JBL Sound Fest 2024 on December 14 at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds featuring SB19, Hori7on, Zack Tabudlo, Rob Deniel, Over October, Zae, The Dawn, DJ Arra.
Mechanics on how to get your Free JBL Sound Fest Passes
More details at jblpromo.com.ph
Filipino nine-piece band Ben&Ben is treating fans to an early holiday gift with the release of The Traveller Across Dimensions, their much-anticipated third studio album, out now via Sony Music Entertainment.
This concept album integrates music with stunning animated visuals, offering listeners a unique, immersive experience. The Traveller Across Dimensions follows the journey of its central character, Liwanag, as she embarks on an enchanting adventure to find inner peace. As she travels through three symbolic realms—Light, Energy, and Feel—Liwanag confronts trials that challenge her path toward self-discovery.
In addition to Liwanag, the album introduces several other key characters who play integral roles in the narrative. Gabay, a wise traveler, returns to the Light Dimension to serve as a mentor to Liwanag. Puhon, Liwanag’s loyal pet, aids her in navigating the Energy Dimension. Meanwhile, Mahiwaga, another traveller on a parallel quest to complete the Lifecrest, crosses paths with Liwanag in the Feel Dimension. These characters enrich the story, each contributing to Liwanag’s growth and her understanding of herself and the world around her.
In a joint statement, Ben&Ben shares that the album’s narrative serves as an allegory for personal growth: “Her story reflects our own journeys through innocence, struggle, and maturity,” the band explains. “In the process, Liwanag learns that the pain of loss is an essential part of the peace she seeks.”
The idea to blend animation with music stemmed from the band’s long-time fascination with visual storytelling, whether through animated films or graphic novels. “Animation has a unique ability to communicate complex emotions and lessons in an accessible way,” they say. “We wanted to explore this medium to push our creative boundaries in the artistic and narrative mold.”
To bring Liwanag’s story to life, the band collaborated with Puppeteer Studios, whose expertise in animation helped realize the visual aspect of the album. “Puppeteer Studios has been an amazing partner,” the band adds. “From the start, they respected both the sonic direction of the album and our vision for the animated world of The Traveller Across Dimensions. Seeing our sketches evolve into full animation was a powerful experience—one that accurately reflected the story we wanted to tell.”
The Traveller Across Dimensions is a product of deep collaboration within the band, with Paolo and Miguel Benjamin contributing the majority of the album’s songwriting, while percussionist/vocalist Andrew De Pano penned one of the tracks. Notably, the songs were already in progress before the animation was conceived, with the narrative emerging organically from the music. The band describes the process as a “full circle” moment, where the music inspired the story, and the evolving narrative, in turn, helped complete the songs.
“There were high points, but also moments of struggle during the album’s creation,” the band reflects. “We learned a lot about surrendering and trusting in something greater than ourselves, and those themes of wonder, enchantment, and hope are woven throughout the album.”
Musically, The Traveller Across Dimensions marks a bold leap forward for Ben&Ben, building on the expansive sound of their previous album, Pebble House, Vol. 1: Kuwaderno. The new record strikes a dynamic balance between ambition and intimacy, with a sonic landscape that feels more adventurous than anything the band has released before.
Produced by the band and Ziv, with additional contributions from Petra Sihombing, Sam and Tim Marquez, and JP Verona, the album blends diverse genres and innovative sound design. “This album reflects a more mature, genre-blurring approach,” the band explains. “We’re grateful to our producers, particularly Ziv, for ensuring that the sound captured our collective vision—rather than imposing any external influences on the music.”
In terms of production, the album’s tracks mirror the contrasting emotional landscapes of Liwanag’s journey. The chaotic, turbulent moments are matched by heavier, more aggressive arrangements, while the album’s more introspective tracks feature gentler, serene instrumentation, creating a powerful interplay between sound and story.
Ben&Ben will bring the world of The Traveller Across Dimensions to life on stage with their first-ever arena concert on December 14, 2024, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. The concert promises to be an innovative, multi-dimensional experience, blending live music with state-of-the-art multimedia elements inspired by the album.
Produced by Ovation Productions, the concert will incorporate animation, film, and live performances, creating an immersive, audio-visual experience that takes the audience through the album’s narrative in real time. “We’re excited to reimagine the live concert experience, fusing our music with animated storytelling and multimedia artistry,” says Ben&Ben.
