Manila, get ready to reignite the flame of your emo days! John Vesely, the mastermind behind the one-man band SECONDHAND SERENADE, is making his triumphant return to Manila.
The SECONDHAND SERENADE ASIA TOUR 2024 LIVE IN MANILA is scheduled for August 30, 2024, at the New Frontier Theater, and it promises to be a night brimming with nostalgia and raw emotion.
Because tonight will be the night that I will fall for you, over agaaainโฆ If these lyrics resonate with your soul and bring back memories of late-night listening sessions, then youโre in for a treat. For fans who have spent countless hours with “Fall For You” on loop, dreaming with “Your Call,” or finding comfort in “Vulnerable,” this concert is a dream come true. John Veselyโs voice and acoustic melodies have been the soundtrack to many of our lives, capturing the highs and lows of love and heartache.
In February 2024, John Vesely set social media ablaze by hinting at his Manila comeback on Instagram. He shared a throwback music video of his iconic song “Your Call,” sparking a flood of nostalgic comments. One fan eagerly wrote, โVisit the Philippines, John!โ and Vesely’s reply, โThis summer,โ accompanied by smiley emojis, sent waves of excitement through his dedicated fanbase. And now, after more than a decade since his last performance in Manila in 2012, heโs ready to reconnect with his Filipino fans who have cherished his music for years.
SECONDHAND SERENADE began as John Veselyโs solo project in Menlo Park, CA, in the early 2000s. With a self-produced acoustic album and a knack for building a loyal fanbase through MySpace, Vesely became the number one unsigned artist on the platform, leading to his multi-platinum success. Songs like “Fall For You” became anthems for the emo and indie scenes, striking a chord with listeners worldwide.
As we anticipate SECONDHAND SERENADEโs performance, we’re reminded of the simplicity and power of his music. The acoustic strums and earnest lyrics have a way of speaking directly to our souls, inviting us to reflect on our own experiences of love and loss. Pretty sure fans would agree that Vesely’s songs are a testament to the enduring power of honest storytelling in music.
Tickets for this highly anticipated show will be available starting June 29, 2024, at 12PM PH Time through Ticketnet outlets and online at ticketnet.com.ph.
TICKET PRICES:
VVIP with Meet & Greet โ Php10,000
VIP A โ Php7,500
VIP B โ Php5,500
VIP C โ Php4,500
LOGE โ Php5,000
BALCONY โ Php2,500
*Ticketing charges apply.
Donโt miss out on this chance to hear and jam at SECONDHAND SERENADE ASIA TOUR 2024 LIVE IN MANILA on August 30, 2024, at the New Frontier Theater. Mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and prepare yourself for an evening that promises to be as emotional and unforgettable as the songs that have defined our youth. This is your chance to relive those cherished memories and create new ones with John Veselyโs heartfelt performance. Trust us, you wonโt want to miss it.
This show is powered by SKESH Entertainment and PULP Live World.
For more information and updates, follow PULP Live World on social media and stay tuned for the latest announcements.
Netflix’s One Piece will soon embark on its second season. Thus, more well-known faces will appear to life on our screens. Netflix has revealed a number of new casting announcements for the second season of the live-action One Piece series. What new cast members will we meet on the high seas, though? Here are the new live-action characters that the actors joining the cast of One Piece season two will be playing, ranging from Smoker to Baroque Works Agents to everyone else in between.
Courtesy of Netflix
Daniel Lasker (Raised by Wolves) as Mr 9 Camrus Johnson (Batwoman) as Mr. 5 Jazzara Jaslyn (Warrior) as Miss Valentine David Dastmalchian (Late Night With The Devil) as Mr. 3
Courtesy of Netflix
Werner Coetser (Getroud met rugby) as Dorry Brendan Murray (Raised by Wolves) as Brogy Clive Russell (Game of Thrones) as Crocus
Courtesy of Netflix
Callum Kerr (Monarch) as Smoker Julia Rehwald (Star Wars Young Jedi Adventures) as Tashigi Rob Colletti (The Many Saints of Newark) as Wapol Ty Keogh (24 Hours To Live) as Dalton
The addition of new characters and cast members for Season 2 will surely bring fresh energy and perspectives to the series. It is crucial for the adaptation to stay true to the essence of the original characters while offering a unique take on them. Fans are always eager to see their favorite characters interpreted in new ways by talented actors.
The casting process for a show like “One Piece” must be a rigorous one, as the characters are so iconic and beloved by fans. The actors chosen to portray these characters need to not only resemble them physically but also capture their essence and personalities. A strong cast can elevate the source material and bring a new dimension to the live-action adaptation.
As more details are revealed about the new characters and cast members for Season 2 of the “One Piece” live-action series, fans will undoubtedly have mixed reactions. Some may be excited to see their favorite characters come to life, while others may have reservations about the casting choices. It’s important for fans to keep an open mind and give the new cast a chance to make their mark on the series.
It has long been known that One Piece Season 2 will continue the Arabasta Saga. These latest casting announcements virtually guarantee that the forthcoming season will likewise focus on two more compact manga arcs: Reverse Mountain and Little Garden.
Netflix hasn’t officially disclosed a lot about the eagerly awaited second season, aside from casting announcements. Not long after the debut of the live-action version, in September 2023, the show received a second season renewal. Season 2 is supposedly aiming for a 2025 premiere date.
