Barbie Almalbis releases new synth-pop single “Wicked Heart”

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The award-winning singer-songwriter finds herself reflecting on misguided actions based on emotions

Photo credit: Nina Sandejas

Multi-awarded singer-songwriter Barbie Almalbis wraps up her tremendous year in music with the release of “Wicked Heart,” her new single under 12 Stone Records and Sony Music Entertainment.

Barbie’s new song reflects on the repercussions of making rash decisions out of emotion. According to Barbie, “Wicked Heart” also presents the rhetoric that while our desires and emotions are a beautiful part of who we are and how we experience life, there must be something “truer” than the heart.

The Dahilan artist recalls a personal experience in the past involving a misguided action that she regretted doing.

“I was thinking about how following your heart can lead to trouble sometimes,” the Filipino alt-rock icon explains. “I want to follow my heart, but it’s always changing its mind. It’s definitely something I’ve personally been through, but it also takes inspiration from the verse in Jeremiah 17:9: The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked: who can know it?”

Written and produced by Barbie Almalbis herself, with Jorel Corpus and Jett Galindo on mixing and mastering duties, respectively, “Wicked Heart” hits the high mark with its refreshing mix of ‘80s influences and pastel synths. Delivering a whopper of a pop anthem, Barbie initially penned the track on a “guitalele” to harness a different dimension and vibe.

Barbie reveals, “Writing on a new, different instrument makes the process feel exciting and fresh sometimes. As the song progressed, I realized I didn’t hear much guitar in it, so I asked my bandmate Nikko Rivera to fill the whole thing with keys and synth parts, and he sent me like 10 layers of things. I just added a little bit of guitar later on, so that I’ll have something to do when we play it live. Karel played bass on it, and Jonard played the drums.”

Barbie Almalbis recently celebrated her 25th year in the music scene with a concert chronicling her career as one of the most influential figures in Pinoy alternative rock. She also recently released her debut solo record, Parade, on vinyl for the first time. To date, Almalbis is working on new songs and collaborations for future releases.

“Wicked Heart” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

Follow Barbie Almalbis on socials: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Filipino R&B star JP Bacallan drops “Señorita,” his debut single under Sony Music Entertainment

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The sultry banger shows admiration over someone’s irresistible charm

Filipino newcomer JP Bacallan swoons over someone’s beauty on "Señorita,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

With soulful vocals sliding down effortlessly on a delicate mix of Latin-inspired grooves, acoustic guitars, and sensuous percussions, the R&B single shows JP Bacallan at his most confident, showcasing the versatility of his instrument.

The budding singer-songwriter dedicates the track to someone dear to his heart. “I want to lift her up and let her realize how precious she is to me,” says the charismatic crooner. “I personally wrote this song as my way of expressing appreciation.”

Produced by his constant collaborator Nexxfriday, “Señorita” projects an energy that is undeniably charming but filled with so much passion and soul. From the moment the instrumentation drops, it becomes even clearer that the song will set fire to the dancefloor and encourage every listener to join in the ecstatic fun.

“Our normal process for creating a song is that he will give me the beat, and once I feel the vibe, I will write down all my thoughts,” JP Bacallan shares.

“Señorita” is the official debut project of JP Bacallan under Sony Music Entertainment. Before getting signed by a major record label, Bacallan has racked up close to a hundred million views on YouTube. He has worked with some of the biggest names in Pinoy hiphop, including Gloc-9 and Pricetagg. The Pasig-based artist also made a strong impression on mainstream television as one of the contestants of Showtime’s Tawag ng Tanghalan, where he wowed the audience with his compelling singing style and sultry tone.

JP Bacallan’s "Señorita” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

The Magic of Music and Storytelling: Sony Music Entertainment and SPARK! release an empowering documentary for girls

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“There is always light,” says 21-year old Irish Miras, as she remembers the trauma she experienced as a child. Her voice is soft, her words strong. “If I could talk to my younger self, I would tell her: ‘We are alive. We are doing okay.’”

(From L to R, Sofia Abrogar of Any Name’s Okay; Hazel Faith; Jennifer Goldstein, Asst. Cultural Affairs Officer, US Embassy in the Philippines; Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Sony Music Philippines; Diane Romero, Executive Director, J. Amado Araneta Foundation; Maica Teves, Executive Director, SPARK!; Carmen del Prado, Sine Niña Director)

Irish is one of four young women featured in the documentary Sine Niña, a film that showcases the unique stories of women across the Philippines. Each story is set to inspire, uplift, and empower audiences—as well as start important conversations around equality, purpose, and mental health.

