Category: News

  • INDIE POP DUO corner club SHARES POIGNANT NEW EP ‘NO REFUNDS’!

    INDIE POP DUO corner club SHARES POIGNANT NEW EP ‘NO REFUNDS’!

    November 15th, 2024 — Asian indie pop duo corner club unveils their introspective new EP, ‘no refunds’, today, with the indie rock focus track, “maplecrest drive”. With a powerful, distinctive sound, “maplecrest drive” sets the tone for an EP that explores themes of love, nostalgia, and self-acceptance. Fans can stream the EP HERE.

    Their third EP, ‘no refunds’ chronicles the endless ups and downs of finding self-actualisation and acceptance. Through unexpected symbols—a love story told through a donut, a childhood folklore represented by clementines—the EP’s provocative songwriting oscillates between the metaphorical and literal, leaning heavily on unexpected objects to express themes around love, childhood, and finding your truth. Of the EP, lead vocalist, Savannah, shares: “It’s been a period of discovering new inspirations and versions of ourselves.”

    Written, produced, and mixed entirely within the home studio the band built out of a former furniture warehouse, the EP presents a new level of raw energy and creative whimsy for the duo, once again showcasing their distinctive ability to marry immersive storytelling with a myriad of sonic worlds.

    corner club – “maplecrest drive” (Official Lyric Video)

    The EP’s focus track, “maplecrest drive”, is an indie rock anthem about the loss of self that often accompanies our transitions into adulthood. Alternating between light, nostalgia-twinged acoustic verses and heavy, guitar-driven choruses, the track embodies the whiplash of these experiences. Building from a soaring guitar solo over a hypnotic sea of chants, the climax brings the entire band and vocals to their maximum intensity, culminating the theatrical production.

    corner club is the moniker of indie pop duo Savannah Du and Michael Zhang, whose journey is a testament to the power of creative collaboration. From their early days as schoolmates, where Savannah and Michael first connected through an a cappella group, to their current rise as recording artists with a steadily growing following, they’ve carved out a distinctive niche in the music world.

    The duo has since transformed their casual post-work jam sessions into polished, self-produced tracks. These songs, created in the comfort of their bedrooms, resonated with a global audience, leading to the formation of corner club in 2018. Their music quickly gained traction, accumulating over 10 million streams and attracting over 200k monthly listeners. They have also shared the stage as co-headliners with Sarah Kang and captivated audiences in their own headlining show. Earlier this year, they partnered with Sofar Sounds and the outdoor apparel brand Arc’teryx for a special performance as part of the ‘Delight in the Detour’ campaign, further establishing their reputation as one of indie music’s exciting emerging acts to watch.

    Their work has been featured on various Spotify editorial playlists like Fresh Finds, Dope AF, aesthetic, and New Music Friday across Asia, with their second single, “Manhattanhenge”, landing a spot on Spotify’s Thailand Viral 50. Philippines, Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, and Malaysia now dominate their top 10 streaming markets, with listeners from these regions consistently pushing their streams to new heights. Reflecting the duo’s growing appeal and fanbase across Southeast Asia, this sustained momentum showcases their ability to resonate with diverse audiences, solidifying their status as rising stars in the global indie pop landscape.

    ‘no refunds’ Tracklisting:

    1. no refunds
    2. clementines
    3. donut hole
    4. maplecrest drive
    5. i don’t wanna die just yet

    Stream the EP ‘no refunds’ here
    Watch the lyric video here

  • NIKI ANNOUNCES DETAILS FOR BUZZ WORLD TOUR IN ASIA!

    NIKI ANNOUNCES DETAILS FOR BUZZ WORLD TOUR IN ASIA!

    Jakarta-born, LA-based singer-songwriter and producer NIKI, one of today’s most dynamic artists, is bringing her Buzz World Tour to Asia in 2025, produced by Live Nation. Following successful shows across North America and Europe at legendary venues such as the Greek Theatre (Berkeley) and OVO Arena at Wembley (London) this year, NIKI will kick off her Asia tour in February 2025, marking her debut show in Hong Kong and returning with stops in beloved cities such as Manila, Jakarta, Bangkok and Singapore where she sold out shows in 2023.
    “My Asia and Australia fans have been patiently waiting, and I am excited to finally announce the Buzz World Tour official dates and venues. I am so proud of this show and can’t wait to share it with everyone.” – NIKI
    TICKETS – ASIA: Tickets for shows in Asia will be available starting Wednesday, November 20. Details at nikizefanya.com.

    2025 Asia Tour Dates:
    Feb 9 – Hong Kong, AsiaWorld-Expo Hall 5 & 7
    Feb 11 & 12 – Manila, SM Mall of Asia Arena
    Feb 14 & 16 – Jakarta, Beach City International Stadium
    Feb 18 – Singapore, Singapore Indoor Stadium
    Feb 20 – Taipei, Taipei International Convention Center (TICC)
    Feb 22 – Bangkok, IMPACT, Exhibition Hall 5
    Feb 25 & 26 – Kuala Lumpur, Mega Star Arena

    NIKI’s third studio album, Buzz, released on August 9 via 88rising, captures the feeling of being on the precipice of discovery across thirteen introspective tracks. It includes fan-favorites such as the summer anthem “Tsunami”, the astrologically-inspired “Blue Moon”, the playful lead single “Too Much of a Good Thing”, the bittersweet title track “Buzz”, and the emotionally raw “Did You Like Her In The Morning?”.

