Sony redefines the Entertainment Experience with the newest SRS-XV900 High Power Wireless Speaker

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Sony SRS-XV900 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker

Becoming the life of a party or coming home to an immersive watching experience is probably among the #goals of almost everyone. Redefine your relaxation – whether it is through social gatherings or movie-watching at home because whenever and wherever you are, you can bring Sony’s SRS-XV900 high power wireless Bluetooth speaker with you!

Live life loud as Sony introduces the SRS-XV900 wireless Bluetooth speaker – the latest addition to Sony’s state-of-the-art X-Series portable wireless speakers.

Louder and more powerful than ever, the SRS-XV900 is best for those who love music like those who want to experience immersive music through streaming, party chasers, karaoke singers, musicians, and even those who just want to enjoy their time and relaxation at their homes. Here are the reasons why.

Party-Ready

Sony’s SRS-XV900 is party-ready. Fire up any celebration like birthdays and anniversaries both indoors and outdoors with the SRS-XV900’s Omnidirectional Party Sound. Thanks to its X-Balanced Speaker Unit, Jet Bass Booster port, and non-circular diaphragm, you can easily hype up everyone with a richer, clearer, and deeper music experience for your friends and family.

It also has midrange drivers and six tweeter units in its front, side, and top for vocal clarity giving out high-frequency sound all-around, perfect for a live music experience.

The party will not be complete without dazzling lights that’s why the XV900 has omnidirectional pulsating LED lights which can illuminate and turn up the party feels of the whole room.

Better TV-viewing Experience

Take the opportunity to enjoy your family bonding moments or even your me-time as you enjoy movies and concerts in the comfort of your home with the XV900 speakers by just connecting to its optical input.

The Sony-XV900 is equipped with Sony’s latest and exclusive TV Sound Booster function with deep bass and realistic high-frequency sound for a full immersive experience.

Plug in and Play

Anyone can play the DJ role with XV900’s plug-in and play feature. With a complete top-notch touch panel, take control of the speakers – change its functions, settings, or lighting with just a single click.

Connect your phone and blast your favorite playlist on its USB-A output or you may just connect it via Bluetooth and use the Sony Music Center App with its cool and fun features like Gesture and DJ Control. Sony Music Center also allows you to personalize your audio settings and playlist and use the Party Connect function that can hook up with up to 100 compatible speakers to sync the music and lights.

You might as well host karaoke nights, singer or not, as you can easily plug-in a microphone or two with XV900. You may also opt to connect a guitar for your acoustic nights with friends using the speaker as your amplifier.

The XV900 also features the Bluetooth Fast Pair where your device becomes instantly discoverable as soon as you turn it on.

Always on the Go

The party truly never stops with XV900 and its 25-hour battery life to turn up the festivities any time of the day. It has a quick charging feature that can get you 3 hours of playing time in just 10 minutes. The handy speaker also comes with a Battery Care function saving the battery from overcharging.

With its carry handle and wheels, you can roll all your way to your party and take the wireless XV900 with you anywhere conveniently. It also has an IP67 Rating, which ensures that it can withstand water and dust everywhere you go.

Did you also know that Sony is aiming to achieve a zero environmental footprint for its products? With this in mind, Sony not only produces specially designed speakers but also cares for its environment. XV900 uses uniquely developed recycled plastic for its front and rear panels and internal parts.

Whether it's for a party, home entertainment, or casual music playing, the XV900 is the best wireless Bluetooth speaker for you.

Want to redefine your experience? The SRS-XV900 is now available at Sony Flagship Stores online and Authorized Dealers nationwide for only PHP 57,999.00.

Barbie Almalbis, Mark Escueta, Pochoy Labog and Jarlo Bâse team up for inspiring powerhouse track “PIRASO"

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The star-studded tune emphasizes the importance of faith during trying times

Alt-rock icon Barbie Almalbis, Rivermaya lead singer/drummer Mark Escueta, Dicta License vocalist Pochoy Labog, and fast-rising singer-songwriter/producer Jarlo Bâse have collaborated on a soulful track that unfolds with tenderness and power in equal measure.

Released under WATERWALK RECORDS, “PIRASO” tackles the journey of healing and spirituality amidst the crippling fear of uncertainty that all four artists have personally experienced in recent years. The song not only articulates the collective frustrations and sacrifices that people have to go through in order to cope with depression caused by the pandemic, but also reveals how faith has become a source of comfort and strength during trying times.

According to Almalbis, producer-extraordinaire Jungee Marcelo was responsible for bringing them together. She immediately said yes after finding out about the other musicians involved in the project and what the music stands for.

