Category: Music

From revolutionary street movements to intimate family moments, the P-Pop powerhouse delivers a double feature packed with heart and meaning.

Music fans are in for a compelling audio-visual experience as SB19 drops the official music video for their two singles “DUNGKA!” and “Time,” released under Sony Music Entertainment and 1Z Entertainment.

Both tracks are part of their third EP, Simula at Wakas, which marks the final chapter in a trilogy that began with 2021’s pagsibol and continued with 2023’s PAGTATAG!.

Helmed by Kerbs Balagtas of YouMeUs MNL, the music video of “DUNGKA!” reflects the chaotic but vibrant world of urban Manila. It’s a dynamic tribute to individuality, community, and the unfiltered beauty of everyday life, where people of diverse classes and backgrounds come together to raise their voices and stand up for something bigger than themselves.

Released with no teaser and fanfare, the song’s MV was a surprise drop for the fans.
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In conceptualizing the video, SB19 set out to mirror the track’s chaotic energy through a visual celebration of diversity and self-expression. The five-piece group explains, “That energy really stood out to us. Our idea was to highlight our group’s diversity and showcase each member’s unique personality. From there, it grew into something bigger, bringing in people from all walks of life to reflect the extraordinariness in our differences.”

The music video features an impressive roster of guest stars, including Mimiyuuuh, Maymay Entrata, Alodia Gosiengfiao, Sassa Gurl, Jayat, Kween Yasmin, Malupiton, Ghost Wrecker, Shehyee, Smugglaz, Pat Lasaten, Agnes Reoma and Vice Ganda, whose presence added a deeper layer of impact to the project.

“When someone brought up Ate Vice, it just made perfect sense,” shares SB19 in a collective statement. “Her personality and connection to the public really aligned with the message we were trying to send.”

Beyond the music, “DUNGKA!” serves as a statement, one that mirrors current realities and encourages collective action. In the video, SB19 leads a symbolic movement, echoing calls for change and empowerment from the streets, where real transformation often begins.

“We brought in artists and personalities who we felt matched the spirit of what we wanted to say,” SB19 adds. “They’re people who also want to speak up, who want change, who want to be part of a movement that challenges a flawed system. Everything just fell into place. The concept, the message—it all aligned. It felt like the right time to show people that we can do this now—that this is where SB19 is. We also wanted to share that power, that message, with everyone: that movements and revolutions aren’t just for celebrities or people in certain positions. No matter who you are or where you’re from, you can take part in change. That’s really the heart of the idea.”

Complementing the bold energy of “DUNGKA!” is the more reflective and heartfelt “Time,” which arrives with its own music video—this time under the creative direction of 1032 Lab. The visual narrative focuses on the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherishing meaningful moments with loved ones.

Stripped of ornate visuals, the “Time” video leans into emotional authenticity. It was deliberately kept simple, allowing the message to resonate with clarity and sincerity.

“More than just creating a visually appealing music video, our main goal was to clearly deliver the message—about time,” SB19 explains. “It’s a universal concern. Everyone, no matter who you are or where you’re from, is affected by how we use time. And while we all have time, not everyone uses it wisely mostly because of different priorities or distractions.”

The music video captures everyday moments that hit close to home, making its message universally accessible to all. “The core message is this: we’re all running out of time one way or another,” the group adds. “Let’s use it wisely, before it slips away.”

With these two new releases, SB19 once again proves their commitment not just to sonic evolution, but also to storytelling the resonates deeply with the Filipino people.

Watch the music videos here:

The 7-track EP reflects SB19’s complex humanity and evolving artistry, while dealing with the constant pressures of fame, identity, and public opinion.

Celebrating a journey marked by shared experience, invaluable wisdom, and artistic growth, SB19 returns with the release of their third EP, Simula at Wakas—out on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Their highly anticipated body of work captures the band’s evolution as artists and individuals, honoring the past while stepping boldly into the future.

“It’s our way of saying thank you and showing how much we’ve evolved,” the P-Pop kings share in an official statement. “Simula at Wakas encapsulates everything we’ve been through: the struggles, the growth, the milestones. We hope it speaks not only to those who’ve been with us from the start but also welcomes new listeners into our world.”

As the final installment in a trilogy that began with 2021’s pagsibol and 2023’s PAGTATAG!, Simula at Wakas chronicles the Filipino pop group’s artistic and personal transformation while signaling a bold, forward-looking direction. The EP explores the universal themes of closure and renewal, portraying the life of an artist as they navigate fame, pressure, and identity. The band further shared personal anecdotes and reflections on their journey to Simula at Wakas in the This is SB19 playlist on Spotify.

The P-Pop trailblazers explain, “It’s both a celebration of our journey so far and a declaration of what’s to come. We’re the same group as when we started. It’s just that we’ve matured, evolved, and grown into artists who are more confident in our voice and purpose.”

Simula at Wakas showcases the DAM hitmakers’ captivating and universally relatable sound, all while remaining true to their values as human beings. From emotionally resonant lyrics to innovative, genre-bending soundscapes, the EP offers a meaningful experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The 7-track release is written and produced by SB19 with their trusted pool of international and local collaborators, including Xerxes Bakker, Alawn, August Rigo, Simon Servida, and Josue (RADKIDZ). The EP features the full creative involvement of all five members. SB19 admits that they took a hands-on approach in shaping every aspect of the project and were very deliberate in contributing not just musically but also creatively—from the narrative of each track to its visual interpretation, from the choreography to music videos.

