). Her upcoming concert, titled ‘Mrld 7TH SENSE,’ on April 27, 2025, at SM Skydome, will be her biggest headline event so far. The concert, with ticket prices ranging from ₱1,600 (General Admission) to ₱3,900 (SVIP with soundcheck and meet-and-greet), promises to feature 7th Sense alongside her greatest hits, cementing 2025 as a milestone year for the 20-year-old artist.
One name is beginning to stir through the local music industry among a sea of newly born talent: Suyen. This rising musician is rapidly creating a space to call her own with a special mix of melodies and real storytelling. Suyen’s sound feels both familiar and refreshingly new, capturing the hearts of listeners with every strum, beat, and lyric.
On February 14, 2025, she dropped her debut EP, Suyen Imnida, under PolyEast Records and Filtered Music, marking a bold step into the spotlight for this soloist with a sound as distinctive as her story.
Suyen Imnida isn’t just a collection of tracks—it’s a six-song declaration of identity. The title itself is a playful nod to a running joke in Suyen’s life: people often mistake her for being Korean, and she’s leaned into it with a wink and a riff. Announced back on January 24, 2025, the EP arrived just in time for Valentine’s Day, offering fans a love letter to self-expression wrapped in distortion pedals and catchy hooks.
With previously released singles like “Teka Lang! (looper machine),” “Tampo,” and “Bente” already teasing her sonic palette, the full release delivers on the promise of something fresh yet familiar—a blend of 90s grunge nostalgia and modern indie sensibilities that showcase her evolution.
When asked about her favorite artist, Suyen immediately names Cheeky Things, a fuzz-galore band with her favorite song “Bones.” Her playlists have included the five-piece Metro Manila-based five-piece, known for their harsh, grunge-tinged noise-pop, nonstop.
In the ever-evolving world of music streaming, where millions of artists vie for attention, one name is steadily carving out a space of their own: SUYEN. As of March 2025, this independent artist is on track to reach a milestone—getting 50,000 monthly listeners on Spotify; it’s 48,398 as of this writing. This achievement signals not just talent but also a savvy understanding of how to connect with fans in the digital age.
She says she wants to work with Sandwich for her dream collaboration. “Growing up favorite ko sila lalo na yung ‘Two Trick Pony,’ maganda yung song kasi that time bihira yung ganon na experimental na song,” she said.
For Suyen, PolyEast’s resources have been a game-changer. “Meron budget for proper recording, marketing, pushing my tracks to playlists, mas nagagawa ko makapag record pag may time ako”, she added.
Suyen kicked off her much awaited EP Launch Gig on February 21, 2025, and the Kowloon House Dining Hall in Quezon City, Philippines, hummed with activity. The sold-out event was evidence of her rising appeal and the unflinching backing of her family, who were instrumental in ensuring the evening went off. SUYEN’s show was more than just a concert; it was a sincere family partnership highlighting her path as an artist, with her mother managing ticket sales and her dad running the sound system.
Joined by fellow artists Ena Mori, Aunt Robert, and ila, SUYEN gave a night to remember at the small space above Mows Bar on Matalino Street. Eagerly clutching tickets purchased weeks in advance, the sold-out audience exuded enthusiasm and expectation into the dining hall. For SUYEN, this gig celebrated her roots and the loved ones who have been at her side every step of the way, not only a professional turning point.
“Suyen Imnida” set the tone with their unapologetic vibe, while the EP’s diversity—spanning moody slow-burners to punchy, angst-fueled bangers—showcases her versatility. It’s the kind of debut that doesn’t just introduce an artist but invites you into her world, where every chord and lyric feels like a piece of her.
Suyen already hinted at more music to come this year, proving she’s not here to play it safe. In a scene often dominated by polished pop, Suyen’s rough-around-the-edges authenticity stands out. She’s not just riding the indie wave—she’s stirring it up, one loop at a time.
So, if you haven’t yet, plug into Suyen Imnida on Spotify or catch her next gig. This is Suyen saying “hello” in the loudest, most electric way possible—and trust us, you’ll want to listen.
The tracklist includes: Suyen Imnida – The title track, introducing her sound with quirky, self-aware lyrics about her identity and life at 21.
The rising Pinoy pop group GAT has made a name for themselves in the music industry, reaching #8 on Spotify Philippines’ Daily Viral Songs chart with their rendition of “Daleng Dale” by twins MM and MJ Magno, artistically known as MMJ.
GAT is a five-member boy group under the collaboration of Viva Artists Agency (VAA) and Ivory Music. Composed of VAA stars Ethan David, Charles Law, Derrick Ong, Michael Keith, and Hans Paronda, GAT derived its name from the Tagalog honorific “Gat” (nobleman), symbolizing excellence and respect. It also stands for Gawang Atin ‘To, promoting Original Pinoy Music.
