Singapore's Indie Pop Darling Shye Explores Transient Emotions in Atmospheric New Single "Smoke" Ahead of Long Awaited Album 'The Doves Came Home'

April 14, 2026

AHEAD OF LONG AWAITED ALBUM
'THE DOVES CAME HOME' OUT MAY 8TH

April 14th, 2026 — Singapore's indie pop sensation, singer-songwriter and producer Shye returns with her latest single, "Smoke", lifted off her forthcoming album 'The Doves Came Home', set for release May 8th. Fans can stream the song HERE.

An atmospheric indie rock number, "Smoke" unfolds through hazy guitars, soft, drifting vocals, and slow-burning textures that blur and dissolve into one another, mirroring a cloud in motion: weightless, transient, and impossible to hold. At its core, "Smoke" explores emotional detachment—the feeling of being physically present, yet internally distant. Moving through rooms and conversations without leaving anything behind, it captures the quiet disconnection of existing in plain sight, yet feeling invisible where it matters most.

Shye – "Smoke" (Official Video)

The track was sparked by a visual rather than a sound. While revisiting the film 'Twin Peaks', Shye was drawn to the image of smoke drifting through spaces—never settling, always in motion. That sense of unreality, of being present yet slightly out of reach, became the emotional and sonic foundation of the song. "I wanted the music production to mirror that same sense of movement and instability—leaning into atmosphere, layering guitars and synths, making sure everything melted into one another, so much so that you couldn't tell the instruments apart." Shye explains.

Vocally, Shye leans into subtlety and immersion, treating her voice as part of the sonic landscape rather than a focal point. The result is a vocal presence that drifts in and out of clarity, mirroring a fragmented, introspective state of mind. The refrain, "I move like smoke", becomes both a description and a realisation, reflecting a surreal state where even one's own thoughts and emotions dissolve into something ungraspable.

"It's a feeling that can be hard to put into words but I think a lot of us experience it at some point. It's a subtle disconnection from ourselves that sometimes engulfs us completely... Being present but not feeling like you make a difference in the big scheme of things so you slip in and out of moments, conversations or even relationships."

— Shye

Due out on May 8th, Shye's forthcoming album, 'The Doves Came Home', is a deeply personal and emotive collection—a record that is at once haunting and healing.

Stream "Smoke" here
Watch the official video here

About Shye

Shye is an independent singer-songwriter and producer known for her dreamy blend of indie-pop and alt-rock. Entirely self-taught, she writes, records, produces, mixes, and masters all her music, crafting an unmistakably DIY sound that's both intimate and expansive.

Shye first emerged onto the scene at just 16, becoming the youngest-ever winner of the Vans Musicians Wanted competition in 2018. Since then, she's released a steady stream of work, including her debut EP 'Augus7ine' (2018), followed by the genre-blurring 14-track debut album 'days to morning glory' (2020), which won 'Album of the Year' at the Youth Music Awards in Singapore in 2021. Next came the experimental EP 'hello TRINITY' (2021), 'idk it’s complicated' (2022), and '9LIVES' (2023). In 2024 and 2025, Shye maintained her momentum with a series of new singles paving the way for a new album in 2026.

Shye has performed at music festivals such as Tiger Den SXSW in Austin Texas (2023), Axean Festival in Singapore (2023), Asia Rolling Music Festival in Taiwan (2022), Urbanscapes in Malaysia (2019), Baybeats in Singapore (2023, 2019), Asiya Festival in the Philippines (2024), and virtually for Music Lane Okinawa (2021) and Bangkok Music City (2020). In 2024, Shye performed at the swearing-in ceremony of Singapore's new Prime Minister and concluded the year with a performance at The Alex Blake Charlie Sessions alongside international acts such as Wisp. Continuing to expand her regional footprint in 2025, she performed at Taiwan's Emerge Fest, headlined her first solo show in Bangkok, made her Indonesia debut at AXEAN Festival Bali, and appeared at Music Matters Live Singapore, World Expo Osaka, Creatorweek Macao, as well as VGIG: The Sonic Garden Concert, ending 2025 at the Sing60 Festival in Singapore. Shye kicked off 2026 with festival performances at Bangkok Music City and PRESSPLAY 2026 in Singapore and is set to perform next at All Of The Noise 2026 in Manila.

Her presence has since extended far beyond Singapore: from gracing a Times Square billboard for Spotify's EQUAL campaign to being named Freshmusic's 'Best New Artist' in 2021 to 'Best New Act from Asia' at the 2022 BandLab NME Awards and receiving the KKBOX 'Rising Star Award' the same year. Shye has also been featured on Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 (2023), Tatler Asia's Gen. T Leaders of Tomorrow (2024), Prestige 40 under 40 and Dazed 100 Global and Asia (2024), and Top 10 in Asia: Southeast Asia's Best Emerging Female Singers (2025).

Shye has supported international acts such as Daniel Caesar, Clairo, Superorganism, Sales, Men I Trust, The Chairs, and most recently, Wisp, during their tours in Singapore. In addition, she has represented Singapore in regional music reality TV shows such as 青年派计划 (Youth π Plan) in China and Chuang Asia in Thailand. Shye was also featured in the 2021 National Day theme song, "The Road Ahead" and took the stage at Singapore's SG60 National Day Parade in 2025. Up next, Shye is set to appear as a special guest for The Jesus and Mary Chain in Singapore, and will join Softcult as the Asia support act on their upcoming tour.

Beyond music, Shye was invited by Chanel to attend her first overseas fashion show, the Chanel Cruise Replica Show in Hong Kong in 2024, an event attended by celebrated musicians such as G-DRAGON and Angèle. She also broke ground as the first Singaporean invited to Chanel's Paris Fashion Week show in 2025 as a celebrity guest. Most recently, she attended the milestone Chanel Cruise Replica show at Raffles Hotel, sitting front row alongside celebrity A-listers including Tilda Swindon, Rebecca Armstrong and Raye, who also performed. Shye has graced the covers of magazines such as FEMALE, Men's Folio, Prestige, Her World, Grazia, Aplus and ELLE Singapore, and most recently appears in the March 2026 issue of Harper's Bazaar Singapore. Over the years, she has also worked with numerous brands, further cementing her influence as a creative force across music, fashion and culture.

Whether onstage or in her bedroom studio, Shye is guided by her love for storytelling and emotional connection. Writing music that feeds the soul and warms the heart, her songs aim to always comfort, sometimes cautions but always convey what words can't. For anyone who needs a place to land, breathe, and feel, Shye invites listeners into her world, one self-made track at a time.

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TECNO CAMON 50 Series Opens Its First E-commerce Selling Window in the Philippines with TikTok Shop and Shopee Exclusives

April 14, 2026

Following the massive success of its offline pre‑order, TECNO launches the CAMON 50 Series on the country’s top e‑commerce platforms. From April 10 to 16, Filipino shoppers can grab exclusive CAMON 50 Ultra 5G variants, creator-focused freebies, and wearable bundle savings across TikTok Shop and Shopee at irresistible flash sale prices.

April 12, MANILA, Philippines — TECNO is officially opening the first e-commerce selling window for the new CAMON 50 Series in the Philippines, giving Filipino consumers an early chance to get the brand’s latest AI imaging smartphones through exclusive offers on TikTok Shop and Shopee from April 10 to April 16.

The online selling period spotlights the CAMON 50 Series as a new-generation imaging and AI smartphone line designed for users who want stronger content creation, more expressive mobile photography, and a smarter everyday device that feels like a worthy lifestyle and side-hustle upgrade.

PlatformExclusive Offers

During the campaign period, TikTok Shop will exclusively offer the TECNO CAMON 50 Ultra 5G 8GB + 256GB variant at a promo price of PHP 15,999. TikTok Shop will also carry the CAMON 50 8GB + 256GB at PHP 10,999 and the CAMON 50 Ultra 5G 12GB + 512GB at PHP 21,999.

Shopee, meanwhile, will exclusively offer the TECNO CAMON 50 Ultra 5G 12GB + 256GB variant at a promo price of PHP 17,999. Shoppers can also purchase the CAMON 50 Ultra 5G 12GB + 512GB and CAMON 50 8GB + 256GB on Shopee.

Across both platforms, buyers will also receive a strong package of launch inclusions designed to make the purchase feel even more rewarding. These include a CAMON 50 Series Exclusive Gift Box - an air conduction headphone and a charging lanyard cable, and a CAMON Creator Gift Set, together with 60 Days Free Replacement and 2-Year Warranty, 3 Years of 50GB Free Cloud Storage, and a 1-Year MovieBox Premium Membership.

