Pamungkas and Scrubb join forces to co-headline Philippine-only concert

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GNN marks its tenth-year anniversary of producing shows and concerts with a one-day music event top-billed by Pamungkas from Indonesia and Scrubb from Thailand.

#GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila will take place on April 26, 2025, at 123 Block in Mandala Park, Mandaluyong City. The exclusive, co-headline show is a Philippine-only engagement and will form a key part of #GNN10, a year-long music campaign. This project kicked off with a string of sold-out shows earlier this year, including Regina Song: Live in Manila and Tanaw: The Repeat at Newport Performing Arts Theater.

Tickets are now available via Helixpay

The inaugural celebration not only commemorates the production company’s commitment to championing local and Asian artists but also reaffirms its mission of mounting concerts and events rooted in community building and inclusivity.

Having earned iconic status in their respective countries and throughout Southeast Asia, Pamungkas and Scrubb have cultivated a dedicated fanbase in the Philippines with their inescapable anthems. Indonesian singer-songwriter and producer Pamungkas became a regional sensation with his breakout hit, “To The Bone,” which topped streaming charts across Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, where it peaked at No. 5 on Spotify PH charts. Meanwhile, phenomenal Thai alt-pop duo Scrubb captivated global audiences with their enormous contributions to the official soundtrack of 2gether The Series, the biggest Boy’s Love hit to ever come out of the region.

GNN brought both artists in 2022 and 2024, respectively, introducing them to the Philippine market through separate headline shows.

“We are incredibly excited to bring Pamungkas and Scrubb back to the Philippine stage,” shares GNN Creative Director Marie Lara Pauline Bobier in an official press statement. “This anniversary celebration marks an important milestone for me, Ian, and Milley, and reflects how far we’ve come from our humble beginnings. It is a testament to our younger selves that passion, dedication, and perseverance pay off. We started with nothing—personally cutting tickets, selling them through meet-ups with strangers, carrying our extension cords and electric kettles to gigs and concerts—all while holding onto our day jobs.”

Bobier continues, “GNN has never been just about numbers; it has grown through shared experiences and memories. Our artists, gig and concertgoers, and dedicated production team have created moments that will last a lifetime. GNN has always been, and will always be, for those who live and breathe entertainment. We are truly grateful that, through our company, we have the privilege of bringing together the artists we admire with the fans who love them just as much.”

Tickets to #GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila are available on March 14, 2025, 12 noon via https://scrubbpamungkas.helixpay.ph.

Critically-acclaimed Tenor Arthur Espiritu All Set for One Night Only Concert at MiraNila Heritage House & Library on April 2

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A welcome-home concert for this “rare spinto-tenor in the tradition of a Pavarotti . . . a well-trained tenor (with) no fear of heights”

The MiraNila Heritage House & Library in partnership with Leon Gallery and Gallery MiraNila of The Blue Leaf with support from the Bizu Groupe proudly presents “Tenor Arthur Espiritu Welcome-home Concert Amid Critical Acclaim in Europe” on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at the Main Hall of MiraNila.

Enter the thrilling world of Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu to witness his “magnificent vocal power” and “effortlessness and radiance.”

He returns from European cities after playing leading roles in opera houses and concert halls.

MiraNila promises a magical experience and an exploration of the power of love and the drama of opera with pieces by Gabriel Fauré, Franz Lehar, Giacomo Puccini, Charles Gounod, Richard Strauss, Andrew Lloyd Weber and Francesco Sartori.

Tenor Arthur Espiritu 

In an interview with Michael Ching, Mr. Espiritu recalls, “I started my career in Europe. . .

I had no trouble landing leading European-type roles." Still, he had to prove himself by working harder as he was not as tall as the locals. "In some ways,” he added, “it was easier for female performers."

His advice to younger talents? “Work really, really hard at your artistry, put yourself into that character . . . take that extra step with a chip on your shoulder (that is how I built my career) and leave the audience to see you as an Asian-American doing that role.”

Tenor Arthur Espiritu was born in Morong, Rizal, Philippines. He migrated to the United States with his parents in his teens and finished with an Artist Diploma in Music Performance at the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music. He won the La Scala award at the Belvedere Competition in 2007 and the distinguished George London Award in 2009.