As the official opening soundtrack of Viva One’s hit series Ang Mutya ng Section E, GAT’s “Daleng-Dale” is one of their pre-debut tracks, along with “Huwag Ka Nang Humirit,” originally performed by Filipino actor and singer James Reid.
With GAT’s version of “Daleng Dale,” the track was given more angas—an exuding confidence that showcases the group’s fresh and exceptional talent. With a stunning reimagination of the song, Ethan, Charles, Derick, Michael, and Hans are set to leave a stronger mark on the P-pop scene.
GAT’s rendition of “Daleng Dale” is now available on streaming platforms, with its official visualizer recently released on YouTube.
The track will serve as the first official single off their upcoming EP, Simula at Wakas.
A week after announcing the highly anticipated kickoff of their world tour at the prestigious Philippine Arena, Filipino supergroup SB19 continues to cement their place as a true P-Pop trailblazer with the release of “DAM,” the first official single off their upcoming EP, Simula at Wakas.
Fueled by their deep appreciation for medieval fantasy and innovative approach to sound, “DAM” marks a fresh chapter in SB19’s genre-defying journey. The track seamlessly fuses elements of hip-hop, Celtic and Filipino folk, EDM, industrial, and prog-rock, while retaining the signature martial energy that defined their previous hits “What” and “GENTO.” What sets “DAM” apart, however, is not only its grandiosity, but also its willingness to push the envelope both lyrically and sonically—an experimental exploration of new musical frontiers, if you would describe it.
“We’ve always pushed boundaries in terms of music,” shares the P-Pop kings in a collective statement. “For this particular track, we’ve built on the elements that made ‘What and ‘GENTO’ resonate so strongly with the general public, but we’ve also uncharted sonic territories that gave us the creative freedom to truly express ourselves.”
“DAM,” a play on the Filipino word “Pakiramdam” or “feeling” in English, encapsulates the pop quintet’s unrelenting drive for purpose, ambition, and legacy. The anthemic track explores themes of staying true to one’s values and principles amidst the sacrifice required to achieve greater dreams in career and life. For SB19, “DAM” is a testament to the price of success in a world that often demands more than one is willing to give.
The release of “DAM” will be accompanied by a music video, set in a dark, medieval fantasy world inspired by the brutal and tragic tales of knights, sorcerers, ravens, and looming castles.
The video marks the latest collaboration between SB19 and 1032 LAB, a creative team known for bringing complex, fantastical worlds to life. Their team-up promises a journey into a brooding and imaginative realm, further enhancing the song’s emotive power.
“The music video has a lot of hidden symbolisms and eastern eggs for fans to uncover, so they should look out for that,” says SB19. “Also, what makes this visual project so fulfilling is how committed everyone involved is to bringing the vision to life. We’re aligned in making the unbelievable come true, and there’s a deep respect for the art of world-building that makes this more than just a one-off project. We can’t wait for everyone to experience the music video.”
SB19’s “DAM” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the official music video here.
Stay tuned as SB19 continues to break new ground with their upcoming EP, Simula at Wakas, and their upcoming global tour.
The Filipino music scene is truly thriving, especially with the exciting announcement that emerging solo artist Slico and the vibrant band It All Started In May have officially joined Universal Records.
The contract signing held last February 21, 2025, highlights the label’s dedication to expanding its roster. As Universal Records continues its quest for new talent, it is increasingly leveraging social media platforms like TikTok to discover fresh artists. Both Slico and It All Started In May were scouted through this diverse platform, showcasing the evolving landscape of the music industry.
Slico, an up-and-coming singer-songwriter, has garnered a loyal fan base of over 100,000 followers on TikTok, where his “kilig”-inducing performances and vocal style have resonated with listeners. Drawing inspiration from celebrated OPM legends, Slico aims to carve out his unique identity in the industry by blending elements from his idols with his own creative flair.
Conversely, It All Started In May, composed of five members: Red, Mikee, JP, Jai, and Pau, is leaving their mark on OPM with a skillful blend of, alternative, indie, and pop rock elements, incorporated with Manila/Filipino influences. These characteristics along with their unique personalities have helped them amass nearly 20,000 followers on TikTok and generate millions of views for their posted band sessions.
The signing event was a celebration of creativity, talent, and the next generation of Filipino music, highlighting the excitement of both Slico and It All Started In May for what’s ahead. Universal Records is dedicated to offering vital support to these talented artists as they begin this new phase, providing them with the necessary resources and platform to thrive. As Slico and It All Started In May gear up to release new music under Universal Records, fans can anticipate a wonderful mix of innovative sounds and meaningful lyrics. Keep an eye out for updates on their upcoming projects and releases.
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