Stack More Savings with Wearable Bundles

TECNO is also extending bundle savings for users who want to build a more complete smart lifestyle setup around the CAMON 50 Series. During the campaign, buyers can save PHP 1,000 on the Watch NEO (SRP PHP3,499), save PHP 1,000 on the FreeHear 2 (SRP PHP2,999).

Why the CAMON 50 Series?

Designed for content creators and mobile photography lovers, the CAMON 50 Series combines flagship Sony sensors with a dedicated AI computing architecture. Key breakthroughs include:

• Super-Zoom FlashSnap – AIpowered zeroshutter lag for highspeed action

• AI Auto Zoom – Intelligently frames portraits like a pro director

• 100x Zoom Telephoto – Capture stunning detail from impossibly far away

• IP69K|IP69|IP68 Water and Dust Resistance – Built to withstand dust, high pressure water, and the toughest environments

How to buy:
Visit TECNO Official Store on Shopee or TECNO Official TikTok Shop from April 10–16. Add your preferred CAMON 50 model, apply the flash sale price (automatically reflected), and check out. Freebies are automatically included with every unit.

-end-

About TECNO

As a global innovative technology brand with operations in over 70 markets, TECNO has been committed to revolutionizing the digital experience in global emerging markets, relentlessly pushing for the perfect integration of contemporary, aesthetic design with the latest technologies and AI. TECNO offers a wide range of smartphones, smart wearables, laptops and tablets, smart gaming, HiOS operating systems and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing”, TECNO is committed to unlocking the newest technologies and AI-powered new experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and their best futures. For more information, please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.

Source: TECNO Mobile

EVANESCENCE DROPS NEW SINGLE “WHO WILL YOU FOLLOW”

April 14, 2026

LISTEN HERE

ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUMSANCTUARY OUT JUNE 5TH

PRE-SAVE HERE

2026 WORLD TOUR KICKS OFF JUNE 11

TICKETS HERE

Download album art HERE

(Los Angeles – April 10, 2026) – GRAMMY® Award-winning rock band Evanescence returns with their new song “Who Will You Follow” — listen here. This highly anticipated single was co-written and produced by Zakk Cervini (Bad Omens, YUNGBLD, Bring Me The Horizon, Spiritbox) and Jordan Fish (Bring Me The Horizon, Poppy, House of Protection, Architects). The track serves as a preview for their upcoming album Sanctuary, set for release June 5 — pre-order/save here. The album, which features tracks produced by Cervini/Fish alongside songs produced by Nick Raskulinecz (Korn, Foo Fighters, Rush) will be available June 5th as a Digital Album, Standard CD, Deluxe CD and limited-edition Box Set. A double vinyl of the album will be released on September 4th.

Amy Lee shares, “This album is over three years in the making, and finally listening back to it all at once, about to release it to the world, I am so damn proud of every second of it. It’s overwhelming. Working on it has been my outlet for so much that feels wrong and out of control, and a place to ignite hope through the power of music and connection… good thing we have the tour all lined up or I wouldn’t know what to do with myself now! I’ve been completely obsessed. I’m dying for the fans to hear this.”

Recently, the band announced their 2026 World Tour, kicking off on June 11, journeying across North America, UK and Europe — tickets here. Special guest Spiritbox and Nova Twins will open on the North American portion of the tour, and special guest Poppy will support on the UK & Europe shows with Nova Twins opening outside the UK. K.Flay, who features on Evanescence’s latest single, “Fight Like A Girl,” will open the UK shows. K.Flay will also support Evanescence for their Red Rocks Amphitheatre concert.

Evanescence has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1/£1/€1 from every ticket sold will support organizations providing humanitarian aid and medical relief to those in need around the world.

The band’s most recent tracks “Fight Like A Girl (feat. K.Flay)” and “Afterlife” have been met with instant praise from fans & critics alike, stating “It’s an exciting time to be a fan of Amy Lee and co.” - LOUDER, and “Evanescence’s first song in four years finds the band hitting what they hit best” - REVOLVER Magazine. “Afterlife” dominated the charts upon release reaching the No. 1 spot on both Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart and Mediabase’s Active Rock Radio chart in both the U.S. and Canada.

The band is no stranger to success, with their 2003 record Fallen holding steady as the sixth best-selling album of the 21st century (ranking just behind Lady Gaga’s The Fame and ahead of Coldplay’s A Rush of Blood to the Head) remaining one of the best-selling albums of all time, with more than 17 million copies sold worldwide. The album’s stratospheric singles, including “Bring Me to Life,” broke the Top 10 in more than 15 countries and topped Billboard’s Mainstream Top 40 and Alternative Airplay charts. “My Immortal” was a Top 10 hit in over ten countries, including the US, UK, and Australia.

Sanctuary Track List:

Beautiful Lie
Tell Me When You’ve Had Enough
Who Will You Follow
Rapture
Afterlife
Sanctuary
How Do I Heal
About Us
Calm Down
Self Destruct
Forever Without You
Wide Open Heart

Evanescence 2026 World Tour Dates:

6/11/26 West Palm Beach, FL iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre

6/12/26 Tampa, FL MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

6/14/26 Alpharetta, GA Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

6/15/26 Nashville, TN Bridgestone Arena

6/17/26 Raleigh, NC Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek

6/18/26 Charlotte, NC PNC Music Pavilion

6/20/26 Camden, NJ Freedom Mortgage Pavilion

6/21/26 Mansfield, MA Xfinity Center

6/23/26 Saratoga Springs, NY Saratoga Performing Arts Center

6/24/26 Wantagh, NY Northwell at Jones Beach Theater

6/26/26 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center

6/27/26 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Live

6/29/26 Toronto, ON RBC Amphitheatre

6/30/26 Montréal, QC Centre Bell

7/8/26 Tinley Park, IL Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre

7/9/26 Noblesville, IN Ruoff Music Center

7/11/26 North Little Rock, AR Simmons Bank Arena

7/12/26 Kansas City, MO MORTON Amphitheater

7/14/26 Albuquerque, NM Isleta Amphitheater

7/15/26 Phoenix, AZ Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre

7/17/26 Chula Vista, CA North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre

7/18/26 Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum

7/20/26 Mountain View, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre

7/22/26 Ridgefield, WA Cascades Amphitheater

7/23/26 Auburn, WA White River Amphitheatre

7/25/26 Salt Lake City, UT Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre

7/28/26 St. Louis, MO Hollywood Casino Amphitheater

7/30/26 Cuyahoga Falls, OH Blossom Music Center

8/1/26 Cincinnati, OH Riverbend Music Center

8/2/26 Clarkston, MI Pine Knob Music Theatre

9/8/26 Leeds, UK First Direct Arena

9/10/26 Manchester, UK Co-op Live

9/11/26 Birmingham, UK Utilita Arena Birmingham

9/13/26 London, UK The O2

*9/16/26 Brussels, BE Forest National

9/17/26 Paris, FR Accor Arena (SOLD OUT)

*9/19/26 Frankfurt, DE Congress Center Messe Frankfurt - Festhalle Frankfurt

*9/20/26 Dortmund, DE Westfalenhallen Dortmund

*9/22/26 Amsterdam, NL Ziggo Dome

*9/23/26 Hamburg, DE Barclays Arena

*9/25/26 Berlin, DE Velodrom

*9/26/26 Munich, DE Olympiahalle

*9/28/26 Bologna, IT Unipol Arena

*9/29/26 Zurich, CH Hallenstadion Zurich

*10/1/26 Barcelona, ES Palau Olimpic Badalona

*10/2/26 Madrid, ES Palacio Vistalegre

*10/4/26 Lisbon, PT MEO Arena

10/26/26 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Photo credit: Chapman Baehler

ABOUT EVANESCENCE:

Emerging in 2003, Evanescence reshaped the rock landscape with their debut album Fallen, a cinematic blend of rock, metal and symphonic, piano-driven melodies led by powerhouse vocalist Amy Lee. The album became a global phenomenon, earning multiple GRAMMY® Awards and selling over 17 million copies worldwide, with hits like “Bring Me to Life” and “My Immortal” defining a generation. Fallenremains one of the best-selling albums of all time and has earned Diamond certification from the RIAA. Over the past two decades, the band has continued to evolve while maintaining their signature sound, releasing five studio albums including the chart-topping The Open Door andEvanescence. Their 2021 release The Bitter Truth marked a triumphant return, while their global touring has reached new heights, including their largest headline show to date at Allianz Parque Stadium in São Paulo, Brazil.