    In Buzz, NIKI’s songwriting remains as intimate as ever, inspired by lane-paving female artists like Joni Mitchell, Stevie Nicks, Carly Simon and Liz Phair, of whom influenced her confessional, honest lyrics and guitar-driven sound. To capture the album’s exploratory spirit, she tapped producers Tyler Chester (Madison Cunningham, Sara Bareilles) and Ethan Gruska (Fiona Apple, Phoebe Bridgers) as collaborators, who helped bring a new depth to her creative and personal sea change.

    For NIKI, things have been happening progressively since she was a high schooler in Jakarta, Indonesia, where she penned lovesick poems in English class and performed acoustic guitar covers of American pop songs on YouTube. With a six-string in hand, and her family and classmates cheering her on from the audience, Nicole Zefanya then staked her claim to global stardom as NIKI.

    With over three billion streams worldwide, sold out shows on multiple continents, massive sets at festivals across the globe, front row seats at Paris Fashion Week, four songs on a Marvel film’s soundtrack, and some of the most phenomenal, confessional songs being released in 2024, NIKI has established an impressive career before turning 25.

  • Fall into “Sweet Nothings: The Denise Julia Experience” Concert

    Fall into “Sweet Nothings: The Denise Julia Experience” Concert

    MANILA, 15 November – Trending artist Denise Julia will be lighting up the stage with her very first concert “Sweet Nothings: The Denise Julia Experience” happening on December 14, 2024 at the New Frontier Theatre at Cubao, Quezon City. Her show will feature amazing artists, her catchy hit singles and the first live performance of her latest music drop ‘Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2)’. The “Sweet Nothings: The Denise Julia Experience” concert offers affordable prices as the artist herself wanted to make sure it’s accessible to all of her fans who have been supporting her from the beginning of her music career. Fan benefit add-ons are also available for an opportunity for fans to connect with her up close with available options of Sound Check and Hi-Bye.

    TICKET PRICES:
    ● VIP (Standing) – PHP 2,935.00
    ● LOGE (Seated) – PHP 1,601.00
    ● BALCONY (Seated) – PHP 1,121.00
    VIP ADD ONS:
    ● Soundcheck Only – PHP 2,435.00
    ● Soundcheck & Hi-Bye Session – PHP 2,935.00

    Denise Julia is a Filipino R&B Artist, songwriter and producer born, raised and currently based in Manila. She began writing songs at 13 years old and started releasing original music at the age of 18. After a string of music releases and cover videos that garnered millions of views on Tik Tok, Denise caught the world’s attention with her viral song “NVMD”. “NVMD” is the fastest and only OPM song by a solo Filipina artist to reach 200M streams on Spotify and it reached the Top 20 of Spotify’s Global Viral chart. Since then she has released multiple hit singles, reached 1.5million followers on Tik Tok, was chosen as Spotify’s RADAR Artist of 2024, and released a streaming and critically acclaimed EP called ‘Sweet Nothings (Chapter 1)’. You may have heard of her music with titles such as the aforementioned “NVMD,” “Butterflies,” “Sugar N’ Spice,” and “B.A.D.”

    Additionally, she was also nominated for the MYX Music Awards 2024 for 4 categories: Breakout Solo Artist of the Year, Collaboration of the Year (B.A.D featuring P-Lo), R&B Video of the Year (B.A.D featuring P-Lo), and Music Video of the Year (B.A.D featuring P-Lo ). She was also nominated for the 2024 AWIT Awards for Best R&B Song (B.A.D featuring P-Lo).
    Presented to you by One Entertainment, tickets are available in all Ticketnet Outlets and online at www.ticketnet.com.ph. There are fan benefit add-ons available only for the VIP ticket tier. Denise Julia will surely give a mesmerizing show to remember as One Entertainment, in partnership with KDR Music House and 2ndFloor Entertainment, sets the stage for the “Sweet Nothings: The Denise Julia Experience” Concert in Manila!

    For ticketing:

  • Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and Justin of SB19 Give Back to Local Communities in Manila through “Season of Giving” Campaign

    Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and Justin of SB19 Give Back to Local Communities in Manila through “Season of Giving” Campaign

    The initiative aims to engage the country in a fight to alleviate food insecurity.

    Sony Music Entertainment Philippines, in collaboration with Justin of SB19, has teamed up with Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP) to provide aid to impoverished communities in Manila affected by the recent typhoon and economic challenges.

    This initiative is part of Sony Music Group’s (SMG) global ‘Season of Giving’ campaign, where the company and its artists are paying it forward to the countries in which the international music label operates. The campaign embodies the label’s unwavering commitment to making a positive impact around the world while supporting communities where music is created and enjoyed.

    SEE ALSO: Sony Music Group Launches Third Annual ‘Season of Giving’ Campaign

    Justin

    On November 7, 2024, Christmas came early for the kids at Better World Tondo as Justin of SB19, the rising solo artist and member of SB19, visited the area for a day filled with exciting games, spectacular performances, and nutritious meals. The children were visibly delighted as their idol, serenaded them with his captivating version of Maroon 5’s “Sunday Morning,” before treating them to two more stunning performances—his solo hit “surreal” and SB19’s “Ikako.”