See Also: Ben&Ben Unveils First-Ever “Animation-Concert” Hybrid
Tickets for the concert are now available via SM Tickets, with prices ranging from PHP 1,700 for General Admission to PHP 7,700 for the Liwanag VIP Package.
For more information on Ben&Ben’s upcoming concert and to purchase tickets, visit SM Tickets.
Ticket Prices:
Ben&Ben’s The Traveller Across Dimensions is now available for streaming on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Bicol—renowned for its fiery cuisine, historical sites, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural wonders—takes center stage as it hosts the fundraising concert Musika Para Sa Bikol: Himig ng Bayanihan.
On 06 December 2024, the Ibalong Centrum for Recreation (ICR) in Legazpi City will be the setting for a night of music that brings together community and a shared love for one of the Philippines’ beloved regions. From the sheer majesty of the world-renowned Mayon Volcano and the tranquil shores of its beaches to the thrill of swimming alongside whale sharks in Donsol and the bold flavors of iconic dishes like Laing and Bicol Express, Bicol is a region that’s easy to fall in love with.
However, Bicol’s many offerings are set against the harsh reality of its being one of the most typhoon-prone regions in the country. With an average of 20 typhoons hitting the region annually, Bicol faces widespread flooding, destruction of homes and infrastructure, devastation of agricultural lands, and disruptions to livelihoods, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas.
The spirit of community and generosity has been evident throughout the ongoing relief efforts, with significant support coming from both the public and private sectors. The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), in partnership with Live Nation Philippines (LNPH), has extended assistance through donations, demonstrating its commitment to the affected communities. Their contributions highlight the vital role of collaboration in addressing urgent needs and fostering hope.
More than just raising funds for families affected by the recent string of typhoons, the concert will celebrate Bicol’s rich cultural heritage and its reputation as a premiere tourist destination, while showcasing the resilience of the Bicolanos and the region’s inherent beauty. Musika Para Sa Bikol: Himig ng Bayanihan, also serves as a reminder that Bicol is more than just a place—it’s an experience, a feeling, and a source of pride for all Filipinos.
This fundraising concert is a testament to the Filipino spirit of bayanihan, uniting people to support those in need. Net proceeds and donations will go toward immediate relief efforts, as well as long-term recovery projects to help the region bounce back stronger than ever. An exciting and diverse lineup of musical acts will make for an unforgettable night of entertainment. The public can expect performances from Bicol’s homegrown talent Tothapi, South Korean sensation Kim Ji-Soo, British post-punk and glam metal band Gene Loves Jezebel, and Norwegian hitmakers Fra Lippo Lippi.
Musika Para Sa Bikol: Himig ng Bayanihan is not just a concert; it is a call to action. Tickets are priced at PhP100.00, which will go directly toward donations for the cause. These ticket donations can be made online via the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) website http://redcross.org,ph or in person at the concert venue.
Every contribution counts, Your support will help families rebuild their lives and strengthen Bicol’s resilience against future natural disasters.
Join us on 06 December for a night that will celebrate the heart and soul of Bicol – its people, culture, and its unyielding spirit.
Join Josh Cullen, KAIA, Sharlene San Pedro, and more in BLACKOUT: The Kickoff. It’s #NotJustAFestival as it combines music, arts, and gaming into one night of passion and community. Its aim isn’t to be the best event of the year but to simply bring together industries into one night where guests can blackout the world and be their unapologetic selves.
The P-POP wave is headlined by SB19 member, Josh Cullen. He is joined by girl groups KAIA, YARA, DIONE, and CALISTA. Among the lineup are rising boy bands, NEW:ID, 1ST.ONE, and 6ENSE.
Meanwhile, the OPM lineup comprises triple-threat Sharlene San Pedro, As Far As We Know, Marvin Ivan, Daniel Paringit, AVI, and PAHAM. Benj Miranda will then lead the after-party with his band of DJs: Bandit, Sigrid, Victor Pring, Rolf, Chavo, and Xayah.
The BLACKOUT lineup is specially handpicked artists that represent the rise of a genre to grow the community further and spread the growing music industry. As the night is serenaded by the rising stars, guests are also encouraged to try the various art and gaming experiences mounted by sponsors and partners.
BLACKOUT: The Kickoff celebrates the collaborations brought by gaming and arts. Catch various booths from partners Gamer Girls Philippines, Guhit Pinas, and many more. Meanwhile, showcase your creativity and experience interactive areas, live art, tattoos, and merchandise areas. Art will always be the core of each industry as it’s where it all begins. BLACKOUT celebrates art by putting a stamp into the medium’s value.