Now entering a bold new era, Evanescence continues to push boundaries. 2025 was a landmark year for Amy Lee and Evanescence. The release of last year’s global phenomenon “Afterlife,” from the Netflix series Devil May Cry, became the fastest-rising track of their career and the band’s biggest single since their first album, amassing over 150 million streams globally and reaching #1 on the US Rock Radio Chart, a first at the format for Evanescence. Followed by the release of “End of You,” a collaboration between Evanescence’s Amy Lee, Poppy and Spiritbox’s Courtney LaPlante, the song was named Revolver’s Song of the Year. Also reaching #1 at US Rock Radio, “End Of You" made history in the US by becoming the first all-female collaboration to do so. Their highly anticipated single, “Who Will You Follow,” was co-written and produced by Zakk Cervini and Jordan Fish, and will appear on the forthcoming album Sanctuary, further signaling an exciting new chapter for the band as they continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Source: Sony Music

Breakout Modern Soul Outfit Thee Sacred Souls Share "Any Old Fool", A Groove-Driven Ode To Love Ahead Of Headline Tour Stops in Southeast Asia

April 10, 2026

LISTEN HERE

AHEAD OF HEADLINE TOUR STOPS
IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Photo Credit: Gabriel Roth

April 10th, 2026 — Philippines — Breakout modern soul outfit Thee Sacred Souls return with "Any Old Fool", a previously unreleased track from the recording sessions of their acclaimed 2024 album, 'Got a Story to Tell'. A dancefloor-ready declaration of love, the single is available to stream now HERE.

Originally recorded during the 'Got a Story to Tell' sessions, "Any Old Fool" showcases the band's signature blend of timeless soul and contemporary groove. Funk-driven guitars, a raw bassline, and hard-hitting drums lay the foundation for frontman Josh Lane's smooth, effortless vocal delivery, bringing both swagger and sincerity to the track.

Released in October 2024, 'Got a Story to Tell' was written by Alejandro Garcia, Salvador Samano, and Josh Lane—the band's founding members and true stewards of sweet soul—and recorded at Penrose Recorders with producer Gabriel Roth at the helm. Featuring 12 original tracks, the album further cemented the group's status as modern torchbearers of the genre. Drawing inspiration from Brazilian legend Arthur Verocai, the Delfonics, Jamaican rocksteady, and Motown siren Mary Wells, the record reflects the group's journey through relentless touring, newfound visibility, and the trials that come with rapid success.

The band are set to make their Asia debut next month as part of their 'Live For You' 2026 tour, with stops including Singapore's The Capitol Theatre on May 26th and Jakarta's Java Jazz Festival on May 29th, alongside additional dates across Japan, South Korea, and China. The run precedes their expansive US amphitheatre outing, 'The Constellation Tour'. Tickets are available HERE.

Known for their modern take on 1960s soul—defined by lush harmonies, raw emotion, and groove-forward R&B—Thee Sacred Souls have quickly become one of the genre's most exciting acts. The band currently boasts over 8.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify, with viral standouts "Can I Call You Rose?" (352M+ streams) and "Will I See You Again?" (291M+ streams) gaining widespread traction on TikTok and generating over 500K user-created videos globally. Their rise has earned them high-profile fans including Beyoncé—who gave the group a co-sign in her GQ cover story—as well as SZA, Kylie Jenner, Alicia Keys, Swizz Beatz, Leon Bridges, and more. The group have also made waves on the global festival circuit, with appearances at Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Glastonbury, and joined Kali Uchis on her 'Sincerely,' tour last year. Their rising profile is further marked by appearances on the outdoor stage of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, a COLORS session, NPR's Tiny Desk, CBS Saturday, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

With "Any Old Fool", Thee Sacred Souls continue their global rise, offering fans a glimpse into the depth and warmth of their ever-expanding sound.

Stream "Any Old Fool" here
Tickets for 'The Constellation Tour' available here

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FOLLOW THEE SACRED SOULS

Source: Nyou

Our Shame and HengJones bring Taiwanese waves in Manila for All Of The Noise 2026

April 10, 2026

From folktronica to indigenous hip-hop, Our Shame and HengJones co-headline the regional music showcase and conference festival alongside artists from Singapore, Indonesia, New Zealand, and the Philippines

Metro Manila, Philippines — Taiwanese new wave hits the Philippines this month as alternative pop duo Our Shame and acclaimed hip-hop artist HengJones co-headline All Of The Noise 2026, a three-day, multi-venue and culture festival set across Astbury Makati (April 17 and 19), Sari-Sari Makati(April 17 and 19), and 123 Block in Mandaluyong City (April 18).

As two of the most promising emerging voices in the Taiwanese independent music scene, both acts will be joining an eclectic roster of lineup from the Asia Pacific region, including Indonesia’s Grrrl Gang, Arash Buana, and Gavendri; New Zealand’s Phoebe Rings, Singapore’s Shye, and our very own BP Valenzuela, DJ Love, Elijah Canlas, Fitterkarma, Ourselves the Elves, SOS, and more.

Making their official debut in Manila, Our Shame and HengJones bring distinct sonic identities honed by culture, experimentation, and storytelling. Our Shame will perform at the intimate Sari-Sari stage on April 17, while HengJones takes over the outdoor stage at 123 Block on April 18.

Our Shame arrives on the heels of their critically acclaimed Hidden Album, a concept-driven project that explores themes of intimacy and discovery through a layered folktronica lens. Combining acoustic instrumentation with field recordings and electronic textures that extend from trip-hop to UK garage influences, the indie duo makes compelling pop tunes that are sonically understated but whose songwriting feels personal and immersive. The Taiwanese pairing is currently developing extended works from the album, including prospective international collaborations with plans for a tour in Japan in late 2026 or early 2027.

HengJones, on the other hand, continues to gather incredible recognition for his debut album, fangcalay a tamedaw—a deeply introspective body of work rooted in Indigenous Pangcah (Amis) identity. Built on themes of matriarchal narratives and language preservation, the project reflects an important intersection of heritage and contemporary hip-hop culture. Following a well-lauded performance in Shibuya, Japan, HengJones is currently working on a new material featuring a Japanese producer, alongside major appearances and an upcoming nationwide tour in his home country, Taiwan.

Beyond live performances, All Of The Noise 2026 expands its cultural footprint through its Cut Through The Noise conference, tackling key issues shaping the regional music ecosystem, and Echoes of the Noise, a curated program of music documentaries exploring the intersections of sound, identity, and social movements.

With its multi-platform programming and cross-border collaborations, All Of The Noise 2026 continues its commitment to positioning the Philippines’ growing role as a vital hub in Asia’s burgeoning independent music landscape.

Tickets are available via https://allofthenoise2026.helixpay.ph

Source: Nyou

Mark Carpio writes the ending he never expected in new EP, Huling Pag-ibig

April 10, 2026

Listen to the focus track “Paalam Na,” a powerful meditation on closure and healing

OPM hitmaker Mark Carpio drops his highly anticipated new EP, Huling Pag-ibig—released under EMPIRE.PH Music andONErpm. Marking a milestone in his 10-year career, the 4-track EP weaves themes of love, loss, and emotional closure into one cohesive sonic package. Both introspective and freeing, the project also serves as an ending to a well-loved music era—one that positioned Carpio as both a prominent balladeer of his generation and a gifted songwriter known for his poignant yet earnest storytelling.

With nearly 400 million streams on Spotify and a catalog of hits, Carpio continues to build on his strength as a reliable pop artist. His latest offering reinforces this reputation, presenting an introspective collection of songs that connects his music roots with present-day narratives.

[MORE PRESS PHOTOS]

Conceptually, Huling Pag-ibig is a continuation of Carpio’s earlier works: the optimistic yearning of “Hiling” and the romantic realization of “Kay Tagal.” This time, Carpio shifts the narrative and confronts the possibility that long-awaited love may not unfold as hoped. The result is a cohesive exploration of love’s evolution: from persistence to loss, heartbreak to acceptance. The intentional structure enables listeners to experience Huling Pag-ibig not merely as a collection of tunes but as a continuous emotional journey.

“This EP is the twist of that story,” explains the entertainment multi-hyphenate. “It asks, what if, after all that waiting, things didn’t turn out the way I hoped? Huling Pag-ibig is about that journey—fighting for love until your very last drop of hope and learning to let go when there’s nothing left.”