The film is the culmination of a partnership between SPARK! (Samahan ng mga Pilipina Para sa Reporma at Kaunlaran), an NGO committed to the development of women and women’s organizations; and Sony Music Group’s Global Social Justice Fund, which provides grants to projects that support social justice and anti-racist initiatives around the world. The partnership harnesses the power of storytelling, using music and film to highlight women’s rights and advocacies.

Directed by Carmen del Prado, Sine Niña, was scored by Pat Lasaten and Agnes Reoma of Ben&Ben, and features songs by Ben&Ben, Barbie Almalbis, Hazel Faith, and Any Name’s Okay.

The film made its debut last October 18 at Gateway Cinema 6 in Quezon City, with hundreds of students in attendance. The screening featured a panel discussion, as well as performances by Sony Music Entertainment (SME) artists Kai Buizon and Hazel Faith.

The screening was scheduled to coincide with “International Day of the Girl,” a day of observance which seeks to unite and empower adolescent girls, while providing them with more opportunities—an objective that director Carmen del Prado kept close to heart while making the film. “To quote [one of the girls in the film,] ‘It’s a story about a hundred other girls out there choosing passion over practicality,’” del Prado says. “So here’s to women supporting women!”

Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Sony Music Philippines, could not agree more: “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 the long-term impact of Sine Niña in helping unlock the potential of young women in the Philippines,” she says. “Together, let us build a future where every young woman can claim her rightful place and contribute to the progress of our society.”

Other partners of Sine Niña are: The US Embassy in the Philippines, The J. Amado Araneta Foundation, Girls Got Game, the Quezon City Government, and the Taguig City Government.

Sine Niña will be available to stream on the SPARK! YouTube channel by the end of the month. It will also be screened in schools nationwide.

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About The Sony Global Social Justice Fund

The Sony Global Social Justice Fund was created in 2020, with the goal of helping fight racial and social injustice worldwide. In just two years, the Fund has pledged 71% of the $100 million it has committed, helping over 400 community organizations worldwide involved in civic engagement, environmental justice, criminal justice reform, and education.

 

Filipino singer-songwriter Benj Pangilinan captures the feeling of youthful excitement on new single “Dance Like You”

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Filipino singer-songwriter Benj Pangilinan expresses the joy of living life with a positive mindset on his new single “Dance Like You,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

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The upbeat track encourages listeners to dance their worries away and surrender

 to the beat of a fun, vibrant day

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Encapsulating the essence of youthful excitement in a euphoric, four-minute pop song, the talented newcomer grabs his dancing shoes to sing about seizing the moment with a cheerful disposition in life and love.

"Dance Like You is a song for all ages and all people who just want to have fun and dance,” Pangilinan explains. “I wrote this song a couple of years ago, during the pandemic. I remember just playing the guitar when I suddenly came up with an interesting chord progression. Instantly, I picked up my phone and opened the Voice Memos app. From there, I remember getting this feeling that a song was about to be made.”

Giving listeners a well-needed shot of dopamine, Pangilinan’s catchy new song hits like sunlight passing through a glass window first thing in the morning. It’s a bop that offers a hearty dose of fun and optimism.

According to Benj Pangilinan, he penned “Dance Like You” with the intention of not overthinking the lyrics. The promising young artist made the song with a vision to bridge two generations of music that allow listeners of varying generations to let loose, have fun, and dance.

His frequent collaborator, the Grammy-nominated Xerxes Bakker, produced the track with a timeless, contemporary edge, giving Benj the opportunity to express himself authentically and showcase his vibrant personality.

“Dance Like You” will be part of an EP to be released soon under Sony Music Entertainment. In sharing the details about his highly anticipated debut record, Benj shares in a press statement that the EP is just him “experimenting and figuring out who” he is as an artist. “I'm super excited to share this with all of you. My work has always been a reflection of my journey towards self-discovery. I hope that in some way or another, I’ll be able to inspire people with my songs.”

The infectious track serves as the followup to his first single “Love, That’s Rare,” which he wrote to reflect on the conflicting emotions he was experiencing at the time. Watch the music video here.

Benj Pangilinan’s “Dance Like You” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Follow him on his socials/digital music platforms:

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Spotify

Ben&Ben hopes to uplift the world with acoustic version of “Courage”

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Ben&Ben asserts the power of surviving personal setbacks in life with another inspiring anthem.

The Filipino folk-pop outfit dedicates the stripped-down version of their new song “Courage (acoustic version)” to the dreamers who are struggling to pull up the strength to confront an unforgiving world.

“The past few months have been mentally tough for the band, with challenges surrounding us and driving us to low points and times of discouragement,” the chart-topping band shares in a press statement. “These valleys have been the inspiration for Courage. We realized that, as visceral as the feeling of being hopeless may be for us, we wanted to channel it into an uplifting piece of music because it is something a lot of people are going through now but have a hard time verbalizing.”