“I have always been a fan of Mark and Pochoy, and I was also looking forward to working with Jarlo, because Mr. Jungee really looked up to him as a young producer,” the Silaw hitmaker admits. “We started writing the song virtually, just exchanging ideas via a chat group, then eventually met up in person to tie everything together.”

Despite their busy schedules, the four powerhouse acts managed to squeeze time to record the song before the year ended. Almalbis reveals that the entire team behind “PIRASO” felt a strong sense of achievement with how the final product turned out. “On the day we finished writing the song, we made a makeshift vocal booth in our house, which turned out to be a great sounding room for vocals. Pochoy then went home to do the bass track. A few days later, we hung out at Mark’s studio to finalize the drum parts. I did a bit more guitar work at home, and Jarlo did the rest of the production, recording his vocals and adding piano, samples, and synths in his own place.”

Dicta License’s Pochoy Labog admits that the collaboration was out of his comfort zone, but the experience, according to him, was an absolute joy. “We flowed so well and nothing was forced. Writing the lyrics was like being in a discipleship group or household –we plugged in words while sharing life experiences and our own walks with God. It was one of the most profound moments in my musical journey.”

Surprisingly, the all-star collaboration turned out to be a very moving piece that raises the bar for all the musicians involved in terms of songwriting and artistry. Bâse, in particular, was grateful and honored to be part of this massive endeavor that brought a different kind creative synergy and excitement.

“I’ve always looked up to Sir Jungee and everyone at WATERWALK/Sony Music for their love and excellence in making music,” says the young singer-songwriter. “I hope people would enjoy and be blessed with the song we all made together.”

“PIRASO” is also Mark Escueta’s first project with WATERWALK RECORDS. He is thankful to be part of a music project that aims to inspire people from all walks of life. “It's an honor and a blessing to be part of this project and I know that WATERWALK RECORDS will continue to touch so many lives in the years to come.”

“PIRASO” is out now on all digital music platforms via WATERWALK RECORDS.

For more updates on the new tracks, artists, and upcoming events, please follow:

WATERWALK RECORDS: Facebook | Instagram

 

ABOUT WATERWALK RECORDS

WATERWALK RECORDS is a music label under Sony Music Entertainment that is focused on bringing fresh Christian music to a new, streaming generation. The label features faith-based entertainment artists from across the length and breadth of the country, who represent the best of Christian music combined with their own unique styles.

The Official Soundtrack to Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody feature star-studded remixes and originals

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The 35-song compilation also contains rare, reimagined versions of ‘Don’t Cry For Me”

Ahead of the January 8 theatrical release of TriStar Pictures’ Whitney Houston biopic, Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody, RCA Records and Sony Music Entertainment has dropped the official 35-song soundtrack, serving as a musical memoir of the cinematic voyage. Listen here.

“This totally unique soundtrack album brings many of Whitney’s classics into 2023 and beyond. Contemporary, current and often scorching, if you love Whitney’s music, you must own this album,” says Clive Davis.

Featuring music spanning two decades of Houston’s legendary career, I Wanna Dance With Somebody (The Movie: Whitney New, Classic and Reimagined) includes nearly two hours of remixed and original versions of Whitney Houston songs, with special guest features by BeBe Winans, Clean Bandit, Kygo, Lucky Daye, SG Lewis, Samaria, Jax Jones, Leikeli47, P2J, Oxlade, Pheelz, and more.

“We are thrilled to be releasing the amazing 35-song soundtrack to the Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody film with RCA Records,” says Pat Houston, President of The Estate of Whitney E. Houston. “We think the fans will be excited to hear some incredible music they know and love, as well as some new never-before-released tracks, including ‘Far Enough’ and the incredible ‘Don't Cry For Me,’ which ends the film.”

Just recently, RCA announced the original soundtrack would include three rare versions of “Don’t Cry For Me” – a never-before-released a cappella, a full-length film version by Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, and a reimagined recording by record producer Sam Feldt. Houston’s iconic performance of the song was made famous after a striking rendition at the 1994 Aids Project Los Angeles (APLA) benefit concert – a moment that would stun the audience and go down in history as one of the most memorable performances of Whitney Houston’s illustrious career.

“I am extremely honored and proud to have been asked to reimagine a track made by all-time legend Whitney Houston,” says Sam Feldt. “Being a key part of this unique movie’s soundtrack by turning this classic into a 2023 ready dance-pop banger is an absolute pleasure, and I can’t wait for the fans to hear it.”

"I’m beyond excited for the fans and the next generation of fans to experience the greatness of Whitney and what her voice meant and still means to all of us,” says Rodney Jerkins.