The EP’s emotional depth is matched by its meticulous songwriting, which has evolved over the course of ten years. Many of the songs started as unfinished ideas during the early stages of Mark Carpio’s career, only reaching its full potential later through personal reflection, lived experience, and shared stories of his fans. Through platforms like TikTok and his “Kape Tayo” series, the chart-topping solo artist helped empower his listeners to participate in the creative process, ultimately contributing to an EP that uniquely functions as a shared emotional experience.

All the tracks in the EP showcase a distinct style that adds up to the record’s emotionally rich sound. The title track, produced by RJ Pineda, draws inspiration from Adele’s sweeping ballads but is reimagined through a distinctly Filipino lens. “Ayaw Mo Na,” co-written with Ethan Loukas, taps into a more organic folk direction—thanks to its storytelling-driven lyrics and heart-tugging warmth. “Paano Ba Mag-isa” sounds like a return to form, offering a stripped-down, melodic approach that is steeped in classic ballad traditions.

Serving as the EP’s masterpiece is the focus track “Paalam Na,” produced by Line In Productions’ Nikhil Amarnani. A clear departure from his mellow, piano-backed ballads, the tune leans toward alternative pop/rock sensibilities. As the final chapter of the EP, “Paalam Na” reveals itself as a powerful meditation on closure: accepting that some things are meant to end, even as healing is still underway.

Carpio shares, “It’s also the song that took me the longest to write. I started writing it right after Hiling and Kay Tagal, but it took me almost 10 years to fully understand what it was about.”

According to Carpio, the finishing touches on the song came after a recent interaction with a close friend. “It was only when a friend of mine came to my studio after a breakup. He didn’t say much—he was just sitting there, trying to hide his sadness after ending a long-term relationship. That moment stayed with me. It gave me the clarity I needed to finally finish the song. In the EP, it represents closure—accepting that she has already moved on, even if you’re still in the process of letting go.”

Coinciding with Carpio’s decade-long anniversary as a recording artist, the new EP represents a moment of creative transition. Shedding off his “hugot” king persona, Carpio hints that the current record may signal the end of his ballad-driven era while opening doors to new creative reinventions for future music releases.

“This could be the closing chapter of that side of me,” Mark Carpio reveals. “What comes next is something I’m really excited about—but I’ll reveal that after this EP.”

Mark Carpio’s “Huling Pag-ibig” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

Source: Nyou

Rising indie pop youngblood neytan invites listeners to experience love in new single, “Ano Lasa ng Pag-ibig? Edi Tipaklong”

April 10, 2026

Photo by Mayks Go.

[LINK TO PHOTOS]

MANILA, PHILIPPINES—Laguna-born and Quezon City-based solo artist neytan has proved once again that love is a complex feeling and that romantic ballads aren't dead with his new single, “Ano Lasa ng Pag-ibig? Edi Tipaklong”—out now via Offshore Music.

Marking his first release for the year, “Ano Lasa ng Pag-ibig? Edi Tipaklong” arrives on the heels of neytan’s groove-laden track, “Out of Tempo Out of Time,” released in October 2025 and has since gained traction among his growing fanbase. With this release, neytan now takes a more sentimental turn that evokes the familiar feeling of long bus rides home.

“There is always a specific type of love songs displayed [on bus rides] from artists like Air Supply, Stephen Bishop and Jaya,” neytan (Nathan Del Mundo) shares, citing his influences for the newly released track. Serving as both the main writer and producer, he first conceived the track during a restless night, leaving it unfinished for a few months before revisiting it with fellow musicians, Reese Medestomas (keys) and JP Napiza (strings).

Official Artwork for Ano Lasa ng Pag-ibig? Edi Tipaklong

Embracing humor, romance, and sincerity in his distinct brand of songwriting, neytan continues to redefine the love song format with intent and care. As the young bedroom musician sums it up, “I just wanted to write another love song with nonsense lyrics that has that feeling of love that you can’t really deny the genuineness of it.”

neytan’s “Ano Lasa ng Pag-ibig? Edi Tipaklong” is out now and is available for streaming on all digital music platforms worldwide. Catch him live on April 18 at Hot Cat Cafe, Baguio for Sigaw ng Kuwago’s Usay Buhay.

About neytan

neytan’s goofy and scatterbrained exterior can be amusing, yet fascinating at the same time as he incorporates it into his music. His pop sound is highly influenced by the 60s to the 80s only if a nerdy Paul Dano created it with the confidence of Alex Turner wearing tight leather pants and the easygoing vibe of the famous cartoon cat, Garfield. However lax his tunes are, they still seem to radiate with a great variety of people, ranging from those who would listen to that mellow, nonchalant, sound to those who primarily listen to hypnagogic pop and post-punk. This emanates from his belief that the simplest forms of entertainment could have the biggest impact on people’s lives–similar to how cartoons and daily internet memes are. Taking this in mind, neytan aims to further maximize and explore the impact of simplicity as he thrives in today's music scene.

neytan’s Socials:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2SiPvwfKYm1TANEo8F0zyT?si=eZiAdr1eTVCHTwTVSreE6g

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17AehdYRNc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coco_manoloto?igsh=cWVmN3Y1MWtwZGUz

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@neytanmusicstuff?_r=1&_t=ZS-95MI2q6msM9

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@neytanmusicph?si=7-ttNWwFZ-OO0BGQ

Source: Nyou

Ben&Ben reclaims chart dominance with viral smash “Lifetime (Reimagined)”

April 9, 2026

The song has reached No. 4 on Spotify Philippines Daily Top Songs Chart, and is expected to hit a new peak in the coming days

Award-winning Filipino folk-pop band Ben&Ben has surged back to the summit of the streaming charts with “Lifetime (Reimagined)”—released under Sony Music Entertainment.

The new version of the hit ballad has reached a peak of No. 4 on Spotify Philippines Daily Top Songs Chart, while making a dent internationally with a No. 3 debut on the Spotify Top Songs Debut – Global.

Released on March 31, 2026, the updated version of “Lifetime” has found renewed success across digital platforms, buoyed by its virality on TikTok. The new version resonates with the general public through the recent wave of social media trends hinging on the new verse: “how do you grieve for a love that doesn’t even exist?” It has since then sparked interest, particularly the videos featuring an edit of characters from popular movies and TV shows, which have collectively amassed more than 100 million views.

[WATCH THE LYRIC VIDEO]

[STREAMING LINKS HERE]

With the song’s immediate climb to the top 5 of the Philippine streaming charts, Ben&Ben returns as the top OPM group on Spotify Philippines—their first time since December 23, 2024. In addition to its growing list of achievements, the track has also reached No. 1 on Genius Lyrics Charts.

“For this version of Lifetime, we felt that we could be there for someone in their pain, longing, and yearning through these new lyrics and melodies,” shares the nine-piece collective. “There’s a deep sense of gratefulness in our hearts for how people have received the song so far.We’re very humbled, and we promise to keep working hard in writing and performing music that connects deeply with Liwanag, our listeners.”

“Lifetime (Reimagined)” features a new arrangement with additional verses, an instrumental break, and a bridge, resulting in an extended duration of four minutes and thirty-seven seconds. The song was written by Miguel and Paolo Benjamin, with the latter serving as co-producer alongside Jean Paul Verona.

Ben&Ben’s “Lifetime (Reimagined)” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

The Strokes set new album Reality Awaits for June 26

April 8, 2026

“GOING SHOPPING” ARRIVES NOW

PLAYING COACHELLA

Reality Awaits album cover art — Untitled (Cowboy) 1989 courtesy of Richard Prince “Going Shopping” single artwork.

Reality Awaits, the seventh studio album from The Strokes, is set for release on June 26 via Cult Records/RCA Records. “Going Shopping” is out now—listen here.

Recorded in Costa Rica with producer Rick Rubin and finished around the globe, Reality Awaits marks the band’s first new music since 2020’s much-lauded The New Abnormal and extensive global touring in its wake.

The Strokes will play major festivals around the world this spring and summer including this weekend and next at Coachella, in addition to dates headlining Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, Japan’s Summer Sonic 2026 and more.

The Strokes are a band from New York City. Since their 2001 debut, their beloved discography has defined the sound of a generation.

Source: Nyou

Culture Wars Inks Deal With AWAL + Announces Highly Anticipated Debut Album Don’t Speak, Out April 10

April 8, 2026

Headline U.S. tour kicks off May 14th, including shows in San Francisco, Seattle, Phoenix, Nashville, & more

Photo by Eliot Lee

Austin-bred rock collective Culture Wars have officially arrived. Upon signing a fresh deal with AWAL, the alternative powerhouse will release their highly anticipated debut album, Don’t Speak, on April 10 — a defining moment for a band poised to lead the next generation of guitar-driven rock.