    In addition to his performances, Justin of SB19 brought even more joy to the kids with interactive games like Bring Me, and even personally served their healthy menudo rice meals with papaya slices.

    Justin of SB19 expressed happiness in taking part in the campaign, which is focused on providing much-needed food aid to local communities and offering a sense of joy and relief through entertainment. “I’ve been involved in several advocacies before, but working closely with Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and RAHP has somehow expanded my understanding of the power of using my platform for positive change. There was something incredibly fulfilling about seeing the children’s faces light up during my performance, and it was a special moment to personally serve them the food. This experience will always be a core memory for me, and I’m looking forward to being part of more initiatives like this in the future.”

    Justin

    “Justin of SB19 is incredibly warm, caring, and generous with the children,” said Leni Renton, Program Lead at Rise Against Hunger Philippines. “They connected with him instantly, enjoying his performances and having a blast playing games together. This special experience, thanks to Sony Music, will remain a cherished memory for these kids for years to come. We are deeply grateful to Sony Music for their continued support and generosity.”

    Renton also commended SMG’s Season of Giving initiative for not only providing the attendees with much-needed nourishment but also for creating an unforgettable experience. She adds that Sony’s commitment to supporting Rise Against Hunger Philippines advocacies serves as a “powerful demonstration of their commitment to communities in need.”

    “Beyond providing healthy meals, their involvement brings something truly special—an unforgettable moment of music and fun with the children,” Leni Renton shares. ‘Through this partnership, Sony Music not only nourishes their bodies but also inspires and uplifts their spirits by connecting them with aspiring artists who ignite their hopes and dreams.”

    By supporting the feeding program and bringing live performances to the children, the international record label has created lasting memories and shown the importance of giving back to those who need it the most. Through this collaboration, Sony Music Group has shown how the power of music and kindness can make a meaningful impact.

  • Sony Music Group Launches Third Annual ‘Season of Giving’ Campaign

    Sony Music Group Launches Third Annual ‘Season of Giving’ Campaign

    The program is dedicated to supporting local communities around the world in partnership with artists and songwriters.

    Sony Music Group (SMG) today announced its third-annual giving campaign designed to address food insecurity, homelessness, and music education in local communities around the world. Together with its global roster of artists and songwriters, the company will continue its commitment to support organizations in regions where SMG has a presence. By the end of the calendar year, the annual Season of Giving program will have contributed nearly $2 million in support to more than 12 million people since its inception.

    This year, the 25 international beneficiaries of this year’s campaign include:

    • Achalay (ASOCIACIÓN ACHALAY ESPAÑA) (Spain)
    • ActionAid Sverige (Sweden)
    • Bonnie Support Services (Australia)
    • Camillus House Inc (U.S.)
    • Covenant House Toronto (Canada)
    • Cristina’s Academy (U.S.)
    • Feeding South Florida (U.S)
    • FoodClique (Nigeria)
    • Harding Miller (Australia)
    • Harlem Grown (U.S.)
    • Impophomo Rushing Waters (South Africa)
    • Kiwi Harvest Limited (New Zealand)
    • Los Angeles Mission (U.S.)
    • Modern Women’s Foundation (Taiwan)
    • New Horizon Youth Centre (United Kingdom)
    • Orange Sky New Zealand (New Zealand)
    • Reach Out and Feed Philippines (Philippines)
    • Rightway Foundation (U.S.)
    • Rise Against Hunger (Philippines)
    • Room in the Inn (U.S.)
    • Saint James Music Academy (Canada)
    • Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee (U.S.)
    • The Trussell Trust (United Kingdom)
    • Toys for Tots (U.S.)
    • Visions for Children e.V. (Germany)

    Additionally, as part of SMG’s commitment to work alongside our talent to support communities around the world, artists and songwriters will volunteer with pre-determined organizations throughout the month of November. Participants include:

    • Ben Goldsmith (Sony Music Nashville)
    • BIA (Epic Records)
    • CANTO (Sony Music Publishing Scandinavia)
    • Ferg (RCA Records)
    • JOSH CULLEN from SB19 (Sony Music Philippines)
    • justin from SB19 (Sony Music Philippines)
    • Nergiz (Sony Music Publishing Scandinavia)
    • Sacha (Sony Music Canada)

    Additional songwriters from Sony Music Publishing South Africa include 25K, Angie Santana, Benjamin Dube, DJ Fortee, Gino Brown, Kamogelo Mogatwe (Ganja Beatz), Marley Waters, Mustbedubz, Naye Ayla, Ndu Shezi, Nu Edison, Tshepang Ramoba, Tumi Urna, Yung Tyran and Zingah.

    In speaking of the annual initiative, Towalame Austin, Executive Vice President of Global Philanthropy, Social Impact and Environment, Sony Music Group, said, “Throughout the year, Sony Music Group is dedicated to uplifting and empowering communities around the world. With our annual Season of Giving campaign, we are so excited to partner with our roster of global artists and songwriters to make a local impact and create opportunities to improve people’s lives.”

    Season of Giving represents part of SMG’s ongoing philanthropic commitment to sustain and expand its corporate giving efforts. Each year, the Company continues to support a wide range of programs, initiatives, and funds informed by five key areas of investment: corporate social responsibility, pandemic recovery, global social justice, employee engagement, and disaster & emergency relief. Every initiative reflects SMG’s commitment—both as an organization and as a collective of individuals who are invested in the future of our industry—to bolster communities around the world where music is created and enjoyed. Learn more about SMG’s approach to giving here.