One of the most iconic and influential singers in music history, Houston sold over 200 million albums throughout her legendary career, to become one of the best-selling artists of the 20th century. Her self-titled debut album, Whitney Houston was one of the most acclaimed albums in modern recording history, spending 14 weeks at #1 on Billboard Top 200 and selling more than twenty-five million copies worldwide. The streak continued when Houston became the first female artist to debut at #1 on the Billboard 200 with her sophomore album, Whitney.

Together, the two albums spurred seven #1 singles with a catalog of hits that include, “Saving All My Love for You,” “How Will I Know,” “Greatest Love of All,” “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me),” “Didn’t We Almost Have It All,” “So Emotional,” and “Where Do Broken Hearts Go.” A run that would lead Houston to become the only Black artist to earn three RIAA Diamond-certified albums.

I Wanna Dance With Somebody Soundtrack Tracklisting

1. I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Whitney Houston & P2J)

2. Don't Cry For Me (Whitney Houston & Sam Feldt)

3. Higher Love (Whitney Houston & Kygo)

4. The Greatest Love Of All (Whitney Houston & Jax Jones)

5. I'm Every Woman (Whitney Houston & SG Lewis)

6. How Will I Know (Whitney Houston & Clean Bandit)

7. I Love The Lord (Whitney Houston, BeBe Winans, Great John)

8. Don't Cry For Me (Darkchild Film Version)

9. Honest (Heartbreak Hotel) [Whitney Houston & Lucky Daye]

10. Okay (Whitney Houston, Oxlade, Pheelz)

11. You'll Never Stand Alone (Moto Blanco Remix)

12. Love Will Save The Day (MATVEI Remix)

13. Tomorrow (Whitney Houston & Samaria)

14. Home (Live from The Merv Griffin Show)

15. You Give Good Love

16. Saving All My Love for You

17. If You Say My Eyes Are Beautiful (Whitney Houston & Jermaine Jackson)

18. Far Enough

19. I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)

20. So Emotional

21. Where Do Broken Hearts Go

22. Moment Of Truth

23. I’m Your Baby Tonight

24. The Star-Spangled Banner (Live from Super Bowl XXV)

25. One Moment In Time

26. I Will Always Love You (Live from The Concert for a New South Africa)

27. Medley: I Loves You, Porgy / And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going / I Have Nothing (Live from The 21st Annual American Music Awards)

28. Run To You

29. Impossible Things (Whitney Houston & Leikeli47)

30. Why Does It Hurt So Bad (from the "Waiting to Exhale" – Original Soundtrack)

31. It's Not Right, But It's Okay

32. My Love Is Your Love

33. I Didn't Know My Own Strength (Live from The Oprah Winfrey Show)

34. Clive's Message

35. Don't Cry For Me (A Cappella)

The Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via RCA Records and Sony Music Entertainment. You can also listen to Whitney Houston greatest hits on this playlist: https://iwdwssoundtrack.lnk.to/Soundtrack

The film is available on cinemas nationwide.

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About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

About TriStar Pictures’ Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody

Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody is a powerful and triumphant celebration of the incomparable Whitney Houston. Directed by Kasi Lemmons, written by Academy Award® nominee Anthony McCarten, produced by legendary music executive Clive Davis and starring BAFTA Award® winner Naomi Ackie, the film is a no-holds-barred portrait of the complex and multifaceted woman behind The Voice. From New Jersey choir girl to one of the best-selling and most awarded recording artists of all time, audiences are taken on an inspirational, poignant—and so emotional—journey through Houston’s trailblazing life and career, with show-stopping performances and a soundtrack of the icon’s most beloved hits as you’ve never heard them before. Don’t you wanna dance?

The film is also produced by Denis O’Sullivan, Jeff Kalligheri, Anthony McCarten, Pat Houston, Larry Mestel, Molly Smith, Thad Luckinbill, Trent Luckinbill, Matt Jackson, Christina Papagjika and Matthew Salloway. The executive producers are Naomi Ackie, Kasi Lemmons William Earon, Marina Cappi, Erika Hampson, Josh Crook, Rachel Smith, Seth Spector, Dennis Casali Janice Beard, Tanner Beard, Lexie Beard, Matthew Gallagher, Jane Bergere, Stella Meghie and Mackenzie O’Connell.

The film also stars Stanley Tucci (as Clive Davis), Ashton Sanders (as Bobby Brown), Tamara Tunie (as Cissy Houston), Nafessa Williams (as Robyn Crawford) and Clarke Peters (as John Houston)

Pentatonix and Lea Salonga hit YouTube Trending Charts with “Christmas In Our Hearts” music video

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Their rendition of a Jose Mari Chan hit is part of Pentatonix’s new album, Holidays Around The World

Filipina Broadway superstar Lea Salonga has recently joined American a cappella group Pentatonix for the music video of “Christmas In Our Hearts.”