“We held meetings almost every day to carefully discuss how each song would come together, from conceptualizing and message to planning how we could execute and promote the EP in ways we’ve never done before,” SB19 explains. “This is the first time after how many years that every member has been this hands-on. Everyone was involved in conceptualizing, producing, and writing the songs. But we also owe a lot to our collaborators who helped us push our ideas further and elevate the project on both the technical and creative sides.”

The envelope-pushing EP cements their position as one of the vital forces behind contemporary pop music in the Philippines and Southeast Asia for the last decade, providing a riveting insight into less explored paths and a thrilling outlook for future developments. Simula at Wakas contains 7 songs, including the now-viral single “DAM” and the focus tracks “DUNGKA!” and “Time.” The latter will be released with a music video at 12 noon.

The anthemic ballad “Time” essays the inevitability of time’s passing—an undeniable and unavoidable reality. As the lyrics go, “One day we’ll run out of time,” the song reveals a sobering reminder of life’s impermanence, yet one that inspires purpose and presence. “Hindi naman kami forever SB19,” acknowledges the five-piece act. “Nothing is permanent in this world, even from where we are at this point. Time will run out soon. All we can do is try our best and make the most out it.”

“DUNGKA!,” another focus track, vaults SB19 back to their experimental phase: evangelizing pop music in unrecognizably exciting form and embracing maximalist production with rave and hyper-pop elements. It’s easily one of the biggest surprises of the EP, standing its ground as both a sonic rebel and revelation.

To complement the EP’s release, SB19 introduces the DAM Tree, an immersive public art installation, now open to the public in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) until May 4, 2025. As part of the promotional campaign, fans can experience the world of Simula at Wakas through hanging parabolic sound domes where A’TIN first heard exclusive track previews from the EP. Beyond the immersive listening experience, visitors also get the chance to win exciting prizes, quickly becoming a hotspot for fan frenzy.

“A tree, by nature, reflects life’s different stages, starting from a seed, growing roots, eventually branching out and bearing,” the group explains. “That aligns with the message of DAM and the EP as a whole: acknowledging where we began, embracing how we’ve evolved, and looking ahead to what’s next. The DAM Tree is not just a design; it’s an experience. We wanted people to feel connected to the music in a more immersive way. It’s our way of turning the emotions behind Simula at Wakas into something you can actually see and feel.”

Further solidifying this milestone, SB19 will kick off the ‘Simula at Wakas’ World Tour with two landmark concerts at the iconic Philippine Arena on May 31, 2025, and June 1, 2025, with the first one already sold out. The tour will span across major cities in Taiwan, the United States, Canada, Singapore, and the Middle East from June to October this year, with additional stops in Australia, Japan, and Hong Kong to be announced.

“We’ve been working on new arrangements for some of our songs, and we’re really excited for fans to hear them,” the group shares. “We’ll be performing tracks from our latest EP, Simula at Wakas, and we can’t wait to share the energy and emotion behind each song. Every performance has been thoughtfully prepared, and we’re really looking forward to seeing how our fans react to these new versions of our music. Each day will be a different experience!”

Listen to ‘Simula at Wakas’ Track list:

1. DAM
2. Time
3. 8TonBall
4. Quit
5. Shooting for the Stars
6. DUNGKA!
7. DAM (Extended Ver.)

SB19’s EP, Simula at Wakas is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch TIME and DUNGKA music videos below:

Day 2 tickets to the Philippine Arena concert is still available via SM Tickets.

Watch out for their upcoming Listening Party on Spotify (to be announced on SB19’s socials soon).

Kapuso actor David Licauco is ready to take his artistic journey to new heights with the release of his debut single “I Think I Love You.”

The track is set to drop on May 16, 2025, under Universal Records Philippines, marking an exciting new chapter in David’s colorful career.

Apart from being a TV and movie actor (his movie Samahan ng Mga Makasalanan is showing in cinemas nationwide starting April 19), David is also an in-demand brand endorser and model, who set the stage on fire at the recent Bench Body of Work show. Maintaining an active lifestyle that includes playing basketball and traveling with family and friends, he is also a successful entrepreneur who owns businesses like Sobra Cafe and Kuya Korea. His ability to juggle multiple passions is truly a testament to his exceptional time management skills and dedication to living life to the fullest.

Fans of David may already know that he sings, since he sang “Kailangan Kita” for the OST of his popular hit series Maria Clara at Ibarra. With “I Think I Love You,” the Pambansang Ginoo is set to showcase his growth as a singer.

“I Think I Love You” combines David’s romantic heart with music. The track promises to be an upbeat, synth-pop, danceable song that will get the TikTok audience grooving. While fans know David as a cool, calm, and collected individual, this song offers a glimpse into a more thrilling, energetic side of him. While the track has yet to be released, anticipation is already building it.

As David embarks on this new artistic venture, fans can expect to hear and see a new side of the beloved artist. His captivating personality and stunning visuals are just the beginning — prepare yourselves for a showcase of his vocal talent through “I Think I Love You.”

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.”

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,” says Sevillano. “But over time, you realize that it’s okay to want connection, to seek someone to share 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.

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.