Rico Blanco continues winning streak with the release of his new single “Sayong sayo (Papel, Gunting, Bato)

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After receiving the prestigious Dangal Ng Musikang Pilipino at the 36th Awit Awards for his enormous contribution to the Philippine music scene and re-releasing “You’ll Be Safe Here” on streaming platforms for the very first time, Filipino alternative rock icon Rico Blanco continues to make headlines with the release of his new single, “Sayong sayo (Papel, Gunting, Bato),” via Sony Music Entertainment.

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The prolific hitmaker solidifies his place as one of the country’s greats with another pop-rock gem

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On “Sayong sayo (Papel, Gunting, Bato),” the prolific songsmith displays a mastery of the ‘love song’ genre with simplicity and finesse, evoking the feeling of winning the lottery after several tries in life and love.

“The chorus hook came to me first, and I immediately felt it would be a really fun song to play live or at a party,” Rico Blanco shares. “I kept imagining everyone dancing and singing along. A fun party song.”

Recorded at the Balcony Studio with the legendary Angee Rozul, the upbeat pop-rock ditty shows a sonic maverick still in his prime, tapping into new ideas with a sophisticated sheen. The track also marks the first time that the OPM veteran jammed and recorded a track face-to-face with fellow musicians since the pandemic, which includes accomplished and critically acclaimed producers/singer-songwriters Zild Benitez on bass and Tim Marquez on drums.

“Ang saya at sobrang bilis lang parang naglalaro lang kaming apat sa studio (it felt like we’re just playing around and having fun in the studio),” the multi-awarded artist explains.
“Iba pa rin talaga mag-record ng magkakasama sa isang kwarto (There’s nothing like recording together in a room).

“Sayong sayo (Papel, Gunting, Bato)” serves as the follow-up single to last year’s “Palibot-libot,” an introspective synth-pop tune that reflects on the uncertainty of one-sided love. It will be part of a new album to be released sometime in 2024.

Aside from plans of releasing a brand-new record next year, Rico Blanco will be joining Bamboo Manalac, Mark Escueta and Nathan Azarcon for the Rivermaya: The Reunion concert, happening on February 17, 2024 at the SMDC Festival Grounds in Pasay City. Tickets to the highly anticipated show will be available on November 17, 2023 via SM Tickets website and outlets nationwide.

Rico Blanco’s “Sayong sayo (Papel, Gunting, Bato)” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Watch sci-fi inspired music video for Rico Blanco’s “Palibot libot”

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Acclaimed singer-songwriter/producer Rico Blanco explores sci-fi themes in the music video of “Palibot libot,” his current single under Sony Music Entertainment.

Helmed by Cris Escolano and Rico Blanco himself, the visuals present a story of humanity in a world completely engulfed by hopelessness. The MV stars Rico Blanco, model Tuti Pon, and “The Entity,” a robotic figure created by Richard Somes.

According to Pon, she had fun playing the female lead and embracing the intricacies needed to pull off her character convincingly. “It was definitely a new experience for me and I’d do it again if I got a chance.”

Production Designer Justine Arcega-Bumanlag expressed enthusiasm in working with the team and conveying the fantastically imaginative vision of the material. She shares, “For this, Rico Blanco was aiming for a classic-looking music video that stands the test of time. He wanted to veer away from CGIs, so we started building a set that looks like a wreckage from an unknown planet, and using it all throughout the time.”

The song, which reflects on the uncertainty that thrives between friendship and relationship, was inspired by one of the characters in a series that he filmed in La Union last year. With its storytelling “anchored precariously on someone’s steadfast devotion,” albeit a one-sided one, the song minces no words about the reality of love: It’s not always synchronized. It comes with complications, but that’s the beauty of it.

“Palibot libot” will be part of Rico Blanco’s fourth studio album to be released under Sony Music Entertainment.

Watch the music video of “Palibot libot” here.

Rico Blanco reimagines iconic PBB theme song now called "Pinoy Tayo"

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"Pinoy Tayo" is also the lead single in the upcoming 20th anniversary album of Jonathan Manalo.

Song to be part of Jonathan Manalo’s 20th-anniversary album OPM icon Rico Blanco delivers a unifying, Filipino folk music spin to the well-loved “Pinoy Big Brother” theme song meaningfully renamed “Pinoy Tayo,” 16 years after the song was first heard and eventually became an anthem of empowerment for many Filipinos.

Rico’s special anniversary version of the Orange and Lemons original “Pinoy Ako” will serve as the official theme song of the upcoming "Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Kumunity Season 10."