Out today via Sony Music Entertainment, the stripped-down number is penned by Miguel and Paolo Benjamin and produced by frequent collaborator Jean Paul Verona, who wanted to focus on a back-to-basics approach while commanding the listener’s attention in every conceivable way—from the powerful lyrics down to the warm melodies.

The multi-awarded ensemble explains, “We went back to our roots for this one, wherein we let the reverberations of the acoustic guitars envelope the harmonies we did for the vocals. We kept it simple for the first release of Courage because we wanted to get the message of the song to our listeners as soon as possible.”

Taking a confident stride back to their distinct brand of intuitive intimacy, Ben&Ben’s “Courage (acoustic version)” offers a compelling snapshot of their journey as individuals and artists, one that isn’t necessarily perfect and full of wins but always clings on to perseverance and courage in a bid to make the world a better place to live in.

Ben&Ben looks forward to recording and arranging the final version of the song in the coming weeks. According to the nine-piece collective, this is the first time in their career that they’ll be premiering the track in a form that usually only the band members hear, which is the stripped-down version.

“Then, we’ll build it up together as a band as the weeks and months go by, and you’ll be hearing more of it as it happens,” the acclaimed band adds.

Ben&Ben has recently made headlines for bagging seven nominations at the 2023 Awit Awards, including the following categories: Song of the Year, Best Performance by a Group Artist, Best Pop Recording, Best Alternative Recording, Best Traditional/Contemporary Folk Recording, and Music Video of the Year. The Paninindigan Kita act is currently on a world tour, with remaining stops in Sydney and Dubai this month.

Ben&Ben’s “Courage (acoustic version)” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Miley Cyrus releases reflective new single “Used To Be Young”

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Miley Cyrus has released her new song and video, “Used To Be Young” – listen here and watch the video here. 

In talking about “Used To Be Young,” Miley says, 

“This song is about honoring who we’ve been, loving who we are and celebrating who we will become. I feel proud when reflecting on my past and optimistic when thinking about the future. I am grateful to my loyal fans who make my dreams a reality daily. I am sincerely thankful for the stability of your steadfast support. This song is for you.”

Regarding the video, Miley noted, “It’s super emotional because I am kind of a mini-me of my mom and I could see her inside of the camera by using a technology where I could livestream with my mom from inside of the camera. So, we could see each other and as she was dancing it just made me cry, it made me laugh, it brought up so many real emotions and I think it’s really letting people into true emotion, which I don’t feel we get to see very much these days.”

In celebration of the release of “Used To Be Young”, Miley shared stories and insights from the many chapters of her life within the TV special event Endless Summer Vacation: Continued (Backyard Sessions). Reimagined from the version which originally aired on Disney+, the special features a brand-new interview as well as music from her latest release Endless Summer Vacation and aired on ABC just hours before the release of “Used To Be Young”. The new, reimagined special is now streaming on Hulu.

“Used To Be Young” is Miley’s first new music offering since the release of her critically and commercially acclaimed album Endless Summer Vacation which featured her hit single “Flowers” and twelve additional tracks. A true worldwide smash, “Flowers” spent 8 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100  – a personal best for Miley. “Flowers” was #1 on US Pop Radio for 10 weeks and is the fastest running song in nearly a decade to achieve the position. “Flowers” has streamed four billion times and was the fastest song in history to hit 500 million streams on Spotify. It’s officially the longest running UK #1 single by a female solo artist. 

Additionally, “Used To Be Young” arrives just before the 10th anniversary of Miley Cyrus’ 3x Platinum album Bangerz (September). A benchmark album, Bangerz was home to beloved original hits such as “Wrecking Ball,” “We Can’t Stop,” and “Adore You.” In celebration of the anniversary, there will be a limited-edition vinyl with updated packaging featuring never seen before photos and the bonus track “23” with Mike WiLL Made-It. Pre-order here.

Follow Miley Cyrus

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | MileyCyrus.com

Sponge Cola finds connection in uncertain times on ninth studio album, Hometown, Part 2

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Filipino alt-rock outfit Sponge Cola has officially dropped their ninth studio album, Hometown, Part 2 via Sony Music Entertainment.

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The anthemic pop-rock album includes focus track “So Close,” featuring 

award-winning pop singer Morissette

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Embracing the anthemic immediacy of their 2022 outing with newfound warmth and restraint, the four-piece band’s latest album proves to be a vital example of how music can be a therapeutic outlet for expression and healing. The new collection of songs also sees the band exploring themes of triumph over adversity, resilience, and unfulfilled relationships. It also serves as a continuation of the band’s full-length album, Hometown—released in December 2022.