Ultimately, BLACKOUT is #NotJustAFestival, it’s whatever anyone wants it to be. You can be there for the music, the gaming, or the arts, or you can be there for it all. BLACKOUT was created for fans to simply enjoy being themselves.
BLACKOUT: The Kickoff, as the name suggests, is only the prologue to a larger BLACKOUT coming in 2025. It’s a glimpse of what’s to come and an introduction to what BLACKOUT will essentially be.
It’s a collision of gaming, music, and arts, where anyone can find their community and be part of the festivities that celebrate each industry.
Tickets can be purchased at www.notjustafestival.com
Be part of the journey towards the road to BLACKOUT.
Hundreds of fans braved the heavy Ber months traffic on a Friday night to meet and jam with their Filipino ults— Josh Cullen of P-pop royalty SB19, pop band fave The Juans, all-rounder girl group KAIA, alternative standouts One Click Straight, and the dreamy pop-R&B star jikamarie—at the second edition of Backstage Pass Live, an exclusive gig hosted by Rakuten Viber at the buzzy Brooklyn Warehouse.
The talented Pinoy acts treated fans to an electrifying night showcasing a mix of genres and talents, from R&B to Pinoy pop to indie rock. These select lucky fans got the chance to interact with their faves and scored passes to the intimate gig all for free through the Backstage Pass Chatbot, a unique feature of the superapp’s popular music and entertainment hub Backstage Pass Channel.
Now with over 1.8 million subscribers, the Channel gives fans a virtual backstage experience through exclusive content and updates directly from their favorite artists to their chats. It offers access to exclusive giveaways, ticket discounts, and even the chance to chat with the artists themselves through in-person events like the Backstage Pass Live.
During their set, the five artists expressed their appreciation for Rakuten Viber for the opportunity to get closer to their fans online and in person through the Backstage Pass ecosystem. “Thank you to all the fans who joined me here tonight, and of course to Backstage Pass Live by Rakuten Viber for making this event possible,” shared Josh before ending his set. “We are here today, thanks to Backstage Pass Channel, which is definitely a great platform for us artists to bond and interact with our fans.”
The Juans delivered an electrifying performance of their new single “Rebound” during their recent live event. The song, described as an emotionally engaging anthem, captures the relatable experience of longing for unrequited love. Its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics resonated with the crowd, who sang along passionately, turning the venue into a hub of energy and excitement.
Beyond the live musical performances, guests this year were also treated to games, giveaways, and even special surprises that made the night truly special. The Complete the Lyrics game had fans singing their hearts out on stage, finishing their idols’ top hits, while the Dance Challenge let guests show off their moves to KAIA’s popular songs. Signed merchandise from the artists was up for grabs, adding to the night’s thrill.
Another highlight for ZAIAs aka the official fans of KAIA was the exclusive backstage access for a meet-and-greet session with the girl group. Lucky winners got to chat with their faves and score selfies, taking the stan life to the next level.
Filipino actor and Rakuten Viber’s first-ever brand ambassador Gabbi Garcia who’s also a music lover joined in the Friday fun and surprised the guests by personally handing out the prizes for the games and giveaways.
“This is only the second year of Backstage Pass Live, but we’re happy to see so much passion and enthusiasm for it already, especially as this is our priority initiative in engaging with our young Filipino users,” said David Tse, Senior Director for APAC at Rakuten Viber. “With now over 1.8 million subscribers on the Backstage Pass Channel and counting, it shows Filipinos want a new and dynamic way to connect with their idols. We’re happy to provide a platform for that and create more of these unforgettable experiences for Filipinos.”
Don’t miss out on more chances to connect with your favorite artists and score exclusive content! Subscribe to the Backstage Pass Channel on Rakuten Viber and stay tuned for exclusive updates on your favorite artists, giveaways, tickets, and promos to exciting future events.
[Pasay City, Metro Manila – November 28, 2024]— As Disney continues to reimagine some of the most beloved stories, Disney On Ice also continuously elevates its productions to showcase Disney’s timeless tales. Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero to bring joy and unforgettable moments to audiences in Manila from December 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025. Audiences can look forward to being amazed by the cutting-edge ice skating performances, spectacular props and costumes, special effects, high-flying acrobatics, and breathtaking stunts.