“It’s such an honor to do the song. Just what it stands for. The original version is so well-loved,” he said. “This is a chance to rediscover it.”

Now with vibrant elements of Filipino ethnic sound, “Pinoy Tayo” is a composition of ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo, Clem Castro, and Rico, who also produced the remake while Jonathan served as the surpervising producer.

Rico detailed his inspiration in making the new version. “Tinanong ko ang sarili ko ‘ano ba 'yung ako’ and I put in all the small elements that my songs had throughout the years,” he shared.

“Excited ako about that happiness na mabibigay ng kanta. It’s a very bright, upbeat song, and I kept that from the original version,” he added.

Aside from being this year’s PBB theme song, “Pinoy Tayo” will also serve as the lead single in the expansive 25-track album that will celebrate the music of Jonathan in the last 20 years.

The multi-awarded songwriter and producer remains in awe of how the song has become a statement on Pinoy pride and how it continues to uplift the spirits of generations of Pinoy audiences.

“I’m grateful to hear people saying that this song has become part of the soundtrack of their lives,” Jonathan shared. “As I embark on my 20th anniversary in the music industry this year, an icon, a legend who I look up to helped me kickstart the celebration by re-imagining this song with his genius.”

Jonathan also spoke about what the song “Pinoy Tayo” means to him. “Ito yung gusto naming ibigay sa audience na mapagaan man lang ang pinagdadaaanan nating lahat at magbigay ng hope at inspirasyon individually and as a nation. And also to remind us na maraming reasons pa rin to celebrate ang ating pagiging Pilipino,” he said.

Meanwhile, “Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10” has opened auditions for aspiring adult housemates age 20 to 40 years old until September 30. Just download the Kumu app and create an account. Upload a one-minute Kumu clip, introduce yourself, and explain why you deserve to become a housemate. Don’t forget the hashtag #PBBKUMUADULTS.

Be empowered with the reimagined track “Pinoy Tayo,” out on music streaming platforms worldwide. For more details, like Star Music on Facebook (www.facebook.com/starmusicph) and follow it on Twitter and Instagram (@StarMusicPH).

Why “Pinoy Big Brother” (PBB) songs are the perfect hype songs for Pinoys

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ABS-CBN’s “Pinoy Big Brother,” which has played a big factor in the lives of Filipinos through iconic moments and talented personalities since 2005, is also home to popular songs that can give you a boost when you need some positive vibes. 

The songs don’t just scream Pinoy pride, they also underscore the importance of being true to one’s self, forging strong connections with other people, being brave, and never giving up on chasing dreams. With the return of "PBB" for its 10th season, a new theme song will definitely capture the heart of Filipinos.

As we Filipinos continue to face different challenges with the enduring pandemic, sometimes all we need is to listen to good music to get us through the day.

Check them out here and be sure to stream them, start!

1 “Pinoy Ako” by Orange and Lemons

When “PBB” premiered in 2005, the hit Orange and Lemons’ song skyrocketed in music charts and dominated the airwaves for a long time. Most Filipinos still know the song by heart and dance to it as it is a global Pinoy anthem for empowering Filipinos to show their talent to the world.

“Ipakilala ang iyong sarili/ Ano man sa iyo ay mangyayari/ Ang lagi mong isipin/ Kayang kayang gawin”

2 “Kabataang Pinoy” by Itchyworms

When “PBB” introduced a teen edition, “Kabataang Pinoy” made a huge splash. It became the perfect theme of every youth event for its high-energy music and great lyrics that encourage the Filipino youth to do their best as they are the future of the country.

“Hamon sa buhay handang daanan/ Kaya namin 'yan/ Ipaglalaban namin ang nararapat/ At tamang gagawin”

3 “Sikat Ang Pinoy” by Sam Milby and Toni Gonzaga 

Sam and Toni became a hit love team in the mid-2000s for their undeniable chemistry. It was no wonder why Big Brother also asked his ex-housemate and host to help sing the theme of the  “PBB” celebrity editions. Titled “Sikat Ang Pinoy,” the song is an ode to “Pinoy Ako” and also puts the spotlight on Filipino talent that is recognized worldwide.

“Pinoy laging maaasahan/ Kailan ma'y 'di ka iiwan/ Handang tumulong sa iyo/ Ano man ang pagdaanan mo”

4 “Otso Na” by Toni and Alex Gonzaga 

Besides hosting the eighth season of “PBB,” sisters Toni and Alex also sang the theme song for “PBB Otso” that was aptly titled “Otso Na.” The catchy song was a bop among fans as it highlights the enduring connection of “PBB” and its loyal fan base. "Otso Na" also cleverly plays on the number eight to higlight the lasting bonds formed inside the "PBB" house.