Culture Wars is the bridge between the raw grit of ‘90s guitar rock and the cinematic sheen of modern pop, reclaiming authentic instrumentation for the arena stage. With a million monthly listeners and a proven global headline draw, their debut album Don’t Speak marks the arrival of the next great rock icons.

Rooted in “song-first” authenticity, Culture Wars reject the hyper-digitized landscape of modern rock in favor of real instruments and undeniable collective chemistry. On Don’t Speak, the band delivers a high-octane, genre-blending statement that fuses surf-rock pulses, ‘80s synth textures, and towering guitar work into arena-ready anthems built to last. It’s a record that feels both nostalgic and forward-looking — equally indebted to the emotional urgency of ‘90s guitar grit and the widescreen ambition of contemporary pop.

The momentum surrounding Don’t Speak is undeniable. Nine tracks from the album have already amassed millions of streams, helping propel the band to over one million monthly listeners ahead of release. Breakout single “Typical Ways” has surpassed 13 million streams, while “It Hurts” cracked the Top 20 at U.S. Alternative Radio — solidifying Culture Wars as one of the format’s most exciting new forces.

Since their 2021 EP teche, Culture Wars have maintained an explosive upward trajectory as a fiercely independent, self-managed unit. Their relentless drive has earned them coveted opening slots for global heavyweights including Maroon 5 and LANY — momentum they’ve transformed into a formidable headline presence of their own. The band has already sold out iconic venues in New York City, Los Angeles, and London, proving their international draw well before the release of a full-length album.

2025 has marked a breakout year. In addition to their radio and streaming milestones, Culture Wars stepped onto arena stages alongside LANY, Wallows, and Keane, further cementing their reputation as a band built for scale. Now, with Don’t Speak, they channel that live intensity into their most cohesive and commanding work to date.

In support of the album, Culture Wars will embark on a headline U.S. tour kicking off May 14, bringing their electrifying live show to major markets including Seattle, San Francisco, Phoenix, Nashville, and more. Known for their cathartic performances and magnetic stage presence, the upcoming run signals the band’s transition from rising contenders to full-fledged headliners.

With Don’t Speak, Culture Wars aren’t just releasing a debut album — they’re making a statement. At a time when rock music often leans on digital gloss, the band is reclaiming authenticity, amplifying real instrumentation, and proving that guitar-driven music still belongs at the center of the arena stage.

For more information on Culture Wars, follow them at the links below.

Photo by Eliot Lee

Culture Wars Links

Track List

*Side One*

1. Don’t Speak

2. Bittersweet

3. Typical Ways

4. (Tokyo)

5. It Hurts

6. Heaven

*Side Two*

7. Wasting My Time

8. Miley

9. In The Morning

10. Slowly

11. cortisol, it’s not always what’s in your head

12. Lies

Produced and Mixed by Caleb Contreras

Engineered by Gerardo “Jerry” Ordonez

Mastered by Robin Schmidt

Headline US Tour Dates

5.14 Seattle, WA @ The Croc

5.15 San Francisco, CA @ Rickshaw Stop *SOLD OUT*

5.16 Phoenix, AZ @ Crescent Ballroom

5.21 Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West

5.22 Nashville, TN @ Exit/In

5.23 Dallas, TX @ Trees

5.30 Mexico City, MX @ Foro Puebla

5.31 Monterrey, MX @ Foro Tims

Purchase Tickets HERE.

For more information, please contact:

Mark Bonifacio- mark.bonifacio25@gmail.com

GRAMMY®-nominated OneRepublic Release New Soaring Anthem "Need Your Love"

April 6, 2026

LISTEN HERE

April 6th, 2026 — GRAMMY®-nominated band OneRepublic has returned with their brand-new single "Need Your Love". Out via BMG, the track is a soaring, arena-ready pop-rock anthem, showcasing the band's signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and powerful hooks, set to unite fans around the world. Fans can stream the new song HERE.

Produced by 3x GRAMMY® award winning writer and producer Ryan Tedder and co-written alongside James Essien, the track is an uplifting, emotionally charged anthem that highlights the importance of love over materialistic pursuits. The soaring melodies were first teased during select live performances in 2025, quickly becoming a highly anticipated release, with Tedder's unmistakable vocals driving the soaring, anthemic sound that has defined the band's global success.

OneRepublic – "Need Your Love" (Official Video)

Alongside the single comes a captivating music video that brings the song to life. Set against the industrial backdrop of a dimly lit warehouse, the visual captures the band in their element, performing with an authenticity that illuminates the track's message of love.

Last week, the band unveiled 'Dreaming Out Loud (Deluxe Edition)', their Gold-certified full-length debut album on vinyl for the first time ever. This special release not only revisits the album that launched them onto the global stage but also includes unreleased material, offering fresh insight into a defining era of the band's career. Further underscoring their global impact, the release coincided with 33 new RIAA Gold and Platinum certifications, marking a major expansion of accolades across their catalogue. Order or listen to the album HERE.

The band recently completed the first leg of their 'From Asia, With Love' tour, spanning Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Kobe, Singapore, and Taipei in February and March 2026. A proven touring force in the region, OneRepublic have built a consistent live presence over the years, having performed eight times in Singapore, five in Taiwan, four in Hong Kong, and three each in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand, alongside two shows in Indonesia.

With "Need Your Love", OneRepublic continue their unstoppable trajectory, further cementing their enduring legacy as a global pop-rock powerhouse.

Stream "Need Your Love" here
Watch the official music video here

About OneRepublic

GRAMMY®-nominated six-piece pop-rock band OneRepublic first burst onto the scene in 2007 with their debut album, 'Dreaming Out Loud'. Since then, the band has amassed over 10 billion streams on Spotify alone. Their first album included the 20 million-selling hit single "Apologize", which shattered digital sales and airplay records worldwide and earned them a GRAMMY® nomination.

Composed of 3x GRAMMY® award winning artist and lead vocalist Ryan Tedder, guitarists Zach Filkins and Drew Brown, keys player Brian Willett, bassist and cellist Brent Kutzle, and drummer Eddie Fisher, the band's momentum has only continued to grow. Their 2009 sophomore album, 'Waking Up', featured the smash singles "All the Right Moves", "Secrets" and "Good Life". Shortly after in 2013, the band released their certified-platinum album, 'Native', which included the No. 1 hit and 41 million-selling single "Counting Stars". OneRepublic released 'Oh My My', their fourth album in 2016 and their fifth album, 'Human', in 2021. In 2022, their smash hit "I Ain’t Worried" was featured in the blockbuster hit, Top Gun: Maverick and boasts over 3 billion streams. In April 2024, the group released their smash hit single "I Don't Wanna Wait" with David Guetta, which has amassed over 130 million streams globally since its release. They also shared "Nobody (from Kaiju No.8)", which serves as the end credit song for the hugely successful manga-turned-Anime series Kaiju. No 8, and later shared their second song from the series, "Invincible (from Kaiju No.8)". Following the release of these singles, OneRepublic debuted their sixth album, 'Artificial Paradise', featuring hits like "Hurt" and "Sink or Swim", and later the deluxe of the album, which included their collaboration with Jelly Roll and acoustic versions of their hit songs. The group also released "Chasing Paradise" with Kygo, "Tell Me" with Ikky and Karan Aujla, and teamed up with The Supermen Lovers to release a new version for the 25th anniversary of their beloved track "Starlight", titled "Starlight (The Fame)". A few months ago, the band released the single and video "Give Me Something", which serves as the official theme song for Arknights: Endfield, the highly anticipated video game that launched in January. The band will continue their international run with April headline stadium shows in China and Europe this Summer.

About BMG

Founded in 2008, BMG reimagined the relationship between music companies, songwriters, and artists by offering fairer contracts, greater creative freedom, and unparalleled transparency in royalties and licensing. Now the fourth-largest music company in the world, BMG combines human creativity with cutting-edge technology to connect music with global audiences. With 16 offices across 13 key markets, BMG represents more than three million songs and recordings, including some of the most iconic catalogs and works from leading artists and songwriters including The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, George Harrison, Lily Allen, OneRepublic and more. BMG is wholly owned and privately held by the international media, services, and education company Bertelsmann.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | BMG

FOLLOW OneRepublic

Indie Rock Sensations Good Kid Drop Highly Anticipated Debut Album 'Can We Hang Out Sometime?', Previous Singles From Album Surpassed 18 Million Streams

April 6, 2026

LISTEN HERE

PREVIOUS SINGLES FROM ALBUM SURPASSED 18 MILLION STREAMS

Photo Credit: Steph Montani

April 6th, 2026 — Philippines – Toronto’s Good Kid has released their highly anticipated debut album 'Can We Hang Out Sometime?', recorded with GRAMMY-winning producer John Congleton (St. Vincent, Wallows, Lana Del Rey). The highly-anticipated debut album captures the band pushing their sound into new territory, while retaining the high-energy hooks and inventive riffs that have become their hallmark.

