Asia’s Soul Supreme KZ Tandingan hits up with global electronic producers GATTÜSO and Frogmonster on “Somebody Like You”

Tweet

Filipino pop/R&B artist KZ Tandingan teams up with international producers GATTÜSO and Frogmonster on the clubby electronic anthem “Somebody Like You,” out now via Liquid State and Sony Music.

With a collective 1.75 billion streams between them over the last 2 years, the unexpected trio pushes the boundaries of dance music with a truly global collaboration that features two versions: one in English and another one in Mandarin.

The trio has created a progressive banger full of high emotions and feels across each version, with the lyrics highlighting that special moment when you realize that it’s possible to end up with your partner forever.

“Somebody Like You” has something for everybody, and arrives with a lyric video in tow that showcases a fake dating app where anybody can find the love they are looking for.

With collaborations under his belt with the likes of R3HAB, Steve Aoki and Nicky Romero, GATTÜSO has made a name for himself as one of the foremost electronic producers based out of the United States in the last few years, as he continues to bring his A-game to every single he is on.

Tagged as ‘Asia’s Soul Supreme,’ KZ Tandingan delivers indelibly catchy music that has spanned pop, jazz, folk, and R&B, and with this latest release, now adds the dance genre and another new language to her vast music catalogue.

Last but by no means least, Chinese duo Frogmonster, are two friends who connected at university. Having made their name in China with hit record “Remember our Summer,” which is now at over 1.4 billion streams in China, they continue to build their name as one of the most exciting progressive house duos across Asia.

With separate acoustic versions set for release later this month, “Somebody Like You,” is set to continue pull at your heartstrings over the summer months ahead.

KZ Tandingan, GATTÜSO and Frogmonster’s “Somebody Like You” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Liquid State and Sony Music.

KZ soars to greater heights in hard-hitting song “11:59”

Tweet

Her first single set for international release

Asia’s Soul Supreme KZ Tandingan takes her music to a whole different level with her soulful delivery and exceptional vocals in “11:59,” her brand new single dropping this Friday (October 22).

Grammy-nominated producer Luigie “Lugo” Gonzales, Paulino Lorenzo, and Idrise Ward-El produced KZ’s first single under Tarsier Records, which is slated for international release as ABS-CBN continues to showcase Filipino talents on the world stage.

“It's the realization of a vision. Parang after my ‘X Factor’ 2012 stint, the dream was always to go international, to represent the country on the world stage. And now I get to release this,” KZ shared.

Recounting the moments before she finally recorded the song, she said, “I just wanted to be ready, na alam nila na ‘She did the work.’ Sobra akong kinakabahan kasi it's a new environment, new people, i-add mo pa na I was working with a Grammy-nominated artist so I didn't wanna disappoint him.”

The hard-hitting soul track “11:59” takes listeners through a journey of lovers trying to figure out what the next move is in their relationship, where one is seeking answers from the other.

Its music video, directed and conceptualized by Dominic Bekaert of Zoopraxi Studios, will play around the message of the song and visually picture the concept of time through a circular set.

Known for her edgy and authentic sound and style, the “X Factor Philippines” season one grand winner achieved international fame when she joined China’s singing competition “Singer 2018,” where her performances went viral. In 2019, KZ made history anew as the first Filipino to perform a sold-out concert in Dubai World Trade Center Arena.

The Kapamilya singer has had several huge projects under her belt this 2021. She sang the first full Filipino Disney song, “Gabay,” for the film “Raya the Last Dragon” and released the wedding EP “Simula” together with her husband and fellow Filipino artist TJ Monterde. She also interpreted the song “Marupok,” which emerged as Best Song in Himig 11th Edition.

Check out KZ’s “11:59” single, out on music streaming platforms worldwide beginning Friday (October 22) and the music video premiering on the same day on Tarsier Records' YouTube channel at 11:59 AM. For updates, follow Tarsier Records on various social media accounts @tarsierrecords.

KZ and Danielle Balagtas’ ‘Marupok,’ Big Winner in Himig 11th Edition

Tweet

The highly relatable song “Marupok” composed by Danielle Balagtas was proclaimed as the Best Song in the country’s biggest songwriting competition, ABS-CBN’s Himig 11th Edition.

Interpreted by “Asia’s Soul Supreme” KZ Tandingan, the universal dance-pop yet distinctively Filipino track about easily catching feelings for someone earned its songwriter Danielle a P300,000 cash prize and a house and lot from Lumina Homes.

“I wanted this to be a symbolism for a girl who is labeled as ‘marupok’ to remember that we all have the capacity to grow and be empowered women,” Danielle explained.

KZ, who first won in Himig Handog 2014 for Edwin Marollano’s Best Song entry and smash hit “Mahal Ko o Mahal Ako,” also shared how special “Marupok” is to her. “’Marupok’ is a song that’s closest to who I am as an artist, so if it didn’t become a finalist for Himig, this would definitely still be part of my album. It sounded like it was meant for me.”

The music video of “Marupok” directed by Gelo Yellow also notched the “MYX Choice for Best Music Video” special award with a P25,000 cash prize.