Red Velvet Live in Manila on September 14, 2024, 6pm at the Mall of Asia Arena. 2024 Red Velvet FANCON TOUR <HAPPINESS : My Dear, ReVe1uv> Manila is presented by Wilbros Live
Manila will be thrilled with anticipation, as global KPOP group Red Velvet is coming for their first-ever fan-con tour, 2024 Red Velvet FANCON TOUR <HAPPINESS : My Dear, ReVe1uv>, happening in MANILA on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. This is a must-see and surely an unforgettable night between Red Velvet and their ReVeluv.
This fan-con is more than just a show — it’s a celebration of the deep bond between Red Velvet and their loving fans. Fans of Irene, Seulgi, Wendy, Joy, and Yeri can anticipate an evening filled with live performances of their well-loved hits and exciting interactions with the group. Adding to the excitement, Red Velvet will be making a comeback with their recently announced album, โCosmicโ thatโs set to launch soon. The group will also be performing songs from their highly awaited new album.
Since their debut under SM Entertainment in 2014, Red Velvet has garnered international acclaim for their dynamic performances, versatile music style and mesmerizing vocals. This 2024 will be a celebration of their 10th year from their debut. Since their humble beginnings, Red Velvet has captivated audiences worldwide with their chart-topping hits “Psycho”, “Bad Boy”, “Russian Roulette”, “Red Flavor”, “Feel My Rythm” and many more.
Red Velvet Live in Manila Ticket Prices: VVIP STANDING – P14,400 VIP STANDING – P13,300 VIP SEATED – P13,300 LOWER BOX – P10,700 UPPER BOX A – P9,100 UPPER BOX B – P6,900
GENERAL PREMIUM Reserved Seatingโฑย 4,300.00
ReVeluv Membership (GL) Pre-Sale: July 26 FRI 11AM to 8:59PM (PHT) General On-Sale: July 27 SAT 11AM (PHT) via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets Outlets
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the world of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba? The much-anticipated Total Concentration Exhibition is making its way to the Philippines, offering fans a spectacular journey through the series’ iconic moments and locations.
PULP Spaces+ has just unveiled the exhibition layout, and it’s packed with zones that will make every fanโs heart race with excitement. These zones have been meticulously recreated from the original exhibition in Japan, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable experience. Hereโs what you can look forward to:
Zone 1: Welcome by Urokodaki Sakonji
As soon as you enter the exhibition, youโll be greeted by Urokodaki Sakonji, Tanjiroโs formidable trainer. Imagine walking into the hall and seeing the actual Demon Slayer Corps uniforms and Nichirin Swords up close. It’s like stepping right into the anime!
Zone 2: Mount Fujikasane
This dreamy space replicates Mount Fujikasane, the iconic location where the Final Selection of the Demon Slayer Corps takes place. With its breathtaking audio-visual effects, youโll feel like youโre right there, standing alongside Tanjiro.
Zone 3: Demon Slayer Headquarters
Ever wondered what the inner sanctum of the Demon Slayer Corps looks like? This zone showcases detailed organizational maps, profiles of each character, and a stunning display of Nichirin Swords. Youโll get a real sense of the dedication and structure behind the Corps.
Zone 4: House of Demons
Ready to face the darkness? This zone doesnโt just highlight the terrifying demons from the series but also features a partial recreation of the Infinity Castle. With a special mechanism that activates at regular intervals, youโll experience the spine-chilling terror of the demons firsthand.
Zone 5: Water Breathing Photo Spot
Relive one of the series’ most epic battles with stunning visuals showcasing various Breathing Styles. This zone offers another fantastic photo opportunity, bringing the dynamic action of Water Breathing to life.
Zone 6: Battle of Mount Natagumo
Relive the breathtaking battle with stunning visuals of Breathing Styles. Another fantastic photo spot, this zone recreates the effects of Water Breathing in a captivating display.
More Exciting Zones:
The exhibition continues with the Butterfly Mansion, the Mugen Train, Kimetsu Academy, Rengokuโs Room, Infiltrating the Entertainment District, Battle in the Entertainment District, Eyecatch Collection by character designer Akira Matsushima, and the Skishi Display Corner. Each zone is packed with audio-visual and interactive elements that will keep you engaged and amazed.
Think the adventure ends there? Think again! Once youโve explored all the zones, youโll have the chance to complete the Hashira Training and you can get a limited-edition Demon Slayer Corps certificate. And thatโs not all โ head over to the largest Demon Slayer merchandise shop in the Philippines and grab some exclusive items to commemorate your visit.
Whether youโre a long-time fan or new to the series, this exhibition is the perfect way to dive deep into the world of Demon Slayer. Bring your friends, family, and fellow anime enthusiasts, or introduce someone new to the magic of Tanjiro’s journey!
You can purchase your tickets via several channels:
Online: Visit pulptickets.com, ticketnet.com.ph, or smtickets.com to purchase tickets from the comfort of your home.
Outlets: Tickets are also available at Ticketnet and SM Tickets outlets nationwide, offering additional convenience for ticket purchasers.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Total Concentration Exhibition in the Philippines is powered by PULP Spaces+, Muse Communication, ACO MEDIA, and Mediasphere Communication.