As lead guitarist Armo Armovit describes it, Hometown, Part 2 is all about finding connection in uncertain times. “We explored new ways of expressing familiar feelings with renewed perspectives incorporating different production elements, arrangement choices, and improved approaches to performance.”

The title also speaks for itself, serving as a continuation of one’s story, much like coming home to rest after a long journey and staying an extra weekend to reset. The record’s songwriting, on the other hand, was inspired by the members’ collective and individual fascination with K-drama and documentaries, as well as first-hand experiences with real-life events.

Drawing a lot of inspiration from pop and electronic elements, the 19-track album is produced by constant collaborator Joey Santos of Love One Another Studios, who has worked with some of the biggest and most underrated Philippine acts, including Ang Bandang Shirley, syd hartha, Coeli, and more.

Armo explains, “Joey Santos did a great job crafting the treatment for songs and dressing them in colors and styles that best express the message. The process was very organic and natural.”

Hometown, Part 2 is accompanied by the release of its focus track, “So Close,” which features pop singer Morissette. The song was specifically penned by Yael Yuzon, and tackles the story of two people who have built a deep connection over time, but whose relationship never really progressed into something that could last a lifetime.

“It's a song that took me 20 years to write,” shares vocalist and guitarist Yael Yuzon. “Inspired by Dead Stars by Paz Marquez Benitez and The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera, So Close talks about the possibility of a mirage in our poetic memory, a ‘what if’ that may have been nothing more than a light radiating from a dead star. We might just be romanticizing things.”

Other songs in the album include previous releases “Labis-labis,” a soaring tune that puts a uniquely captivating but relatable spin on the ‘love song’ format; “Hometown,” a grungy pop track with electronic textures and a catchy chorus; and “Siguro nga,” a pop-rock ballad based on a character study of a popular K-drama character.

Track list:

1. Hometown

2.  Alamat (MLBB 5th Anniversary Theme)

3. Kung Ako ang Pumiling Tapusin Ito

4. Lumipas Ang Tag-araw

5. Laman Ng Panaginip

6. Labis-Labis

7. Siguro Nga

8. JAIRAH

9. Kung May Oras Ka

10. Signal #4

11. So Close (feat. Morissette)

12. Champions

13. In the End

14. Labis-Labis - Acoustic

15. Kung Ako ang Pumiling Tapusin Ito (Remix) (feat. Matthaios and Clien of ALLMO$T)

16. Kung Ako ang Pumiling Tapusin Ito - Acoustic

17. Siguro Nga – Acoustic (feat. Kai Honasan)

18. Siguro Nga (TMAC's lo-fi Mix)

19. Laman ng Panaginip – Acoustic

Sponge Cola’s Hometown, Part 2 is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

The pop-rock outfit will be officially performing the songs off their new record with an on-ground album launch in Eastwood City Central Plaza on August 12 from 6 pm onwards. Admission is free!

Filipino singer-songwriter Benj Pangilinan drops music video for “Love, That’s Rare”

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Filipino singer-songwriter Benj Pangilinan is the newest recording artist this year to be launched under Sony Music Entertainment—home to some of the biggest acts in the country, including P-Pop royalty SB19 and multi-awarded band Ben&Ben.

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The nostalgic MV was conceptualized by Benj himself and his sister, Hannah

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Serving charismatic flair with undeniable vocal chops, the promising star has shown immense promise with the release of “LOVE, THAT’S RARE.” The track serves as his official single under the international record label, and is co-produced by Grammy-nominated Xerxes Bakker (Imagine Dragons, Snoop Dogg).

The release of the electro-pop ballad is accompanied by a music video directed by Filipino filmmaker Gilb Baldoza, who has done important work for fellow recording artists such as Julie Anne San Jose and Rico Blanco. The main idea behind its visuals was conceived by Benj and his sister Hannah.

“We wanted to try our best to tell a story that made people see a different side of Love and all that it brings,” the alt-pop prodigy explains. “Working with Direk Gilb was super fun. His energy is infectious. I learned so much from him on the process of what it takes to create a short film.”

Despite coming from a lineage of well-respected entertainers, Benj Pangilinan wants to be known for bringing his personal stamp to his own art. Not worried about what other people think, the multi-hyphenate artist is keen on redirecting his focus on making music that represents his own vision.

I'm not trying to impress anyone,” he admits. “I guess I just try to focus on being as authentic as possible to shine His light on others.”

The music video of “LOVE, THAT’S RARE” is out on July 7, 2023 (Friday) at 7pm on YouTube via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch it here.