The theme of connection runs throughout the 10 tracks on 'Can We Hang Out Sometime?' – its importance, its fragility, and the search for it in moments of uncertainty. From the bittersweet “Wall” to the tender “Coffee”, the album serves as both an ode to and a meditation on how we relate to friends, lovers, the world around us, and ourselves.

Leaning into that emotional openness, the band pushed themselves further than ever before in the studio. “This record is the most unfiltered and uninhibited we have ever been,” shares the band. “There are so many things on this record that are irreproducible, sounds and methods that made each and every take totally unique. From writing a crazy solo that’s nearly impossible to play to having Nick screaming his lungs out in his vocals for the very first time.”

Across the record, those ideas take shape in stories of strained friendships, missed signals, and the quiet effort it takes to show up for one another. “The record is about acknowledging the difficulties of life and hanging out with your friends anyway, to help make it better,” says singer Nick Frosst. That tension between closeness and distance carries across the album’s emotional range, from the grungy bite of “Eastside”, which picks at a long-held grudge, to the haunting pull of “Rift” and its all-consuming obsession. “Cicada” wrestles with inadequacy and desire, while “Tea Leaves” reflects on the cyclical pain of drifting apart.

At the album’s core, “Ginger Lemonade” stands as a heartfelt love letter to the band’s own creative partnership, a reminder that ‘chosen’ family can weather even the most uncertain moments. “Sonically this record is us exploring some of the most visceral emotions…” shares guitarist David Wood. That sense of shared experience extends not only to the album’s themes, but to the way the band write and create together. “If we could each individually just write these songs, we probably would have,” explains guitarist Jacob Kereliuk. “But part of why we’re in a band is the camaraderie and the brotherhood. We all need each other to take these ideas and explore them together.”

A string of releases leading up to the record release has built incredible momentum for the band. Recent single “Cicada” sits at over 5 million streams across platforms, helping push the band past 3.45 million monthly listeners, and over 800 million catalogue streams to date.

Good Kid – "Cicada" (Official Video)

Late last year, the band performed at the Streamer Awards in Los Angeles, where the performance placed the band amongst the event’s impressive list of past performers and fellow digital-era music disruptors including Ty Dolla $ign, Bella Poarch, Yung Gravy, and BBNO$. Watch the performance HERE.

Blending the punchy riffs of J-rock, the immediacy of indie rock, and the raw edge of pop-punk, Good Kid has spent the past several years quietly building something larger than a typical band trajectory. Entirely independent, they’ve cultivated a fiercely participatory fan community, while establishing themselves as one of the most creator-friendly projects in modern guitar music.

By making their entire discography Content ID–free and DMCA–free, the band have empowered creators across Twitch, YouTube, and other platforms to use their songs without fear of takedowns, allowing the music to spread organically across gaming streams, animations, and online communities.

Tracklist
01. Rift
02. Eastside
03. Coffee
04. Cicada
05. Tea Leaves
06. Alone With Me
07. Ghost Keeper
08. Tornado
09. Wall
10. Ginger Lemonade

Stream the album 'Can We Hang Out Sometime?'
here: found.ee/GK-CWHOS

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS

FOLLOW GOOD KID

Rising Global Alt-Pop Sibling Duo Wasia Project Release "2515", A Late-Night Drift Through Modern Disconnection

April 6, 2026

LISTEN HERE

Photo Credit: Claryn Chong

April 6th, 2026 — Philippines — Today, Wasia Project — the sibling duo of Will Gao and Olivia Hardy — return with their new single "2515", marking a striking comeback that signals the start of a bold new era and sonic direction. Blending their orchestral roots with an undercurrent of rave energy, the track unfolds like a cinematic, nocturnal meditation on life in the digital age. Fans can stream the new song HERE.

Produced with frequent collaborator St. Francis Hotel, "2515" captures the duo at their most refined and immersive. The track fuses their orchestral roots with a rave-inspired pulse, taking listeners on a nocturnal journey that shifts between introspection and dancefloor momentum. Olivia's spectral vocals thread the track's shifting elements, giving way to a sweeping, kinetic composition that reflects the disorienting rhythms of modern life. In the opening refrain, "2515, been in your car", Olivia's voice—wreathed in effects, broadcast as a distant murmur—mirrors the motorised churn of the song's setting.

The result is an emotionally charged landscape that captures Wasia Project's interplay of stillness and confrontation, solitude and synergy, and bridges their cinematic sound with an undulating electronic throb. Lyrically, the song establishes the prevailing themes of fragmented connections and strained relationships within lifestyles of overwhelming pace, in a post-COVID epoch, honouring the muddled, murky digital landscape that the iGen/Gen Z generation find themselves wading through.

""2515" marks a new chapter in our songwriting—it's colder and darker than anything we've done before. A song fuelled by anger, the sonic mirrors racing thoughts that come with the emotion. With this track, we officially start our journey through night."

— Wasia Project

Formed in 2019, Wasia Project's mixed British-Chinese heritage and classical training have inspired them to have a global approach to pop, which dynamically melds styles and influences that cut across genre lines and even entire hemispheres of musical tradition. The duo's dedicated and dialled-in audience has snowballed over the last few years, amassing over 200M streams across their catalogue and peaking at 2.4M monthly Spotify listeners. Their 2022 debut EP, 'how can I pretend?', featured their breakout hit "ur so pretty", which earned two sync placements in Netflix's LGBTQI+ hit series 'Heartstopper'—in which Will Gao also starred in. This was followed by a series of dewy-eyed standalone singles such as live-favourite "Petals on the Moon". They gestured at a cooler sonic palette on their transitional EP, 'Isotope' (2024), which was accompanied by a beautiful short film. Wasia Project's YouTube channel has also accumulated over 20M views to date.

The duo's touring activity has cemented a growing legion of loyal fans, with momentum set to continue into 2026. Their 2024 UK headline tour sold out within minutes, while their debut US run saw them support two-time GRAMMY Award winner Laufey across 13 dates. That same year, they also supported BRITs Critics' Choice Award winner Tom Odell across 18 European dates. The duo has also made notable festival appearances at All Points East and Lollapalooza Germany. Widely championed by leading publications including British Vogue, The Guardian, NPR, GQ, DIY, and Rolling Stone, Wasia Project have also graced the covers of NME, BRICKS, Dork, and Notion.

With "2515", Wasia Project continues to dissolve the boundaries between genres and emotional states, crafting music that feels both deeply personal and collectively resonant, a soundtrack for late-night introspection and shared, unspoken understanding. The tonal shift of "2515" is down to its patchwork, era-hopping DNA and the curatorial nous of a duo in complete synergy, and it's just the beginning.

Stream "2515" here

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | AWAL

FOLLOW WASIA PROJECT

Rol3ert Reimagines Breakout Hit “(how could i be) honest?” with Korea’s DAUL & THAMA in New Cross-Border Collaboration

April 6, 2026

Listen HERE
Watch the MV HERE

(Credit: Exciter Records)

Rising Japanese singer-songwriter Rol3ert continues his rapid ascent globally and across Asia with the release of “(how could i be) honest? - DAUL mix (feat. THAMA),” a newly reimagined version of his breakout track, created in collaboration with Korean producer DAUL and acclaimed R&B artist THAMA. Recently selected for Rolling Stone’s “Future 25” as one of 25 artists representing Japan, Rol3ert is quickly emerging as one of the country’s most promising new voices on the global stage.

Originally released in December 2025, “(how could i be) honest?” quickly gained global attention, landing on Spotify’s official playlists across 18 countries. Across Asia, the track saw strong regional traction, charting on viral charts in Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, earning heavy rotation on Singapore’s 987FM, and peaking at No.5 on Singapore’s Shazam charts. On Spotify, the song surpassed 500,000 streams within its first month, becoming Rol3ert’s fastest-growing release to date. Across his recent releases, including “(how could i be) honest?” and “savior,” user-generated content has continued to spread organically, amplifying his reach among younger listeners across the region.