Mr. Espiritu has portrayed numerous leading roles in North America, Europe, and Asia, with early career highlights that include his very first Ferrando in Michael Hampe’s staging of Mozart’s Cosi fan tutte in the Teatro alla Scala, the role of Tamino in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte with the Israeli Opera Tel-Aviv, and the role of Publio in Mozart’s early work, Il sogno di Scipione, with the former Gotham Chamber Opera, New York.

His recent roles include Roberto of Leicester in Donizetti’s Maria Stuarda in the Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz (the Munich opera house); Edgardo in Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor in the Daegu International Opera Festival, South Korea; Gualtiero in Bellini’s Il Pirata; Alfredo in Verdi’s La Traviata; Cassio in Verdi’s Otello; Rodolfo in Puccini’s La Boheme; and Don Ramiro in Rossini’s La Cenerentola, in Munich’s Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz. His opera commitments continue unabated in 2025. Read more about him at: https://www.arthurespiritutenor.com/

Performing with Mr. Espiritu is the multi-awarded soprano Jade Riccio. Virtuoso pianist Mariel Ilusorio will accompany them on MiraNila’s newly restored 1904 Steinway, considered rare in the Steinway & Sons catalog.

Soprano Jade Riccio, an Italian-Filipina who hails from Palawan, earned a slot in the 2024 Person to Watch: Women Who Made It in Music. She was the sole recipient of the 37th Aliw Awards 2024 Hall of Fame from which she won five consecutive awards, including Best Classical Performer in 2018 and 2020 and Best Female Crossover Performer in 2019 and 2022. She earlier received highest recognitions during vocal competitions at the National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in 2014 and the Jovita Fuentes Vocal Competition in 2015. As one of the most sought-after celebrity vocal coaches to some of Asia’s most shining stars, Ms. Riccio is also the CEO, creative producer, and chairperson of a music company called Riccio Music and Artistry (RMA) Studio Academy, a creative hub she founded during the pandemic, which now nurtures nearly 400 students from around the world.

Pianist Mariel Ilusorio studied at the Juilliard School of Music in New York, Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Ohio, and the State College of Music and Theater Hanover (now Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media) in Lower Saxony, Germany. Under the tutelage of Stella Brimo, she won top prizes in Philippine piano competitions before continuing her studies overseas. After performing in the U.S., Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Indonesia and having lived twenty-six years in the U.S., Germany, and South Africa, she has made the Philippines her home. She continues performing and now organizes concerts and recitals. She is also in the faculty of the UST Conservatory of Music, St. Scholastica's College of Music, the Philippine High School for the Arts, and the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

This April, the public gets the chance to hear these three outstanding performers in an environment conducive to master-level performances. In the once bucolic environs of Cubao, this four-story 1929 heritage house boasts a living room and library with near perfect acoustics. With its charming gardens and chapel, the grounds are likewise not to be missed.

Book your tickets now and appreciate why critics continue to laud Mr. Espiritu’s performances. With this brief interlude to visit family in the Philippines, his opera engagements in Europe remain steady. Here are some reviews:

—Das Opernglas

Arthur Espiritu as Roméo . . . interpreted his leading role with a heroic tenor. Powerful and musically secure in all registers, he steered timelessly, singing his melodious tenor voice and making his role debut through the demanding role. The soft tones are touching.

—Angus McPherson of Limelight Magazine

Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu as the poet Rodolfo, whose sound is exquisitely polished and contained—almost delicate—with a fine, burnished sheen. Espiritu’s voice warms in Che Gelida Manina as he sensitively crafts the swells and diminuendos.

—Detlef Obens of Opernmagazin Das Opern & Kulturmagazin

As one of the rare Spinto-tenors in the tradition of a Pavarotti, which combine safe heights with lyrical melt and great virtuosity, he travels at large houses worldwide. Sparks spark in the duets of the two.

—Peter Skorepa of OnlineMERKER

Arthur Espiritu achieved great success with his Duke, who also had an impeccable voice. With his well-trained tenor and no fear of heights, he showed how to musically implement the specifications of Leggerezza.

—Florian Krenstetter of The Kronen Zeitung

Photo Credit: Mark Glassner

Arthur Espiritu convinces with a powerful sensitive implementation in the title role. His Don Carlo is characterized by emotions, suffering and hopelessness, to which he submits little rebelliously. His tenor follows effortlessly in all layers and warms with full bright timbre.

—Dr. Andreas Ströbl of Klassik begeistert - Der Opernfreund

The Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu makes this feeling at the mercy of his own doubts and desires come alive with his magnificent vocal power and fantastic height confidence. He crowns this production with top performances in singing and acting, for which he repeatedly receives applause from the audience.