“Maraming masayang nangyari sa samahang nabuo/ Nawa'y palagi lang maging maligaya/ Higit pa sa walang-hanggang pagsasamang kay saya”

5 “Connected Na Tayo” by Jem Macatuno, Shawntel Cruz, Kiara Takahashi,  and Lie Reposposa

“PBB” is truly a home of songwriters. For “PBB Connect,” “PBB Otso” housemates Jem, Shawntel, Kiara, and Lie got to write and sing the show’s theme song despite quarantine restrictions. “Connected Na Tayo” is all about pursuing dreams together, making it a fan favorite.

“Tara na, abutin ang pangarap/ Di papipigil sa bawat hakbang/ Sa saya at kalungkutan/ Di ka iiwan/ Dahil connected na tayo”

6 “Pinoy Tayo” by Rico Blanco 

For its 10th season, “PBB” collaborated with OPM icon Rico Blanco to reinvent the famous “Pinoy Ako” song. Titled “Pinoy Tayo,” the new the theme song of the upcoming season still echoes the message of the original hit with new lyrics and a refreshed arrangement – a perfect song to give you that much needed boost in whatever challenge you’re facing.

“‘Pakita mo ang tunay at kung sino ka/ Mayro’n mang masama at maganda/ Wala namang perpekto/ Basta’t magpakatotoo”

Stream “Pinoy Tayo” by Rico Blanco on ABS-CBN Star Music’s YouTube channel. Watch Rico’s “Pinoy Tayo” performance on “ASAP Natin ‘To” on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel. 

Viral Rico Blanco TikTok gets reimagined by producer/singer-songwriter raven

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Rising producer/singer-songwriter raven teams up with indie pop artists Naila and somere on the new single “S.U.K.I.”—released today via Sony Music Philippines.

The lo-fi jam, which was produced by raven and Rico Blanco, takes into account the pain and longing of someone who gave his all, but failed miserably to mend what’s left of the romantic relationship. Collaborators Naila and somere, who also provided their lilting vocals to the insanely catchy bop, are also credited as songwriters for this special project featuring different generations of musicians.

Putting together the entire song is interesting from a production standpoint, as it started from a random challenge posted by alternative rock icon Rico Blanco on TikTok, where he played a piano while beatboxing for others to explore with either a rap verse or a vocal melody with lyrics.

Blanco’s captivating instrumental, which only lasted for a few seconds, has racked up over 2.8 million views on the platform since it was uploaded late last year.

Multi-instrumentalist and singer/rapper raven took the challenge seriously and wrote verses that sting with melancholic thoughts. The genre-bending artist shares in a statement, “S.U.K.I. was actually based from my own personal experience. I wrote it as a tribute to a young love that didn’t end up pretty well, despite trying everything to make it work.”

Up-and-coming singer-songwriters Naila and somere completed the musical narrative by writing and singing their own verse on the rap ballad, giving the material a refreshing perspective that complements raven’s bedroom pop treatment.

According to 15-year-old artist Naila, her verse was lifted from a poem she personally penned when she was in 8^th grade. “It was when I finished reading a book about a couple with a very tragic love story, I was so attached to it to the point that I even made a poem using the female protagonist’s point of view. I was scanning my old notebooks that time and saw the poem that I wrote. I really wanted to make it into a song and then eventually, Sir Rico’s video showed on my timeline, which gave me an idea of duetting on his video and posting it in TikTok.”

It took 16-year-old artist somere days to think of the words to “S.U.K.I.,” but ended up with lyrics of her own that reflects an important phase in her life. “Things became unfortunate, I had a very bad mental breakdown and words of pain suddenly came out of my mouth. I decided to duet Sir Rico’s video, thinking that maybe someone out there may be going through the same thing, and maybe I can use my voice to give that person a nice warm virtual hug.”

The collaborative ideas led to the low-key gem that is “S.U.K.I.,” which brought an entirely confessional safe space for the artists to bask in their individual pain and come up with a song that could inspire others to move forward and be better.

Its music video, which was shot in a lush greenery somewhere in Tanay, Rizal, features raven enjoying his sweet time outside of the city.

raven’s “S.U.K.I.” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

Celebrate #GenTikTokPH with Ben&Ben, Iñigo Pascual and Rico Blanco on October 18

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To celebrate TikTok’s diverse and growing community, the Philippines’ top artists Ben&Ben, Iñigo Pascual and Rico Blanco will perform LIVE on TikTok Philippines this Sunday, October 18, 2020 at 5PM for the platform’s biggest virtual event of 2020, #GenTikTokPH.

