NIKI: Buzz World Tour in Manila on February 11 & 12, 2025 at the Mall of Asia Arena and on March 1, 2025 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum presented by Live Nation Philippines
NIKI Live in Manila Ticket Prices:
Feb 11 & 12 – SM Mall of Asia Arena
Tickets available at smtickets.com and SM Tickets outlets
March 1 – Smart Araneta Coliseum
Tickets available at ticketnet.com.ph and TicketNet outlet
Get ready to mark your calendars because WATERBOMB MANILA 2025 is set to make its debut on the Philippine concert stage on February 22 and 23 at the Quirino Grandstand, promising an electrifying lineup that will leave music lovers buzzing with excitement. A blend of K-Pop, K-Hiphop, and EDM will make this festival one of the most sought-after events for concertgoers, particularly those who thrive on high-energy performances and the latest in contemporary music trends.
Whether you’re an ardent follower of K-Pop, a dedicated K-Hiphop fan, or someone who can’t get enough of EDM’s pulsating beats, the inaugural edition in Manila is designed to cater to your musical cravings.
The Lineup: A Star-Studded Affair
This year’s festival features some of the biggest names and exciting up-and-coming artists from the K-Pop, K-Hiphop, and EDM scenes. From powerhouses in the music industry to rising stars, prepare to be entranced by their dynamic performances, genre-blending sound, and charismatic presence.
Experience the Magic of Music Together
WATERBOMB MANILA 2025 is more than just a concert; it’s an immersion into a world where fans can connect through their shared love for music. With exciting performances, immersive experiences, and a vibrant atmosphere, the festival promises memories that last a lifetime.
Stay tuned for further announcements.
Spreading the Love on High
After the old year activities that welcomed the New Year is done and all the festivities have died down, it probably seems fitting that the New Year is ushered in by the “Love Month” of February where Valentine’s Day is the first event to be celebrated in the hopes that perhaps the love will spread and last for the rest of the year.
This February 15, 2025 Saturday, a celebration of Love will be the main theme of the “LOVE FEST @ HACIENDA ISABELLA” off Tagaytay . Headlining this out-of-town celebration is Pop Diva Ms. KUH LEDESMA together with her daughter ISABELLA, Theater Actor JACK SALUD, up and coming singer THOR with Special Guest MANUEL ESCUETA. The event will start off with Dinner at 6 pm to be followed by the Musical Performances at 8pm and snacks after the concert.
Concert goers can stay overnight and share a delightful breakfast with Kuh
KUH LEDESMA and her daughter Isabella are already quite familiar figures to a lot of people but the 3 men who are also part of the show’s cast are not entirely known to the public, not yet anyway. But it’s no longer surprising to some that it is Kuh’s personal crusade to introduce and help out Filipino artists as part of her I LOVE OPM Advocacy.
Jack Salud is a Theater Actor who as part of his resumè have performed in various Musicals and Straight plays for Repertory Philippines. Some of his theater credits include Jekyll & Hyde, The Man of La Mancha, Little Women, The Taming of the Shrew, I Love My Wife and Zorba. Jack is also a 3-time Aliw Award nominee for Best Classical Singer for 3 Consecutive years from 2014 to 2016.
Wanting to be known simply as THOR, Thor started singing publicly in Malls and Train Stations in order to help raise funds for sick and underprivileged street children. Thor is an alumni and Grand Finalist of Tawag ng Tanghalan Season 8. He also participated The Voice Teen Philippines. Originally born in California USA, Thor moved to the Philippines when he was 4 years old. He got discovered and successfully became a child star for ABS CBN and GMA 7. His teleserye credits include Angelito, Batang Ama and Second Chances and was a regular on the award-winning kids show Goin’ Bulilit. Thor is presently enrolled as a Senior Student at La Salle Greenhills and will soon be enrolling on a Musicology scholarship at the University of Sto. Tomas.