—Alan Neilson of @operawire.com

The tenor Arthur Espiritu . . . has a sweet timbre and he sings with a lilting Italianate intonation, ideal for the bel canto repertoire, which his aria “Ah! Rimiro il bel sembiante” beautifully confirmed, by highlighting his natural lyricism. He performed exceptionally well in the numerous interactive recitative passages and ensembles.

—Norbert Pabelick of Der Opernfreund

Filipino-American opera singer Arthur Espiritu, who embodied the title part with wonderful Italianita. He is an extremely beautiful, sympathetic and high-altitude Rudolfo, who does not need to fear the comparison with stars . . . His high C in the aria hit “Che gelida manina” is of an effortlessness and radiance that require admiration. (December 24, 2024)

• Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the program promptly starts at 6:30 p.m.

• Tickets @ P1,500 (Library) and P2,500 (Main Hall) are limited, so order now. 
• Text Robeen @ 0927 277 6335.

• Guests are requested to wear soft-soled shoes as these are kinder to old floors.

• Pre-concert and intermission snacks and bottled water are available for sale in the East Patio

• The Gift Shop will also be open.

MiraNila Heritage House & Library is located at 26 Mariposa Street, Brgy Bagong Lipunan Crame, Q.C. (Find us on Facebook: MiraNila Heritage House and Library & MiraNila Heritage House Events)

“Critically-acclaimed Tenor Arthur Espiritu All Set for One Night Only Concert at MiraNila on April 2” is presented by the MiraNila Heritage House & Library in partnership with Leon Gallery and Gallery MiraNila of The Blue Leaf with support from the Bizu Groupe.

BLACK EYED PEAS Live in Manila 2025

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Breaking News – Six-time GRAMMY® Award-winning trio and one of the best-selling groups of all time, BLACK EYED PEAS is finally coming to Manila on August 27, 2025 at the Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live. Tickets go on-sale on Saturday, March 15, 12PM via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets nationwide.

 

Over the past 30 years, the Los Angeles trio–will.i.am, Apl.de.Ap, and Taboo–have achieved sales of 35 million albums and 120 million singles across seminal releases such as Elephunk, The E.N.D., and more. One of the era’s biggest acts, they emerged as “the second best-selling artist/group of all-time for downloaded tracks” (Nielsen) and landed on Billboard’s “Hot 100 Artists of the Decade”. In 2011, they dazzled the world with a landmark performance at the Super Bowl XLV Halftime Show.

 

They have released several chart-topping hits, including “I Gotta Feeling”, “Where is the Love?”, “Pump It”, “Boom Boom Pow”, “My Humps”, “Meet Me Halfway”, “Let’s Get It Started”, “The Time (Dirty Bit)”, “Don’t Stop The Party”, and many more.

 

Their eighth studio album, TRANSLATION, achieved staggering international success after its release in 2020. Featuring major collaborations with artists such as J Balvin, Ozuna, Maluma, Shakira, Nicky Jam, and Tyga, the long-player garnered eight nominations at the Billboard Latin Music Awards, including ‘Crossover Artist of the Year” and “Hot Latin Song of the Year” for “RITMO” and a nomination at the 2021 Latin Music Awards for ‘“Favorite Artists - Crossover”. The album resulted in a series of chart-topping singles, including the massively successful “RITMO (Bad Boys For Life)” [feat. J Balvin] and “MAMACITA” [feat. Ozuna and J.Rey Soul], both of which achieved #1 status on three Billboard Charts each, numerous award nominations, and gold, platinum, and diamond certifications globally. The knockout album single from December 2020, “GIRL LIKE ME” [feat. Shakira] continued this streak, achieving success on Latin and Top 40 radio, sparking a viral TikTok challenge in late 2020, and scooping “Best Latin” award at the MTV VMAs, while 2021’s ‘HIT IT’ with Saweetie and Lele Pons racked up 5.8M global audio streams, 1.1M US audio streams and almost 10M YouTube views in its first week alone.

 

The success of TRANSLATION demonstrated Black Eyed Peas’ ability to reinvent themselves along with the changing times, a fact reconfirmed in 2022 when the band reunited with Shakira and David Guetta for DON’T YOU WORRY, the first single to drop from their ninth studio album ELEVATION. The hugely successful lead single was swiftly followed by the Anitta and El Alfa collaboration SIMPLY THE BEST. In 2023 true BEP fashion, harnessing the musical forces of the Americas, the next single BAILAR CONTIGO (with reggaeton superstar Daddy Yankee) followed by GUARANTEE (SUMMER MIX), has opened up yet another brilliant chapter in the continuing story of the Black Eyed Peas in nothing less than international chart-topping style.