Lea Salonga 

Released last weekend, the visuals have garnered more than 640,000 views on its third day of release. It also currently sits inside the top 20 of YouTube’s Trending Music Charts, and continues to gain traction on streaming and airplay.

The soaring ballad, which is a cover of a Jose Mari Chan hit, is part of Pentatonix’s sixth holiday album, Holidays Around The World.

The acclaimed catalog brings their global vision back to life with collaborations featuring some of the most iconic pop artists and established idols from different parts of the world, including Chinese pianist Lang Lang, Congolese gospel singer Grace Lokwa, Lebanese singer Hiba Tawaji, Latin band La Santa Cecilia, Indian superstar Shreya Ghoshal, Japanese YouTubers HIKAKIN & SEIKIN, British a cappella ensemble The King’s Singers, and American superstar Meghan Trainor.

Apart from the music video release and a new album, the internationally renowned pop ensemble is set to embark on a global tour with multiple stops across North America and Asia.

Just recently, Pentatonix talked to People Magazine about breaking boundaries in terms of making music. According to the five-piece group, they want to experience the “cultural differences in music” and explore working with artists outside their comfort country.

Pentatonix’s Holidays Around The World is now available on all digital music platforms via RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment.

Check out the music video of “Christmas In Our Hearts” here.

Pentatonix and Lea Salonga spread holiday cheers with their rendition of “Christmas In Our Hearts”

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Their version of a Christmas classic is part of Pentatonix’s new album, Holidays Around The World

 

American pop group Pentatonix lights up the holiday season with the release of their sixth album, Holidays Around The World—out via RCA Records.

The a cappella ensemble brings their global vision back to life as they collaborate with some of the biggest pop stars and idols from different parts of the world, including Chinese pianist Lang Lang, Congolese gospel singer Grace Lokwa, Lebanese singer Hiba Tawaji, Latin band La Santa Cecilia, Indian superstar Shreya Ghoshal, Japanese YouTubers HIKAKIN & SEIKIN, British a cappella ensemble The King’s Singers, and American superstar Meghan Trainor.

As for the Philippines, Pentatonix teams up with multi-awarded Broadway icon Lea Salonga for the Yuletide classic “Christmas In Our Hearts,” which was originally written and performed by Diamond-certified Filipino artist Jose Mari Chan. Brimming with effervescent harmonies and powerhouse vocals, the rendition revisits the Christmas holidays with a comforting, dream-like spin.

“I had the most wonderful time recording this classic Filipino Christmas song with Pentatonix,” Salonga posted on Instagram a few weeks ago. “And yes, this is the Christmas In Our Hearts you think it is.”

The song is currently making rounds on local mainstream radio and streaming platforms, thanks to its crossover sensibilities and gift of familiarity.

Following its release, Pentatonix is set to embark on a multi-city tour in North America and Asia to promote their new album, Holidays Around The World.

Pentatonix’s Holidays Around The World is now available on all digital music platforms via RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment. Listen to “Christmas In Our Hearts” here.

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Sony Music Entertainment marks 25th anniversary of George Michael’s Older with a digitally remastered, expanded edition

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The celebration also kicked off with a listening party and an exclusive screening of Freedom Uncut, a documentary about the late pop music icon

Sony Music Entertainment recently paid tribute to iconic superstar George Michael with a listening party featuring his re-released classic album Older and an exclusive premiere of Freedom Uncut—an acclaimed documentary that gives viewers a first-person account of his life as a pop legend, a music activist, and as a person coming to terms with love, sexuality, and celebrityhood.

The intimate celebration also marked the 25^th anniversary of his landmark album Older, which was remastered for the very first time on digital and streaming formats. Dubbed Older (Expanded Edition), the remastered version also includes remixes, live versions, and B-Side tracks, along with the newly improved versions of the late singer-songwriter’s originals.

Producing six top 3 singles in the UK and topping the album charts for three consecutive weeks, Older is described as a “masterpiece” by several music critics, and was a huge global commercial success. It went 6x platinum in the UK, as well as verified platinum in another 22 countries – an achievement which is unparalleled to this day.

The remastered version of Older is made more special with the release of a premium box-set containing 5 CDs, 3 LPs, and a 12” x 12” 48-page book, The Story of Older, featuring a brand-new essay by Dan Davies recounting the stories behind the album with contributions from key people who helped make the record, plus rare and previously unseen photos.

Aside from the box-set release, George Michael’s self-co-directed documentary, Freedom Uncut also recently premiered worldwide to mostly glowing reviews from pop culture and film press. NME called it “strikingly candid,” while Empire praised it for being a “touching tribute to a true music legend.”