This year’s adventures focus on the beloved heroines, including Mirabel, Moana, Ariel, Rapunzel, Belle, Elsa, and Anna. Their powerful stories transcend cultures and generations while creating memories and bringing people together. Whether you’re a fan of Disney’s timeless tales or passionate about ice skating and aerial arts, this new show is a must-watch that you and your family should not miss. It imparts lessons of courage, confidence, and compassion that resonate with audience members of all ages. The magical story of Encanto Disney On Ice introduces an exciting new addition to its magical lineup: Mirabel from Encanto. The story follows her extraordinary family and features her journey to save their enchanted home, the casita. Joining her are her sisters: Isabela, whose enchants with her ability to create vibrant blooms and greenery, and Luisa, with the gift of super strength that she uses to help her village move buildings and
reroute rivers.
Uplifting, iconic songs such as “How Far I’ll Go,” “Be Our Guest,” and “Let It Go” are paired with breathtaking skating choreography. These musical moments inspire confidence and embolden viewers to never stop dreaming. High-energy production numbers will have fans of all ages on their feet while singing along and relive the incredible storytelling moments.
This holiday season, treat your family to an unforgettable experience where beloved Disney characters glide, dance, and dazzle on ice. Join Mickey and Minnie as they share stories of the superstars they found on their talent search – Only at Disney On Ice!
New show has been added
Due to its popular demand, SM Mall of Asia Arena is adding a new date and time for the most-awaited Disney On Ice. Another time slot in 3:00 p.m. on December 27, Friday opens up a wide array of prime-view seats with more than 7,000 seats to choose from. Price starts at P300 at the general admission up to Php 5,400 per ticket in the front row.
Grab your tickets now and get ready to be entertained and enlightened as you watch Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero. This spectacular live performance has been made possible with its official bank partner Metrobank, together with Mastercard. Many thanks to esteemed media partners 87.5 Republika FM1, 104.3 Capital FM2, BusinessMirror, Philstar Global, 97.9 Home Radio, True FM 105.9, and RMN Network for giving a spotlight to this event.
WHERE: [SM MALL OF ASIA ARENA]
J.W Diokno Blvd., Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City 1300
WHEN: [Saturday, December 21] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
[Sunday, December 22] [11:00 AM] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
[Monday, December 23] [3:00 PM]
[Wednesday, December 25] [11:00 AM] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
[Thursday, December 26] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
[Friday, December 27] [3:00 PM]
[Saturday, December 28] [11:00 AM] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
[Sunday, December 29] [11:00 AM] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
[Monday, December 30] [11:00 AM] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
[Wednesday, January 1] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
[Thursday, January 2] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
[Saturday, January 4] [11:00 AM] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
[Sunday, January 5] [11:00 AM] [3:00 PM] [7:00 PM]
TICKET PRICES:
Watch out for the mall activations and ticket selling come November and December at participating SM Supermalls: SM Makati, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North Edsa, SM City Fairview, SM City San Lorenzo, and SM City Marikina.
TICKETS: www.smtickets.com
You may buy tickets at any authorized SM Tickets nationwide or online at www.smtickets.com.
To purchase tickets online, just log in to www.smtickets.com and create an account. If you are already a member, just proceed to the Disney On Ice show page on www.smtickets.com so you can view available seats and choose from the complete list of ticket prices.
To discover more about Disney On Ice, visit our website or follow us on our social media channels:
Facebook, Twitter & Instagram. Subscribe to the Disney On Ice YouTube Channel at
www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce.
You may buy tickets for our upcoming shows online at www.smtickets.com or at any authorized SM Tickets outlet nationwide. To learn more about SM Mall of Asia Arena, visit www.mallofasia-
arena.com or follow @moaarena on social media.
MALLOFASIA-ARENA.COM
Eight years after the first Moana hit theaters during Thanksgiving of 2016, when we first heard Auli’i Cravalho’s voice giving life to a way finder named Moana and Dwayne Johnson’s iconic voice giving life to Maui’s character. As a follow-up to the beloved 2016 animated film Disney’s Moana 2 is set to make waves again in theaters today, November 27, 2024!
The sequel picks up three years after the original, with Moana (voiced again by Auli’i Cravalho) now a more mature 19-year-old. The story revolves around her leading a new crew on an expansive ocean voyage to explore long-lost waters and face challenges like curses, stormy seas, and the return of the Kakamora. The plot introduces Moana’s younger sister, Simea, adding emotional depth to the stakes of the adventure.