Meanwhile, the entry of brothers John Francis and Jayson Franz Pasicolan “Kahit Na Masungit” was named 2nd Best Song, for which they won P200,000. Young artists Jeremy G and Kyle Echarri originally recorded the song, but Bugoy Drilon performed it live during the finals night.

The 3rd Best Song was awarded to previous Best Song winner Dan Tañedo for his Himig 11th Edition entry “Ibang Planeta,” which was brought to life by ZILD. He bagged P150,000 for this feat.

Kenneth Reodica’s impactful composition “Ang Hirap Maging Mahirap” was declared 4th Best Song, winning P100,000. Originally interpreted by Davey Langit ft. Kritiko, it was performed live by “Tawag ng Tanghalan” season 4 grand champion JM Yosures and Kritiko during the competition’s finale.

The power ballad “Kulang Ang Mundo” composed by Daryl Cielo and interpreted by Sam Mangubat took home 5th Best Song, receiving a cash prize of P80,000.

On the other hand, SJ Gandia’s “Tinadhana Sa’Yo” interpreted by Zephanie scored two special awards, namely the “MOR Entertainment Choice” and “TFC’s Global Choice,” which amount to respective cash prizes of P25,000 and 1,000 USD.

David Mercado also won a P25,000 cash prize as his entry “Kahit Kunwari Man Lang” sung by Agsunta and Moira Dela Torre was hailed as the “Most Streamed Song,” while Mariah Moriones’ entry “Tabi-Tabi Po” interpreted by JMKO earned a total of 8,179 votes on TikTok and was named as the “Himig TikTok Choice.”

The finals night of Himig 11th Edition was first seen on KTX.ph last Sunday (March 21) hosted by Edward Barber, Jayda, and Jona. The event proved to be a grand celebration of OPM with stellar performances from OPM’s finest Jona, Jayda, Bugoy Drilon, Liezel Garcia, Sheryn Regis, Nyoy Volante, and Jed Madela.

Celebrate OPM by streaming Himig 11th Edition compilation album, out now on Spotify and soon on other digital music streaming platforms. 

For more details, visit https://www.facebook.com/Himig2020 on Facebook or follow Star Music on Facebook (www.facebook.com/starmusicph), and Twitter and Instagram (@StarMusicPH).

Taste the sounds of Pinoy music as KZ Tandingan and Apl De Ap collaborate for Coke Studio Season 2

Tweet

KZ TANDINGAN AND APL DE AP: WE WILL ALWAYS RETURN HOME 

If there’s one thing we Pinoys love, it’s a good underdog story. And it’s even better when that underdog goes way beyond our shores to fly the Pinoy pride flag. Then, when we know that they choose to return to the Philippines and spread the love, then it’s the modern day edition of the fairy tale, with a particularly Pinoy twist. For the finale of Coke Studio Season Two, artists who have conquered the international arena come together for a surprise collaboration that captures the soulful and complex journey of each and every Filipino proving their worth to the world. 

KZ first came to national prominence when she won a major reality show on one of the country’s top free television networks. She joined the contest so that her family could help out in the building of their parish church. She became a part of ABS CBN’s Sunday variety show ASAP and also sang theme songs for Star Cinema movies. But KZ went way beyond her comfort zone when she joined a singing contest in Beijing where she trended on the Chinese equivalent of Twitter, aka Weibo. “Even if the schedule would allow me to be home only for one day, I would go. I just couldn't be away from home too long. Home is where I can just really be myself and I needed to feel that so I could be my best at the competition.” 

Apl de Ap, born Allan Pineda Lindo, was actually legally blind as a child and this condition qualified him for an operation in America, sponsored by the Pearl S. Buck foundation. When he got to California and settled there, he then befriended a neighbor, William James, who then became more famous as rapper and songwriter Will.i.am; Apl then went on to worldwide phenomenal success. They won Grammy’s and sold -out stadiums and arenas all over the world. But Apl always made it a point to remember his roots. “I try to follow in the footsteps of those who came before me. The Pearl S. Buck foundation helped me and so I want to do the same. If I come back to help my countrymen, it’s because I love my country and want to see us be competitive among the best in the world.” In this light, he has set up the Apl de Ap foundation, which concentrates on empowering Filipino youth especially in the fields of arts and technology. On a personal note, he says, for him coming home can be summed up in three words. “Family. Food. Festive.” 

When it was time for KZ and Apl to collaborate, it is reasonable to imagine that the younger KZ would be intimidated.

“I had followed Season 1, and did want to be included but when it was time to meet Apl and also start recording, I was a bit quiet. He was always asking me, ‘how do you feel about it?’ or ‘how would you change it?’ And my first thought would always be, ‘Who am I to do that? What gives me the right to tell you anything?’ But after a while , I would give my inputs and suggestions, and I think I was able to add my own flavor to it. He allowed me to see that my complexity can be my strength. And so our song reflects the story of the Filipino who has to go away, how they manage their fears. ” 

 Apl says of their song, “It’s the story of every Filipino. It’s about trials and tribulations. It’s about having to to seek a better life.” 