 

Follow @WilbrosLive on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

SB19 are going on 'Simula At Wakas' World Tour this 2025

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• The group unveiled a cinematic teaser for their upcoming new extended play "Simula at Wakas".
• SB19's upcoming tour as the #SaWWorldTour

In a social media post on Wednesday, February 12, SB19 announced the cities that are included in their "Simula At Wakas" world tour happening from May to October.

The tour will kick off in Bulacan this coming May. The group will also perform in other parts of Asia, the United States and the Middle East. SB19 has yet to reveal further details about the tour.

The group composed of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin, will drop its comeback single on February 28 followed by the official release of "Simula at Wakas" EP on April 25.

Fans and followers of SB19 also shared their support to SB19's upcoming tour as the #SaWWorldTour trends on microblogging site X (formerly Twitter).

Simula at Wakas promises to push the guys further into the global-pop conversation as the final chapter in their musical trilogy following 2021’s Pagsibol and Pagtatag! from 2023.

SB19 first teased fans with a new trailer video on January 31, 2025 (below) that featured visual callbacks to previous hits like “What?” and “Gento” (which hit No. 8 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart in 2023) to signal a fresh, new musical direction for their soon-to-be revealed new single set for a February 28 release.

SB19 on Friday unveiled a cinematic teaser for their upcoming new extended play "Simula at Wakas".

The teaser showed the five members wearing long, thick, and brown clothing in a mysterious part of a forest where a glowing tree resides. An apple seemingly served as a key element in the visuals, a known imagery in many films and literature.

Soon afterward, the Filipino sensation will hit the road with a series of concerts, including U.S. stops in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Honolulu, and more, alongside international dates in cities like Toronto, Tokyo, Sydney, Taipei, Doha, and more.

“We’re really excited to meet everyone,” Ken tells Billboard. “We’ve been preparing for unlimited surprises for you guys.”

While Justin promises that fans will hear new songs from Simula at Wakas for the first time, Josh is sure to add that A’TIN should “stay tuned for new genres and performances, plus fresh arrangements of our older tracks!”

While the guys are laser-focused on releasing their new music, they say bringing those songs to life in new countries and territories is equally exciting to the quintet.

“We’re thrilled to finally share what we’ve been working on over the past few months,” Stell says. “After a long break as a group, our main focus is now on the new EP, and we can’t wait to reconnect with our fans — especially in places we haven’t visited before. We’re really excited to meet everyone there.”

In addition to the world tour dates already set between May-August, as well as October 2025, SB19 say “more cities will be announced soon” with dates coming soon for their Sydney, Melbourne, Tokyo, and Hong Kong stops.

“We are pushing the boundaries and we want the best for all of the fans,” leader Pablo shares before Josh adds, “We think from our last tour they have seen more of our individuality but this time, we will be coming stronger.”

Stell concludes by speaking to SB19’s larger ambitions, saying “We really want our fans to connect with our stories since we did it with all our hearts. Our goals are not only for SB19 but for the entire Philippine music industry.”

See below for the Simula at Wakas World Tour poster and stay tuned for more information from the band.

BINI Gears Up for 1st Leg of ‘BINIverse World Tour’; Shuttle Service to Philippine Arena Available

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All roads lead to the Philippine Arena on February 15 (Saturday) as the nation’s girl group BINI holds the maiden leg of the momentous “BINIverse World Tour 2025.” BLOOMs can avail of roundtrip shuttle service to join and celebrate BINI’s latest milestone.

Shuttle service to and from the concert venue is available via tridemtickets.com with main pick-up points at Solaire ASEAN Open Parking, One Ayala Terminal Makati, UPark Megamall, Baliwag Bus Terminal Cubao, and SM City North Edsa.

The eight-member Filipino act has started rehearsals for the “BINIverse World Tour: Philippines,” which is expected to deliver fresh and thrilling numbers, including a must-see performance of their new international single, “Blink Twice.”

The song will be available on digital streaming platforms beginning Feb. 13 (Thursday) or two days before the most awaited show.