Manuel Escueta (a.k.a. Efren Escueta) was discovered by Kuh herself when she was invited to judge in a Singing Competition where Manuel was one of the grand finalists. And although Manuel did not win the Grand Prize, Manuel’s performance so impressed the country’s Pop Diva that when the opportune time came she invited Manuel to be part of her show. When Manuel isn’t busy shuttling from one singing competition to another and taking care of his 3 children, he would busy himself with his online buy and sell business in order to augment the family income that his wife sends back home as an OFW in Bangladesh. Manuel’s hopes and wish is that he may one day be able to snag a record deal that would make him as successful as his singing idols Basil Valdez, Martin Nievera and Gary Valenciano. But Manuel is “keeping it real” and he knows that real success does not come overnight. He knows he still needs to do a lot of hard work coupled with lots of good breaks like the one that Ms. Kuh Ledesma has given to him in order for him to realize his dreams. “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” that’s why he’s “keeping his feet on the ground while reaching for his shining stars”
LOVE FEST @ HACIENDA ISABELLA happens on February 15 Saturday at Hacienda Isabella in Tagaytay City. The Romantic Event will feature the one and only Ms. KUH LEDESMA, ISABELLA, JACK SALUD and THOR with Special Guest MANUEL ESCUETA. Musical Direction is by Kettle Mata together with his live band. Be part of the Love Fest and spread the Love.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND TICKET RESERVATION PLEASE CALL 0960 8850288 and 0920 2868895
BINIVerse World Tour 2025 at the Philippine Arena on February 15, 2025, 5pm-9pm!
After their concert at the Philippine Arena, BINI will go on a World Tour with stops in Singapore, Dubai, London and USA.
BINIVerse at Philippine Arena Ticket Prices:
VIP SEATED W/ SOUNDCHECK – P11,800
LOWERBOX A PREMIUM – P9,800
LOWERBOX A REGULAR – P8,800
LOWERBOX B PREMIUM – P7,800
LOWERBOX B REGULAR – P6,800
UPPER BOX A – P5,800
UPPER BOX B – P3,800
UPPER BOX C – P2,800
GEN AD – P1,800
*Plus Ticket Service charge
Tickets available at Ticketnet Outlets or online at ticketnet.com.ph and pulptickets.com
Lola Amour continues to expand their global footprint with the release of “Maria, ” a collaboration with Australian artist Oliver Cronin. This track not only showcases their evolving sound but also marks a significant milestone in the band’s international journey as they strengthen their presence in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Written at a music camp in Malaysia, “Maria” blends a classic boyband ballad with a bold saxophone solo, capturing the unique synergy between Lola Amour and Oliver Cronin. The song tells the story of Oliver and Lola Amour’s lead singer Pio, both blindly in love with Maria, unaware of her secret betrayal. “Working with the Lola Amour boys was an incredible experience. Their 7-piece dynamic brought something fresh and magical to ‘Maria, ’ creating a perfect blend of our worlds, ” says Oliver Cronin.
‘Maria’ is one of the nine tracks in the deluxe edition of Oliver Cronin’s EP ‘Edge of Paradise’ released under Warner Music Australia, which came out last January 30th. “As you can probably tell by the name, we’re one step closer to my debut album ‘Paradise’ . The last few years have been an absolute rollercoaster and I haven’t exactly felt in the right headspace to finish this album, but I’ve grown a lot and as time goes on I feel more and more comfortable and confident in the music and what paradise looks and sounds like for me. ” Oliver adds. With over 39.1 million combined streams, 1M TikTok followers, 412K Instagram followers, and 500K monthly listeners on Spotify alone, it’s safe to say that Oliver Cronin has all ears turned towards him right now.
Lola Amour’s international appeal is reflected in their recent Spotify streaming growth. In the last 28 days, Indonesia ranks as their #2 market with 108,000 listeners, followed by the United States (92,000 listeners), Canada (60,000 listeners), and Australia (28,000 listeners). This growth highlights the band’s rising influence in key global markets.
“Maria” is just the beginning of Lola Amour’s 2025 international collaborations, aligning with their goal to strengthen their presence across Southeast Asia. Kicking off their global journey, they had the opportunity to share the stage with Coldplay, gaining valuable insights into stage dynamics and audience engagement. Building on this momentum, the band has been expanding their reach through key performances at international festivals, including the Trifecta Music Festival in Singapore and the Hush Festival in Macau. Late last year, they participated in multiple international songwriting camps, including one in Malaysia with renowned producer Hyuk Shin of 153 Joombas, where they refined their songwriting skills and explored new creative approaches.
Now, Lola Amour is ready to bring their elevated performance, shaped by these experiences, to audiences around the world. With these milestones paving the way, Lola Amour is gearing up for their new music, set to showcase their versatility and connect with an even wider global audience.