Filipino pop-rock outfit NOBITA hits home with soulful new track “Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan”

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Fresh off the success of viral hit “Unang Sayaw,” Filipino pop-rock outfit NOBITA continues to smash out of the gate with another song with commercial potential.

Their new single “Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan” plays on the band’s musical strengths, blending deeply personal lyrics with soulful, harmony-laden arrangements. Like their previous releases, NOBITA’s latest song hits home with vulnerability that people can relate to.

“Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan is a song for someone who continues to believe in love, no matter the struggles they may have experienced in the past,” the chart-topping band shares in a statement. “The main hook and most of the melodic lines just came out spontaneously during one of our rehearsals for an event. It felt like we just vomited it subconsciously.”

While it’s a love song to the core, “Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan” embraces a more intricate sonic direction, going as far as adding layers of choir-like elements, sparse keyboard textures, and bluesy chords to create something slightly out of the ordinary. Isagani Palabyab, their constant collaborator, co-produced the track and helped redefine its kundiman sensibilities with a modern flair.

NOBITA adds, “We take pride in making songs that the audience can feel what we feel and remember easily the melody and lyrics of the song when they first hear it. We’re grateful to Isagani for encapsulating this vision into something memorable and subtle, and still giving off that familiar sound of ours.”

The song will be included in the setlist for their upcoming 6-city tour in the US, which kicks off in Las Vegas, Nevada on August 11 and wraps up in Fairfax, Virginia on August 26. Tickets are available at www.ToggleSwitchPH.com.

For more information about the tour, check out the details below:

August 11: Las Vegas, NV (The Usual Place)

August 12: Los Angeles, CA (The Vermont Hollywood)

August 18: Seattle, WA (Substation Seattle)

August 19: San Francisco, CA (The Historic Bal Theater)

August 25: New York, NY (Sounds of Brazil)

August 26: Fairfax, VA (Jammin Java)

NOBITA’s “Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Ben&Ben drops envelope-pushing single “Could Be Something,” announces international tour

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After drawing more than 60 thousand fans for their homecoming concert last year and gaining accolades for their performance at Hong Kong’s Clockenflap Music & Arts Festival 2023, Filipino nine-piece collective Ben&Ben marks the introduction of a new era with the release of “Could Be Something” on June 30, Friday at midnight.

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The Filipino band is also set to debut the electronic-leaning

track live in their upcoming 5-city international tour

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Signaling a new chapter of musical growth and evolution, Ben&Ben’s first single of 2023 is a big step forward. This time, the multi-awarded band infuses their guitar-driven folk/pop-rock roots with city pop elements, tropicalia beats, and twinkling production touches, for a more electronic-leaning track. Together with co-producers timothy Run and Sam Marquez, they collectively brought a new dimension to Ben&Ben’s sound. “We wanted the instrumentation and production to capture a more mature kind of hope, so we used slightly darker chords, coupled with tight rhythms, to bring out a unique kind of catharsis for the listener, for our Liwanag,” Ben&Ben explains in a collective statement. “Together with our co-producers, we built the soundscapes to reflect a lush, yet tighter than ever sound for the band.”

According to the Pagtingin hitmakers, “Could Be Something” delves into the often-overlooked phase before taking a leap of faith. It candidly addresses moments of overthinking and overprocessing, providing a relatable narrative for all.

“Could Be Something is a song about turning doubt into belief,” Ben&Ben shares. “It’s the revival of hope after being caught in a very cynical place. It’s the feeling you get after meeting someone who unexplainably makes you believe in love again, or finding a new passion that sparks life in you.”

The nine-piece act reveals that, beyond being a love song, their new single doubles as an anthem for people grappling with doubt. “It offers a reminder to believe, surrender, and let go during challenging times,” the acclaimed Filipino group adds.

The band worked together with Ben&Ben Music Production, the management team behind the band’s entire operations, music production and marketing efforts, to embark on this new journey. Since the pandemic, the band has been self-managed by a tightly knit, yet efficient team of people that the band believes in, and trusts wholeheartedly.

International Tour

Ben&Ben plans to debut a live performance of “Could Be Something” in the coming months, as they headline their nationwide tour in key cities across the country. Additionally, for the first time ever, they will be taking the song to an international audience with an international tour that kicks off in London, followed by Los Angeles, Toronto, Sydney, and Dubai. This is in collaboration with ABS- CBN Global and 1MX Music Festival. More details will be revealed in the coming weeks via their social media accounts and official website.

Ben&Ben’s “Could Be Something” is the first song to be will be out on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment on June 30, 2023.

SB19 drops new single “GENTO!”

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Multi-awarded Filipino boy group SB19 drops their latest single “GENTO,” giving fans a glimpse of what is to come for the group’s much awaited “PAGTATAG!” era. 