VIP and lower box A premium tickets to the concert are sold out but other lower box, upper box, and gen ad tickets are still up for grabs via pulptickets.com and ticketnet.com.ph.

After the Philippine leg, “BINIverse World Tour” will go to Singapore, Dubai, London, and the United States.

Be part of the “BINIverse World Tour: Philippines” on February 15, 5pm at the Philippine Arena, and watch out for the music drop of “Blink Twice” on Feb. 13.

Experience K-pop Concert Like Never Before with vivo X200 Pro

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K-pop sensation, SEVENTEEN, made their highly anticipated return to the Philippines last Saturday (January 18) for their 'Right Here' world tour.

Imagine the heart-pounding excitement of a packed stadium, the lights flashing, and the crowd roaring as your favorite K-pop idols take the stage.

With vivo X200 Pro’s 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera, you can preserve all of it—every moment in crisp, sharp detail!

This smartphone demonstrated its impressive camera capabilities at the concert, capturing every scene with breathtaking detail and elevating the live experience through its cutting-edge imaging technology!

View from the bleachers at Philippine Sports Arena

New Standard for Concert Photography

Scoring concert tickets was a real challenge, especially for a group like SEVENTEEN with such a loyal following.

Still, for the love of SEVENTEEN, many fans didn’t mind being in the back rows just to catch a glimpse of their favorite idols.

But no matter the distance, the vivo X200 Pro stood as the ultimate concert companion, ensuring no moment was missed!

Equipped with ZEISS-engineered lenses, this device guaranteed professional-grade concert photos even from the farthest part of the Philippine Sports Stadium.

Stunning 10x zoom shot from the bleachers, taken with the vivo X200 Pro

What's cool? Activating vivo X200 Pro’s Super Stage Mode transformed distant bleacher seats into an instant front-row experience! Its HyperZoom feature, offering up to 100x zoom, brought the SEVENTEEN idols closer than ever!

Plus, its AI Imaging Lab ensured each photo was rendered in exceptional quality, delivering stunningly vibrant results that rivaled those of a DSLR.

Keep the K-pop Beat Alive

K-pop concerts are generally known for their electrifying energy, with excitement happening at every turn.

But with the vivo X200 Pro, you won’t miss a single second of the action!

You can stay charged until the encore with its robust 6000mAh battery and 90W wired FlashCharge/30W wireless FlashCharge technology—ensuring non-stop fun all night long!

Excited to attend your next concert soon? Don’t just watch it—live it, capture it, and share it with the vivo X200 Pro!

The vivo X200 Pro is available for Php 69,999, at vivo e-store, Shopee, Lazada, and authorized retail stores nationwide!

A New Era of Women-led Music: Tanaw Collective to release debut single “Landslide” ahead of February Concert

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Acel Bisa, Aia de Leon, Barbie Almalbis, Hannah Romawac, Kitchie Nadal, and Lougee Basabas forge new paths forward with exciting collaborative projects, including new music releases in the future

Ahead of their much-anticipated repeat concert next month, Pinoy rock queens Acel Bisa, Aia de Leon, Barbie Almalbis, Hannah Romawac, Kitchie Nadal, and Lougee Basabas have officially launched Tanaw Collective—a supergroup that celebrates the power of women-led collaborations. This new initiative will explore exciting ventures including collaborative music releases, live performances, and other creative projects that amplify female voices in the music industry.

In addition to the serialized Tanaw shows, the six-piece force will release their first official single “Landslide,” on Friday, January 31, 2025 across all digital music platforms worldwide. A stripped-down reimagining of the iconic Fleetwood Mac classic, the song was self-recorded by the artists, and mixed/mastered by Angee Rozul. Fans can expect to hear a special arrangement of “Landslide” live at the Tanaw: The Repeat concert, taking place at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City on February 9, 2025 (Sunday), at 8:00 PM.

The reunion concert, which serves as a heartfelt celebration of the enduring bond between these iconic artists and their dedicated fans, will feature new interpretations of their beloved original songs, complemented by symphonic backing from The Manila String Machine on select cuts. Tanaw: The Repeat marks a significant moment for these women, whose individual and collective careers have shaped the Pinoy rock scene for decades.

The title TANAW (translated as “to gaze” or “to look out”) captures the reflective essence of the event. Whether revisiting the past with gratitude or looking ahead with excitement, this concert embodies both personal journeys and the collective sisterhood that binds these powerful voices. For Acel, Aia, Barbie, Hannah, Kitchie, and Lougee, Tanaw: The Repeat is more than just a reunion; it’s a chance to share new, meaningful musical expressions that honor their legacies while forging new paths forward.