  • Infinite’s Kim Myung Soo Signs with Universal Records and GLXY Entertainment

    Infinite’s Kim Myung Soo Signs with Universal Records and GLXY Entertainment

    Kim Myung Soo is crashing the Philippine Scene!

    Kim Myung Soo, also known by his stage name “L”, is a multi-faceted artist who has captivated fans across the globe with his powerful vocals and versatile acting skills. He got his stage name “L” because his moves and voice resemble “L” from Death Note.

    As the lead vocalist of the legendary K-Pop group INFINITE and its sub-unit INFINITE F, he has built a solid career in music, releasing his first solo album Memory in 2021. His journey from K-Pop stardom to solo success reflects his commitment to artistic growth. L has also made a triumphant solo comeback with his first EP 24/7, which sold over 45,000 copies in its first week.

    On another note, beyond music, Kim Myung Soo has made an indelible mark in the acting world. He made his acting debut in the 2011 Japanese drama Jiu and has since starred in a range of hit dramas. His performances have earned him praise for his emotional depth, versatility, and captivating screen presence.

    And now the Philippines will be seeing more of Kim Myung Soo! He will be signing under Universal Records, which will be releasing his new songs in the country; he will also be the latest artist signing under GLXY Entertainment who will manage his other projects here in the Philippines. The Korean superstar will be flying to the Philippines on November 11 – 14 for the official contract signing event, several photo shoots, and other opportunities.

    ABOUT GLXY Entertainment

    GLXY is a digital content, talent & events management company.

    ABOUT UNIVERSAL RECORDS

    Universal Records Philippines, Inc. is a Philippine record label founded in 1977. It has been an independent label since 1992.

  • mxmtoon ‘liminal space’ OUT EVERYWHERE NOW VIA AWAL

    mxmtoon ‘liminal space’ OUT EVERYWHERE NOW VIA AWAL

    Acclaimed singer-songwriter mxmtoon releases her highly anticipated third studio album, ‘liminal space,’ out everywhere now via AWAL. Listen here: https://mxmtoon.ffm.to/liminalspace

    mxmtoon is also pleased to announce she will be making her late night TV debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live! where she’ll perform the album favourite “rain” for the first time on national television. Alongside this, she’s also releasing a captivating visualiser for the album’s focus track, “passenger side.”

    Listen here

    On the release of the album, mxmtoon shares, “How do you cope with life-altering change? Maybe you let yourself stew in the mess of emotions it elicits. Maybe you pray to God for the first time. Maybe you make an album about it called liminal space.”

    “In the turmoil of the last two years since my second record, I’ve felt suspended in a transitory landscape that often times felt endless,” she continues. “It’s easy to feel trapped in something you barely understand, and life has thrown an onslaught of questions towards me that I can only respond with, “I have no idea how to answer this.” So, suspended in the unknown I wrote these songs. I tried to unravel how I’ve chosen to fulfil the roles I’ve been given in my own life, and at times how I’ve failed to keep up with them. I got the wonderful opportunity to create this record with an all female team of producers, writers, engineers, and more which made the process of reckoning with these decisions through my art that much more impactful. liminal space is an album for people struggling to understand agency, who bathe in the bittersweet, and lose themselves wandering their own endless hallway with no ending. “

    The album was also a chance for mxmtoon to work exclusively with an all-female team of producers, writers, engineers, and even in the wider creative visual process working with female photographers and designers including visual artist KangHee Kim For mxmtoon, having an all-female creative team made the process of reckoning with these decisions much more impactful. “‘liminal space’ is an album for people struggling to understand agency, who bathe in the bittersweet and lose themselves wandering in their own endless hallway with no ending.”

    ‘liminal space’ finds mxmtoon at her most ambitious and emotionally vulnerable, exploring themes such as faith, growing up, and self-realization through a captivatingly introspective indie-pop soundscape. While she returns to her roots, each track is shaped with a newfound sense of confidence and clarity, even in the face of change.
    Prior to the release of the album, mxmtoon gave listeners an early taste of what to expect with country-esque single “i hate texas,” reflective, collaborative track “the situation (feat. Kero Kero Bonito).” Her final single, “rain,” served as a bittersweet confessional about struggling to accept change. These tracks, along with the rest of liminal space, showcase mxmtoon at her most elevated, lyrically and sonically.

    About mxmtoon
    Since she was 17, mxmtoon has crafted catchy pop songs that capture the kind of complex and tender feelings we often keep hidden from the world. Over the years, the Oakland native and now Nashville-based artist’s unguarded self-expression has earned her a devoted global following, helping her reach 1 billion all-time streams, with top 20 streaming countries including the Philippines (#4), Indonesia (#8), India (#12), and Malaysia (#17). Her success has also led to collaborations with Carly Rae Jepsen and Noah Kahan, and an expansive career that includes podcasting and authoring a graphic novel.

    mxmtoon will close out the year with a performance in Mexico City later this month. In February, she will bring ‘liminal space’ to life on a 27-date headlining North American tour, including stops in Los Angeles, New York, and other major cities.