This new version sees the track reconstructed rather than traditionally remixed—expanding its emotional and sonic identity across cultures. Featuring newly written Korean lyrics and vocals from THAMA, the song retains the emotional core of the original while introducing a new dimension through DAUL’s electronic production and THAMA’s distinct artistry. The result is a version that feels both familiar and entirely reimagined, bridging Japanese and Korean music sensibilities within a global pop context.

DAUL shares, “when I first heard the original track, what stood out most was the vocal melody. It has a strong hook that stays with you, and I felt the natural energy and dynamism of the band sound. Rather than drastically changing the song, I focused on preserving its emotional core and melody while expanding that energy through electronic elements. By reconstructing it around synthesizers and electronic drums, I aimed to create a denser, more three-dimensional soundscape.

With THAMA joining, the color of the track became even richer. The combination of Rol3ert and THAMA’s distinct styles, along with the production, creates a piece that reveals more depth the more you listen.”

THAMA adds, “the original track had a rock texture that I don’t usually work with, which made it feel very fresh. Rol3ert’s voice and melody were especially memorable—they reminded me of the emo rock bands I listened to growing up.

During production, I focused on preserving the tone, rhythm, and lyrical appeal that Rol3ert brings, while adding a new interpretation on top of that foundation. The synth-forward sound is a key element of this version. I’d also love for listeners to pay attention to the newly written first verse, which wasn’t in the original. I hope people enjoy hearing how the song transforms through my voice.”

Rol3ert reflects, “the main thing I focused on was creating something completely different while still inheriting the original’s charm—its slightly absurd, chaotic, and imperfect qualities in a good way. I referenced sounds from ’80s video games to bring in a bit of playfulness.

When I first heard DAUL’s demo, I was really happy to hear how that sense of playfulness was already embedded in the track. By combining that with THAMA’s voice and the addition of Korean lyrics—which was a completely new challenge for me—I think we were able to create something that feels like a different song, while still preserving what made the original special.”

Accompanying the release, a music video featuring Rol3ert and THAMA, filmed in Korea, further brings this cross-cultural collaboration to life. In parallel, Rol3ert has also unveiled a live performance video for “savior,” captured during his sold-out headline show Rol3ert Live “katachi” in Tokyo, offering a glimpse into the growing scale and energy of his live performances.

Further expanding his connection with fans, Rol3ert has also launched his official Discord community, creating a dedicated space for global listeners to engage, connect, and access exclusive content. He is also set to make his Singapore debut at Mediacorp’s Cloud 9 Festival on May 9, marking another key milestone as his presence continues to grow across Southeast Asia.

With momentum building across Japan, Southeast Asia, and Korea, Rol3ert continues to emerge as one of the region’s most compelling new voices—bridging cultures, languages, and sounds with a distinctly global perspective.

Download single cover artwork here

STREAM (how could i be)honest? - DAUL mix(feat. THAMA) HERE

WATCH “(how could i be)honest? - DAUL mix(feat. THAMA)
OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO HERE

About Rol3ert

Born in the United States in 2005 and raised in Japan, Rol3ert began his solo career in January 2025. Singing primarily in English while incorporating Japanese and J-pop-influenced melodies, he has developed a distinct cross-cultural sound. His cover videos have gone viral globally, with some exceeding 4 million views, and his original releases have been featured on playlists across Asia and beyond. With listeners spanning Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, the United States, and Brazil, Rol3ert is emerging as a new Japanese artist making a mark on the global music scene.

About DAUL

Producer DAUL is an artist who has secured a global listener base, recording approximately 170,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and continuing to deliver steady streaming performance. In particular, Fujii Kaze’s “Kirari (DAUL Remix)” surpassed 10 million streams on Spotify, proving his production capabilities. In addition, through an overseas tour with R&B artist JUNNY, he has experienced various global performance stages, and through collaborations with major domestic artists such as Lee Youngji, CHANGMO, and GRAY, he has expanded his presence as a producer.

About THAMA

THAMA is one of Korea’s leading R&B singer-songwriters and producers, known for his low, velvety vocals and a sound that naturally blends jazz, hip-hop, and neo-soul. He debuted in 2017 with the single “Fall In Love,” and has since expanded his musical presence through songwriting and featured appearances with major artists including Dynamicduo, EXO, NCT 127, george, and Kang Daniel. His 2021 full-length debut album, DON’T DIE COLORS, was widely acclaimed for its high level of craftsmanship, winning both the 19th Korean Music Awards for Best R&B/Soul Album and the Korean Hip-hop Awards for R&B Album of the Year. The record was also selected by Harper’s Bazaar (U.S.) as one of the “15 Best K-Pop Albums of 2021,” praised for its multi-layered sound that moves freely across R&B, hip-hop, soul, and jazz. This recognition further elevated THAMA’s international profile. In 2023, THAMA broadened his palette with his second album WOOOF!, embracing funk and neo-soul influences. That same year, he sold out his Hyundai Card Curated solo concert, cementing his reputation as a powerful live performer.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT blackstar
CONNECT WITH US AT OUR WEBSITE HERE

James Blake releases new record ‘Trying Times’ via Good Boy Records.

April 1, 2026

Listen to ‘Trying Times’ HERE.

Watch the ‘Trying Times’ video HERE

[Credit: Robbie Lawrence]

"A deep, introspective and disarmingly sincere album” - Mixmag

“The lyrics are among the best of Blake’s career” - Evening Standard

“Melodies collapsing and rebuilding themselves in his digital laboratory” - The Independent

“His seventh studio album [is] a compendium of his best parts” - DIY

A GRAMMY-winning producer, songwriter, and musician, James Blake’s singular blend of soul, electronica, hip-hop, and alt-R&B has shaped the sound of modern music. Across six seminal studio albums, Blake’s catalogue has amassed over 2.2 billion streams: his 2019 album ‘Assume Form’, featuring ROSALÍA and Travis Scott, garnered widespread acclaim, followed by his highest chart debut to date with 2021’s ‘Friends That Break Your Heart’.

His transcendent vocals and visionary production have cemented him as one of contemporary music’s most influential figures, and a sought-after collaborator for Beyoncé, Frank Ocean, SZA, ROSALÍA, Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott and more, contributing to era-defining albums like ‘Blonde’, ‘DAMN.’, ‘ASTROWORLD’, ‘Lemonade’, and ‘Motomami’.

The album features recently released singles ‘Death Of Love’ and ‘I Had A Dream She Took My Hand’, showcasing the full range of Blake’s artistic voice and a rare emotional candor. Throughout ‘Trying Times’, Blake navigates the fragile space between closeness and solitude in an uncertain era, tracing the fault lines of contemporary life. As overwhelm seeps into both its themes and atmosphere, the record settles in a place between optimism and unease.

Alongside the new record, Blake has also announced details of his upcoming European tour, set to begin in September, including a special stop at London’s O2 Academy Brixton. The dates follow the earlier announcement of his North American run, which features two sold-out shows at NYC’s Brooklyn Paramount, as well as a sold-out show at Toronto’s HISTORY. The full dates can be found below.

Most recently, Blake collaborated with revered UK rapper Dave on his critically acclaimed album ‘The Boy Who Played The Harp’, and crafted ‘Séance’ alongside Ludwig Göransson, a standout from the soundtrack from Ryan Coogler’s ‘Sinners’.

James Blake Live Dates 2026

Wed 05/27/26 - Atlanta, GA - The Tabernacle
Fri 05/29/26 - New York, NY - Brooklyn Paramount
Sat 05/30/26 - New York, NY - Brooklyn Paramount
Sun 05/31/26 - Boston, MA - Roadrunner

Tue 06/02/26 - Washington, DC - The Anthem
Thu 06/04/26 - Philadelphia, PA - Franklin Music Hall
Sat 06/06/26 - Toronto, ON - HISTORY
Mon 06/08/26 - Chicago, IL - The Salt Shed

Tue 29/09/26 - London, UK - O2 Academy Brixton

Mon 05/10/26 - Utrecht, NL - TivoliVredenburg

Thu 08/10/26 - Brussels, BE - Cirque Royal

Mon 12/10/26 - Paris, FR - Le Grand Rex

Thu 15/10/26 - Berlin, DE - Astra Kulturhaus

Sun 18/10/26 - Cologne, DE - E-Werk

Wed 21/10/26 - Glasgow, UK - SWG3 Galvanizers

Sun 25/10/26 - Manchester, UK - New Century

Wed 28/10/26 - Bristol, UK - O2 Academy Bristol

Thu 06/11/26 - Berkeley, CA - Greek Theatre

Fri 06/12/26 - Los Angeles, CA - The Greek Theatre

‘Trying Times’ Tracklist

1. Walk Out Music

2. Death Of Love

3. I Had A Dream She Took My Hand

4. Trying Times

5. Make Something Up

6. Didn’t Come To Argue (ft. Monica Martin)

7. Days Go By

8. Doesn’t Just Happen (ft. Dave)

9. Obsession

10. Rest Of Your Life

11. Through The High Wire

12. Feel It Again

13. Just A Little Higher

Website | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube

For more information please contact:

mabuhay@blackstar.space

AXEAN Festival 2026 heads back to Bali for its seventh edition

March 31, 2026

With growing global recognition, the platform continues to reshape how the world engages with the region’s artists

March 30, 2026 – BALI, INDONESIA — AXEAN Festival, Southeast Asia’s top intra-regional music showcase and conference platform, is scheduled to return for its seventh edition at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, from August 29 to 30, 2026.