Presented by Newport World Resorts, Tanaw: The Repeat is co-presented by GNN and Wow Fiesta, with official hotel partner Holiday Inn Express. Major sponsors include JB Music, Ming’s Pei Pa Koa Candy, David’s Salon, Apartment8, and Globatronics, while minor sponsors include Greenwich, Palladium, UGEC, Payaba, and Meiji Chocolates.

With less than 100 tickets remaining, fans are encouraged to secure their seats now by visiting: https://tanawtherepeat.helixpay.ph.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable musical experience.

Johnoy Danao headlines first solo concert, Liwayway at Dapithapon

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The upcoming major show marks his 25^th anniversary in the local music scene

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Johnoy Danao is set to captivate the Filipino audience with his much-anticipated first solo concert, Liwayway at Dapithapon, happening on March 14 to 15, 2025, at the prestigious Metropolitan Theater (MET) in Manila.

Photo credit: JL Javier

Location credits: UP Diliman Office of the Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs

The two-day musical celebration marks a milestone in Danao’s illustrious 25-year journey as an artist, serenading music fans with heartfelt tunes that cut across generations. The concert also follows Danao’s series of sold-out cafe shows, which took place in several intimate venues across the Philippines.

Produced by Johnoy Danao and minsan studio, Liwayway at Dapithapon promises to deliver an unforgettable event that chronicles the career of one of the country’s most beloved folk troubadours. The concert will not only revisit Danao’s familiar tunes but will also offer new renditions and never-before-heard tracks, demonstrating his growth as an artist over the years.

minsan studio head Jason Conanan, who has worked with Danao in bringing this vision to life, shares his excitement about the project. “Johnoy Danao has undergone so many phases in music, and we’re here to highlight the best of these moments,” Conanan explains. “It started with a simple idea—an email asking if the MET, now newly renovated, could host his long-overdue solo concert. Now, it’s becoming a reality, and we’re thrilled to present it in a venue that truly honors his work and legacy.”

Posted design by Marco Gono

Photo credit: JL Javier

A standout feature of the concert will be a special set accompanied by a 15-piece orchestra, masterfully arranged by Ria Villena-Osorio. “We want to offer the audience something different,” Conanan says. “Johnoy who usually plays as a solo act, will be supported by a full band, and some of his songs will be reimagined in a lush, orchestral setting that will enrich the experience and bring new dimension to his music. The minsan team is also helping with the creative direction of the show, so it’s a collaboration that we’re really looking forward to.”

For Danao, the concert represents not only a festive celebration of his past but also an exciting glimpse into his future. “Expect an experience that speaks to the soul,” says Danao. “We’ll cradle the tired hearts, minds, and bodies of our audience with the music I’ve written over the past 25 years: some old songs with new twists and fresh tracks that I’m excited to share with everyone for the first time. We also have special guests joining us in this special event.”

Tickets for Liwayway at Dapithapon are now available. Don’t miss the chance to witness this once-in-a-lifetime musical event.

Get your tickets here: www.ticketmelon.com/liwaywayatdapithapon. Early bird ticket prices are available for a limited time only.

A1 Valentine’s Tour 2025 Brings Excitement to Cebu with Special Guest MORISSETTE!

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As previously announced, beloved British-Norwegian boy band A1 is set to captivate fans across the Philippines with their highly anticipated Valentine’s Tour 2025. Known for their timeless hits such as “Like a Rose,” “Everytime,” and “Caught in the Middle,” A1 will bring their signature charm and unforgettable performances to key cities in the country this February.

One of the tour’s highlights will be their Cebu leg, taking place on February 14, 2025, at the prestigious Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino.

Adding even more excitement to the Cebu show, A1 is thrilled to announce that the evening will feature none other than Asia’s Phoenix, MORISSETTE, as their special guest. With her powerhouse vocals and emotional performances, MORISSETTE is set to elevate the Valentine’s Day concert experience for Cebuano fans to new heights.

During the height of the pandemic, A1 and MORISSETTE collaborated on the A1 hit “Like A Rose,” creating a virtual duet that captured the hearts of fans around the world. The collaboration, which was a tribute to the enduring power of music and connection even in challenging times, is drawing rave reviews particularly among Filipino fans, who were thrilled to see their beloved diva join forces with the internationally acclaimed boyband.