Out now, rising Japanese boy band ONE OR EIGHT join forces with one of Korean-American rap’s elites, pH-1, for an energetic remix of “KAWASAKI”. In this fresh new iteration, the H1GHR music rapper delivers his hard-edged raps over powerful and danceable beats, unlocking new possibilities for the track.
The core theme of the track, “All or Nothing”, draws inspiration from the band’s name ONE OR EIGHT. It vividly portrays the bold pursuit of challenges and the fearless determination to seize success through one’s own efforts. The track retains the essence of the original Jersey Club sound while emphasising trap elements, resulting in a more rhythmic and energetic beat, with pH-1’s delicate yet powerful verses adding depth and determination, leaving a lasting emotional impact.
pH-1, a founding member of H1GHR MUSIC – alongside Jay Park and Cha Cha Malone – is globally recognized for his melodic rap and profound lyrics. With collaborations including UMI, P-Lo, and TXT, as well as his sold out ‘ABOUT DAMN TIME’ solo world tour under his belt, pH-1 brings his versatile career and vibrant energy to this new remix.
“When I first heard ‘KAWASAKI’, I felt like, “omg, i’m gonna spit some things on this track right away.” I think each member of ONE OR EIGHT raps with natural swag that’s genuine, and so I’m excited to be part of this track as an artist,” pH-1 shares of the collaboration.
Before its official debut, the performance video for “KAWASAKI” made waves by surpassing 10 million views on YouTube in nearly one week. Following their debut, the track broke new records as they teamed up with legendary rapper Big Sean on a dynamic remix of “KAWASAKI”. Now, the journey continues with a refreshed version featuring Korean-American rapper pH-1, with more exciting collaborations with Asian artists to come in the following weeks.
Stream “KAWASAKI (with pH-1)” here:
oneoreight.lnk.to/kwskph1
Fans can head to “This Is Taylor Swift” playlist on Spotify for the perfect prelude to this one-of-a-kind Spotify Swiftie experience.
Swifties across Asia are in for a treat! Spotify is bringing the magic of Taylor Swift’s music to Jakarta, Manila, and Seoul with “This Is Taylor Swift. A Spotify Playlist Experience,” an immersive exhibition designed to bring Swifties together in celebration of their favorite artist.
Designed with Swifties in mind, the experience is a ‘love letter’ to what it means to be a Taylor Swift fan.
Bringing Spotify’s “This Is Taylor Swift” playlist to life, every element of the experience has been created to reflect the evolution of Taylor’s artistry. Whether reliving her iconic eras, spotting familiar motifs, or taking home a piece of the experience, this event is designed for Asian Swifties to be celebrated and connected to the music they love.
Here’s what fans can expect:
A global icon, Taylor Swift’s impact in Indonesia, the Philippines, and South Korea is undeniable. In addition to being named Spotify’s 2024 Wrapped Global Top Artist for the second year running, with over 26.6 billion streams worldwide, she was also the 2024 Wrapped Top International Artist in all three countries.
“We’re excited to bring ‘This Is Taylor Swift. A Spotify Playlist Experience’ to Asia. It represents Spotify’s commitment to connecting Asian fans with global superstars like Taylor Swift and creating innovative, interactive experiences that deepen the connection between artists and their fans. Swifties are some of the most passionate fans in the world and this experiential event is a celebration of them – allowing them to connect through their shared love of Taylor,” said Gautam Talwar, Spotify General Manager for Asia Pacific.
“This Is Taylor Swift. A Spotify Playlist Experience” is happening in Manila on February 21-23, 2025. For more updates, head to @spotifyph on socials.
The hit survival reality competition show Physical: 100, which dominated Netflix’s Global Top 10 TV Series (Non-English) rankings for two years in a row, is back with a monumental twist. Now titled Physical: Asia and premiering in the fourth quarter of this year, the series scales up its quest for the ultimate physique beyond individual matchups — unleashing a full-blown national showdown where pride, survival, and teamwork collide.
From “100” to “Asia”
In previous seasons, 100 elite competitors fought to outlast each other in a grueling individual tournament. This time, Physical: Asia transforms the battleground into a high-stakes team competition featuring top-tier athletes representing their respective countries. If a single teammate falls, the entire squad is eliminated — raising the stakes and drama to unprecedented heights.