“Music is universal and powerful. It is what unites us with the community. #GenTikTokPH will be a celebration of everything we created out of love through music. Invite your Mahiwaga and let us have a wonderful time,” said Miguel Benjamin Guico, Ben&Ben. 

The 2-hour online LIVE show will feature various performances from top local artists, dancers, and content creators including JMKO, Kuya Ching, Madelaine Red, Mikey Bustos, Ralphe Austria, and many more. Auntie Julie, aka Macoy Dubs will be hosting the online event.

#GenTikTokPH is a recreation of the great moments on TikTok -- from entertainment to education and top trends. This is for the Generation TikTok and who made things happen.

“Expect nothing but a happy feeling all throughout! I’ll see you on Sunday,” said Rico Blanco. The OPM icon was TikTok’s ambassador for the #TikTokOPMPlaylist campaign which promoted independent Filipino musicians and local talents to the app’s growing audience back in October 2019. Since then, he continued to make OPM an ever-present content on the platform.

TikTok was built to inspire and enrich people’s lives through experiences that are genuine, joyful, and positive. TikTok has gone beyond being just a  content platform. TikTok is the content, the community and the culture that it created.

“Every click of the record button starts canvas for human creativity and every phone screen becomes a window to our world. Whether one’s making, remaking, reacting, or simply watching, we’re changing the world one TikTok video at a time. We’re happy and grateful to share this milestone to our community,” said User Content and Operations Manager John Castro. 

With its growing community of creators and users in the Philippines, TikTok is now ready to take the platform on a whole new level with a big announcement! After the event, TikTok will no longer be the same as they’ll take further all the creative possibilities.

Join the #GenTikTokPH hashtag challenge in-app and share why you're officially part of Generation TikTok! You can get a chance to win TikTok-branded goodies! Invite your friends, stay safe and healthy at home. Download the TikTok app via iOS or Google Play.

#MoveOnNaLang and Join FILSCAP and Pioneer's Songwriting Competition

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FILSCAP and Pioneer partner for College Songwriting Talk, Competition

This 2016, FILSCAP, the sole and official music copyright society in the Philippines, together with Pioneer, one of the top life and non-life insurance companies in the country, are proud to launch the FILSCAP Campus Caravan, a college songwriting talk that aims to guide aspiring musicians in the different aspects of songwriting. 

During its run, the FILSCAP Campus Caravan is set to visit De La Salle University-Manila, San Beda College Alabang, UP Diliman, University of Santo Tomas and University of Makati. Each visit is set to have a songwriting talk to be conducted by FILSCAP, a face-to-face session with a well-known Filipino songwriter, and introduce the collaboration’s second event – the #MoveOnLang Songwriting Competition.

The #MoveOnLang Songwriting Competition aims to give musically–inclined college students a venue to showcase their songwriting skills on the Filipino trait of resiliency – bouncing back from setbacks.

Interested applicants can visit www.moveonlang.ph to register and submit their entry. Over Php 260,000 in cash will be given away, with Php 100,000 being the grand prize. Winners will also receive insurance coverage from Pioneer, while a special prize will also be awarded to the Online Favorite.

A staunch supporter of the arts, the Pioneer Group of insurance companies constantly finds fresh ways to reach out to the Filipino with insurance that covers what they value most. Finding inspiration in media such as visual arts, film, music, and theater, Pioneer gives back by sponsoring, covering, and promoting events and concerts, which include Beyoncé’s "The Beyoncé Experience: Live in Taguig,” Eraserheads’ “The Final Set,” Aerosmith’s “The Global Warming Tour,” Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way Ball,” Jennifer Lopez’s “Dance Again World Tour,” and Madonna’s “Rebel Heart Tour,”as well as music festivals such as Good Vybes, Wanderland, Paradise International Music Festival, and MTV Music Evolution 2016. 

Established in 1965, FILSCAP (Filipino Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, Inc.) is a non-stock, non-profit association of composers, lyric-writers and music publishers, with currently over a thousand members including Ryan Cayabyab, Jose Mari Chan, Jim Paredes, Danny Javier, Rey Valera, Noel Cabangon, Rico Blanco, Yael Yuzon, and Ebe Dancel. ComCo Southeast Asia is the official PR partner of the FILSCAP Campus Caravan and #MoveOnLang Songwriting Competition. Reference: #MoveOnLang video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxQtSR7VIho

http://www.moveonlang.ph/

Rico Blanco, newest endorser of Valda Pastilles, Soothes & Cools

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Rico Blanco

Rico Blanco is one of the most talented musicians in the Philippines. As we all know, he is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, actor, and entrepreneur.