Now, for the first time ever, fans will witness the magic of that collaboration come to life onstage as A1 and MORISSETTE perform “Like A Rose” together during the Valentine’s concert. The Cebu show marks a poignant milestone, combining the timeless hits of A1 with MORISSETTE’S unmatched vocal prowess.

“Collaborating with Morissette during the pandemic was such a special experience for us,” said A1 in a joint statement. “We are incredibly excited to share the stage with her for the first time in Cebu. Filipino fans are some of the most passionate in the world, and we can’t wait to bring this moment to life.”

MORISSETTE shared her excitement, saying, “It’s truly an honour to perform with A1, a band I’ve admired for years. Singing with them during the pandemic was a dream, and I’m thrilled to finally share this collaboration live with our amazing fans in Cebu.”

A1 & MORISSETTE’S duet of “Like A Rose” during lock down: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=km8pfRjUMzY

A1 has expressed their excitement about performing in the Philippines, a country that has consistently shown them immense love and support over the years. The addition of MORISSETTE further underscores the band’s commitment to delivering a spectacular show for their Filipino fans.

Tickets for the Cebu concert and other stops of the Valentine’s Tour 2025 are expected to sell out quickly, so fans are encouraged to secure their seats as soon as possible.

Tickets for the Cebu Valentine’s show are now on sale at all SM Ticket outlets or log on to www.smtickets.com or call 8470-2222 for more details. Cebu sales no: 09155353873 and local 2326888.

Ticket prices Cebu:

VIP - Reserved Seating – 4,790 Peso

GOLD - Reserved Seating – 3,730 Peso

SILVER - Reserved Seating – 2,660 Peso

BRONZE - Free Seating – 1,600 Peso

BALCONY - Free Seating – 850 Peso

About A1:

A1 is a British-Norwegian boy band that rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s, becoming a global sensation with hits such as “Take On Me” " Like A Rose", and “Same Old Brand New You.” Their music continues to resonate with fans around the world, making them one of the most enduring pop acts of their time.

About MORISSETTE:

MORISSETTE, hailed as Asia’s Phoenix, is one of the Philippines’ most celebrated singers. Known for her extraordinary vocal range and heartfelt performances, she has garnered a loyal following both locally and internationally.

MORISSETTE social media

Instagram: instagram.com/itsmorissette

Youtube: www.youtube.com/MorissettePh

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MorissettePh

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itsmorissette?_t=8sjGFfxyB5s&_r=1

Spotify: 

https://open.spotify.com/artist/62WbvkXqQGvXQvw74GU3kQ?si=iMoSTBX6RJWFItcKihkTQg

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/ph/artist/morissette/342785077

For more concert updates, check out A1’s Facebook page /a1official or follow Concert Republic’s website www.concertrepublic.com or /@concertrepublic on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, TikTok @concert.republic.

Smart gears up for amazing 5G Max Experience in BGC on Dec. 14! Catch performances of Bamboo, Belle Mariano, Moira Dela Torre, AC Bonifacio, and Arthur Nery

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Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc., (Smart) is pulling out all the stops as it showcases how it empowers subscribers via the Smart 5G Max Experience, happening on Dec. 14, Saturday, on 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.

Catch Bamboo, Belle Mariano, Moira Dela Torre, AC Bonifacio, and Arthur Nery as Smart puts the spotlight on the many amazing ways Filipinos can harness the power of 5G—from streaming ultra-high-definition movies and shows, sharing content on social media in real time, to playing high-bandwidth mobile games without lag.

“Everyone is talking about 5G and its impressive speed, but the true value of 5G lies in its ability to enhance experiences— whether it's gaming, streaming, or sharing content. With Smart 5G Max, we’ve made 5G seamless in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), and we plan to expand this coverage across the country in the coming months,” said Kristine A. Go, Senior Vice President for Smart Wireless Consumer Business.

“Gone are the days of fluctuating connections from 5G to 4G and even 3G. With Smart 5G Max, you can enjoy, fast download speeds for streaming, instant uplink for sharing, and low-latency for gaming — all without interruption and on-the-go,” she added.

The latest wireless technology, 5G or fifth generation brings four things to the table: super-fast speeds for downloads and uploads, ultra-low latency for gaming and responsiveness, greater bandwidth for more devices, and a much better quality of service.

Everyone can experience these first-hand at the Creator’s Lab, Game Arena, Stream Theater, and 5G-powered Stage and Store.