George Michael’s Older (Expanded Edition) is now available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The premium box-set can be purchased overseas.

 

SPARK! partners with Sony Music Entertainment Philippines to empower young women and girl

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SPARK! Philippines will receive funding from Sony Music’s Global Social Justice Fund to accelerate young women’s rights advocacy through music and film   

Photo from left to right: Prerna Suri, VP, Communications, Asia & Middle East, SME; Hans Kevin Madanguit, Senior Program Manager, SPARK! Philippines; Shridhar Subramaniam, President, Corporate Strategy & Market Development, Asia & Middle East, SME; Maica Teves, Executive Director, SPARK! Philippines; Roslyn Pineda, GM, Philippines, SME; and Andrew Smith, EVP & CFO, Asia & Middle East, SME

SPARK! is delighted to announce new funding from Sony Music Entertainment Philippines to champion young women’s rights and provide access to free and quality education, improved reproductive health products and services, as well as support for gender sensitive and responsive programs.      

As a new beneficiary, SPARK! Philippines will develop an initiative that capitalizes on the power of storytelling through film and music to showcase inspirational narratives of the young women they support. The selected girls will collaborate with a critically acclaimed female filmmaker and Sony Music Philippines artists to produce original short biopics or documentaries featuring impactful musical scores and theme songs. A separate series of short videos will also be made to showcase how Sony Music Philippines artists engage with the young women through their workshops and songwriting and recording sessions.

“In addition to elevating young women and raising awareness for the issues they face, we want to inspire them to be more creative, to dream deeply, and to aspire for more,” said Maica Teves, Executive Director at SPARK! Philippines. “Young women need help with strengthening and amplifying their advocacy efforts, and support from the Sony Music Philippines’s musicians and filmmakers will help them achieve that in a creative way. Through our collaboration with Sony Music’s Global Social Justice Fund, we aim to give our young women a positive platform to showcase their collaboration and develop meaningful stories that shed much-needed light on the pressing issues they face. We want to embed a belief in equal rights and the importance of education at a young age and will work hand-in-hand with Sony Music Entertainment Philippines to realize these goals.”      

“We are happy to partner with SPARK! who are impacting the lives of young women across the Philippines,” said Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Philippines, Sony Music Entertainment. “As a global music company, Sony Music Entertainment is dedicated to empowering and elevating all members of societies where we have a presence. We are committed to bridging gaps in society and look forward to working with SPARK! to unlock the creative potential of young women in the Philippines.”

Established in 2012, SPARK! Philippines is an NGO composed of empowered women committed to the development of women and women’s organizations as full partners in national development. The funding from Sony Music Philippines will help strengthen collaboration and build alliances with people and organizations across various fields and sectors to advance the rights and welfare agenda of young women, encourage young women to be agents of change from a young age by actively participating in social development programs and community projects, claiming their right to engage in spaces of policy discussion, and support men in allyship and activism by joining activities that advance gender equality.

SPARK! Philippines is the latest recipient announced in Asia from Sony Music Group’s Global Social Justice Fund. Launched in 2020, the Fund supports social justice and anti-racist initiatives around the world. Two years on, the Fund has pledged 71% of the total $100 Million USD fund to more than 400 community organizations worldwide, covering areas including civic engagement, environmental justice, criminal justice reform, and education.

P-Pop kings SB19 cement their status as an emerging global powerhouse with disco-pop anthem “WYAT”

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• The sparkly new track has entered the iTunes chart in a total of 14 countries, peaking at No. 1 in the Philippines, Singapore, Hong Kong, Qatar, and UAE

Filipino five-member boyband SB19 reaches even greater heights as their new single “WYAT” continues to gain foothold in the Philippines and abroad.

In less than a week, the disco-pop track has peaked at No. 1 on iTunes Chart in several countries and territories, including the Philippines, Singapore, Hong Kong, Qatar, and UAE. It has also charted in 9 countries outside the country: No. 2 in Bahrain and Antigua & Barbuda, No. 4 in Saudi Arabia, No. 8 in New Zealand, No. 20 in Canada and Cambodia, No. 54 in Azerbaijan, No. 55 in Malaysia, No. 70 in the US, and No. 74 worldwide.

The retro-modern tune, which documents the hitmaking quintet’s efforts to reconnect after a tumultuous phase in their personal lives, further cements their status as a global powerhouse. In a recent article by Billboard Magazine, SB19 gained acclaim for their vision to “push the country’s current pop renaissance” to a bigger, broader level. Pop culture critic Jeff Benjamin writes, “With its wider pop ambitions thanks to an undeniable chorus and multiple visual access points thanks to the video and styling, WYAT (Where You At) puts SB19 in the best position to grasp the international spotlight.”