The South Pacific Island of Motufetu will be appearing in this sequel. The island serves as a link for all the people, but it is also cursed by the storm God Nalo, the main antagonist who places a curse on the island. The curse obstructs the reunification of people from different islands and with the help of Matangi, [Awhimai Fraser voice], the strong and commanding character with the ability to control bats [often called “bat girl” by Maui], Moana will learn about “finding a way” and “there is always a way” that will help Maui and her crew to lift the island of Motufetu.
The film also marks the return of Maui, voiced by Dwayne Johnson, with a character arc exploring the value of seeking help.
Other returning elements include fan favorites such as Heihei and Pua, Moana’s loyal pet pig, along with a new team of characters joining Moana’s journey: Loto, a quirky member of the wayfinding crew, has a background in canoeing and will assist Moana in crafting a new canoe, drawing inspiration from Tautai Vasa’s voyage. Moni—another supporting character—he is with Moana’s crew, along with Kele—the grumpy old farmer in Motonui responsible for crops and harvest.
Musically, the film features compositions by grammy winning composer Mark Mancina, and new songs written by award winning songwriters Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, bringing a contemporary and youthful tone while honoring the original soundtrack’s legacy. Our very own Belle Mariano sang “Anong Daratnan,” which is a special end credit song for the Philippine release of the movie.
Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, Moana 2 will be sailing today, November 27.
November 15, 2024 – The New Frontier Theater was abuzz with a diverse set of crowd as people of all ages – from teenagers to seniors – flocked the venue, many dressed in their preppiest attire. They were to see the main stars of the evening, the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO), under the baton of Maestro Marlon Chen, and everyone gathered to bask in the glory of their symphony for A Night at the Pops.
Presented by ElectricSheep Entertainment, the concert featured a refreshing orchestral take on many beloved pop songs – swaying from the classics to the modern – with a little bit of help from some of the finest local talents – veteran singers Barbie Almalbis and Acel Bisa-van Ommen, rising stars Lola Amour, Arthur Miguel and Jason Dhakal, and newcomer Dylan Burton.
The setlist was divided into two, each one seemingly following a pattern. It started off with joyful classics – Mozart’s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” and Vivaldi’s “Spring” – which are pieces that are recognizable to many. It was followed by an array of pop songs that are easy favorites for most of the crowd, and this is where MSO thrives: in taking something traditional and giving it a quirky, modern twist.
For instance, QUEEN’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”, a complex rock piece by itself, was made even more explosive with the mix of the booming brass and strings, the underlining electric guitar and the pulsing percussion. Their arrangement of Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida” and Bruno Mars’ “Just the Way You Are” sounded triumphant. A stand-out moment was MSO’s rendition of BTS’ funk-disco song “Dynamite” which induced a feel-good, sing-along vibe to the crowd, almost to the point of dancing.
The special guests of the evening also gave more color to the stage as MSO played. Acel Bisa-van Ommen and Barbie Almalbis played guitar and sang together during Taylor Swift’s “All Too Well”. Arthur Miguel sang Rey Valera’s “Kahit Maputi na ang Buhok Ko” while Jason Dhakal did Tony Bennet’s “The Way You Look Tonight” and Sitti’s “Para sa Akin”.
The concert also highlighted a fluid collaboration between our local talents and MSO, with both sides breathing a new life into each other. With the moving string arrangement, Arthur Miguel’s soulful vocals shone even more when he performed his original song “Lihim”. Lola Amour, a band that includes brass instruments in their sets, jived with the orchestra as they played their hits “Fallen” and “Raining in Manila”. Acel Bisa-van Ommen gave a striking farewell performance with “Torete”, a song that became an inescapable household favorite in the year 2000. She is set to migrate to the Netherlands next year. Barbie Almalbis’ “Tabing Ilog” became even more iconic with MSO’s backing. To cap the evening off, MSO performed an encore performance of Eraserheads’ “Ang Huling El Bimbo” as the crowd sang along.
A Night at the Pops captivated the audience with its modern mix of orchestral and pop music, giving both genres more layers: Orchestral music doesn’t always need to be so intimidatingly rigid and pop music doesn’t always have to be encased in a bubble. MSO, as well as the special guests, performed impressively well for the whole evening. It was also commendable how Maestro Marlon Chen encouraged the crowd to clap their hands to the beat, to cheer and even to sing along loudly, things that seemed to be taboo during orchestra concerts. The concert proved that orchestral music could be enjoyable for everyone, especially when played live. Hopefully, there will be more events like this one in the near future!
Special thanks to ElectricSheep Entertainment
Words by Sandra Mae Laureano
Photos by Vince Bernardo
A Christmas-themed Tagalog ballad penned due to separation anxiety, and its heartfelt recording delivered by a voice that deserves to be heard by the public, resulted in a must-heard digital single called “Sana Kapiling Ka.”