Music has been one of the many outlets of creativity and expression for the LGBTQ+ Community and recently we supposedly celebrated PRIDE month with music, a concert to celebrate the community last June 22, 2024, at the Quezon City Memorial Circle with a mix of artists that represents the LBGTQ+ and groups who are openly supportive of the community with artists like BINI, Denise Julia, Juan Karlos, Cup of Joe, GLOC9 and a group of known Drag Queens in the Philippines like Marina Summers, and many more artists that are supportive of the community. Even though the event had to stop due to the bad weather. This is a visible improvement in the growing support and openness to the LGBTQ+ community in our country.
With music, having more representation of the LGBTQ+ community as a musician is not as common as in the earlier years of music. It would always be straight and heteronormative musicians acting as a voice for the community inspired by their friends or family membersโ experiences.
We have rapper GLOC9 with โSirena”, shining a light on the issues and struggles the LGBTQ+ Community faced and will continue to face in the future. This was a very personal song for his son, who is part of the LGBTQ+ community as to why he is more than open to being part of the PRIDE concert in support of his sonโs community.
Finally, now, weโre starting to have openly queer artists that debuted and released their music. Artists like Kio Priest who is openly gay, and Denise Julia who hinted that she is open to any gender and has written a song about her encounter with a woman who has made her feel a type of love and affection she never experienced before unlike with her other past relationships. We also have up-and-coming artist Geoff Mabasa, making his way back to the music scene to represent more for the community.
Geoff shared his journey in the music industry and how he struggled in writing music as someone who is part of the LGBTQ+ Community in his teenage years as a songwriter:
โNoong college (back in college), in our songwriting courses, I would write music addressed to a โherโ, even though I had a boy in mind when I wrote these songs. It affected the way I wrote, I was always reserved, and I was afraid of slipping, that people might find out Iโm singing songs for boys, I always felt like it would not help me professionally if I wanted people to listen to me. It was only very recently that I decided to revisit the songs I wrote back then and change everything from the perspective of a gay man liking another boy.. And even though right now Iโve decided to start again, I can say that I am much happier, prouder, and excited to hear people sing my songs, using the pronouns I prefer to use. People are easy to dismiss others with pronouns, but you donโt know how much these โsmall thingsโ impact other peopleโs lives.โ
Geoff also mentioned what he thinks about the representation of queer artists in the Filipino music scene has evolved over the years โThe Filipino music scene is still in its early stages in representation but still more progressive than our neighbors, I know the Philippines is quite open with LGBTQ+ artists, however, I still feel like thereโs an expectation to act a particular way when youโre an LGBT artist in this countryโ. Geoff points out that queer musicians are still a bit restricted when it comes to expressing themselves, but heโs pretty happy with the growth of queer OPM artists who are breaking through the music scene like himself and would love to see more in the future and would love to collaborate with a few artists in mind.
Geoff is releasing a song called โParamdamโ on July 26. The song already sounds like a classic, with themes of nostalgia that bring you back to a sound familiar during the 2010s. He calls โParamdamโ as an open love letter to that straight boy he used to crush on in college. โIf youโre in a silly situationship with someone giving you mixed signals, or maybe just feeling like delulu is the solulu because youโre already wearing your heart on your sleeve for this crush, Paramdam is the perfect song to dedicate to this person.โ
Adding to the excitement, Geoff mentions that he assembled a world-class team for the song, working with members of Southborder as well as one of the best young engineers in the country to brew his next opus, โParamdamโ.
Filipino indie-folk collective Munimuni is set to headline their third major concert this Saturday, July 20, 2024, at the UP Theater in Quezon City, Philippines.
ALEGORYA: A Munimuni Concert marks the bandโs new era in music-making, which features new songs from the same name’s sophomore album and some old favorites.
It also serves as an introduction to Munimuniโs current lineup: Adj Jiao (guitar, vocals), John Owen Castro (flute, vocals), Jolo Ferrer (bass), Josh Tumaliuan (drums), and Ben Ayes (guitar).
Mapping the bandโs current musical journey on the big stage with lavish production values and conceptual storytelling, Alegorya presents Munimuniโs first full-length concert performance since 2019โs Kulayan Natin at Cine Adarna, UP Film Center.
Caleb Vargas, the indie quartetโs manager, recently expressed excitement about Munimuniโs decision to embark on this incredible feat. โI have always been proud of these guys, even before I helped as their manager,โ Vargas shares. โIโve been a fan of their deep music that speaks about the realities of life. I hope everyone can be there at the Alegorya Concert to not just hear their music, but also experience it. Also, watch out for upcoming activities; you might see us around the metro playing songs from the album or even talking about it.โ
Aside from Munimuni, acclaimed singer-songwriters and musicians Barbie Almalbis, Clara Benin, Keiko Necesario, and Sofia Abrogar of Any Names Okay will also be on the roster of guest acts.
โFor the guest artists, we chose people who the band has been friends with for a long time and are artists that we look up to in the music scene,โ the experimental folk band explains. โSome of them already have collaborations with us, and some are collaborating with us for the first time. We are excited to see how they will be able to give a different color to our songs.โ
ALEGORYA: A Munimuni Concert is presented by GNN Entertainment Productions and Munimuni. Tickets are available via bit.ly/alegorya.
Check out the ticket prices below.