To date, “WYAT” has amassed more than a million views on YouTube in less than 3 days, trending as high as No. 4 on the platform upon its release. Over at Twitter, the song has trended at No. 1 on Trending Topics Philippines, and No. 2 Worldwide, maintaining its impressive stats for days.

Lead rapper and sub-vocalist Josh credits the success of the envelope-pushing single to A’TIN—the fandom responsible for ensuring their mercurial rise to commercial prominence. “We’re very thankful and overwhelmed, especially to our A’TIN. We didn’t expect it to top in various charts not only in the Philippines, but different parts of the world. This was truly unexpected as we haven’t been around for a while. Hopefully, this release isn’t the only one that will turn out successful, but the tour as well.”

To further promote the beginning of their new music era via “WYAT,” the P-Pop phenoms are set to embark on their biggest local and international tour to date. WYAT [Where You At] Tour kicks off on their sold-show concert at Araneta Coliseum on September 17, 2022, to be followed by a series of shows in Clark, Cebu, Davao and more. In the following months, the tour extends globally as SB19 heads to multiple countries - US, UAE, and Singapore to name a few. International A’TIN can expect SB19 to drop by their city starting October 2022.

When asked about what to expect on their upcoming global tour, main vocalist and dancer Stell confirms that music listeners will be seeing a different SB19 this time around. “The same passion is there, the same dedication is there, but we’re just going to give more for this tour. Like we usually do, we try to level up and improve every time.”

Sub vocalist and WYAT creative director Justin also emphasized how rigid their preparations are in terms of upping the ante, quality-wise. “It is our first time having dance and vocal coaches helping us in our concert preparation. So that’s one thing the fans can look forward to, the improvement of our dancing and singing skills.”

For more information about SB19’s series of shows, check out the updates on their social media accounts.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SB19Official

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/SB19OfficialYT

SB19’s “WYAT” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

Ben&Ben offers unique perspective on forgiveness with new international single “The Ones We Once Loved”

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Written by the band’s very own Paolo Benjamin, the stripped-down track is emotionally impactful 

even in its apparent weightlessness

Having amassed more than a billion streams and a total of 3.5 million listeners on Spotify, Ben&Ben continues to make generation-defining statements with heartfelt tunes that resonate on a universal level. Considered as one of the most commercially successful acts in the Southeast Asian region, the nine-piece collective has recently won the Best Asian Band at the 2022 BandLab NME Awards, and reaped multiple recognitions for their groundbreaking work on the sophomore album, Pebble House, Vol. 1: Kuwaderno.

With an impressive music portfolio and an upcoming North American tour, the Filipino hitmakers return with another international release following the success of 2020’s “Doors” and “Leaves,” a collaboration with Korean singer-songwriter Young K of Day 6. Released under Sony Music, their new single “The Ones We Once Loved” is a quietly startling confessional that sounds emotionally impactful even in its apparent weightlessness. Written by Ben&Ben’s very own Paolo Benjamin, the track builds its staircase to somewhere personal and intimate, offering a unique perspective on love, forgiveness, and breakup.

“It's a song that owns up to one's faults, makes proper apologies, but also expresses hurt, as breakups are often two-way things,” says the band in an official statement. “It’s also one of the hardest songs we’ve written, because it requires the writer to forgive himself for his past and own up to his faults and mistakes. The painstaking process towards that state, the cycles of anxiety and catharsis that the writer went through, and the eventual expression of all of that in the form of this song, as an encapsulation of such a heavy journey, is what makes this song stand out among our other songs.”

Produced by Johnoy Danao and Jean Paul Verona, the song takes a deceptively stripped-down approach in terms of musicality, but careful not to lose the earnestness that defined their recent hits. According to the folk-pop outfit, they wanted to keep the arrangement as bare and as transparent as possible while still maintaining a certain depth, weight, and storytelling within instrumentation.

“Supporting the vocals is the staple piano sound, as one would hear when being sung the humblest and sincerest of songs, slowly followed by more and more melodic instruments as the singer opens up and exposes vulnerability,” the band explains the sonic motif behind the release. “At the end of the day, we wanted to make an arrangement that would provide no barrier to taking in each meaning of every word of a song that has so much to say.”

Backed by rich but sparsely layered instrumentation, the song, particularly its chorus, captures “what so many of us are often too afraid or unprepared to say after a difficult breakup.” Hoping that listeners would take responsibility in making amends with one’s self, and the person on the other end of the grieving process, the band shares, “We are hoping that this song somehow helps people bridge that gap and feel the importance of really letting go through a multi-faceted forgiveness: one of the other, and of the self.”