    ‘liminal space’ Tracklist

    1. dramatic escape
    2. i hate texas
    3. rain
    4. elevator
    5. just a little
    6. vhs
    7. number one boy
    8. passenger side
    9. the situation (feat. Kero Kero Bonito)
    10. god?
    11. now’s not the time (feat. Luna Li)
    12. white out
    Stream ‘liminal space’ here 

  • STAYC Releases New Digital Single “…l (Dot Dot Dot)”|

    STAYC Releases New Digital Single “…l (Dot Dot Dot)”|

    STAYC, the dynamic K-pop girl group (Sumin, Sieun, ISA, Seeun, Yoon, J), has returned with the release of their new digital single, “…ㅣ (Dot Dot Dot)”, their first autumn confessional song, on October 30th at 6PM KST.

     “Aren’t you curious about me?”

    “It always seems like you don’t need me, but I need you.”

    STAYC, known for exploring fresh styles and concepts with each release, takes on the role of bold crush confessors this fall. Their latest single delves into the growth and vulnerability of young love, telling a relatable story of a ‘failed crush’ that resonates deeply with fans in their teens and twenties. As part of their promotion STAYC has launched an AI chatbot Dot Dot Dot Bot, sparking excitement among fans. The playful, pink-themed bot invites fans to engage in a whimsical “crush consultation”, with the message “Answer me, Dot Dot Dot Bot” displayed on screen. Fans can share their crush-related dilemmas and receive responses from the chatbot, complete with a personalised “success rate” in percentages, adding a fun touch to the experience.

     “…ㅣ (Dot Dot Dot)” marks STAYC’s first release since their full-length album Metamorphic in July, which featured bold hit “Cheeky Icy Thang”. With this single STAYC introduces a distinct, autumn-inspired aesthetic that adds depth to their musical repertoire, infusing their growing catalog with a unique, enchanting vibe.

     The single title,“…l (Dot Dot Dot)”, symbolises a messaging screen with “Typing ...” without a reply—a subtle metaphor for the anticipation and longing that comes with waiting for an unanswered message. The focus track, “GPT”, cleverly draws a comparison between an unresponsive crush and “GPT”—someone who replies indifferently to continuous questions, capturing the essence of unrequited curiosity. With a blend of sincerity and wit, STAYC gives voice to the universal experience of unreturned feelings, making their story both relatable and poignant.

    Musically,“GPT” combines funky rhythms with chill synths, creating a unique French House vibe. The witty and memorable lyrics, like “Answer me, GPT, aren’t you curious about me?”, convey the intensity of unreciprocated interest. The track opens with a fairy-tale-like intro before flowing into a dreamy tempo shift, leaving listeners a lasting impression.

    To enhance the experience, this digital single also includes two additional versions: “GPT – Instrumental”, highlighting the urban French House elements, and “GPT – Acapella”, which emphasises the warmth of STAYC’s vocals and the song’s emotional depth, making it ideal for remix potential.

    As the perfect companion to “GPT”, the track “Meant To Be” presents a nostalgic story of romance transcending time and worlds. Inspired by a girl traveling through time to find her destined love, the song captures the magic of a connection that defies distance. With heartfelt lyrics like, “I’ve crossed long periods of time and the universe to meet the star, and it’s you”, the song beautifully conveys the sentimentality of a love that endures.

    Digital Single “…I (Dot Dot Dot)”

    Release date: 30th October 2024

    Stream “GPT” Here

    Watch “GPT” Official Music Video Here

    Tracklist

    1. GPT
    2. Meant To Be
    3. GPT – Instrumental
    4. GPT – Acapella

    In celebration of their 4th anniversary this November, STAYC is opening a special pop-up store titled ONLY 4 SWITH. Looking ahead, they are set to release a new album in February 2025, and will embark on their second world tour, starting in Seoul in April. For the latest updates and more details, follow STAYC on their official social media channels.

  • MANILA PIANOS ARTIST SERIES PRESENT AL GATMAITAN IN TRA MUSICA E SOGNO

    MANILA PIANOS ARTIST SERIES PRESENT AL GATMAITAN IN TRA MUSICA E SOGNO

    The Manila Pianos Artist Series in collaboration with Artes Organization, present Al Gatmaitan in TRA MUSICA E SOGNO, an enchanted evening that highlights classical crossover pieces performed by the Man of Music that evoke a wide range of feelings, from nostalgia to inspiration, “Andare con la tua arte”, which means, “Go with your art”, a message that manifested in a dream of Gatmaitan who once contemplated on his desire to become a priest and his love for singing.

    Tenor, musical theater artist, actor for television and film and commercial model, Al Gatmaitan received extensive vocal education at the University of the Philippines under Professor Emmanuel Gregorio; followed by studies at the Conservatory of Music, University of Santo Tomas, and finally finished his Music Degree at St Paul College, Manila, both under Dr. Ronan Ferrer.

    He earned further scholarship in Italy where he studied L’insegnamento della Lingua Italiana all’Estero at Universita per Stranieri Dante Alighieri. He was granted additional scholarships to attend Teatro Calabria (Acting and Diction) under Professor Rodolfo Chirico, soprano Maria Francavilla of the Consevartotio di Vibo Valennita (intensive private vocal formation training) and Spazio Teatro (Actor’s Formation).

    For this special show, Gatmaitan’s repertoire includes a mix of Italian, Spanish and English classical crossover songs influenced by Andrea Bocelli, reimagined with his unique style and flair. Acclaimed concert pianist Dingdong Fiel, with his high level of expertise and refined playing style, shares the stage with Gatmaitan. High-caliber vocal artists Margarita Roco, soprano and film and theater actor Red Nuestro are special guests.