A legendary contender enters the ring
Courtesy of Netflix
In a first for the franchise, living boxing legend Manny Pacquiao joins Physical: Asia as the Philippine representative. Pacquiao, revered worldwide as the only boxer in history to acquire titles in eight weight divisions, brings his formidable talent and indomitable spirit to this team-based clash of champions. His participation signals the show’s expanded ambition: a fierce face-off among Asia’s finest, with national pride on the line.
Bigger stage, higher stakes
Season after season, Physical: 100 has captivated viewers around the globe, blazing a trail as Netflix’s first Korean unscripted series to clinch the top spot on the Global Top 10 (Non-English) list. With the newly minted Physical: Asia, the spectacle grows even bigger. Competitors — regardless of age, gender, or weight class — will unite under their national flags for the toughest, most pulse-pounding missions yet.
Catch up on the first two seasons of Physical: 100, now streaming on Netflix. Stay tuned for more updates on Physical: Asia — the ultimate test of teamwork, endurance, and raw physical power.
![JAY B to Turn the Heat Up in Manila with [TAPE:RE LOAD] Concert](https://www.philippineconcerts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GgB3CWAbsAAvVWd-1.jpg)
Prepare yourself for a night to remember as K-pop artist Jay B, the talented leader of the renowned group GOT7, performs in Manila with his [TAPE: RE LOAD] concert! The SMX Convention Center in Pasay City is scheduled to host the concert on March 2, 2025.
Jay B has captivated audiences all over the world with his distinct sound and artistic vision ever since he started his solo career. Archive 1: [ROAD RUNNER], his debut full album, demonstrates a blend of pop and R&B, demonstrating his development as a musician and storyteller. The album’s title tune, “Crash,” was warmly received and cemented Jay B’s status as a multifaceted musician who can transcend musical borders.
Jay B’s dedication to his fans is demonstrated by the [TAPE:RE LOAD] concert series, which honors his creative journey. Every show on this tour is painstakingly designed to provide an immersive experience, complete with breathtaking scenery, elaborate choreography, and a set list full of both his solo and GOT7 hits. The first stop on the scheduled Asia tour is Manila, where Jay B will perform songs from his new album [ROAD RUNNER] for the first time. His performance is expected to leave fans wanting more.
Don’t pass up the opportunity to see Jay B perform live in Manila at his [TAPE:RE LOAD] show. The performance experience also offers fans the chance to get up close and personal with Jay B through exclusive photo opportunities, a goodbye session, and a soundcheck. You can purchase tickets via wishusluck.helixpay.ph. Regardless of your level of familiarity with Jay B’s music, this performance is sure to be an unforgettable event that will stay with fans long after the last note is played.
Jay B Concert [TAPE:RE LOAD] in Manila is brought to life by Mauve Company, NumberK, Wish Us Luck Entertainment PH, and Neverland Entertainment.
Happening just after Valentine’s Day, this exclusive gathering is a perfect celebration of love, connection, and unforgettable moments.
Rising to fame through the hit Japanese Netflix reality dating show “The Boyfriend,” which premiered in 2024, Dai and Shun quickly captured audiences’ hearts. Viewers watched as they overcame challenges and transformed their on-screen chemistry into a beautiful relationship. Since confirming their romance in a riveting reunion episode, the couple has kept fans updated about their journey through their popular YouTube channel, DaiShun, where they share vlogs and insights into their daily lives. As their online presence continues to flourish, their heartfelt interactions resonate with a rapidly growing fanbase.
This fan signing event aligns perfectly with the spirit of Valentine’s Day, providing an intimate setting where fans can gather to share stories of love and admiration for Dai & Shun. Attendees can look forward to a heartwarming atmosphere filled with laughter, connection, and the opportunity to engage directly with the couple.
Dai and Shun are eager to connect with their fans, promising an unforgettable experience that includes special activities, exclusive content, and memorable interactions.
Fans are encouraged to secure their spots for this exclusive event and join DaiShun for a day to remember. Fansigning Pass & Wish Top Up are available at https://bit.ly/3CkmUyx while Luck Pass is available at https://bit.ly/42U2Y0j, and attendees can look forward to an intimate and heartwarming experience with the couple. Whether you have followed their journey from the beginning or are newly acquainted with their story, this event promises to be a celebration of love, laughter, and the magic of Valentine’s season.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this special occasion with DaiShun in Manila. Let’s make this Valentine’s Day one for the books, filled with love and cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Dai & Shun Valentine’s Fan Signing in Manila 2025 is proudly organized by Wish Us Luck Entertainment, APlan, New Evidence, and The Works.