SVIP – โฑ2,800 (with Meet and Greet + signed poster + soundcheck access)
Both entities also mounted a public event that translates the campaignโs sonic vibe into an immersive on-ground experience!
Filtr and Sony Music Entertainment have recently teamed up for the โSummer POPsicle SZNโ playlist, a curated mix of chart-topping hits featuring some of the biggest international acts.
The playlist includes fan favorites such as โGreedyโ by Tate McRae, โWaterโ by Tyla, โSaturnโ by SZA, โdrunk textโ by Henry Moodie, โUnwrittenโ by Natasha Bedingfield, โdouble takeโ by Dhruv, โStargazingโ by Myles Smith, and local hits from BINI and Maki.
This initiative is part of the โsznโ (seasonal) campaign that started in October 2023 for Halloween, December 2023 for Christmas, February 2024 for Grammys, March 2024 for International Womenโs Month, and April to June for the hottest summer.
To promote the global music campaign, Filter and Sony Music Entertainment recently mounted a public event that allows fans to experience their favorite pop hits this summer via an on-ground experience. Both entities created Summer Popsi-Skate, a gathering where music fans get to enjoy a day out at the SM Megamall Skating Rink. Participants received freebies and prizes like premium vinyl, and enjoyed various fun activities set to the soundtrack of this generation’s biggest pop anthems.
As a celebration of music, community, and the joy of summer, Summer Popsi-Skate left everyone eagerly anticipating the next installment of this incredible initiative, with some of the attendees gamely skating to the rhythm and pulse of their favorite tracks. Capturing the essence of summer, the rink also served as a perfect backdrop for selfies and group photos.
Check out the โSummer POPsicle SZNโ playlist on Filtr Asiaโs Spotify page. Stay tuned for the upcoming szn playlists in 2024.
In celebration of the 11th anniversary of global Korean superstars BTS, Filipino ARMYs from all over the metro lit up the night and purpleโd it up at a once-in-a-lifetime fan gathering event, โPurple It Up, Aranetaโ, held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on June 13, 2024, Thursday.
โPurple It Up, Aranetaโ was brought together by Araneta City, the City of Firsts, together with Bโ VERSE Manila and BTS ARMY QC. A fun and lively program full of BTS music, dance-offs, games, and more enthralled the fans, and gifts in the form of photocards and other little freebies were handed out to those present.
Araneta City also highlighted through this event โ7 Boats for 7 Boysโ, a fundraising campaign led by Filipino ARMYs together with the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation. The organization aims to empower disadvantaged youth by providing access to quality education through yellow school boats that will serve as transportation for students who need to cross bodies of water in rural provinces, riverside, and coastal areas to get to school.
BTS are well-known for their quiet and philanthropic efforts, and ARMY has always worked to match that. Through the โ7 Boats for 7 Boysโ campaign, ARMY hopes to raise enough money to donate 7 of these boats, named after each BTS memberโRM, Jin, SUGA, J-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. It is a way for ARMYs to honor BTSโ 11-year legacy in the music industry as well as their significant milestones in the fields of arts, culture, and social justice.
The event culminated with a lighting ceremony. ARMYs raised their lightsticks to the sky as the Big Dome turned purple, showing the fandomโs unity when it comes to their love and support for BTS, as well as symbolizing Araneta Cityโs solidarity with fans all over the world.
โWe at Bโ VERSE Manila wanted to make this day even more special through this โPurple It Up, Aranetaโ event,โ said Irene Jose, Chief Operating Officer of Uniprom, Inc. โWe are very happy to see ARMYs gather here at the Smart Araneta Coliseum to celebrate the 11th anniversary of BTS. We hope to see them enthralled by the Bโ VERSE Manila immersive exhibit until August 15.โ
Celebrate 11 years of love and music with BTS at Bโ VERSE Manila! Book your tickets on Ticketnet Online now, and visit Bโ VERSE Manilaโs official social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, and TikTok for more information.
To know more about the latest promos, activities, and happenings at Araneta City, please visit www.aranetacity.com. You can also check its official social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.
A solid show from a solid artist with an equally solid fandom. The 2024 SUHO CONCERT <SU:HOME> IN MANILA was beautiful, endearing, and unforgettable as EXO-L once again turned the Araneta Coliseum into a starry night, starry night with Eribong shining brightly and cheers echoing proudly for Suho.
The first solo concert of Suho in the Philippines, his comeback to the Philippine concert scene, was eagerly awaited by his Filipino fans. Furthermore, after Seoul, the Philippine concert was the first stop on the 2024 SUHO CONCERT <SU:HOME> Tour.
“I’m always thankful for your love and support,” he remarked, praising the Manila audience for their enthusiastic participation in the show. “Iโm so relieved and so happy that Manila is the first country of this tour,” he stated.
Magsama tayo magpakailanman. Mahal kita! Mahal na mahal kita!
EXO’s SUHO
With thousands of EXO-L standing behind their leader, Suho commendably ruled the stage with live performances spanning over 20 songs, backed by a live band and an exquisite stage production. In his interactions with fans, he was very giving and gave in to their wishes. And, with all of this, the concert wasย completed with EXO-L’s steadfast devotion to and affection for their Junmyeon-ahโseen in touching fan initiatives that proved EXO-L is here to stay.