“GENTO” places SB19’s bold talent and confidence into the spotlight, highlighting their strength and versatility as a group. The song offers a catchy word play, effortlessly weaving ganito (like this), ginto (gold), and gento, the Caviteño word for ganito. It delivers a powerful message of their growth as a group, after years of refinement—just like gold.

For this single, SB19 draws inspiration from transformational change—how incremental and everyday acts lead to success and change. Often, it is the little, simplest acts that lead to triumphs. 

SB19 continues to set an example of hard work and perseverance as the group continues their path towards dominating the local, and global, music scene. Five years since their debut, SB19 continues to test—and break—limits with their unconventional sound and unbounded talent. 

Get ready for SB19 to take you on a journey. The new single sets the path for the group’s upcoming new EP release “PAGTATAG!” and offers the promise of new sounds and unexplored genres that will surely pique the interest of audiences.

This officially marks the start of the “PAGTATAG!” for SB19. Fans can expect groundbreaking sounds in the days to come—and an exhilarating ride as the group embarks on their second world tour. The award-winning group is set to kick-off their world tour at the Araneta Coliseum on June 24 and 25 and will have multiple stops in cities across the Philippines, United States, and Canada. Ticket selling will begin on May 21 at 12 noon through TicketNet outlets nationwide or through www.ticketnet.com.ph.

Are you ready for this? We hope you are. You’re in for a ride. 

“GENTO” is available now on all DSPs and streaming services via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

SB19 announces ‘PAGTATAG!’ music era and world tour

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The multi-awarded Filipino boyband releases the trailer for their upcoming new EP, starring themselves and acclaimed actor Pepe Herrera

SB19 gets in the zone for a new music era soon!

The P-Pop kings are gearing up for the release of their upcoming new EP, PAGTATAG on June 9, 2023 and its carrier single on May 2023. 

The announcement comes with a trailer mirroring the process of a plant in cultivation, starting on growing to be a strong tree.

The trailer revolves around the story of the Ikalawang Yugto trilogy, which alludes to the concept of their previously released EP, Pagsibol, and two more forthcoming releases, including this year’s highly anticipated PAGTATAG!. The 6-track EP is poised to be their most sonically adventurous release yet, exploring new genres and music styles that will surely excite fans. 

Xi-Anne Avanceña, and SB19’s Pablo and Justin serve as creative directors of the cinematic trailer, which is set in a post-apocalyptic world where all resources are scarce, leaving all humans hopeless as they try to save the last plant that will save the world. 

SB19 explains in a statement, “The trailer proceeds as everyone conducts different experiments to try and salvage their last hope. In the end, the only answer to the plant’s propagation is their own blood.”

Aside from getting their acting bag done with flying colors, SB19 also worked with acclaimed actor Pepe Herrera on the trailer for PAGTATAG!. The WYAT chart-toppers are all praise for the collaboration with the versatile film/theater actor.  

“Pepe Herrera is one of the actors that we truly admire,” shares the award-winning Filipino boyband. “Though we were not able to spend much time with him, he was very professional. But there’s something about him that, even when he’s serious, he’s still gave a funny vibe. It was very easy working with him. It was just a fun experience.”

Immediately after the trailer was released online, #SB19PAGTATAG trended at No. 1 WORLDWIDE on Twitter, while other tags such as The Kings and PPOP KINGS occupied Twitter’s trending list in various countries outside the Philippines. 

Apart from the trailer, SB19 also announced the schedule for their upcoming world tour, which will kick off at the Araneta Coliseum on June 24-25, 2023, and will have its stops in multiple cities across the Philippines, United States, Canada, and more. 

Tour dates:

• June 24-25, 2023 - Manila 

• July 21, 2023 - Chicago, IL

• July 22, 2023 - Dallas, TX

• July 28, 2023 - SFO

• July 29, 2023 - LA

• Aug 5, 2023 - NYC

• Aug 6, 2023 - Washington DC

• Aug 11, 2023 - Toronto

• Aug 13, 2023 - Winnipeg

• Aug 18, 2023 - Vancouver

• Aug 19, 2023 – Edmonton

More dates, countries, and cities will be announced soon.

For more information, check out SB19’s official social media pages:

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

SB19’s JOSH CULLEN redefines love song with edgy hip-hop twist in “Pakiusap Lang”

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The song comes with a music video that stars KAIA’s Angela and Charice as his love interests

After debuting as a bonafide solo star with the edgy banger “Wild Tonight,” SB19’s Josh Cullen continues his winning streak with the release of his follow-up single under Sony Music Entertainment.

Aptly titled “Pakiusap Lang,” the P-Pop artist proves that there are no four walls that can contain him when it comes to writing and producing a straightforward love song meshed with trap-laden beats and hip-hop verses.