Ready for a fusion of splash and high energy in the Philippines’ National Capital Region. The global water music Waterbomb Manila 2025 is bringing its new signature, combining K-pop, hip-hop, and Electronic Dance Music (EDM).
Waterbomb Music Festival is a concert space for the global bubble to enjoy the mix of summer, music, and dance. Historically speaking, this water music festival originated in the Republic of Korea in 2015.
The Waterbomb Music Festival has gained global attention, expanding its rave stream to countries like the Southeast Asian region (the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam), the United States of America (USA), the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Japan, and China.
The festival-goers may fully experience the thrilling fusion of K-music performances, interactive activities, and a vibrant atmosphere that keeps attendees cool and entertained throughout the day.
The two-day event features top-tier Korean music artists, set to take the stage on February 22 and 23 at Quirino Grandstand, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
February 22nd: The first day is comprised of powerhouse performers, featuring DYNAMIC DUO, EPIK HIGH, Kim Jong Kook, Chanyeol, Baekho, Hwasa, B.I, Kwon Eun Bi, Lee Chae Yeon, STAYC, RAIDEN, ZB & ATION, DJ Roots, J.E.B, Imlay, Apro, and Thea Astley.
February 23rd: Day two continues the high-energy momentum with an equally impressive lineup. Get ready for Kang Daniel, Skull & Haha, Sulreggae, Reddy, Yang Se Chan, Siena Girls, Insidecore, Viviz, Gray, Sunmi, Oh My Girl, Bambam, U-Kwon, Hyolyn, Jessi, Mar Vista, Neo & Aster, 2SPADE, Kenet, Bilib & Zela.
With these phenomenal headliners of K-artists, this waterbomb festival will surely be a big wave in history.
For the latest updates, stay tuned to Waterbomb’s official channels.
Today, Netflix Philippines has unveiled three titles for its local lineup that prove 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for Filipino films on the platform. Setting the stage for an exciting year of Filipino entertainment are Sosyal Climbers, One Hit Wonder, and Kontrabida Academy.
SOSYAL CLIMBERS | FEBRUARY 27
Cast: Maris Racal, Anthony Jennings
Description: Get ready to have your hearts (and wallets!) stolen by hustler couple Jessa and Ray! #NextonNetflix
Logline: After being thrown out of their apartment, a newlywed couple secretly stays in an abandoned house in an exclusive subdivision, only to be mistaken as the real owners and forcing them to pretend to be rich themselves.
ONE HIT WONDER COMING SOON
Cast: Sue Ramirez, Khalil Ramos
Description: Everybody wins in love… and music 🎶💞 #NextonNetflix
KONTRABIDA ACADEMY COMING SOON
Cast: Eugene Domingo, Barbie Forteza
Description: Bida or kontrabida? Guess you’ll have to find out 😉🎭 #NextonNetflix
These releases are part of a broader push by Netflix to enrich its catalog with local content, providing viewers with diverse storytelling from the Philippines. Whether you’re into romance, comedy, or drama, these films are set to cater to a wide array of tastes, ensuring that Filipino entertainment continues to shine on the global stage.
So mark your calendars for March 29, 2025, because TAEYEON will once again dazzle S♡NEs with her exceptional voice and flair at the SM Mall of Asia Arena for the TAEYEON CONCERT – The TENSE in MANILA!
Since her debut in 2007 as the main vocalist and leader of the legendary K-Pop group Girls’ Generation (also known as SNSD), TAEYEON has captivated global audiences with her powerful, versatile vocals and undeniable stage presence. Not long after her group debut, TAEYEON also soared as a drama soundtrack sensation, delivering soulful and expressive hits like “Can You Hear Me” for Beethoven Virus, “Missing You Like Crazy” for the King 2 Hearts, and “All With You” for Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, among others. TAEYEON’s musical journey didn’t stop there.