The heartfelt track released last November 15 and distributed by the highly revered ABS-CBN’s Star Music is the debut single of guitar playing singer NEON, a discovery being touted by select music insiders as a pop artist to watch out for.
The new record is produced by marketing expert May Manuel, with NEON (a musical director and record producer himself) and his music proficient buddy Chi Capulong taking care of its mixing and mastering.
“Heto na ang panahong pagninilayan ang kahapon/ Sa tuwing humuhuni’ng mga ibon,” expressed the opening line of the song written by composer and music journalist Yugel Losorata.
The music columnist, book author, and recording artist was staying at his mother’s place in Southern California, USA at the time he wrote the piece.
NEON has been busy producing and gigging around since the pandemic restrictions were lifted. Music critics including Atty. Marivic Benedicto, head of music publishing and new media at ABS-CBN Productions, compared his singing prowess to that of the likes of Ariel Rivera, Erik Santos and Daryl Ong.
“Sana Kapiling Ka” is a moving ballad anchored on neatly sentimental lyrics, an embracing tune, a gallant mix of acoustic guitar, violin, and NEON’s sweeping vocals.
Both NEON and Yugel have been friends for quite some time, with the former arranging a previous release by the latter’s band affiliation The Pub Forties where he used to be its chief songwriter playing bass guitar. Their camaraderie led to a collaboration agreement in which Neon would record songs penned by Yugel.
The music scribe wrote “Sana Kapiling Ka” amid his emotional struggle being physically away from his wife and kid after he flew to the US for personal reasons in 2022. After spending several years honing his craft in the Philippine band scene, he is currently making waves in the US, having become the recipient of an Outstanding Journalist and Author award from Filipino-American Press Club of California (FAPCCA), and after he was included among the 75 Most Influential Filipino Americans (MIFA) released by Blogtalk with MJ Racadio for its 2024 edition. His latest book, the music memoir “And For The Record,” was published by Penguin Random House South East Asia last August.
Yugel released his own version of the said song under its original title “Hosanna Kapiling Ka,” which was distributed by the Los Angeles-based NSFU.
NEON’s “Sana Kapiling Ka” is being projected as a Christmas ballad which OFWs, its families, and lovers engaged in long-distance relationships should find relatable. Expect the new voice in town to make the rounds singing the song he gave justice through excellent musicianship, care for a friend, and belief in its message and melody.
Enigma Music City is an immersive celebration of variety and artistic expression that goes beyond a simple music festival. Get ready to get enamored with musical entertainment in all its forms as the city provides guests with experiences they won’t soon forget.
Mark the date: February 8, 2025, at the Bridgetowne, Pasig City. Passes to Enigma Music City will go on sale starting November 29, 2024.
More artists are to be announced.
Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz star as retired CIA agents Emily and Matt in “Back In Action” who are thrust out of their suburban lives and back onto the field in this comedy-action packed film. Plenty of action happens in the clip, with Foxx using a flamethrower on thugs and the pair jumping out of a falling plane. Like Jason Bourne, but with the added bonus that “we remember stuff,” as Foxx jokes in the teaser.
In addition to McKenna Roberts and Rylan Jackson, prominent actors such as Kyle Chandler, Glenn Close, Andrew Scott, Jamie Demetriou, and Andrew Scott are also featured in the cast. Seth Gordon is the director of this film and shared the screenplay with Brendan O’Brien.
The preview depicts Diaz fully embracing the renewed energy, stating, “For the first time in a really long time, I felt alive again. I felt like the bitch again.”
Back In Action premieres January 17, 2025 only on Netflix.
Watch the trailer of Back In Action below.
Cup of Joe is gearing up for a monumental night on February 8, 2025, when they take the stage at the Smart Araneta Coliseum for their highly anticipated ‘Silakbo’ concert. With fans eagerly awaiting the band’s return to the big stage, the excitement reached a fever pitch as soon as tickets went on sale. Within 3 hours, the concert was completely sold out, leaving many fans desperate for a second chance to experience the magic.
Tickets to Cup Of Joe's SILAKBO concert are officially SOLD OUT! Thank you for the overwhelming support, Joewahs!