“The lyrics came from my heart, and I wanted to make sure the arrangement and sonic vibe reflected my Filipino hip-hop side,” Cullen reveals. “My cousin and his friends helped out with the chorus, and we all had a good time putting it together.”

According to SB19’s resident lead rapper and sub-vocalist, “Pakiusap Lang” is a song that is based on his personal experiences and thoughts about relationships. He further explains, “It's all about the struggles of maintaining a relationship when you can't be with your partner all the time due to work or other struggles going on in life. The song encourages the listener to hold on and trust the process.”

A romantic rap ballad that forays into emotional honesty as much as it does with stylistic finesse, “Pakiusap Lang” shows a different side of Cullen: an entertainer that doesn’t need to resort to gimmicks just to prove his point.

The release of the track comes with an upcoming music video that explores the idea of “holding onto the memories of your loved one, even when you know it’s time to let go.” Directed by frequent collaborator Toothless (who also helmed the MV of SB19’s “Bazinga), the visuals bring Cullen’s ideas to life and expand on his initial concept with an element of mystery and an understated delivery.

It also stars KAIA members Angela and Charice, who happen to be the main characters in the MV. The two multi-talented artists also dabbled into acting prior to their debut as a P-Pop artist.

Cullen shares, “When I was planning out the music video for ‘Pakiusap Lang,’ I knew I wanted to create a story that was emotional and impactful. As I was brainstorming ideas, I thought about the possibility of incorporating plot twists into the video, to really capture the viewer's attention. That's when I had the idea to feature KAIA members Angela and Charice in the video. I had worked with them before and knew that they would bring a lot of talent and creativity to the project. Plus, their presence in the video would add an extra layer of intrigue and excitement for viewers. It was a pleasure to work with such talented and dedicated individuals, and I couldn't be happier with how the video turned out.”

“Pakiusap Lang” will be part of Josh Cullen’s upcoming debut EP, which will be released sometime this year. According to the rising multihyphenate, the maiden record sounds like a fusion between hip-hop and pop music, with his cousin Ocho helping him out in producing, conceptualizing, and refining the tracks. “You can expect a mix of different sounds and genre influences, but overall, it's a reflection of my journey as an artist and a person,” Cullen adds.

JOSH CULLEN’s “Pakiusap Lang” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The music video of “WILD TONIGHT” will drop at 7pm on April 21, 2023 (Friday).

The Itchyworms dedicate new song “Panic In My Mind” to Chino Singson

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The upbeat, ‘60s-inspired track can also be interpreted in many ways, according to lead vocalist and drummer Jazz Nicolas

The Itchyworms are back with an upbeat, retro-pop tune that deals with the dread of knowing that your loved one will be moving away to a different place for good.

Their new single “Panic In My Mind” was specifically written for their bandmate Chino Singson, who moved to Canada with his family to start a new life.

But according to Jazz Nicolas (lead vocals, drums, piano, keyboards, and keytar), who wrote the song based on a real-life event, the meaning behind “Panic In My Mind” can be taken in multiple ways. “The second half of the song shifts the narrative to a bitter person whose ex-partner in now with someone else, and is having a jealous existential crisis because of that.”

The Itchyworms' signature sound lives on in "Panic in My Mind," which blends intricate vocal harmonies and colorful melodies with ‘60s-style pop. A perfect accompaniment for its lyrics, which talk about pining over someone in a world where they are the anomaly, the arrangement turns up the excitement a few more notches with its nuanced musicality. It’s done with effortless grace and less of theatrics.

“We were going for a more organic sound with acoustic instruments as opposed to our previous album, Waiting For The End To Start, which had a lot of electronic elements,” Nicolas explains. “It also has a ‘60s vibe due to the jangly guitars and three-part harmonies.”

“Panic In My Mind” is produced by Jazz Nicolas and Mikey Amistoso. The latter is a long-time friend and collaborator, who is now officially part of the band.

“He co-produced the song with us, played various instruments, and sang harmonies,” Nicolas adds.

The Itchyworms are set to embark on their first US tour, dubbed “Akin Ka Na Lang, Amerika.”

The multi-city concert kicks off on March 24 in New York City, New York and will wrap up on April 7 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Here are the official dates and venues:

March 24 - New York (D'Haven),

March 25 - Fort Worth (Ridglea Theater)

March 26 - San Antonio (The Grand Event Center),

March 29 - Houston (Gerry's Grill),

March 31 - San Francisco (Bal Theater):

April 1 - Los Angeles (The Noypitz DTLA)

April 2 - San Diego (Lola Happy Bistro)

April 5 - Chicago (Michella Terrace)

April 7 - Las Vegas (Diversion Amusements)

For more information about the tour, visit the band’s official social media pages and revamped website: www.itchyworms.com

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The Itchyworms’ “Panic In My Mind” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

P-Pop star MONA recalls memories of being a fan on new single “Tagahanga"

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“Tagahanga” is produced by K-Pop/P-Pop producer OhWon Lee and written by MONA herself.