Her contributions to various sub-units have added layers to her artistry. As part of SM the Ballad in 2010, she helped create melodic ballads that became fan favorites. Her work with Girls’ Generation-TTS in 2012, alongside Tiffany and Seohyun, delivered heartfelt tunes that were both catchy and meaningful. The powerful combination of TAEYEON, Sunny, Hyoyeon, Yuri, and Yuna in Girls’ Generation-Oh! GG in 2018 brought exciting energy to the group, while the groundbreaking Girls on Top in 2021 and GOT the Beat in 2022, featuring TAEYEON alongside some of SM Entertainment’s most talented female artists.
These collaborations have not only gifted fans with memorable songs, it also allowed TAEYEON to explore different genres, from melodic ballads to powerful dance-based performances. This extensive musical exploration has further solidified her status as one of the most versatile and prominent female artists in the K-Pop industry.
After 8 successful years as the frontwoman of Girls’ Generation, TAEYEON embarked on her highly anticipated solo career in 2015 with the mini album “I”, instantly topping various music charts and earning her multiple awards, including “Best Female Artist” at the 2015 Mnet Asian Music Awards and a Golden Disc Award in the Digital category for “I”. Her solo career continued to soar with acclaimed albums and EPs like “My Voice” and “INVU”, as well as hit singles like “Fine”, “11:11”, and “Weekend”. Among her many accolades, in 2024, The Recording Academy (also known as the Grammy Awards) named her as one of the 15 inspiring K-Pop soloists, a testament to her boundless talent and global impact.
TAEYEON continues to dazzle the world with her talent and undeniable musical prowess. Her latest EPs “To.X” and “Letter to Myself”, released in November 2023 and November 2024 respectively, have both been highly successful. Just like her previous comebacks, these masterpieces have claimed the No. 1 spot on the Bugs real-time charts in Korea as well as the No. 1 spot on the iTunes Top Albums charts in multiple regions immediately after their release. Both EPs have also dominated digital album sales charts on different music platforms. With each passing year, TAEYEON’s reputation as a ‘trusted and beloved vocalist’ only grows stronger, enchanting fans with her voice and heartwarming performances.
No doubt, TAEYEON is ready for her sixth solo concert and TAEYEON CONCERT – The TENSE tour that is set to kick off on March 7-9, 2025, in Seoul. After two years since her last concert, S♡NEs have waited for this moment as her 3-night show in Seoul has all been sold out. With the Manila leg approaching, PH S♡NEs should gear up to spark their weekend and feel so fine on what promises to be a lovely night.
The exclusive S♡NE MEMBERSHIP PRESALE starts on February 22, 2025, from 10AM to 10PM (PHT), exclusively on smtickets.com. This presale gives dedicated fans the chance to secure their spots before tickets go on general sale. For those who miss the presale, the GENERAL ONSALE will begin on February 23, 2025, at 12PM (PHT), at all SM Tickets outlets and on smtickets.com.
TICKET PRICES:
*ticketing charges apply.
PH S♡NEs, this is your time to draw your moment with TAEYEON! She is ready to make your 11:11 wishes come true and captivate you with her performances. See you all on March 29, 2025, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena for the TAEYEON CONCERT – The TENSE in MANILA!
This show is proudly brought to you by SM Entertainment, CJ Entertainment, and PULP Live World.
Five-piece “harana pop” outfit Paham has dropped their self-titled debut album today via Sony Music Entertainment and Off The Record. The 12-track record invites listeners into a whimsical journey of love, resilience, and hope, woven together with themes that speak directly to the heart.
From the excitement of finding someone special to the trials that test its endurance, Paham captures the raw emotions and uncertainties of modern relationships. Each track is a heartfelt chapter in a larger narrative, navigating the complications and complexities of life and romance in the 21st century.
“The inspiration behind Paham comes from our personal experiences,” the band shares in a collective statement. “We wanted to offer listeners a window into our journey, to make them see the world through our eyes, and to share our story as Paham.”
From tender ballads to anthemic pop-rock numbers, Paham is a personal letter set to music: straightforward yet brimming with sincere emotions. Shiny on the surface but layered with depth, the album effectively captures the zeitgeist of today, complemented by some of the strongest, most infectious melodies this side of contemporary pop.
“Our songwriting process evolves alongside cultural shifts,” the band explains. “We stay attuned to the conversations people are having, so when we release music, our audience can truly connect with it. It’s a challenge for us to maintain consistency, as we want every track to offer something unique in sound and emotion.”