Suho stunned everyone when he emerged from a lift that had been styled like a bedroom. With an instrument in hand and captivating vocals, the singer officially began his solo show with stunning performances of “Mayday,” “Morning Star,” “Grey Suit,” and “Self-Portrait.”
Greeting everyone on his concert tour, Suho said, “Kumusta kayo, Manila? Ako si Suho from EXO!” He remarked, “Sobrang na-miss ko kayo. I think you don’t know how much I missed you,” and mentioned that the Philippines was both his most and last country he visited. He went on to say with pride that Manila was the first place he took his concert tour. “I think it’s destiny,” he said. He was beaming and merrily interacting with the audience, who returned the smiles and laughs with cheers that kept becoming louder and louder as the performance went on.
Suho continued the concert with performances of songs from his third extended play and most recent album, 1 to 3, bringing out “Zero Gravity”, “Cheese” and “1 to 3”. He then closed the set with his 2022 song, “Hurdle”. Astounded by the great display of energy, Suho said, “You, guys, really know how to enjoy!” and showered them with compliments.
Suho’s melancholic and poignant renditions of “Curtain” and “Starry Night” soothed The Big Dome following the intense performance. He then sang “Wishful Thinking,” “Moonlight,” “Decanting,” “Bear Hug,” and “For You Now,” showcasing his talent and commanding vocals even more. However, Suho is not the only one with amazing vocals; once again, the audience in typical Philippine concert flair dazzled the performer with their vocal skills.
Suho’s rendition of EXO’s “The First Snow” gave Philippine EXO-L an early Christmas present. Ten years after its release, the song from the boy group’s second extended play, Miracles in December, which was released in 2013, went viral in South Korea and other countries, and on December 23 it topped the weekly Circle Digital Chart. In the middle of 2024, “The First Snow” took over the Philippine concert stage at Araneta Coliseum, featuring Suho and EXO-L singing together. Suho said, “Manila, EXO-L are number one. You guys are number one.”
Give it to EXO’s leader to bring the boy group back to the Philippine concert stage with a mashup of their biggest hits, “Growl,” “Overdose,” and “Monster”. As the songs reverberated throughout The Big Dome, Philippine EXO-L demonstrated one more that the nation is prepared to welcome EXO back to its concert stage.
Suho then descended onto the stage wearing a charming bunny hat and performed “Alright, Alright” while moving around the floor. “O2” and “Let’s Love” rounded up his concert’s last set.
Subsequently, the most precious sight and sounds filled the space as EXO-L presented Suho with a rendition of “Made In You” and a banner that said, “Junmyeon-ah, Philippine EXO-L are made in you and by you. Let’s love each other forever!”
After that, Suho returned to the stage for the encore, opening with “Moment”. While speaking to his Filipino fans, the singer became emotional. “For the Manila EXO-L who have been cheering hard for me, thank you so much. I would like to give a round of applause for you, guys,” added the singer. He also talked about how being called “Suho-yah” or “Junmyeon-ah” is only appropriate for close friends or family in Korea. He went on, “I like it so much because you call me in a friendly way,” and he invited the audience to do the same. “It gives me comfort in my heart,” he stated.
“Our SUHO, when you need strength, come home to us.โ
Philippine EXO-L to EXOโs SUHO
โOur SUHO, when you need strength, come home to us.โ – Philippine EXO-L to EXOโs SUHO
Prior to giving his parting speech, Suho treated the audience to a brief excerpt from his official soundtrack for the Missing Crown Prince, “Love You More Gradually”. “I’m always thankful for your love and support, Manila. I’m so relieved and so happy that Manila is the first country on this tour. Magsama tayo magpakailanman. Mahal kita! Mahal na mahal kita! Until now, this is EXO. We are one! Thank you so much!”
With “Made In You” and words of thanks and assurance, Suho concluded SU:HOME in Manila. “Mahal kita, EXO-L. Manila, thank you for waiting for me and EXO. I will come back to Manila as soon as possible with EXO, so wait for EXO and Suho. See you next time. Thank you so much and I love you! Saranghae!” And together with EXO-LโWE ARE ONE! EXO SARANGHAJA!
WE ARE ONE, EXO SARANGHAJA 🫶
โMahal kita, EXO-L. Manila, thank you for waiting for me and EXO. I will come back to Manila as soon as possible with EXO, so wait for EXO and SUHO. See you next time. Really thank you and I love you!โ – SUHO to the Philippine EXO-L whom he calledโฆ pic.twitter.com/KOHXrRO0AN
Byeon Woo Seok pens the loveliest and most heartwarming summer letter, filled with appreciation and love to his fans.
The ascent to fame of Byeon Woo Seok did not happen quickly. It took eight years for the actor to reach his current position. With a brief appearance in tvN’s Dear My Friends, he made his acting debut in 2016. Later, he played supporting roles and made brief cameos in films and television shows before emerging into leading man roles in the films 20th CenturyGirl and Soulmate, and the drama Lovely Runner.
Every day brings Byeon Woo Seok more wonder because his newfound fame still seems unbelievable to him. He began Lovely Runner with the hope that people would appreciate itโnever expecting it to soar to such heights of popularity. He acknowledged that he is still getting used to the spotlight. Nevertheless, he said that all was a dream realized.