“The Ones We Once Loved” serves as Ben&Ben’s official single in support of their Philippine send-off concert and North America/Canada Tour in 2022. It also marks their first collaboration with globally renowned photographer Geloy Concepcion, whose work was recently featured in Vogue Magazine, and other notable publications and exhibits worldwide.

“We’ve always wanted to do a collaboration with Geloy Concepcion as most of the band members look up to him, that when we realized he would be the perfect artist to work with for The Ones We Once Loved, we instantly took a chance and set a meeting up with him,” Ben&Ben shares. “In Geloy’s current project ‘Things You Wanted To Say But Never Did’ we saw how resonant and resemblant his messaging was to The Ones We Once Loved and that he may be the best artist to communicate the song’s message. Geloy’s eye and his way of introducing a space to let out feelings and emotions was one we wanted to emulate in this campaign—a space where people sit safely and quietly with their feelings.”

Earlier this week, Ben&Ben encouraged their fans to use the hashtags #BenandBen #BenandBenTOWOL #TOWOL and #TheOnesWeOnceLoved as part of its Twitter activation campaign promoting the international release of “The Ones We Once Loved.” The hashtags revealed official Ben&Ben Twitter emojis, and unlocked a special preview of the song last August 24, 2022.

Ben&Ben’s “The Ones We Once Loved” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

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About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

Ben&Ben and Pamungkas team up for the performance video of “Stand By You”

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Filipino nine-piece collective Ben&Ben has recently joined forces with Indonesian singer-songwriter Pamungkas to release a performance video of “Stand By You.” The infectious pop-rock original, which is an English translation of Ben&Ben’s 2022 hit “Paninindigan Kita,” was recorded at SoundCheck Studio in Pasig City last August 5, 2022 (Friday).

Prior to the live studio session, both regional superstars were introduced to each other online last month, and got the chance to brainstorm on how to approach the song with a collaborative mindset. “We sent over a rough translation of our song Paninindigan Kita,” shares Ben&Ben in a statement. “He [Pamungkas] came up with brilliant lyrical ideas, and we ended up co-writing the English lyrics for this song with him.”

Ahead of their sold-out show at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City, Philippines, Ben&Ben and Pamungkas recently recorded a live performance of “Stand By You” complete with a fuller, more intricate arrangement and reassigned verses. The chart-topping Filipino band is more than happy about the result of the session, and how it brought the best of both worlds in one project.

“There was a natural chemistry between both artists,” says Ben&Ben. “This came out in the way the instruments were arranged and the different parts were worked into the final version of the performance.”

Ben&Ben also praised Pamungkas on how he managed to add a totally new vibe to the song, while injecting his own flair into the instrumentation. “This made the collaborative version very distinct in a way that represents both styles blended into one performance, instead of it being a straightforward cover version of the song.”

“Stand By You” is the first of the two-part collaboration between the prolific and award-winning Asian artists. They’re also set to release the performance video of “I Got To Get You” soon.

Pamungkas is currently headlining his own Southeast Asian tour to promote his fourth studio album, Birdy. His hit single “To The Bone” was a huge regional success, topping Spotify Indonesia Top 50 charts for several weeks and peaking at No. 5 on Spotify Philippines Top 50 charts last year. The song also performed well commercially in other Southeast Asian countries, particularly in Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Ben&Ben is set to conquer the international stage with their first North American tour, performing in iconic and key venues across nine cities in the US and Canada. They’re also gearing up with the release of their new international single this month—ahead of their send-off concert on September 3 at the CCP Open Grounds.

Watch the live performance of “Stand By You” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wrYBtxxgZk

SB19 announces release of new single “WYAT” and upcoming world tour

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P-pop Kings SB19 announces their return to the music scene with WYAT [Where You At], a disco-pop track that highlights the urgency of disconnection to reconnection of the times. The upcoming release marks SB19’s first new material as a group in a year after launching their 2021 EP, Pagsibol.

A series of cryptic riddles reveals SB19’s much-anticipated comeback single and upcoming world tour.

“It’s been a year, the word 'hiatus' may sound negative but we took it from a different perspective. We maximized the opportunity to think more as to what we can improve on, how we can prepare for our comeback,” says SB19 Stell.

SB19 Ken mentions “We are thrilled to be releasing a new song for our fans. Bigger, better. I hope that A'TIN will appreciate at best the work we've done for our upcoming tour.” WYAT drops on all streaming platforms on September 2, 2022, with the official music video to be released on the same day.

The award-winning and Billboard nominee Philippine Pop phenom is also set to stage their biggest local and international tour to date. WYAT [Where You At] Tour kicks off on September 17, 2022 at Araneta Coliseum, to be followed by a series of shows in Clark, Cebu, Davao and more.