At its core, the album serves as a refuge for anyone who feels lost and vulnerable. “We want our songs to speak to listeners, no matter what they’re feeling—whether it’s sadness, insecurity, or moments of doubt. Our music is for everyone, wherever they are in their own emotional journey.”
One of the standout tracks on Paham is the reimagined version of the band’s viral hit “Hiraya,” now retitled “Hiraya (Haharanahin Kita).” The new rendition features a subtle orchestral arrangement that adds an elegant touch to the song, elevating it to a more romantic, wedding-worthy ballad.
“We wanted to give a more refined, graceful take on the song that felt like a celebration of love,” Paham explains. “It’s our way of making the song even more romantic and timeless.”
With over two million streams on Spotify and more than 11,000 videos shared on TikTok and Instagram, “Hiraya” has become an unstoppable anthem of love and longing for a lot of music fans.
Paham, the debut album from the band of the same name, is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment and Off The Record.
Cebuana singer-songwriter Jolianne releases her debut EP, Plain Girl, via Sony Music Entertainment and Careless Music.
Written between the ages of 16 and 20, the coming-of-age record captures the transformative period of a young woman navigating the complexities of teenage life, embracing both the charm and chaos of self-discovery. It also explores the trials, triumphs, and messiness of stepping into adulthood while confronting the uncertainties of love, identity, and independence.
Drawing from her own experiences as she graduated from high school, moved to a new city, and began her journey as an artist, Plain Girl serves as a celebration of self-discovery. The EP blends R&B-infused pop with a sense of whimsical nostalgia, revealing the beauty of her formative years.
“My life flipped entirely,” admits the Halfway There act. “I awkwardly stumbled my way through my first encounters with emotions and challenges I’d never faced before. Those years were as much about growing as a person as they were about developing as an artist. It was a time of trial and error, giving myself the permission to fail and figure things out along the way. Or, as the saying goes: “f*** around, find out.”
The album, which Jolianne describes as a “story of self-discovery,” finds her thrust into a larger, more complicated world. She adds, “It’s about a girl who has lived in her own bubble, untouched by the complexities of life and love, suddenly finding herself on the brink of transformation. Through these songs, I wanted to capture the innocence and uncertainty of taking those first steps into a bigger, more complicated world—opening her heart to love, embracing vulnerability, and navigating emotions she’s never felt before. It’s a story of growth, self-discovery, and the beauty of experiencing the unknown, all through the eyes of someone who is just starting to find her place in it all.”
Plain Girl (EP) showcases Jolianne’s ability to seamlessly integrate pop sensibilities with a modern R&B vibe while incorporating elements of Disney whimsy. The introspective project features an all-star roster of producers and collaborators, including JGreg for “Maybe I’m Yours” and “Afterthought,” RJ Pineda for the self-titled track, and “I’ll Be Somebody You Want,” jonahbru as well for “Plain Girl” and De’La for “Let Me Down Easy,” and Isagani Palabyab for “Are You Happy Now (Take One).”
Despite the diversity in production, Jolianne and her team successfully maintained a cohesive artistic vision throughout the record. “Thankfully, they all made sure to put my artistic identity at the forefront, and because I had worked with them previously, they already had a strong understanding of my vision,” the rising Careless Music star shares. “Collaborating with such a diverse group of producers was refreshing. Each brought their unique takes to the table, and it was so inspiring to dive into their creative worlds, pick their brains, and witness their process in real-time.”
The lead single, “Let Me Down Easy” is a soulful piano-driven ballad highlighting Jolianne’s remarkable vocal prowess. Inspired by the emotional complexity of an unfulfilled relationship, the song essays the feeling of witnessing a relationship fade while grappling with the uncertainty of where things stand.
Jolianne reveals, “At its core, it’s a plea for closure and kindness: If you’re gon’ let me down, then let me down easy, asking for a gentle goodbye when love feels like it’s coming to an end. This, I wrote about a boy I never even dated. Even ‘situationship’ is too big a word for what we had. It was simply a ‘situation,’ but I’m a girl with big feelings, so I got a song out of it anyway.”
Jolianne’s debut EP, Plain Girl is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The live performance video of “Let Me Down Easy” drops at 8 pm on Jolianne’s official YouTube channel.