    TRA MUSICA E SOGNO is slated on 14 November 2024. Performance starts promptly at 7 PM. Venue is at the Manila Pianos Showroom, 4/F Ronac Lifestyle Center, Paseo de Magallanes, Makati City.

    Concert tickets : P 1,000.00 (regular), P 800.00 (seniors), P500.00 (students).

    To purchase your tickets, please send GCASH payment to; 0917-415-8876 under the name of Richard S. On the MSG line, please type : “(your name) (# of tickets), CROSSOVER”. Please send confirmation to the same number. Tickets will be ready at the gate on the day
    of the performance.

  • GLOBAL KOREAN SUPERSTAR G-DRAGON RELEASES ENERGETIC NEW SINGLE “POWER” WITH INDEPENDENT RECORD LABEL EMPIRE

    GLOBAL KOREAN SUPERSTAR G-DRAGON RELEASES ENERGETIC NEW SINGLE “POWER” WITH INDEPENDENT RECORD LABEL EMPIRE

    Global Korean superstar and multi-hyphenate, G-DRAGON, makes his long awaited return with a brand new single, “POWER”, released yesterday with Galaxy Corporation and leading independent record label, EMPIRE. A high energy, infectious K-pop record, the electrifying track showcases G-DRAGON’s undeniable vocals slicing through infectious beats. “”POWER” manifests the essence of music,” says G-DRAGON. Fans can stream the new track HERE and watch the music video HERE.

    Co-written by Tommy “TB Hits” Brown, Theron Thomas, Steven Franks, and G-DRAGON, “POWER” marks his first solo record since his 2017 self-titled EP, ‘KWON JI YONG’. That EP had soared to the top of the the Billboard World Albums chart and Japan’s Oricon digital chart, making him the first Korean artist to achieve this remarkable feat.

    “G-DRAGON is a cultural force that has laid the foundation for K-Pop’s global dominance,” says Ghazi – Founder/CEO of EMPIRE. “This partnership reinforces our mission at EMPIRE to work alongside artists that will shape the future of global music.”

    G-DRAGON – “POWER” (Official Music Video)
    G-DRAGON has over 2 billion career streams and has worked with the likes of Diplo, Baauer, Missy Elliott, Boys Noize, Sky Ferreira, Taeyang, and Skrillex. He has won World’s Best Album at the 2014 World Music Awards and has been on magazine covers and pages of Elle Korea, Harper’s Bazaar Korea, Vogue Korea, Hypebeast, and more. G-DRAGON has since forayed into fashion with his own coveted streetwear apparel brand, PEACEMINUSONE, and shot for campaigns with Chanel, Nike, and BMW. Notably, Southeast Asia constitutes a significant portion of his audience, with Indonesia ranking as his largest fanbase, followed by Malaysia at #3, Vietnam at #4, Thailand at #6, the Philippines at #9, and Taiwan at #10.

    He has since also expanded into art, having been named to ArtNet’s Top 200 Art Collectors list in 2019 and was a part of Frieze Seoul’s Now & Next artist series last year. This year, he is creating a perfume in collaboration with French perfumer, Frédéric Malle, and has launched JUSPEACE, a charity foundation to combat substance abuse in South Korea.

    Listen to “POWER” here
    Watch the music video here
  • IAM WORLDWIDE TAPS THE NATION’S GIRL GROUP “BINI” AS LIFESTYLE AMBASSADORS

    IAM WORLDWIDE TAPS THE NATION’S GIRL GROUP “BINI” AS LIFESTYLE AMBASSADORS

    IAMWORLDWIDE x BINI

    The lucky streak of landing valuable brand partnerships continues for BINI.

    Leading health and supplements marketing company IAM Worldwide Corporation recently unveiled BINI as part of their 2024/25 roster of brand ambassadors.

    BINI is an eight-member girl group that debuted June 11, 2020, at the height of the pandemic. Dubbed as the “Nation’s Girl Group,” the group is composed of young, modern Filipinas who aspires to share their musical talent and creative spirit to the rest of the world.

    BINI

    The members include main visual Aiah from Cebu, lead vocalist Colet, Gwen of Albay, hardworking leader Jhoanna, main vocalist Maloi, lead rappers Mikha and Stacey, and main dancer Sheena from Isabela.

    Some of their hit songs include Salamin, Salamin, Pantropiko, Karera, Na Na Na, I Feel Good, Born To Win, etc.

    The group was signed as the face of IAM Worldwide’s Amazing Pure Organic Barley and its popular variant Choco Barley. 

    “Before we signed them, the girls and their parents informed us that they are avid users of Amazing Pure Organic Barley and Choco Barley,” says Allen Marvin Eder, co-founder & President. “Immediate effects were felt on the improvement of their health; taking barley daily gave them added energy and stamina to perform and be at their best. That’s why we are so happy to have the girls as part of the IAM Worldwide family.”

    “Like what BINI stands for, IAM Worldwide has always encouraged the youth to be at their very best,” adds Aika Lorraine Uy, co-founder & Vice President. “And having great confidence, passion and productivity is made better if one leads a healthy lifestyle.”