And he deserves all of the success he has had. Despite his fame, Byeon Woo Seok has not wavered in his humility and dedication to his craft, always striving to give his all for the people who encourage and believe in him. He was generous and kind, never forgetting to express gratitude to everyone and acknowledge the dedication and hard work of those he worked together with to make the production a success.
The actor met the members of the press ahead of the Philippine stop of his Summer Letter fan meeting tour where he talked about Lovely Runner, his growing popularity, upcoming projects, and meeting his fans through the fan meeting tour. (Photos by PULP Live World and VARO)During the press conference, the actor gave each member of the media a yellow rose and a message reading, “Thank you for loving Sunjae. Maraming salamat po.” (Photo by PULP Live World and VARO)
Fans showered the actor with love and appreciation during the 2024 BYEON WOO SEOK ASIA FAN MEETING TOUR: SUMMER LETTER IN MANILA, from his arrival at the airport to his sold-out show at the New Frontier Theater.ย His first-ever visit to the Philippines was met with enthusiastic cheers and support from Filipino fans. “I hope that everyone who comes to the fan meeting will go home with good memories,” he shared during the press conference held at the Shangri-La The Fort on June 21 ahead of his fan meeting on June 22.
Byeon Woo Seok appreciates and loves it when people love his characters. (Photos by PULP Live World and VARO)
Prior to the fan meeting, Byeon Woo Seok charmed the Philippine media at Shangri-La The Fort, where he made a lasting impression by gifting each reporter a flower. Whatโs more, he personally handed them out. During the media conference, Byeon Woo Seok expressed his excitement for the fan meeting, his love for the Philippines, and his Filipino TongTongsโthe name of his fandom.
Best known for his role in Lovely Runner, he delighted fans during his first Asia tour, 2024 Byeon Woo Seok Asia Fan Meeting Tour: Summer Letter in Manila. The event, presented by PULP Live World, took place at the New Frontier Theater on June 22. It was a dream come true for fans eager to see the actor in person.
The fan meeting itself was filled with much joy and excitement. Byeon Woo Seok delighted fans by strutting onstage like a fashion model he is then segued into recreating iconic scenes from Lovely Runner, namely the photo booth and cherry blossom scenes. When he and a lucky fan did the former, the theater erupted in cheers. The recreation of the cherry blossom scene elicited gasps and thunderous applause from the audience.
Photos by PULP Live World and Joel H. Garcia
A fun Bingo game followed, where the actor humorously struggled with a mini bike challenge due to his towering height. He ultimately succeeded by pushing the bike with his feet. During a “This or That” segment, he entertained fans with his reaction when asked to choose between a haunted room or a room with a cockroach. But the fan meeting wasnโt all fun and games. It was also filled with heartfelt moments. During the Q&A, one Filipino TongTongโs question about how Byeon Woo Seok copes with stress led to a sincere response.
He truly made last Saturday night a lifetime memory for everyone. Even though he wasn’t feeling well, the actor gave it his all to give his Filipino fans treasured experiences to bring back home. These included charming exchanges, reliving Lovely Runner with fans, sharing personal anecdotes, and serenading them. Fans have put together a heartfelt fan project for the actor who was overtaken with emotion.
When the VCR finished playing, he confided to his fans that he felt unwell and was worried about not being able to give his best during the event. Despite this, the energy and enthusiasm of the Filipino TongTongs uplifted him and brought him immense joy. He shared his concerns, saying, โI was worried I wouldnโt be able to fully enjoy this moment with you because of my health.โ Byeon Woo Seokโs vulnerability touched the fansโ hearts, especially when he credited them for enabling him to have fun despite his condition. โYour energy helped me enjoy the fan meeting, even though I felt emotional and overwhelmed,โ he added.
Photos by PULP Live World and Joel H. Garcia
Towards the end of the fan meeting, Byeon Woo Seok sang “I Think I Did” from the soundtrack of Lovely Runner. The evening concluded with his touching rendition of the song “Sonaki” (“Sudden Shower”), as confetti rained down inside the theater, creating a magical atmosphere.
As he left the venue, Byeon Woo Seok even rolled down the window of his car to wave goodbye to the fans who gathered outside to wait for him. They sent him off with an explosion of cheers.
Overall, Byeon Woo Seokโs fan service left a lasting impression on Filipino TongTongs, making the “2024 Summer Letter” fan meeting an unforgettable experience.
Photos by PULP Live World and Joel H. Garcia
Even so, Byeon Woo Seok hopes to carry on with a variety of activities in the future and finds strength in spending quality time with his fans. His fans were profoundly touched by his heartfelt emotions and statement of thanks, which excited them for his upcoming endeavors. It was a time that reaffirmed that the actor’s fan meeting tour served as a platform for genuine communication between him and his supporters.
The 2024 BYEON WOO SEOK ASIA FAN MEETING TOUR: SUMMER LETTER IN MANILA was presented by PULP Live World, VARO Entertainment, and TONZ Entertainment. Special thanks to PULP Live World for the invitation to the press conference.
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus Live in Manila on September 12, 2024 at the SM Skydome and The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus Live in Davao on September 11, 2024 at the SMX Convention Center Davao presented by Pulp Live World.