And now, the newest endorser of Valda Pastilles, Rico Blanco was presented to a media launch event held this Thursday, September 11, 2014 at Alphonse Bistro in Pasig.

Valda Pastilles, a green, conical-shaped, chewy pastilles, has been known for soothing and cooling throats for more than a century now.

Believe it or not, your throat is as hardworking as you are. It also gets stressed and experiences a lot of wear and tear, especially when your profession requires you to sing or speak every second of every day or night. So as much as you want time to relax your mind and body, your throat should also be given time for some R and R.

Rico is every inch a rock star, oozing with a cool persona. His voice alone holds a refreshing power that can captivate the hearts of every Filipino with just the first note, much like how Valda Pastilles gives instant cooling sensation in every chew. No wonder Rico is the perfect face for the brand.

During the launch event, the new Valda Pastilles TV commercial was revealed, which showcased no less than Rico and the brand’s single that he wrote and composed entitled, “Time For You”.

With the brand and Rico’s collaboration, they have created a fresh song that leaves nothing but cool vibes.

Aileen Domingo Puzon, Aspen Marketing Manager and Rico Blanco

In addition, the feel good song’s full-length music video was also unveiled, which was as soothing as the song alone.

So, now that Valda Pastilles has teamed up with Rico Blanco, there will always be time for you to soothe and cool your throat wherever you are and whenever you feel like it.

For more highlights of the event, visit facebook.com/VALDAPILIPINAS. 

For product inquiries and concerns, email pv.phils@ph.aspenap.com or call 792-8000.

Rico Blanco Live on June 12

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Rico Blanco, one of the hottest and most sought after OPM artists today, is set to hold his first ever solo concert !

Catch him live at the Music Museum on Philippine Independence Day, June 12, 2013, and be a part of music history. It’s been five years since this former Rivermaya frontman struck out on his own, and two solo albums later (Your Universe and last year’s Galactik Fiestamatik), he’s hotter than ever and ready to rock the stage in his first full-length solo concert!

A consistent chart-topper, expect Blanco to perform his latest hits, “Amats,” “Burado,” and “Lipat Bahay,” and OPM staples “Your Universe,” “Antukin,” “Posible,” and “Yugto.” Sing along to Blanco-penned Rivermaya favorites “214,” “You’ll Be Safe Here,” “Umaaraw, Umuulan”, “Elesi” and “Awit ng Kabataan” as he performs his compositions as his alter ego Fiesto Bandido in Galactik Fiestamatik style!

Always pushing the musical envelope, this rock chameleon promises a fun, edgy, electrifying performance together with special guests. It’s always a party when Blanco hits the stage—so don’t miss the fiesta!

Rico Blanco Live! is brought to you by Warner Music Philippines, and presented by Smart Communications.

Ticket prices are at Php1,300 (VIP), Php 1,000 (Orchestra), and Php 700 (Balcony).

Tickets are available at smtickets.com (470-2222),

ticketworld.com.ph (891-9999) and 

musicmuseum.com.ph (721-6726).

For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/ricoblancomusic

Rico Blanco is back with a new album "AMATS"

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Four years after his album "Your Universe" released in 2008, Rivermaya's former front man Rico Blanco now brings us to another universe in which his music continues to evolve. The singer/songwriter's new album is entitled "Galactik Fiestamatik".

One of the album's track, "Amats", finally made it to the MYX Daily Top 10. The song is a new wave genre, different from your old school poprock. The rock icon has put the emotion of being infatuated or almost been carried away by unreasoned passion or love in the track.

From MYXph.com:

The much awaited second album will take you to a festive adventure that is ethnic, folk, punk and futuristic all at once. All songs of which are Blanco's signature songwriting. Plus, altogether performed and recorder by the mastermind himself in his very own studio attic. "I wanted the album to sound more abrasive, more flawed than correct, " says the singer. So, expect this album to be deeply personal and as if Rico Blanco himself is singing beside you.

The carrier single, "Amats", is a song of infatuation that's almost stalker-ish. Rico reveals, "I wondered, what if I make it dark, talagang amats? It becomes more dangerous... you feel on the edge, uncomfortable."

 “Amats” is surely to join Blanco’s collection of masterpieces that have captured our hearts through the years. As a Filipino rock icon highly regarded for his ingenuity and dedication to his craft, it’s only fitting that Blanco’s latest endeavor deserves no less than a worldwide release to satisfy fans across the globe.

The track "Amats" is available on iTunes worldwide.

Rico Blanco - Amats [Official Music Video HD]