— Cup of Joe (@cupofjoemusic) November 15, 2024
See you all at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on February 8, 2025!#COJSilakboTheConcert pic.twitter.com/40mMap9dCM
But don’t worry — Cup of Joe heard the call. In response to overwhelming demand, the band has just announced Day 2 of their ‘Silakbo’ concert, giving fans a second shot at seeing them perform live. Tickets for this highly anticipated second show, happening on February 9, will go on sale starting November 30, 2024. With the first round selling out so quickly, you’d better act fast before they’re gone again!
Tickets are priced at:
And the excitement doesn’t end there as Cup of Joe brings a whole new experience for “Silakbo” — they are also dropping their upcoming album just in time for the concert. The album promises to bring a fresh wave of energy, with tracks that reflect the band’s growth and evolving sound. Expect an electrifying mix of powerful ballads, upbeat anthems, and raw emotion—all of which will make their live performance an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, “Silakbo” Album is sure to be the soundtrack of 2025. The concert and the album are a celebration of everything Cup of Joe has become — authentic, dynamic, and deeply connected to their audience. So, don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime event. Get ready for an unforgettable night filled with music, memories, and surprises!
Mark your calendars for November 30 — tickets for Day 2 of the Silakbo concert are going to be in high demand. Be sure to get yours before they disappear, and prepare to rock out to a night of unforgettable tunes from Cup of Joe’s upcoming album.
October 28, 2024, BILIB, the rising seven-member PPOP boy group, has just been awarded the prestigious title of New Male Group Artist of the Year for their debut single “KABANATA” at the 16th PMPC Music Awards, solidifying their status as one of the most exciting acts in the Philippine music industry. This group is one to watch as the talented individuals that make up BILIB show limitless potential and a bright future ahead.
BILIB, derived from their tagline “Becoming, Limitless, Beyond,” is a seven-member PPOP boy group from the streaming company AQ Prime’s music division—AQ Prime Music. Under the guidance and vision of Atty. Mary Melanie “Honey” Quino, Atty. Aldwin Alegre, and Frontrow’s RS Francisco, the group debuted on July 7, 2023, with their captivating and powerful debut single “KABANATA,” which translates to “chapter” in Tagalog.
The group consists of seven talented members: Yukito, Zio, JMAC, RC, Clyde, Carlo, and Rafael. Apart from their striking visuals as a whole, each member brings their own individual charm with the goal of creating a synergy that not only impresses audiences but also inspires many with the messages of their songs. The group makes it their mission to inspire and motivate the youth and the young at heart to pursue their dreams and unlock their potential through their music.
“We are incredibly grateful for this recognition,” said Yukito during the award ceremony. “This award is not just for us but for all our fans who have supported us every step of the way. We promise to continue working hard and delivering music that inspires and uplifts.”
What sets their mission apart is their aim to strengthen and represent a new perspective of dreamers who believe in the power of their own stories. They also seek to motivate a new generation of the PPOP community that supports one another in achieving a common goal of elevating the PPOP genre to attain distinction and recognition, both nationwide and internationally.
No doubt, the group is going places as they’ve performed on significant stages such as the PPOP Fest 2024, PPOP Stage Fête de La Musique, SBtown Music Fiesta 2024, 2024 Miss World Philippines, the PMPC 16th Star Awards, and many more. They were also featured on shows such as GMA All Out Sundays and have appeared on Wish Bus. Showing their promise as a group, they have won awards such as Asia’s Pinnacle Award for Asia’s Rising PPOP Group, 3rd Diamond Excellence for Rising PPOP Group of the Year, 8th PPOP Awards for New PPOP Boy Group of the Year, PPOP Top Male Rapper of the Year (Zio), Asia’s Golden Icon Awards for Outstanding PPOP Boy Group, and New Male Group Artist of the Year at the PMPC 16th Star Awards.
Their latest single “Say What You Wanna Say” was recently released and speaks about standing up for oneself. In fact, this song is the official OST of the recently premiered film “Believe It or Not” by AFA Entertainment. The film centers around themes of bullying, friendship, and family, which many, particularly the youth, can relate to in real life. BILIB is a new name in the industry, but they hope to continue to grow as artists by performing and releasing meaningful songs to inspire their fans, BITUIN, and rise as stars that Filipinos will be proud of.
Excited moviegoers and some of the country’s influencers packed the SM Aura IMAX for the premiere of the most anticipated movie of the year – WICKED, which has a theme of Pink and Green graced the green carpet.
