James Reid hits home with new EP, jgh

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The 6-track release serves as his first record under Sony Music Entertainment

James Reid has officially released his highly anticipated new EP, jgh, under Sony Music Entertainment and Careless Music.

The 6-track record gives an intimate glimpse into his past and present life, chronicling how he has matured all these years, both as an artist and as a person.

Short for “just got home,” jgh also marks a significant moment in Reid’s musical evolution, symbolizing his return to a place of peace and serenity, lyrically and sonically speaking. With a blend of pop, R&B, and OPM sensibilities, the EP captures Reid at his most vulnerable, rediscovering the earnest, grounded parts of his identity that he may have lost touch with and learning to forgive himself and accept the flaws that came with it.

“My home is a reflection of myself,” says James Reid. “It’s filled with things I’ve gathered along my journey and decorated with memories. It’s been another crazy year, and now that I’m home, I have a lot of stories to tell.”

Written and produced by Reid alongside collaborators Tim Marquez, Niko, Luke April, Alison Shore, and Brian Lotho, the EP is marked by its introspective nature and sparse production. Many of the tracks began as simple acoustic guitar or piano compositions, with each producer adding their own unique touch to further shape the mood of the record.

“All the songs were written from the heart,” James shares. “Some of them were painful to write, others were inspired by realizations I had along the way, and some were inspired by love. It was an emotional journey, and I see each of these songs like a page from my diary or a chapter in my life—truths I may have found difficult to express before.”

The EP’s production style is subtle yet impactful, reflecting a sense of comforting warmth that resonates deeply with a universal audience. The songs are intentionally understated, trading polished arrangements or high-energy hooks in favor of nuanced details that highlight Reid’s rich vocal delivery and powerful storytelling.

As an entirety, jgh has the potential to dominate the charts and win over even the most hardened listener's icy heart.

Tracklist for jgh:

1. Mirasol

2. Di Bale

3. Sandal

4. Hurt Me Too

5. Your Boy

6. Pauwi Na

James Reid’s new album, ‘jgh’ is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment and Careless Music.

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.

Sponge Cola shares the other side of the story in new track “Kelly (Sagittarius)”

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The alt-rock piece serves as a response to “Kelly (Scorpio),” released last month

Filipino alt-rock band Sponge Cola continues to explore the complexities of heartbreak with the release of “Kelly (Sagittarius),” an emotionally charged pop-rock track that offers a different perspective on the aftermath of a painful breakup.

Serving as the fiery counterpart to last month’s melancholic “Kelly (Scorpio),” the new single completes a compelling two-part series, delving deep into the subjective nature of truth and emotion.

The dual tracks—“Kelly (Scorpio)” and “Kelly (Sagittarius)”—form a unique digital bundle that captures two distinct emotional responses to the same heartache. While “Scorpio” conveys a sense of defeat and resignation, “Sagittarius” presents a more hostile and confrontational take to a traumatic experience.

The band's vocalist and guitarist Yael Yuzon explains, "If you look at it from just one person's perspective, delivery plays a huge part in a message, even when you use the same words. While the Scorpio version sounds a bit more defeated, Sagittarius sounds more hostile. If you look at it as a response to the other, like a conversation, you can see how truth can sometimes be subjective. It's a 'he said, she said thing' kind of thing, and even with the same words, the truth is still unfathomably vague. There's a tendency to believe only one narrative, then totally shut the other out. But there's always two sides to every story, sometimes even more. People are quick to take sides and judge.”

“Kelly (Sagittarius)” navigates a wide spectrum of emotions in the aftermath of a breakup—surrender, yearning, regret, anger, and frustration—perfectly capturing the intensity of heartache. The song was inspired by a vivid dream Yuzon couldn’t shake off, eventually leading him to write the track in its entirety.

He notes that the bridge, which features the line “Ang siyang pumirma, ang siyang sumumpa…” (roughly translated as “The one who signed, the one who swore…”), represents a rare moment of clarity within the otherwise dream-like atmosphere of the song.

“I wrote that line as the most concrete part of the song, making it more grounded and lucid compared to the rest of the track,” says Yuzon. “I mean, come on, it talks about paperwork.”

Lead guitarist Armo Armovit reflects on the creative process behind the song, emphasizing the band’s commitment to emotional authenticity in their music. “We’re always experimenting with different elements, but we never lose sight of what works best in communicating the song’s core message,” Armovit admits. “Sometimes we let go of expectations and let the music take us where it wants to go—even if it leads us down two separate paths.”

“Kelly (Sagittarius)” showcases Sponge Cola’s signature sound—a potent blend of alt-rock guitar riffs and introspective lyrics, creating an impactful listening experience that resonates with fans old and new.

Sponge Cola’s “Kelly (Sagittarius)” is now available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

The Dawn offers a reflective take on the holiday season with “Maki-Pasko”

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The Yuletide-inspired tune serves as their first release with Sony Music Entertainment

Iconic Filipino rock band The Dawn has thrown their hat into the ring for the next big holiday classic.

The Enveloped Ideas act makes a little space for love with “Maki-Pasko,” their debut Christmas single under Sony Music Entertainment. Known for their timeless rock anthems, the band takes a fresh and introspective approach to the season with a track that blends holiday warmth with personal reflection.

According to Jett Pangan, lead vocalist of The Dawn, “Maki-Pasko” was inspired by the feeling of longing that often accompanies the holidays, particularly for those who find themselves separated from loved ones. “I’ve experienced holidays away from my family, so I drew from that personal experience when writing the lyrics,” Pangan explains. “The song speaks to those moments of solitude and the desire to be with someone during the festive season.”

“Maki-Pasko” marks the band’s foray into writing a Yuletide-themed song—a concept they discussed for years but only decided to pursue after their initial meeting with Sony Music Entertainment. The collaboration with their new record label pushed the band to explore the challenges and creative nuances of producing a holiday tune, and refine the process along the way.

Francis Reyes, guitarist of The Dawn, reflects on co-writing the song, especially on its initial stages: “I was messing around on guitar at home, in a reflective mood. It started with that feeling, and a couple of chords and a riff that, in my mind, reflected a bit of sadness but also sounded hopeful. Personally, I think of it like any other song we’ve written that can be played in any other season. We were probably hesitant to write a Christmas song for so long because we were overthinking what it should sound like.”

Produced by guitarist Rommel “Sancho” Sanchez and bassist Bim Yance, “Maki-Pasko” conveys the essence of the holiday season without falling into the typical tropes of festive music. The song incorporates subtle touches of sleigh bells and tambourines, gently invoking the seasonal vibe, but its deeper emotional resonance comes from its universal themes of longing, hope, and togetherness.

“We didn’t want it to be just another ‘holiday song’—we wanted it to be a good song that happens to be about Christmas,” adds drummer Junboy Leonor. “Ultimately, it’s about the feelings that the season brings, without being tied to a particular moment or celebration.”

The Dawn’s “Maki-Pasko” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

 

James Reid expresses the joy of summer romance on “Mirasol”

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James Reid continues to earworm his way to pop ubiquity with the release of “Mirasol”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

His latest single not only oozes with undeniable charisma but also reinstates his potential as a hitmaker of first-rate caliber, boasting an impressive run of inescapable chart-toppers in the 2010s.

According to James, the song is about falling in love with a sunflower and how romance is something that requires appreciation, protection, and understanding. “Love is an organic process and needs to grow naturally,” he adds.

“Mirasol” is co-written by James and Alison Shore, an R&B artist whose work brims with effortless cool and ‘90s suave. Both accomplished artists thought of using the sunflower as a metaphor “for a relationship that gives off an air of sweet summer romance and innocence.”

As James explains it further, “I want to connect on a different level with my fans that I haven’t been able to do before. Writing in Tagalog (Filipino) was a very welcomed challenge for me, and I’ve enjoyed it so much.”

One Click Straight’s Tim Marquez, a frequent collaborator of James himself, also brought a tapestry of effortlessly blissful sound that complements the romantic nature of the lyrics. The final product evokes the more commercial and critically acclaimed work of James Reid during the Diary Ng Panget era, but rendered with more sophistication and subtlety, production-wise.

“Mirasol” serves as the third single off his upcoming EP, jgh, which is slated to drop on November 22, 2024. The soon-to-be-released EP, which contains tracks such as “Sandal” and “Hurt Me Too,” is described to be a “return-to-form” record, touching on his softer, more vulnerable side and more pop-leaning direction.

James Reid’s “Mirasol” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment and Careless.

Paolo Sandejas takes alt-pop sound to exciting new places with “all the time”

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Filipino singer-songwriter Paolo Sandejas continues to carve his own lane with the release of his new single “all the time,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

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The rising OPM star pens another lilting charmer suited for late-night drives

 and bedroom introspection

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Stepping up his craft with a more subdued but sophisticated sonic direction, Sandejas delivers another guitar-pop gem that throws listeners into a whirlwind of adolescent love and drama.

In a press statement, the Sunday Star act reveals that the lilting summer tune is all about “getting caught in your thoughts about someone” and wondering if they ever feel the same way.

“I was in a writing flow the day I penned the track and let it pretty much write itself,” the charming indie pop artist shares. “All the lyrics fit so naturally into the arrangement I made, and it was one of the quickest songs I’ve ever finished.”

Written and produced by Paolo Sandejas with constant collaborator Xergio Ramos, “all the time” thrives in its carefree simplicity. Similar to his previously released track “Sirens,” Ramos refined Sandejas’ initial demo and worked closely with him during the entire production process. The result is a lovely little bop suited for a late-night drive.

While it complements Sandejas' boy-next-door appeal and sincere demeanor, the indie pop charmer comes with the intention of making a song that's easy to sing along to with an engaged crowd live.

“all the time” will be part of Paolo Sandejas’ highly anticipated full-length debut album to be released this year. Combining unapologetic lyrics with silky-smooth guitar arrangements and captivating melodic lines, the new album reflects Sandejas’ incredible musicianship that makes him a total standout from the pack.

Paolo Sandejas’ “all the time” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Follow him on socials:
Facebook / x / Instagram / TikTok / YouTube

Josh Cullen drops first solo album, Lost & Found

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Josh Cullen opens up about his old wounds and internal struggles on his debut solo album, Lost & Found—released under Sony Music Entertainment today.

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The nine-track release unravels openness with riveting sincerity

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The nine-track release revels in the space of openness and pain, not afraid to tackle themes that are often considered a sign of weakness. Here, the SB19 leader shares an unadulterated version of himself as he deals with past traumas in life, recovers from its ruins to find light in an often cruel world, and takes control of his creative agency by telling an inspiring story of resilience and hope.

The acclaimed P-Pop singer-songwriter explains, "This album explores themes of pain and suffering, redemption, and the strength of human resilience, inspired by my inner truth. In Lost and Found, I wrote about the pain that never truly goes away, the trauma that lingers long after we think our wounds have healed, and discovering strength within ourselves.”

Lost & Found, taken as a listening experience, shows Josh Cullen’s songwriting strengths in its unfiltered sense. He doesn’t mince words about the pressures and fakery of the industry, and even in exploring his recollections of childhood, he surmounts the dreadful experience of having to go through the bins all over again, with nothing but a pen as armor. Josh treats vulnerability as a form of refuge: it stings and lingers, but its effect only fuels his spirit as a storyteller.

He points out, “I know what it means to be lost and found. I've experienced being lost throughout my life, sometimes trapped between trying to process all these intense emotions while desperately hoping to be found. I hope to connect with my fans and listeners who have been through the same journey or are going through the same.”

Sonically speaking, Lost & Found marks a vital vibe shift from the rap/urban-leanings of his pre-album era to a more amorphous musical strain that blends emo, pop-punk, and alt-rock sensibilities with producer-driven hip-hop and R&B influences. Moving towards genre-defiant territory, Josh’s unmistakable chameleonic presence, coupled with his affinity for emotionally captivating lyrics and inescapable hooks, makes Lost & Found a more intriguing but enjoyable effort.

From the hard-hitting, guitar-rock swells of "1999," where he navigates the harsh realities of life, to the suave electro-pop strums of "See Me," where he shares the beautiful, glowing feeling of finding happiness in someone else's love and presence, Lost & Found shimmers with tension and pull, and surprisingly rolls with effortless transition from one sound to another. Other standouts include the sensual and moody “Lights Out,” which features Mo of P-Pop group Alamat, the ceiling-punching anthem “No Control,” and the acoustic ditty “Honest.”

Check out the Lost & Found track list below:

1. 1999

2. See Me

3. Silent Cries

4. Honest

5. No Control (ft. (e)motion engine)

6. Lights Out (ft. Alamat Mo)

7. Sumaya

8. Silent Cries (Instrumental)

9. No Control (Instrumental)

Josh Cullen’s new album, Lost & Found is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

SB19's PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY, out in Philippine cinemas today

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SB19’s highly anticipated film, PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY marks its nationwide theatrical debut today!

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The P-Pop kings open up about tour setbacks and career challenges on new documentary film

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The much-buzzed documentary provides an inside look into the group's collective and individual experiences on tour, while trying to navigate their ascension to global pop stardom with crippling fear of anxiety and pressure.

Aside from chronicling the P-Pop powerhouse’s journey as they “move forward to a new era of music, career, and emancipation,” the concert documentary also unravels never-before-seen moments that put their resilience and commitment to the test.

Watch the trailer here

“Part of what makes the film even more special is that it doesn’t sugar-coat the learnings and experiences that we’ve endured during the entire era of the PAGTATAG! tour and album release,” SB19 shares in a press statement. “The year-long run was filled with multiple setbacks that added mental and emotional distress. But as the title explains it best, the documentary will show how we bounced back from the adversities in life and career, and how we managed to mount a series of shows despite going through a lot of internal and collective struggles. We hope that through this movie, we will be able to inspire our A’TIN to become stronger and more resilient when they face a similar ordeal in a not-so-distant future.”

SB19’s PABLO, who currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of 1Z Entertainment, emphasized that they’ve always thought about producing a documentary that captures the story behind the stage and the little moments that define the human aspects of mounting a tour of this scale and ambition.

“We’re grateful to First Light Studios and Jed Regala for helping us turn our vision into a reality,” PABLO reveals. “We’re lucky to have a team that understands the power of collaboration.”

The exclusive screenings will take place from August 28 to September 1 in cinemas nationwide.

Just recently, SB19 emerged triumphant in Billboard’s Fan Army Face-off, winning for the second consecutive year against some of the biggest and most iconic international music stars. The chart-topping five-piece act garnered 56.3 percent of the votes during the final round, beating Barbadian mega-star Rihanna. The GENTO hitmakers also represented the Philippines in Billboard Korea’s “Billboard K POWER 100” in Seoul yesterday (August 27), receiving the Voices of Asia Award for their groundbreaking contribution in putting Filipino music to the global stage.

Get your PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY tickets here.

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ABOUT SB19

SB19 is a multi-awarded five-member boy group from the Philippines. The group is composed of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin and debuted in October 2018 with their single ‘Tilaluha.’ They gained popularity with their second single ‘Go Up’. Since their debut, SB19 has amassed fans (A’TIN) across the globe and was recognized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as the Philippine’s Youth Ambassadors. The “SB” in SB19 stands for “Sound Break,” which represents their aspirations of disrupting the music scene and bringing Filipino music and culture into the international spotlight. SB19 broke into the global spotlight as the first Southeast Asian and Filipino act to be nominated in the Billboard Music Awards as Top Social Artist in 2021. They are also the first Filipino act to land on the international Billboard Social 50 and Next Big Sound Charts. Their latest release, "GENTO", debuted at #8 on the Billboard World Digital Sales Charts.

SB19 is self-managed by 1Z Entertainment, a company built and managed by the members of SB19.

Website: https://www.sonymusic.co.jp/artist/SB19

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4v7afBTnJKRm4SlfHJzyg

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsb19

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsb19

Ely Buendia marks triumphant comeback with new single “Bulaklak Sa Buwan”

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Ely Buendia enters a new era of his solo music career with the release of “Bulaklak Sa Buwan.”

The fuzzy, alt-rock number serves as the first single off his upcoming sophomore album, Method Adaptor, which will be out on November 8, 2024, via Sony Music Entertainment and Offshore Music.

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His latest track serves as his first solo release since 2021’s “Metro”

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The track’s release coincides with the prevalence of fabricated stories and propaganda-driven atrocities in online spaces, challenging listeners to raise awareness for factual truth and combat misinformation.

“I’ve been watching documentaries a lot, and I tried to distill everything in one song,” the legendary Pinoy rock artist explains. “The track is all about the quest for the truth. It's about seeking knowledge while resisting the confines of dogma.”

Sonically, “Bulaklak Sa Buwan” stands out without the need to constantly show off. The disarming pop gem continues Buendia's knack for composure and effortlessness: his gift for melodies is still as sharp and instinctive as his best output with his previous bands, and his guitar work is still at its most ferociously sounding in over two decades.

Ely Buendia’s frequent collaborator and Pupil bandmate Jerome Velasco produced the song, delivering a pristine but straightforward production approach that doesn’t take away the material’s anthemic charm.

“I wanted it to be buoyant-sounding and surprising,” shares the award-winning OPM icon. “The song is very upbeat, and I utilized several modulation techniques to make it seem like the music goes higher and higher every time.”

“Bulaklak Sa Buwan” is accompanied by the release of a music video directed by Niko Cezar and Aimee Aznar of KNYA Collective. According to Ely, the visual narrative finds him wandering in the woods looking for a particular flower. “Upon finding it, I get into some upside-down vibes (like Stranger Things), getting transported into another dimension.”

Ely Buendia’s “Bulaklak Sa Buwan” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide. Watch out for the official music video on August 16, 2024, Friday at 6pm on Ely Buendia’s official YouTube channel.

SB19 drops THE FIRST TAKE versions of “GENTO” and “MAPA” on streaming platforms

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P-Pop royalty SB19 continues to captivate music fans from all over the world with the release of “GENTO” and “MAPA” from THE FIRST TAKE sessions on all digital music platforms via Sony Music Entertainment.

The new versions feature the award-winning group’s performance at THE FIRST TAKE, a popular YouTube channel with nearly 10 million subscribers under its belt. The show's format features Japanese and international music guests performing a song in one take, filmed with shots of the artists and a microphone against a minimalist and usually white backdrop.

To date, THE FIRST TAKE renditions of “GENTO” and “MAPA” have amassed more than 4.5 million views on YouTube, becoming one of the most viewed performances from an Asian pop group/band.

“We’re eternally grateful to THE FIRST TAKE for giving us an opportunity to showcase our work on a platform known not just for its massive global following but for elevating the audio-visual experience of music fans with much-needed authenticity and rawness,” SB19 shares in a collective statement. “The performances really challenged us to work within our limitations and deliver with the best of our abilities. We’ve always considered performing as a sanctimonious process that deserves utmost preparation, love, and respect. Constantly reminded by THE FIRST TAKE that we can only perform the songs once, we had to reconnect with our roots and embrace the beauty of spontaneity.”

SB19 is the first Southeast Asian group and the first Filipino artist to be invited on the globally renowned platform, which also served as host to several acclaimed performances by other artists such as aespa, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, Hitsujibungaku, MANESKIN, ITZY, (G)-I-DLE, imase, Maluma, and more.

For THE FIRST TAKE version of “GENTO,” SB19 delivered a genuinely compelling performance that highlights the five-piece act’s incredible talent and range in harmonizing, singing, and rapping.

 The chart-topping hitmakers also took musicality on a different level with their rousing version of “MAPA,” which SB19 redressed with a soaring arrangement and an inspiring gospel-infused delivery.

Both versions are now available for streaming and are bundled with its original versions:

Gento: http://sb19.tunelink.to/gento-fromtft

MAPA: http://sb19.tunelink.to/mapa-fromtft

 

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About THE FIRST TAKE

THE FIRST TAKE is a YouTube channel that clearly captures the performance of musicians and singers performing in a single take. With the concept “capture the take. This moment. This sound. THE FIRST TAKE. It only happens once,” THE FIRST TAKE presents pure music in overwhelming quality with no exaggerated performance.

The channel started on 15 November 2019 and has now hit 9.69 million subscribers (as of 7 June 2024). Total views have exceeded 1.4 billion, and contents have been viewed from over 220 countries and regions around the world. Growing as a comprehensive music platform, new initiatives have been launched and become viral contents. THE FIRST TAKE INTERNATIONAL features international music stars such as Harry Styles, Avril Lavigne, V from BTS, Jason Chan and Jolin Tsai, having them to give their 1TAKE performance exclusively on the channel.

Follow THE FIRST TAKE on socials:

Website: https://www.thefirsttake.jp

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_firsttake

Twitter: https://twitter.com/The_FirstTake

X: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_first_take

THE FIRST TIMES: https://www.thefirsttimes.jp

Watch SB19 and Apl.de.Ap as they host an epic house party on “Ready” music video

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SB19 and Apl.de.Ap are throwing a massive house party on the music video of “Ready,” the dance-pop track released under Sony Music Entertainment.

“The concept of the music video revolves around the guys being away for a while and returning home to mount a party of a lifetime,” Apl.de.Ap explains. “While shot in Manila, it’s designed to be purposely ambiguous in location, and the maximalist design is intentional. It represents the arrival of SB19 as an international act. It’s an honor to be celebrating with the next pride of the Philippines.”

Working with Ben Mor

American filmmaker Ben Mor, who has directed visuals for some of the biggest global pop icons in recent memory, including Katy Perry, Britney Spears, John Legend, NAS, and the Black Eyed Peas, helmed the MV. A good friend and frequent collaborator of Apl.de.Ap, Mor has always been fascinated by the design language of this country and has showcased it in many videos.

Apl.de.Ap revealed, “We have worked together for years as he has shot many Black Eyed Peas’ videos. The shoot was a bit of logistical madness because immediately after this, he was off to Athens to shoot another cool music video.”

Despite some logistical challenges, the 2 Proud act expressed satisfaction with the final outcome. The Filipino-American rapper also revealed that he wanted to showcase a visually cool part of the Philippines that was different from what people usually see on postcards and in films.

“I believe the house has a real aesthetic and character. But I let the professionals take it from there.”

A fun shoot

SB19’s Pablo admitted that the creative process for the MV was different from anything they’ve done as a group. This time around, they’ve worked with a more Westernized approach, not completely relying on a storyboard.

“Apl.de.Ap was fun to work with and very chill,” he said. “His energy was infectious! Even the dancers and the talents gave their all. There’s never a dull moment in the shoot.”

Justin also raved about the experience of collaborating with Apl.de.Ap’s team. While they’re used to embracing story-driven concepts for an MV, the youngest member of the group shared in a statement that it felt great having fun on the shoot, as if it didn’t feel like work at all.

“Somehow it offered a refreshing reprieve,” he said.

“Ready” marks a monumental collaboration between P-Pop kings SB19 and international hip-hop superstar Apl.de.Ap. A shiny club number that captures the sound of summer effortlessly regardless of the season, the collaborative song was penned by the Black Eyed Peas resident rapper with Jean-Baptiste, Vince Nantes, and Denzel. SB19’s Pablo and Josue (Radkidz), on the other hand, contributed to the production of the track, adding final touches and subtle sonic elements.

SB19 and Apl.de.Ap’s “Ready” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the MV here.

BLACKPINK's Lisa announces solo comeback with stunning visuals and more

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Lisa announces solo Comeback on her official website and captivates global fans on TikTok with 'TEASER' music sticker for comeback spoiler

BLACKPINK's Lisa has announced her solo comeback.

On the afternoon of June 13th, Lisa (Lalisa Manobal) uploaded a content clip through her official global short-form mobile video platform TikTok account.

In the video, Lisa is not only showing off her stunning aura with her OOTD, but also her charming visuals, which quickly caught the attention of global fans. View the teaser here.

Additionally, she left a music sticker with the word 'TEASER' in the content's background music, and announced that the new song can be pre-saved on Spotify and Apple Music with the words 'COMING SOON' on her official website.

In April of this year, Lisa announced a new partnership with RCA Records, a division of Sony Music in the U.S., to expand her global reach. As RCA Records is home to a wide range of global artists, including A$AP Rocky, Doja Cat, and Justin Timberlake, the news of Lisa's joining the label raised expectations for her to become a global pop artist with fans around the world.

After a stellar career as a member of BLACKPINK, Lisa established LLOUD Co. and embarked on a full-fledged solo career. With "Lalisa," she not only became the first female artist to sell approximately 750,000 copies in the first week of release, but also became the longest-running K-pop solo artist with "Money," which debuted on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and the U.K. Singles Chart.

In addition to breaking the Guinness World Records by becoming the first K-pop solo artist to win the MTV Video Music Awards and the MTV European Music Awards, Lisa, who has more than 103 million Instagram followers, has also announced her acting career with a recurring role in Season 3 of the HBO original series The White Lotus.

Alex Bruce returns with another inescapable jam that best describes the feeling of laid-back summer afternoons and beach vibes.

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The Filipina recording star channels her idyllic youthful phase in the new single “SUMFLING,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

With suave vocals coasting through laid-back R&B beats and reggae-infused production, “SUMFLING” showcases another side of Bruce: warm and chill on the inside, but effortlessly catching our attention with her distinct brand of charm.

According to Bruce, “SUMFLING” allowed her to experiment with a variety of genres and confront her fears of going against the current.

“It was my decision to embrace that shift in sound and vibe,” Alex Bruce shares. “I’ve always wanted to explore new musical landscapes for every project that I work on, and I’m glad that in SUMFLING, I get to bring a fresh, laid-back energy to my music. It sounds chill but danceable at the same time. It was a refreshing change that challenged me as an artist.”

“SUMFLING is an expression that I made up by combining the words summer and fling,” recalls the 17-year-old hip-hop sensation. “I was in Australia when I wrote this track. Life was very peaceful there, and somehow it inspired me to go on a writing spree.”

The tropical track revisits a memorable romantic encounter with someone during a holiday break.

Its release comes with a music video directed by David Olson. The MV follows Alex Bruce and her friends on a trip to La Union while enjoying nature hangouts, surfing sessions, and summertime conversations.

The visual narrative also shows Bruce meeting a random person on a bonfire, with the two romantically hitting it off for a few days straight and getting confused with their feelings for each other.

Bruce reveals, “We wanted the music video to reflect the overall vibe of the song. Summer is supposed to be about being outdoors, having fun, and feeling great about yourself, and this song perfectly captures that. I’m also happy that I’ve worked with my friends syd, Aira, Violet, and Thomas for the MV shoot. This will always have a special place in my heart.”

Alex Bruce’s “SUMFLING” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The music video is out on Friday, June 7, 2024, at 6 p.m. Watch it here.

ATEEZ dominates global charts with tenth mini-album, [GOLDEN HOUR Part. 1]

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South Korean boyband ATEEZ dominates this week’s cultural conversations with the release of their tenth mini-album, [GOLDEN HOUR Part. 1].