    General Manager & co-founder Joanna Mañego chimes in: “As a certified BLOOM, I watched their concert and bought whatever merch was available. I introduced them to my partners, so we are all thrilled and ecstatic.” 

    BINI

    “These are exciting times for IAM Worldwide as we welcome the country’s best girl group! Here’s to Aiah, Colet, Gwen, Maloi, Stacey, Mikha, Sheena and Jhoanna … cheers to good health and years of top-charting success!”

    IAM Worldwide officially welcomed the girls on stage during their recently concluded 7th Anniversary Event held last October 20, 2024 at the MOA Arena.

    Members of the group immediately expressed their happiness at joining IAM Worldwide. 

    “Salamat sa Amazing Barley at Choco Barley, nabibigyan kami ng extra energy,” says BINI Sheena. “Bukod sa masarap at refreshing, iwas sakit pa given our hectic schedules.”

    BINI Gwen also told the crowd, “Nag-research pa talaga ako and nakita ko eto yung best brand of organic barley. I also bought for my parents. I encourage every BLOOM to make this part of your daily regimen. Make sure you only get the original from IAM Worldwide.”

    As for BINI Aiah, she testified how “Amazing Organic Barley is my favorite. I have been drinking it morning and evening. Pampalakas at pampaganda!”

    BINI now joins the likes of Alden Richards, Marian Rivera, Heart Evangelista, Piolo Pascual, Small Laude, and more who are avid fans of the products exclusively distributed by IAM Worldwide.

    Last July, Bini became the first Filipino pop act to perform at the annual KCON music festival, showcasing their newest song “Cherry on Top” at the pre-show event of KCON LA 2024 in Los Angeles.

    Check out the “IAM BINI” campaign by following IAM Worldwide’s official social media accounts at @iamworldwidecorporation or visit their website at https://iam-worldwide.com

  • Simple Plan Announce Documentary Set to Launch on Prime Video in 2025

    Simple Plan Announce Documentary Set to Launch on Prime Video in 2025

    The band made the announcement on stage at the When We Were Young Festival in Las Vegas, revealing that the documentary is set to launch on Prime Video in 2025.

    WATCH THE ANNOUNCEMENT HERE

    Photo Credit: Skyler Barberio

    Multi-platinum-selling band, Simple Plan announced their upcoming documentary chronicling their successful career, as they tour the world in anticipation of their 25th anniversary. The untitled documentary, which is currently in production with Sphere Media, was announced by lead singer Pierre Bouvier live on stage in front of thousands of fans at the When We Were Young festival in Las Vegas this past weekend. The documentary will launch globally on Prime Video in 2025.

    “This movie is the centrepiece of the band’s 25th anniversary celebrations and probably one of the most ambitious and special project we’ve ever been a part of. Reaching this milestone felt like the perfect moment to look back, reflect and give our fans an inside look into our lives, both on tour and at home,” said the members of Simple Plan. “We gave director Didier Charette unprecedented access to the band, and our archives, and trusted him to tell our story. He travelled with us on tour for an entire year and, in the process, really captured the essence of who we are as a band and as people. We’re so proud of this movie and can’t wait for our fans to watch it and get to know us like never before!”

    “Simple Plan is one of the most iconic bands from the 2000s, who have proven staying power as they continue to connect with audiences of all ages,” said Shaun Alperin, Head of Content, Prime Video, Canada. “Their music and fun-loving personalities have inspired millions of fans, and we’re thrilled to bring their story to Prime Video.”

    The film will chronicle the formation of Simple Plan in Montreal in the late 1990s, their rise to global stardom with hits like “Welcome to My Life,” “Perfect,” and “The Antidote,” and their continued impact as one of the most successful punk rock bands that continues to sell out shows worldwide. The documentary will feature never-before-seen archival footage, along with new interviews with the band members and celebrated icons of the punk rock community including Mark Hoppus (Blink 182), Avril Lavigne, Dexter Holland & Noodles (The Offspring) and Fat Mike (NoFX). The documentary is produced by Sphere Media with executive producers Bruno Dubé, Renaud Chassé and Marie-Hélène Tremblay, and producer Samuel.

  • Multi-Platinum Singer-Songwriter elijah woods Shares Tender Love-Focused New EP “Elijah Would!”

    Multi-Platinum Singer-Songwriter elijah woods Shares Tender Love-Focused New EP “Elijah Would!”

    October 25th, 2024 – Following the success of his previous EP, ‘Hey There Elijah’, multi-platinum artist and producer elijah woods is back with his latest project, ‘Elijah Would!‘, released today. The six-track EP reveals a more intimate side of his artistry, showcasing a deeper emotional vulnerability in a way that feels both personal and universal. Fans can stream the EP HERE.

    ‘Elijah Would!’ delves into tender, love-focused themes, offering a softer, more reflective vibe. While his previous EP, ‘Hey There Elijah‘ (released in late September), delivered a dynamic fusion of nostalgic pop with gritty indie-rock undertones, ‘Elijah Would!‘ strips things back for a raw, introspective journey that reveals a more nuanced and heartfelt side of his musical identity. He shares: “I wanted to highlight the gentler, more personal side of my music.” Together, these two EPs craft a compelling narrative of emotional growth and life’s evolving complexities.