“Wicked,” based on the popular Broadway musical, is a retelling of the classic “The Wizard of Oz” from the perspective of the witches of Oz, primarily focusing on Elphaba (Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda (Good Witch). It is the first of two cinematic adaptations of Stephen Schwartz and Holzman’s stage musical of the same name, which was partially based on Gregory Maguire’s 1995 book. The film adaptation has sparked considerable anticipation, given the musical’s profound themes of friendship, identity, and the nature of good and evil. It explores the complex relationship between Elphaba and Glinda as they navigate their opposing ideologies and destinies. It delves into themes of social injustice, acceptance, and the grey areas of morality, challenging the black-and-white notions of good and evil. The casting has been a hot topic, with lead roles often speculated upon.
Ariana Grande plays the role of Glinda, or, as she said, “Ga-linda,” in the film adaptation of “Wicked.” Glinda, also known as the Good Witch, is a character known for her charm, vibrancy, and a journey of personal growth throughout the story. Grande’s casting has generated significant excitement due to her vocal prowess and acting capabilities, which also infused Glinda with a modern flair.
Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba in the highly anticipated Wicked movie has received widespread acclaim from early screenings. Known for her powerhouse vocals, Erivo delivers a breathtaking performance, particularly in songs like “The Wizard and I,” where her unique take on Elphaba shines through.
The performances, as expected, are strong, drawing from the musical’s successful theatrical roots with emotional depth, especially in Elphaba’s character arc. Every character and cast member showcased their vocal prowess throughout the entire movie.
With a rich narrative, compelling characters, and beloved music, “Wicked” has resonated with both fans of the musical and new audiences. It has a fresh perspective on a well-known tale while exploring deeper emotional and moral questions. In summary, “Wicked” promises to be a visually captivating and thought-provoking adaptation that honors its Broadway origins while making a mark as a film.
Each character pays homage to the individuals who played Glinda and Elphaba, and as a delightful surprise, Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel appeared in the movie! Ariana and Cynthia’s standout performances balance their musical talent with the emotional nuances of their characters. They perfectly embodied these characters!
The film stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, with Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Marissa Bode, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum in supporting roles. Don’t miss this magical movie event of the year, now showing in over 200 cinemas nationwide.
Thank you SM Supermalls and Universal Pictures Philippines for the invitation.
Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), in partnership with Viu, is bringing subscribers an unforgettable K-Pop experience with the highly anticipated Philippine leg of the Stray Kids World Tour <dominATE BULACAN> on Nov. 23, Saturday at the Philippine Arena.
As an exclusive perk, Smart has delighted lucky subscribers with the chance to redeem concert tickets by simply exchanging their points on the Smart App.
Fan experiences at the Smart Live booth
To make the event even more memorable for Stray Kids’ fandom known as “STAY”,
Smart is also mounting a Smart Live booth inside the arena filled with exciting activities that allow them to take home premium items.
Fans can also hang out at the booth and make the most of its Instagram-worthy corners for instant photo souvenirs, or charge their smartphones for free to ensure they have enough battery throughout the concert.
Moreover, subscribers can rely on Smart’s beefed-up network coverage in the arena, enabling them to post and share photos and videos of their favorite concert moments in real time.
To cover all their connectivity needs, Smart Prepaid customers can also register to the upgraded Power All 99, which now includes 10 GB of open-access data, unlimited access to their choice of apps, and unlimited calls and texts to all networks.
To avail of Power All 99, subscribers can log into the Smart App or their preferred mobile wallet app, dial*123# on their smartphone, or top up at convenience stores and accredited retailers nationwide.
Self-Made K-Pop Icons
Formed by JYP Entertainment through a survival show, Stray Kids is composed of eight members—Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, HAN, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N — who officially debuted on March 25, 2018 with their mini album, I am NOT.
The group drew global attention with their powerful and original sound, which blends hip-hop, EDM, and lyrics that express rebellion and freedom.
Stray Kids received numerous accolades, including Album of the Year at the 2022 Asia Artist Awards, Most Popular Group at the 2022 Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA), Best K-Pop at the 2023 Video Music Awards (VMA), Top K-Pop Album at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, and K-POP Album of the Year at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Albums like NOEASY, ODDINARY, MAXIDENT, 5-STAR, ROCK-STAR, and ATE have achieved top positions on global charts, including the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard 200.
As such, fans attending the concert can look forward to an extraordinary showcase of Stray Kids’ biggest hits and new tracks from their latest album, paired with stunning visuals and captivating performances.
Catch Stray Kids live!
Tickets are still available at https://qrco.de/SKZ-PH.
Stay updated on Smart Live promos and concert news by following Smart’s official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube.