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. 

Follow Bradley Simpson:

Spotify | Apple Music | Instagram | TikTok  

Ben&Ben to release new single “COMETS” this Friday!

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Ben&Ben is slated to release “COMETS,” their first official single of 2024.

Written by Paolo and Miguel Benjamin, the song tackles the fleeting nature of a love lost.

“COMETS” also marks the first time that Ben&Ben co-produced a song with acclaimed producer Petra Sihombing, whose work the band has gotten to know and love in such a short span of time.

“He flew in to help us bring the song to the next level, with his own additions in both the arrangement and post production of the track,” shares the nine-piece collective. “The band probably had about 90% of the song down, but it was Petra's very weighty 10% that really helped make the song what it is now.”

Sihombing is an Indonesian singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. He is also known for his work as a music producer, working with many international musicians hailing from Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

Teaser and Cover Art

The teaser of “COMETS” is making the rounds on several digital billboards across Metro Manila, hinting at how the visual representation evokes a spectrum of emotions.

Ben&Ben reveals, “COMETS is a song that we've had and performed a few times since 2021 but haven't officially released yet, it's been shrouded in quite a bit of mystery and intrigue. The teasers are meant to slowly raise the curtains and give our keen listeners what they've been waiting for.”

This also explains why the cover art appears to have produced a burst of light at a captured photograph, which, according to the band, “encapsulates the essence of the song with how it likens people in our lives to these bright, beautiful yet fleeting flashes of light. This was conceptualized as a group effort by our very own excellent team of creatives.”

“COMETS” will be released on all digital music platforms worldwide this Friday, May 10, 2024 via Sony Music Entertainment. Pre-save the song here.

Sponge Cola releases “Tatlong Buwan,” a track inspired by hit K-drama Queen of Tears

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Filipino band Sponge Cola releases another pop-rock anthem inspired by a hit Korean drama.

Their new single “Tatlong Buwan” explores a couple’s journey towards healing and reconnection. It echoes the familiar narrative of everyone’s current favorite series, ‘Queen of Tears,’ which stars Korean superstars Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Ji Won.

According to Yael Yuzon, Sponge Cola’s lead vocalist and guitarist, the song serves as “a love letter, epistolary, or even a midnight soliloquy for one person.”

He explains, “Tatlong Buwan is inspired by the love story of the main characters of Queen of Tears. It helps that it’s a series; you really get to know the characters. You see why they’re the way they are. Sociological factors, family ties, trauma. You see how they’re all shaped and the push and pull of every character. Ultimately, there’s just so much clarity in the way the narrative unfolds that it’s so easy to empathize, which makes it easier to feel and easier to write.”

Yael wrote “Tatlong Buwan” immediately after catching the tenth episode of the smash Netflix show. He admits that the song reflects the urgency of the moment, inspiring him to write with newfound vulnerability.

“I don’t think I’ve ever said mamahalin ka lang, mamahalin kita in a song before,” Yuzon reveals.

The following day, he recorded the song over at Love One Another Studio with legendary music producer Angee Rozul, who told him to sing it in a way that is exactly the opposite of the lyrical mood.

“This actually made me sadder, knowing that it’s a love song that could sadly end in death,” said the Gemini hitmaker. “He had no idea, so the burden was all on me.”

After getting approval from his bandmates, including the ever-stoic Gosh, the band’s bassist, Yael Yuzon, sent the track to Joey Santos for mixing and additional instrumentation. The result, as expected, is a beautifully produced paean to a love that was once lost but is now found, growing stronger by the day even after going through so many twists and turns.

The song will also be released with a music video that is set against the backdrop of the key film locations in Queen of Tears. Yael shares that the entire experience was completely magical, a labor of love and an homage to one of the best K-dramas of all time.

“There’s something engulfing about visiting locations where great narrative moments took place. It’s like these places witnessed so much emotion that there’s still some of it left.”

Sponge Cola’s “Tatlong Buwan” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The official music video will be released on Friday, April 26 at 7 p.m. via Sponge Cola’s official YouTube channel.

SB19’s Justin releases “sunday morning” on streaming platforms

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The jazz-infused pop track is a cover of a Maroon 5 hit

Thanks to its growing popularity and demand among music fans, Justin’s “sunday morning” is now available on all streaming platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

The track, which reimagines the Maroon 5 classic with a jazz-infused flavor, finds the SB19 member on top of his game. Over funky, irresistible melodies and lighthearted arrangements, Justin delivers a smooth serenade to brighten up the weekend.

The song is produced by RADKIDZ’s Josue, who turned the 2004 smash into a contemporary jam complementing Justin’s personality as an artist.

“sunday morning is one of my personal favorites and it’s one of my go-to karaoke staples since childhood,” the multi-talented pop act said. “I was supposed to perform the song in the Asian leg of the PAGTATAG! World Tour, but the shows got cancelled as we were resolving some internal issues. We took the chance to drop it as one of my solo releases and the rest as they say, is history. The response from the fans was overwhelming that we decided to release it officially on DSPs. We really owe it up to our supporters for the positive reception.”

Earlier this year, Justin De Dios shared the cover with a performance video set against a backdrop of scenic mountains and blue skies. The video has racked up nearly 800,000 views on YouTube.

The SB19 singer and creative director also teased the pre-save link of “sunday morning” last Friday, April 12, with a cover art capturing a photo of him wearing a black beret hat and preppy, long sleeves.

“sunday morning” serves as the second song released by Justin as a solo recording artist, following the success of his first single, “surreal,” which has amassed more than three million streams on Spotify alone in less than two months. The latter serves as Justin’s ode to meaningful coincidences and dreams.

Justin’s “sunday morning” is out now on all DSPs.

Bradley Simpson drops debut single “Cry At The Moon”

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Bradley Simpson has released his highly anticipated debut single “Cry At The Moon”- available everywhere today via Insanity UK and Sony Music Entertainment.

“Cry At The Moon” was cowritten by Bradley, Andrew Wells, Anthony Rossomando, and Jordan Asher Cruz aka “BOOTS”.

“Cry At The Moon started in LA early on in the writing process for the album with Anthony and Andrew. I knew I wanted to draw on influences I grew up on, we spent the first 2 hours of the session listening through bands we loved, lots of Queens of the Stone Age and Raconteurs. As the melody for the chorus came together, we built around that.  It was exactly how I wanted to move forward with the sound of the album, and it opened the writing process for me. CATM became the catalyst for that sound as it went on a bit of a journey. I met Boots a few months after, and we decided to do the entire album together. We went back in on CATM, made some tweaks to really pull it in line with the rest of the album as CATM always felt like the song to introduce everyone into the world with, I genuinely can’t wait to play it live!”

Watch the Wiz directed music video for “Cry At The Moon” HERE.

Bradley, best known for his role as singer, songwriter, and front man of British band The Vamps, commands a massive fanbase, already with multiple chart-topping albums in the UK. At just 28, Bradley's transition from band front man to solo artist is driven by his personal song collection, signaling an exciting new chapter in his career.

Bradley will preview songs from the upcoming album and make his solo performance debut of “Cry At The Moon” on a sold-out run of headline shows this Spring in the UK, Europe, New York and Los Angeles.

Bradley is currently working his debut album to be released soon.

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Bradley Simpson’s “Cry At The Moon” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment/Insanity UK.

SB19’s Josh Cullen and breakthrough rapper Al James join forces in “Yoko Na”

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P-Pop star Josh Cullen and prolific rapper Al James come together in “Yoko Na,” their collaborative new single released under Sony Music Entertainment.

Lyrics-wise, “Yoko Na” expresses the words left unsaid in the middle of a relationship fallout. It acknowledges how a kind of love that was once full of life and promises could suddenly fall apart even after trying one’s best to stick it out until the very end.

The song bears the hallmarks of a summer anthem, thanks to its infectious rap verses from both artists, an inescapable chorus, and a vibrant arrangement that blends modern hip-hop and R&B sensibilities with emotional flair.

Brian Lotho, who co-produced the track with Josh, captures the essence of the lyrics with steely defiance, adding an extra layer of authenticity by injecting unique elements such as the sound of bottles shattering, tables flipping, and other little sonic details that evoke irreparable brokenness.

“Well, Yoko Na is like the product of a soul-baring session with my producer, Brian Lotho,” Josh Cullen explains. “For this particular jam, we traded cliched love stories with messy, real-life situations that ordinary people encounter on a daily basis: the frustrations and struggles from past relationships, and somehow confronted it with a more mature take. It's a song that's raw, honest, and straight from the heart.”

The partnership came to fruition after realizing that Al James’ style of laid-back rapping somehow fits the demo that Brian and Josh have been working on for months. Josh admits that he mustered the courage to ask the viral hitmaker to be part of the track despite the short notice. Luckily, Al James said yes and sent his verse a few days ahead of the deadline.

When asked about how Al James is as a collaborator, he said nothing but praise for the Pa-umaga act.

“He’s very chill. He submitted the reworked track ahead of time and recorded his parts in less than an hour. I really admire his level of professionalism. After that, we just bonded instantly and went on a food trip.”

Josh Cullen and Al James’ “Yoko Na” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Tothapi joins Sony Music Entertainment family, releases new single “Kutsinta”

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Breakthrough Bicol-based band Tothapi is the newest addition to the Sony Music Entertainment family, which includes some of the biggest OPM acts in the country such as Ben&Ben, SB19, Denise Julia, Clara Benin, Ace Banzuelo, O Side Mafia, NOBITA, Demi, The Itchyworms, Sponge Cola, Any Name’s Okay, and more.

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The seven-piece band recently went viral on TikTok and received praise

 from Asia’s Songbird, Ms. Regine 

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“It has been an amazing ride with Sony Music Entertainment,” shares the band in the press statement. “The constant support we get from them to pursue our endeavors and visions for Tothapi has been unending. They also help us navigate our way through the music industry by giving us advice and letting us grow and discover new things.”

The rising jazz-influenced pop band recently went viral with their song “Celeste” and even received praise from veteran superstars like Regine Velasquez.

Now armed with a growing fanbase and a bigger reach, there’s no stopping Tothapi from taking the local shores by storm with the release of their first official single, “Kutsinta.”

The mellow crossover tune, which was written and produced by the band themselves, explores the beauty of being in a healthy relationship that sees love as more than just a feeling, but a manifestation of commitment and sacrifice.

The seven-piece act explains, “It is basically created through the lens of normal events in our relationships that matter the most: situations in a relationship that make it unknowingly stronger and ties both lovers more. The song also emphasizes how partners got each other’s back, especially at times of vulnerability.”

Totaphi adds, “Our band wanted to produce a pop-style genre that emits good-vibe energy and is love-driven. With this, we wanted our listeners to feel that they were in a state where they were content and happily in love while listening to Kutsinta.”

When asked about some of the recent developments in their career, Tothapi reveals that they’re in the process of writing more songs and performing more shows across the country.

“Future collaborations and new adventures are definitely at the back of our minds,” the promising newcomers share. “Overall, we hope to keep spreading happy thoughts to our listeners.”

Tothapi’s “Kutsinta” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.