 When he is traveling, Apl loves it when he lands at an airport with a lot of Filipinos who love to call out to him, “Kabayan.” He reveals, “They know that I know what they’re going through. I did what they’re doing.” KZ also gets a rush when she does shows for the Filipino communities abroad. “When they come to our shows, it’s a way for them to get to feel they’re at home, even if they’re still far from home.” 

For both KZ and Apl, music is also their home, and through music they can bring that feeling of home to all who share in their art. 

Taste the sounds of Pinoy music as KZ Tandingan and Apl De Ap collaborate for Coke Studio Season 2. Catch them on November 18, at 11:15 a.m. before ASAP on ABS-CBN or on www.youtube.com/CokeStudioPH

With Freeniversaya: A FREEnet Concert , Voyager delivers a one-of-a-kind digital concert experience to Filipinos

Tweet

Since opening the doors of the digital life and rewards to users three years ago, freenet today continues to give access to the most exciting rewards and experiences to its users this time  through a one-of-a-kind digital concert extravaganza dubbed FREENIVERSAYA: A FREEnet Concert.   

In celebration of the 3rd anniversary of freenet, Voyager Innovations’ free internet and rewards platform, freenetizens were given free and exclusive access to an evening of music, prizes, and celebration at the SM Mall of Asia Arena last September 20. Concert-goers jammed to the hits of the country's biggest OPM artists today: Bamboo, KZ Tandingan, Moira Dela Torre, Shanti Dope, Gloc-9, Ben&Ben, and Hashtags, while Kaladkaren Davila and Luis Manzano brought the more saya by giving away lots of freebies and prizes to the thousands of fans in attendance. 

“We'd like to thank all the loyal and passionate freenet fans who joined us during the Freeniversaya: a FREEnet concert! This was a spectacular opportunity for us to give them a truly unique digital experience whether they were with us at the concert venue or even those who tuned in at home via Facebook Live. We hope all of them had fun listening to their favorite artists and getting all the free perks, because this is just the beginning of a free, fun, and rewarding life with freenet!" said Dindo Marzan, Managing Director for Marketing Technologies at Voyager Innovations.  

Complete Digital Experience 

The digital experience of freenetizens started with getting concert passes by redeeming desired tickets in the freenet shop using the freenet points they have collected over the past months. These points are earned once they complete in-app missions which include visiting sites, downloading apps, as well as referring their friends to freenet.   

During the concert, paying for food and drinks was also a breeze thanks to the quick and easy cashless transactions brought by PayMaya QR. Concert-goers were able to pay for refreshments from various merchants inside the venue using only the PayMaya app installed in their smartphones. Freenetizens who used PayMaya QR were not only able to pay conveniently, but they were also surprised with instant rebates ranging from P9 to P999 with just a minimum purchase of P99 at participating merchants during the concert.  

But the digital fun didn't stop at the concert venue, because freenetizens from all over the country were also given free access to the Freeniversaya experience through Facebook Live, so they can listen to the songs and jam to the hits of their favorite artists wherever they may be in the country, united under the hashtags #Freeniversaya and #GrabeAngSaya all throughout the night. 

Exciting perks and rewards 

But for those who were lucky enough to join the concert live on September 20, they were treated to an evening of not just musical spectacle, but exciting perks and rewards as well from freenet, PayMaya, Lendr, Smart Padala, and many other brands. 

For one, select freenetizens at the audience were able to join a special edition of the Dailygaya Raffle Promo where three lucky winners were each able to take home one of the following prizes: a brand-new Yamaha SZ16, roundtrip tickets for two to Taiwan, and 1 million freenet points, which the winner can use to redeem endless rewards at the freenet in-app shop including airtime load, data packages, gaming pins, and many more.  

In addition to this, three lucky freenetizens from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao were also given the VVIP experience during the Freeniversaya concert complete with VVIP tickets plus a backstage tour before the show, hotel accommodations, as well as roundtrip tickets for two to those who live in the provinces. 

Throughout the night, freenetizens enjoyed one reward after another. Concert-goers were treated to an exclusive prepaid load flash sale courtesy of PayMaya. All PayMaya users were given 30 minutes to get a 100% cashback on their prepaid load purchases worth P20 via the PayMaya app. 

“I think it's an understatement that we really went all out in giving exclusive perks and prizes to all freenetizens during our anniversary concert.  We really want to drive home the message that it's really more fun and rewarding to be a freenet user. To our freenetizens, watch out as we have a lot in store for our dear community, ” added Heidi Garayblas, Associate Marketing Director at Voyager Innovations. 

Throughout its three years of giving a free and rewarding experience to more than 8 million Filipinos nationwide, freenet has definitely become one of the go-to apps of mobile Internet users, making it the top free lifestyle app and a consistent trending app in the same category on Google Play. 

To make sure you don't miss out on these exclusive perks, prizes, and even more surprises, download the freenet app on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store today! For updates, follow @freenetph on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and visit www.thefreenet.com for more information. 

DTI-FTEB PERMIT NO. 9216 Series of 2018 

DTI-FTEB PERMIT NO. 16859 Series of 2018