    Collaborating with acclaimed co-writers Jack LaFrantz (Benson Boone, “Beautiful Things”) and Andrew Goldstein (LANY, blackbear, MKTO), and bringing the project to life with co-producers TMS (Lewis Capaldi, Dua Lipa) and Jason Suwito (Benson Boone, Imagine Dragons), ‘Elijah Would!’ blends his heartfelt songwriting with top-tier production to create a sonically rich and emotionally resonant EP.

    The EP’s focus track, “Skin & Bones”, is a heartfelt love song that beautifully captures the essence of elijah’s relationship with his wife, Hannah. Written just a week before their wedding, the track reflects the couple’s emotional journey as they prepared to embark on a new chapter together. “We wrote “Skin & Bones” in under an hour,” elijah shares. “It’s a deeply personal song that captures this special moment in our lives.” With its raw intimacy and genuine emotion, “Skin & Bones” is a celebration of love at its most transformative.

    About elijah woods
    Renowned for his irresistibly catchy melodies, vivid storytelling, and signature crisp production, elijah woods has established himself as one of pop music’s most compelling solo acts, as well as a highly sought-after collaborator. Amassing over 1 billion streams across his discography, his meteoric rise as an independent artist has been nothing short of extraordinary. Recently named one of the top 500 artists in the world, and with multiple platinum and gold records to his name, 4x JUNO Award nominations, and a SOCAN 2022 Pop Award under his belt, elijah woods is an artist on the brink of global stardom.

    elijah’s rising prominence in Asia culminated in a sold-out Asia tour in May 2024, where he headlined shows in major markets like Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore. While in Asia, he also opened for Niall Horan in Jakarta and took the stage at the Seoul Jazz Festival alongside artists like Lauv, Jeremy Zucker, and JP Saxe. Reflecting his surging popularity in Asia, elijah woods’ top global streaming countries include #1 The Philippines, #4 Indonesia, #5 Malaysia, #7 Taiwan, #8 Thailand, and #10 Singapore.

    ‘Elijah Would!’ Tracklisting:

    1. Ultraviolet
    2. The Darkest Parts of Me
    3. Say Hello
    4. Skin & Bones
    5. Evergreen
    6. What It Means
    Stream the EP ‘Elijah Would!’ here
  • LADY GAGA RELEASES “DISEASE,” FIRST SINGLE FROM HER FORTHCOMING ALBUM, DUE FEBRUARY 2025!

    LADY GAGA RELEASES “DISEASE,” FIRST SINGLE FROM HER FORTHCOMING ALBUM, DUE FEBRUARY 2025!

    13-time Grammy Award-winner Lady Gaga today released “DISEASE,” the first single from her forthcoming album (affectionately dubbed LG7), due Spring 2025. Stream/download “DISEASE” HERE. Watch the accompanying lyric video HERE.

    Marking her highly anticipated return to pop, LG7 will follow the release of Harlequin, a concept album that serves as a companion piece to the film Joker: Folie à Deux. Harlequin—which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Jazz chart and in the top 20 on the Billboard 200—was praised by critics including ROLLING STONE, who described it as “[a] luxuriant album of jazzy swing, mostly standards, right in her sweet spot,” while THE NEW YORK TIMES remarked that “Gaga can, of course, nail a theatrical tune like this in her sleep, but she brings a fresh energy to ‘The Joker’ by giving it a kind of rock operatic arrangement, complete with electric guitar and a punkish growl in her voice,” with USA TODAY calling it “easily one of her finest moments on record,” noting that “it is impossible to hear Harlequin and have nothing but increased respect for the singer/actress.”

    Lady Gaga continues to reign on the Billboard Global 200 with her smash hit “Die With a Smile,” which has topped the chart for eight consecutive weeks, making it the longest-running #1 on the Global 200 this year. The song has amassed 1.06 billion all time global streams across DSPs since its release. Currently the #3 most-listened-to artist in the world on Spotify (and one of only five artists in history to reach over 100 million monthly listeners), Lady Gaga’s other 2024 projects include her collaboration with The Rolling Stones on “Sweet Sounds of Heaven” and the concert film GAGA: CHROMATICA BALL, both of which earned critical acclaim upon release.

    STREAM/DOWNLOAD THE SONG HERE

  • CHRIS JAMES SHARES INTROSPECTIVE NEW SINGLE “SCARY”

    CHRIS JAMES SHARES INTROSPECTIVE NEW SINGLE “SCARY”

    Photo Credit: Emily Lardon

    October 25th, 2024 – Manila, Philippines – Multi-talented singer-songwriter Chris James has just released the sixth single “Scary”, from his forthcoming album set for release early next year. The track was co-written and co-produced with Adam Argyle, a renowned songwriter and producer known for his work on James Arthur, Ella Eyre, and James Newman.

    “Scary” is a reflection on the swift passage of time, exploring the emotions and realisations that come with this universal experience. In classic Chris James style, the song combines introspective lyrics with a captivating melody, creating a track that is both thought-provoking and musically engaging. When asked about the meaning behind the song,

    “‘Scary’ is about how quickly time flies by,” Chris shares of the track. “Scary” releases as Chris James continues to build on the momentum from his successful 18-stop tour through Asia and Europe, where he sold over 10,000 tickets. Chris James has grown a massive fanbase across Asia, with majority of Asian cities dominating his Top 10 Streaming markets worldwide including Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur.

    Fans are encouraged to stay connected with Chris James on social media for updates on new music, tour dates, and more.

    Stream “Scary” here