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus Live in Manila and Davao tickets available starting July 14, 2024, at 12:00 noon at SM Ticket outlets or online at smtickets.com
DVWN Live in Manila on July 9, 2024 at the Samsung Hall, SM Aura, BGC. DVWN 2024 Asia Tour <SEE THE SEA>Special Show Manila is presented by Wilbros Live.
DVWN Live in Manila Ticket Prices: Special VIP Upgrade – P4,000 VIP Standing – P3,000 Balcony – P2,000
Tickets available at SM Ticket Outlets or online at smtickets.com
Following the success of Huling El Bimbo World Tour in 2023, the Eraserheads are set to embark on another tour this year including cities in North America, Singapore and Dubai. Ely Buendia, Raimund Marasigan, Buddy Zabala and Marcus Adoro are preparing to deliver another thrilling set of concerts to their fans overseas.
Their historic first reunion show was held at MOA Concert Grounds on December 22, 2022, garnering a staggering total of 75,000 people in the crowd. In 2023, the band proceeded to do a USA-Canada Tour which included cities such as Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Vancouver, Winnipeg, Edmonton and Toronto. This year, the legendary OPM band will be revisiting some cities as well as adding new stops.
On June 19, the Eraserheads held their contract signing with their business partners which included WEU Event Management, DVent Productions, Tiana Ent. Inc, Live Nation Philippines, ABS-CBN Global. Shortly after, a press conference was held. They talked about their memories from the previous tour and what to expect from their upcoming tour. Here are the highlights of the event.
Eheads Travel Prep
When asked about their travel essentials, each member had their own style.
Marcus readily answered with, โI overpack. Itโs better to overpack than to underpackโ.
Ely, on the other hand, is a light traveler, bringing only the essentials plus 1 extra luggage for shopping. Buddy quipped, โBerocca, Lola Remediosโ which made everyone laugh. โAnything you can think of to keep you healthy and functioning.โ
Raimund answered last, โAng best na dinadala namin, si Ely nagturo niyan, yung portable bidet. Iyon ang huwag kakalimutan sa US tourโ.
Each city gets an Easter Egg.
For fun, the Eraserheads also like to include Easter Eggs unique to each city they visit. Raimund explained that they played โAmerican Womanโ by Guess Who, a song they used to play in college. Guess Who is a band from Winnipeg, but the song is more popularly known as a song by Lenny Kravitz. They also continue doing that for the upcoming tour.
Most Memorable Show
When asked about which city was their favorite, Ely and Raimund answered New York, explaining that the crowdโs energy was something special. Buddy also mentions their show at Los Angeles as he could feel that the crowd was very eager to hear their songs.
(Mis)adventures on the Road
Their tour also became memorable because of the adventures they had before and after shows. Raimund fondly shared that there was an instance when they were stranded in the middle of the desert for hours because their bus broke down. They had also experienced logistical mishaps when half of their crew and their equipment were delayed due to a flight delay. They were worried whether they had to postpone the show, but their main reassurance to themselves was โNakakatugtog ka nga sa Mayricโs eh. Makakatugtog ka rin dito.โ Fortunately, their crew and their stuff arrived right before the show.
Choosing the Songs in the Setlist
The Eheads have their own groupchat wherein they discuss which songs to include in the setlist, around 40 in total which theyโll be cycling per stop. For this tour, Ely and Marcus mostly chose the songs. Ely elaborated, โ80% is decided by the fans. 15% is decided by family and friends. (Tama ba yung math ko?) 5% is decided by the band.โ If the band were to choose 100% of the setlist, they would include deep cuts and obscure Eheads tracks that they want the world to know.
These B-sides have found their rightful place in their soundcheck sessions pre-concert. โFor the soundcheck experience, we get to play songs that we love as a band. We do it during soundcheck because we know that the fans who pay for the VIP tickets will appreciate whatever we play.โ
Re-arrangement of the Songs
During their Huling El Bimbo concert in Manila in 2022, some of their songs were noticeably rearranged. How did this change come about?
Raimund said itโs more of playing in a tempo theyโre comfortable with. Since most of the songs were composed when they were very young. โMas relaxed na kami, mas relaxed na iyong audience. We play it a little differently but I think itโs still 90% halos iyon ang areglo. Hopefully, we play it a little better nowโ, he explained.
Buddy backed this up, โ Itโs another way of saying that we play differently now. As older musicians, weโve learned different things through the years. Weโve also learned how to edit ourselves. We have a feeling of what we want to do on stage.โ Buddy added, โAko napansin ko, Buddy plays less notes. I play more notes.โ Ely said he considers it a compliment that fans appreciate the way they play the songs now.
What has changed in the band?
It has been almost 2 years since they announced their reunion show in Manila. In the two years that they have been working together again, how has their dynamics changed?
Buddy answered, โWeโve had several dinners under our belt. That way, we are kind of in touch with kung anong kinain ni Ely, kung anong inorder ni Marcus. It helps in our dynamic, sharing a dinner, having drinks, coffee โ so weโve had more of that.โ Raimund chimed in โbirthdays!โ
As it turned, the band members had also celebrated their birthdays together. โEver since then, weโve spent a lot more time together. Itโs shaping our live show and itโs keeping it fun,โ Buddy affirmed.
What are they looking forward to experiencing in this round of shows?