The powerhouse group’s new record has reached No. 1 in more than 30 countries on iTunes, making it one of the best-selling K-Pop releases of 2024, globally.

With a stylistic range that embraces new sonic flavors and exciting production approaches, [GOLDEN HOUR Part. 1] opens a new saga for the eight-member pop act to explore in terms of conceptual direction.

As presented in the ideation for the latest era, ATEEZ begs the question, “What are we doing in the final moments of daylight right before the sun sets,” and interprets in a multitude of ways how everyone would feel experiencing the “golden hour” of their lives with a picture-perfect moment or lack of it.

ATEEZ’s tenth studio album features the lead single “WORK,” which intuitively expresses the award-winning group’s continuous commitment to striving and facing challenges. Other standout tracks on the record include the energetic dance anthem “Blind,” the reggae-meets-EDM banger “Shaboom” and the bombastic upbeat song “Siren.”

Track list:

1. Golden Hour

2. Blind

3. WORK

4. Empty Box

5. Shaboom

6. Siren

ATEEZ's global impact is undeniable. They made history as the first K-pop boy group to grace the stage of ‘Coachella,’ the largest music festival in the U.S. They’re also set to perform at Japan’s largest music festival, Summer Sonic, this August 2024. With their shining performances around the world, ATEEZ continues to be unbeatable in the game.

With the release of their second studio album, [THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL], in December last year, they topped the U.S. Billboard main chart, 'Billboard 200,' and ranked second on the UK 'Official Album Chart,' setting a career-high in the world's two major charts.

ATEEZ’s [GOLDEN HOUR Part. 1] is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via KQ Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment.

Bradley Simpson shares new single “Picasso”

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Bradley Simpson’s debut solo single ‘Cry At The Moon’ occupied a rarely explored sweet spot between styles: classic ‘70s Americana with a surging intensity which echoes the swaggering spirit of the indie-rock greats, but also with the contemporary, pop-tinged edge that can only come from an artist who has headlined London’s 20,000 capacity O2 arena on multiple occasions. From that compelling introduction, Bradley now powers into the release of his new single ‘Picasso’.

Produced by the two-time Grammy nominee BOOTS (Beyoncé), with a dreamy undercurrent of ‘60s psychedelia and wonky bedroom pop, ‘Picasso’ is symbolic of what Bradley does so well: creating songs with an instant appeal, yet with lyrical nuances that provide a relatability for people to forge a deeper connection with. Its striking lyric “turning torture into art” commands attention and inspires deeper investigation of the narrative behind it.

Bradley says, “‘Picasso’ is about one of those toxic loves that you know is bad for you, but there’s something amazing about it that keeps you coming back. You always hope that things are going to turn out for the best, so you keep giving chances when maybe in hindsight you should’ve stopped early doors. You also come across people who can find dress-up those hardships as part of romance. That song allowed me to exorcise those experiences and move past them.”

‘Picasso’ and ‘Cry At The Moon’ set a high watermark for more to come from Bradley. Many of his upcoming songs were written in the comfortable confines of his home studio: a converted loft space accessible only by a rickety ladder. Recording sessions were similarly modest, with the grimy, graffiti-clad exterior of New York’s Flux Studios opening to reveal a space steeped in history, its collection of vintage gear and stale cigarette haze the place where The Strokes recorded their classic debut ‘Is This It’.

But while the locations were unassuming, his key collaborators were top tier. In addition to super producer BOOTS, Bradley spent much of the process writing with kindred spirits in the shape of Andrew Wells (YUNGBLUD, Halsey) and Anthony Rossomando (Liam Gallagher, and a founder member of Dirty Pretty Things with Carl Barât). They shared his admiration for Queens of the Stone Age, The Raconteurs, Them Crooked Vultures and The Black Keys which helped to unlock the creative process, while Bradley’s lyrics became intimate, diaristic snapshots of intensely personal experiences rich with precise details that can only be written after they’ve been lived through.

Bradley Simpson’s “Picasso” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. 

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