Explore Smart 5G at the Creator’s Lab

Get the chance to explore the Creator’s Lab, an interactive area where you can experiment on creating content and upload it on TikTok in a snap.

The Creator’s Lab has a complete livestream set-up, and green screen backdrop dance challenge floor, and duet singing booth for your instant TikTok content.

Level up your gameplay with Smart Omega

Take your gameplay to a whole new level at the Game Arena, where you can get a chance to go up against the Smart Omega team on Mobile Legends: Bang Bang to win a prize!

The Game Arena will feature a 5v5 set-up with high end gaming smartphones to maximize the power of Smart 5G Max.

Watch your favorite shows at the Stream Theater

If you are into binge-watching, the Stream Theater is the best place to catch up on the latest shows on MAX and Netflix!

Expect surprise celebrities to drop by while you watch Max’s Dune and Netflix’s Squid Game in glorious 4K – complete with exclusive swag!

Generate your Avatar, interact with robots

The event will also have a generate-your-own-avatar section, where you can simply take a selfie, generate a digital image, and get a QR code for easy download.

You can also interact with a Service Delivery Robot and Robot Dog at the event.

Bamboo banners FREE concert

The must-not-miss live performances of Bamboo, Belle Mariano, Moira, AC Bonifacio, and Arthur Nery will cap the event with a free concert.

Lucky fans will get the chance to meet and greet AC and Belle and take their photos with them to share on social media.

Mark your calendars and experience the power of Smart 5G Max on Dec. 14, starting at 2 p.m., on 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. To know more, follow Smart’s official accounts on Facebook, X, TikTok and IG.

Filipino band Ben&Ben graces New York’s Time Square billboard

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Award-winning Filipino band Ben&Ben has reached another milestone as they made it to New York’s Times Square, appearing in a billboard for Spotify.

This high-profile feature on the digital billboard is part of an initiative to promote their third studio album, The Traveller Across Dimensions. The campaign marks a significant step in expanding the band’s global presence, bringing their unique sound to new audiences worldwide.

“It’s a great honor for us to be featured by Spotify on the Times Square billboard for our new album, The Traveller Across Dimensions,” shares the nine-piece collective in a statement. “We feel a deep sense of gratitude for these rare opportunities to share our music to people from all walks of life.”

Since its release on November 29, 2024, the band’s new album garnered widespread acclaim, with listeners praising its expansive concept, as well its foray into sonic experiments.

Ben&Ben vocalist and guitarist Paolo Benjamin reflected on the positive reception that the Araw-Araw band has been enjoying so far. “We treasure the response to the album so far, as it involves a lot of embracing new things from us, both musically and visually,” he said. “We want to take this journey with our Liwanag, our listeners, as we navigate these new waters together.”

The band’s recent accolades include being recognized as the “Most Streamed Artist” at the 37th Awit Awards, and ranking among the top Filipino groups on Spotify Wrapped 2024.

The Traveller Across Dimensions, is a concept album with stunning animated visuals, taking listeners to a unique, immersive experience. The multimedia album follows 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.

To further immerse the fans in the album’s world, Ben&Ben is set to 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. Produced by Ovation Productions, the concert promises to be an innovative, multi-dimensional experience, blending live music with state-of-the-art multimedia elements inspired by the album.

Ben&Ben are currently taking time to prepare for a one-of-a-kind show that will be remembered not just for its sheer ambition and scale, but for its string of surprises. “The concert prep is at its home stretch,” adds the band. “At this point, it is more of ironing out the technical side of things, but the band is excited to give a novel and memorable show on the 14th.”

Ben&Ben’s The Traveller Across Dimensions is now available for streaming on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Ben&Ben unveil new album and immersive animation experience in The Traveller Across Dimensions

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The band’s third studio album serves as an allegory for self-discovery and personal growth

Filipino nine-piece band Ben&Ben are 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.

A Journey of self-discovery through animation

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.”

A full circle moment: Songwriting

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.”

A sonic evolution: Production

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.

A Groundbreaking Live Experience

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.

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:

· General Admission – PHP 1,700

· Upper Box – PHP 2,700

· Liwanag Standing – PHP 3,200

· Lower Box B – PHP 3,700

· Lower Box A – PHP 4,700

· Lower Box Premium – PHP 7,700

· Liwanag VIP Package – PHP 7,700

Ben&Ben’s The Traveller Across Dimensions is now available for streaming on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.