Raimund shared, โItโs the energy that the crowd gives you. Itโs like itโs the first time youโre playing, I know some of these are really old songs, but itโs the first time weโre playing it to them and itโs probably the first time theyโre hearing it live. Thereโs that energy that you canโt replicate anywhere else.โ
Ely quipped, โItโs also great to see young faces in the audience. They werenโt even born back then. That means that the music still translates to the younger generation which is awesome because you know how theyโre so hard to please now. Just kidding.โ Marcus added, โThe music seems to be growing as well, nag-eevolve for the better, I think.โ
Ely admitted that they wanted to re-record some of the songs in their catalog. โNot so much we could own our masters, but because as artists, we found out that we could have done more with our songs,โ he clarified. โSomething we look forward to as musicians is to become true to our profession and still apply the inspiration we were into back then when we were just starting out.
More Eheads in 2024!
Besides the tour, there are more exciting things ahead for the Eraserheads this year, including the launch of the Huling El Bimbo Official Merch Site on June 21 and a film titled โCombo on the Runโ which is currently on the final stage of post-production in Los Angeles. The trailer is set to debut at San Diego, California in July. The band also mentioned that they hope to perform live in more cities around the world.
Donโt miss out! Be sure to catch the legendary OPM band with their classic hits at the following stops.
The Eraserheadsโ Huling El Bimbo World Tour Schedule:
July 6 – Hawaii Convention Center, Honolulu July 12 – The Warfield, San Francisco July 13 – The Peacock Theater, Los Angeles July 19 – Pechanga, Temecula July 21 – Great Canadian Casino Resort, Toronto November 23 – The Arena @ Expo, Singapore December 8 – Dubai Exhibition Center, Dubai More cities to be announced soon!
HORI7ON, โin their career highโ, sweeps the top spot as โMale Idols Who Shined in the First Half of 2024โ!
HORI7ON has been named as the ‘Male Idols Who Shined in the First Half of 2024.’ Forbes Korea, in collaboration with the global fandom platform Idol Champ, held the 6th FKA (Forbes Korea K-pop/K-entertainer Awards) from May 16 to June 12.
In the vote conducted among global K-pop fans, HORI7ON (Vinci, Kim, Kyler, Reyster, Winston, Jeromy, and Marcus) clinched the top spot in the ‘Male Idols Who Shined in the First Half of 2024’ category at the 6th FKA.
Despite the fierce competition with 12 other teams that represent K-POP, HORI7ON secured the final victory with an overwhelming vote share of 68.64%, demonstrating their strong fandom and formidable global power.
Formed through the Korean-Filipino joint survival audition program ‘Dream Maker,’ HORI7ON officially debuted last year with their full-length album ‘Friend-SHIP.’ They have been making remarkable strides in the K-pop market since their debut, winning three trophies at local and international music awards and topping global music charts.
Recently, HORI7ON released their first single ‘LUCKY,’ showcasing the fresh high-teen concept, and have been actively promoting it in both Korea and the Philippines. With the addition of the final victory at the 6th FKA, global music fans are eagerly anticipating HORI7ON’s next moves as they continue to reach new career highs.
Meanwhile, HORI7ON, unstoppable with their success, plans to continue their diverse activities.
LUCAS makes his Philippine concert stage debut with the Manila stop of his first fancon tour!
Presented by L-Squared Productions, rapper and singer LUCAS shone his brightest light in Manila, the second city stop of his first solo fan concert tour, LUCAS FANCON TOUR IN ASIA <FIAT LUX : ็>, held on June 15, 2024, at the New Frontier Theater where Filipino LUMIs showed up pumped and excited to see him perform his songs.
FIAT LUX : ็, which translates to “Let your light shine” or “Let there be light,” aims to spotlight not only LUCAS as an artist but also his LUMIs whom he considers as his inspiration. The rapper was excited to make happy memories with his beloved Filipino fans, gamely playing Filipino childhood games like jackstone, tumbang preso, and pukpok palayok during the segment entitled “LUX-ON” and interacting with them in his Q&A segment entitled “SHOW ME YOUR LUX.”
LUCAS was questioned about his choices and his fans’ wishes, such as what they wanted LUCAS to say to them or which choice they wanted him to make. The rapper shared with Filipino fans during this part his interest in modeling, some Filipino phrases he’s learned to say to them, and his statement that if he gets the chance to promote or advertise anything, it would be for a sports drink.
Between each session, he had VCRs ready to show his supporters behind-the-scenes videos of him getting ready for rehearsals, photo shoots, and his solo show. He also conveyed in this video how happy he was to spend time with and get to know his Filipino fans, and how much he hoped to return to the Philippines for another fancon tour.
To the delight of the crowd, LUCAS took the stage and displayed his talent while singing songs like Renegade, his most recent solo debut single, Dip It Low, Crushing on You, and Bass Go Boom. As he continued to win over his Filipino LUMIs with his charm and vocals, he also sang a rendition of Paul Kim’s Every Day, Every Moment.
LUCAS expressed his deep gratitude to his supporters for attending his fancon as the program came to an end. He was moved by the unwavering support of his fellow Filipino LUMIs and pledged to give his all in his future professional endeavors. It was undoubtedly a memorable evening for him and his Filipino LUMIs.
LUCAS FANCON TOUR IN ASIA <FIAT LUX : ็> IN MANILA was presented by L-Squared Productions.
Words by Vinny Real
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