In the following months, the tour extends globally as SB19 heads to multiple countries - US, UAE, and Singapore to name a few. International A’TIN can expect SB19 to drop by their city starting October 2022.

“This will be the first time for us to be going out of the country for our own concert,” reveals SB19 Josh. “We’re excited to meet our international fans. If I may put it: we were caterpillars inside cocoons when we were just starting and now, we've turned into butterflies ready to spread our wings!”

According to SB19 Justin, the five-piece group is very much involved in the creative process behind the upcoming tour, from conceptualization to choreography, from promotion strategy to visual ideation.

He explains, “When SB19 Pablo told us the meaning of WYAT, the song that he and his brother Josue created, I was able to conceptualize WYAT. From there, our team was able to brainstorm on how to improve my initial concept. We made options and showed the other members of SB19, so they could also give their insights. One idea led to another. We started plotting everything: from teasers to the actual music video, every post, down to the last detail.”

SB19 Justin adds, “Josh tweaks a bit of everything, from choreography to the direction of our shoots. He and Pablo has a big role in decision-making. Ken helps with the creative process, from how the dances should look to the set design. Aside from being the main choreographer, Stell also shares ideas on how to promote our comeback. He’s been mentioning if we could play the videos after our recent performances before the tour starts, So we did. Last August 7, 2022 at Mall of Asia Arena was when we first dropped our video teaser in front of thousands of live audience. I highly consider what the other members, management, staff and other people around me think. It really takes a village and is a healthy collaboration.”

More details about the local and international tour will be announced soon.

For more information about SB19’s series of shows, check out the updates on their social media accounts.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SB19Official

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/SB19OfficialYT

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About SB19

SB19 is a five-member Filipino boy band that debuted in October 2018. Their first single ‘Go Up’ went viral and reached millions of views in a few month's time. They are the first Filipino and Southeast Asian act to be nominated in Billboard Music Awards for the Top Social Artist category, and are also the first Southeast Asian act to enter the top 10 of Billboard Social 50 weekly and year-end charts. Their latest record-breaking single ‘'Bazinga' stayed for 7 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard‘s Hot Trending Songs charts, making them the first act to ever reach that milestone. SB19 promotes its music as part of Pinoy pop (P-pop)—a popular sub-genre of Original Filipino Music.

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin star in the music video of Ace Banzuelo’s streaming hit “Muli”

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The Gen Z superstars portray a romantic couple struggling to put their love back together

ABS-CBN stars Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin reunite onscreen for the music video of Ace Banzuelo’s chart-topping electronic ballad “Muli.”

The visual narrative captures the disintegration of what used to be a promising relationship, with ‘FranSeth’ struggling to process their pain.

Going the abstract route, the MV depicts an imagery of a home on the verge of breaking apart: burning couches, dying lights, and a smashed piano. Ace Banzuelo himself, makes a significant appearance as the ‘inner emotions’ of Seth.

“Everything was heavy on symbolism, but still reflects the intensity of the song,” says Chapters’ very own Jake Soriano, who directed the music video of “Muli.”

Soriano has worked with both Francine and Seth in the past, but according to him, this project was the first time that he witnessed the loveteam deliver a nuanced performance and showcase their range as dramatic thespians. “They’re easy to work with, because aside from being good actors, they’re also very kind and professional, and both are super funny. We always get a good laugh during shoots.”

For his part, Ace was very much involved in the brainstorming and creative process of the music video, and was very open in collaborating with Francine and Seth.

“At first, I was okay to do the music video alone with what I had, and then we started to get tweets, comments, and messages from multiple fans that they wanted to see me collaborate with local actors,” shares the young singer-songwriter and producer. “Our team reached out to the loveteam, and we were so happy that they were game! Working with Seth and Francine was super fun, I’m proud that we were able to capture the vision of song, and present it through the long-awaited video.”

Few hours before the premiere of the music video, FRANSETHxACE MULI MV immediately topped Twitter Philippines trending list at No. 1, with fans expressing their excitement on the teamup.

“Muli” has been the most streamed OPM song on Spotify and Apple Music for more than a month now. It continues to make an impact on several music charts worldwide, reaching No. 1 on Apple Music Viral Hits – Philippines, No. 2 on Spotify Top 50 – Philippines and Spotify Viral 50 – Philippines, No. 3 on Apple Music Top 100: Philippines, and No. 6 on Spotify Viral 50 – Global. “Muli” has also landed on Spotify Viral 50 charts in four other territories: UAE, Singapore, Canada, and New Zealand, making it one of the biggest crossover hits that came out in the country this year.

Ace Banzuelo’s “Muli” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.