 

Filipino singer-songwriter MONA channels the inner thoughts of a fan girl on “Tagahanga,” her official second single under Sony Music Entertainment.

The song tells the story of a passionate fan who rallies around her idol, hoping to connect with them in a meaningful way and get noticed. It was also penned by MONA herself, who admitted that her experiences as a fan inspired the storytelling.

“To an extent, I’d say that these memories come from a place of love and adoration,” MONA shares. “I took the experience to heart when I decided to start a career in music, because at some point in my life, I know how it feels to be a fan.”

On “Tagahanga,” the promising songstress transforms her positive energy into a euphoric pop anthem. She delivers the material produced by K-Pop/P-Pop producer OhWon Lee with a balance of introspection and enthusiasm, singing as if she’s fully committed to the essence of the narrative.

“The producer prominently highlights the bass and guitar parts, creating a driving rhythm that encourages dancing and movement,” the Always Remember act adds. “This, in turn, sets the tone of the track, adding a layer of fun and excitement.”

MONA recently joined Sony Music Entertainment’s esteemed roster of P-Pop talents, which also includes KAIA, Fourth Impact and SB19 among its lineup. With more than 18 million followers on TikTok and a growing portfolio as an influencer, the breakthrough artist hopes to conquer the local music scene with her vocal abilities and solid pop instincts.

MONA’s new track “Tagahanga” serves as a follow-up to her debut single “Always Remember,” a song that values the importance of self-worth and preservation in facing one’s fears.

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

Barbie Almalbis celebrates 25th anniversary with the release of Tower Sessions Live album and a ‘reunion’ concert

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Filipino singer-songwriter Barbie Almalbis marks a monumental milestone in music with the official release of her Tower Sessions Live album under Sony Music Entertainment and a reunion concert featuring her iconic bands Hungry Young Poets and Barbie’s Cradle.

Both celebrations honor her 25^th anniversary in the local music scene as a woman who successfully navigated the realm of Pinoy rock with emotionally resonant songwriting and artistic independence.

Photo by Chealsy Dale

Presenting a new arrangement of her old and new songs, Barbie Almalbis’ Greatest Hits live album was produced by Eric and Carlo Perlas of Tower of Doom, recorded by Kyle Cayton, and mixed/mastered by Simon Durias. It will also feature career-defining hits such as “Firewoman,” “Torpe,” “Tabing Ilog,” “The Dance,” “Goodnight,” and “Just A Smile,” along with fairly new tracks: “Days Are Long,” “Silaw,” “Tigre,” and “Kumpas,” the album’s carrier single.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to record our songs live, because we’re always rearranging songs as a band, and I think there’s something special that gets captured when the we play live together,” Almalbis shares. “My producers and collaborators did such a great job of making you feel like you’re at the gig. You can feel the power of the kick drum and the bass, and then have guitars blasting in your ear — in a pleasant way, of course.”

Aside from the release of Tower Sessions Live on digital platforms, Barbie Almalbis is set to headline her 25^th Anniversary concert at 123 Block, Mandala Park on March 11 (Saturday), from 2pm onwards. Celebrating the impact of her music as a guide to many people’s journey in life, the show will reunite her with former bandmates in Hungry Young Poets and Barbie’s Cradle.

Aptly titled Firewoman:25 Years of Barbie Almalbis, the mini-music fest will also feature sets by some of the country’s finest acts, including Sandwich, Gab Alipe of Urbandub, Clara Benin, I Belong To The Zoo, Kai del Rio, and Bird.

Reflecting on her career as an artist, Almalbis expressed gratitude to her fans who have been supportive of her endeavors through the years. “I didn’t have so many plans growing up, but always just dreamt of playing music. I’m so grateful that I get to do this and share the experience with others too. I’m always touched by the support of my fans and friends, and really humbled and encouraged by their words and stories about how these songs have also become part of their journey.”

Barbie Almalbis’ Tower Sessions Live is now available on all digital platforms worldwide under Sony Music Entertainment.

Tickets to her upcoming concert, Firewoman:25 Years of Barbie Almalbis are available for purchase via TicketMelon. The event is presented by GNN Entertainment Productions, in partnership with Sony Music Entertainment, Backspacer Records, JB Music, Nova Wellness Store, D&D,  Smirnoff Mule, and 123 Block.

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