Launched in 2020 by a collective of music industry professionals across the region, AXEAN Festival has exponentially grown into a key export platform for Southeast Asian music, as well as a prominent convergence for cross-border collaborations and partnerships between global industry stakeholders and artists. To date, the music showcase and conference event has successfully hosted both virtual editions (2020-2021) and in-person gatherings (2022-2025) in Singapore and Bali. Over six editions, AXEAN has featured nearly 300 artists representing more than 20 countries.

This year’s “Save the Date” announcement signals an expanded edition that will once again bring together over 40 artists from diverse backgrounds and genres, primarily from Southeast Asia and beyond. Apart from the carefully curated lineup of performances, this year’s edition will continue its focus on industry development programming through panel discussions, business matchmaking, and structured networking sessions. The songwriting camp, which will take place after the festival proper, will also return, offering selected artists and producers the opportunity to collaborate in a cross-cultural environment.

“Each year we bring a unique blend of curation to the festival; this year is no different,” said AXEAN Festival co-founder David Siow. “As we add more partners and artists, the excitement builds on each successful edition, and we can promise the same, if not more, quality.”

Co-founder Piyapong Muenprasertdee added that while the festival’s core mission remains the same, its reach and impact continue to grow. “Our goal has always been the same: to bridge the world to Southeast Asia's music and to export the region's talent and professionals to global markets. What's changed is the momentum around that mission. Each year, more countries and national music organizations take notice and want to be part of what we're building here, which reflects a growing recognition that Southeast Asia is a serious player in the global music landscape.”

For its seventh edition, AXEAN Festival builds on its commitment to elevate Southeast Asia’s music communities while creating sustained pathways for cross-cultural and industry collaborations, global partnerships, talent development, and institutional support.

Artist lineup, conference programming, and other essential information will be announced soon. For more details, check out the AXEAN Festivalofficial website. This event is co-presented by Jimbaran Hub.

About AXEAN Festival

The AXEAN Festival is a prominent Southeast Asian music export platform, combining a music conference and showcase festival.

Launched in 2020 during the pandemic by music professionals across Southeast Asia, AXEAN Festival has successfully hosted both virtual (2020-2021) and in-person (2022-2025) events. Over six editions, it has featured 200 artists from 20 countries, attracted 420 delegates from 32 countries, and reached over 46,000 virtual viewers, along with close to 18,000 live attendees.

With its growing international reputation, AXEAN has firmly established itself as Southeast Asia’s leading music export platform. Its first venture into a new market beyond its original home base in Singapore and Bali garnered widespread acclaim among attendees, music industry professionals, and participating artists.

Source: Nyou

It's just March, but here's June: Ligaya Escueta's New Shoegaze Single

March 31, 2026

Photo by Mayks Go.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES—New music alert! Punk rock young blood Ligaya Escueta releases a new single titled June, a dreampop love song that sonically reiterates the ache of young romance in a soft, almost ethereal melody. The song is now available on all digital streaming platforms.

Coming down from the high of her previous emotionally-charged album "Dollweb" (2025), Abigail Escueta, better known as her stage name, Ligaya Escueta, pulls yet the heartstrings of her listeners with the release of June.

“Love songs have always been hard for me to write. I just feel like so much has been said about love that it kind of feels so overwhelming to try to sum it up in a song,” shares the 19-year-old musician, expressing her difficulties creating such a vulnerable track. However, for June, Escueta remarks how fast the flow came naturally to her the moment the idea came to mind. “A lot of lyrics came easily to me. I got the choruses done quickly, but was only able to finish the verse lyrics in the car on the way to a gig, which is a funny story.”

Inspired by the transcendental gloom pop melodies of slow-guitar bands like Wisp and a generous dose from iconic shoegaze group Cocteau Twins, June was a product of Escueta's day-to-day reality and experiences as a young musician that embraces both the mundanity of being a student and the petuliant woes of admiration and feelings while having a heart like hers. But the teenage singer gives flowers to asian shoegaze bands as influences for the newly released track. “My influences for this song are Summer’s Gone by Honeydip and Feverfew by Megumi Acorda,” says Escueta. “I really love how you can get lost in the heaviness of their music, but still feel the emotion through the chord choices and lyrics as well.”

Production wise, June was made piece by piece: starting from the melody and then the lyrics started to eventually write itself, but what really got Escueta going was her creating the instrumentation, being the main person to arrange the tracks, and seeing it come to life. “My friend really liked the song too, and started jamming to it on bass one day at school - and that’s how we got the bassline of June,” she shares. The song continued to take shape as each of her bandmates added their own parts as they played the song live prior to its initial release. Eventually, The track was produced by Mikey Amistoso of Ciudad, long time mentor and music producer of Ligaya Escueta.

June by Ligaya Escueta is out now and is available for streaming everywhere. You can catch her live on April 9 at Mow’s for FUZZY 4EVER’s Scott Pilgrim night!

About Ligaya Escueta

Ligaya Escueta is an 19-year-old singer-songwriter from Manila, Philippines. She released her first song in 2020, then put out her debut album “Laughing In Milk” two years after.

In 2023, she was signed under Offshore Music Philippines and wrote and released the singles “Novelty”, “12 Steps”, and “Blue General, Come Home” under the label. Ligaya then put out her second album, Dollweb, on all streaming platforms in January 2025.

Moreover in the same year she released her sophomore album, the punk rock prodigy were invited amongst other Filipino musicians at the coveted South by South West (SXSW) Sydney where she performed her songs along with her bandmates on the global stage. Right after, Ligaya was featured on Youngstar PH, PhilStar’s youth-focused print section, describing her approach to punk as “deliberate” and “graceful”—adjectives one may not even think to associate with the genre, but those are what makes her definition of the style uniquely hers.

Ligaya has been performing at small gigs since she was 15, and has opened for many artists including Ely Buendia, The Itchyworms, and Grrrl Gang. Inspired by artists like Mitski, Radiohead, and Weezer, she writes catchy rock songs, exploring earsplitting sonic landscapes with diary-like lyricism.

Ligaya Escueta Socials

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/32GPsNDIVdDvE2EX2GcVyT

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ligaya-Escueta/100083005895770/

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

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dollshoesnicesocks?_t=8ipMR5kjvMn&_r=1

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ligayaescueta

Source: Nyou

ICONA POP RELEASE BRAND NEW SINGLE & MUSIC VIDEO, “RITUAL” FEATURING DAYA – OUT NOW

March 30, 2026

CONFIRMED TO JOIN MEGHAN TRAINOR’S “THE GET IN GIRL TOUR” - TOUR STARTS JUNE 12

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

LISTEN

“RITUAL” FEAT. DAYA

Multi-platinum duo Icona Pop return today with their electrifying new single “Ritual” featuring Daya—written by the duo and born from a period of personal struggle, survival, and revelation. The cathartic, high-energy anthem captures the power of movement, release, and self-reclamation on the dancefloor, introducing a more vulnerable and emotionally grounded side of the artists.

Driven by pulsating production and emotionally charged lyricism, “Ritual” explores the idea of healing through physical and emotional release. Anchored by the mantra-like refrain, “This is my ritual, yeah I do it to survive,” the track transforms vulnerability into something communal and euphoric—inviting listeners to let go, reconnect with their bodies, and find strength in the act of dancing.

Listen to “Ritual” featuring Daya HERE.

Built around vivid imagery and raw introspection, the song draws from real-life experiences, weaving together themes of transformation, identity, and resilience. “Ritual” is about searching for answers and learning how to move forward—channeling uncertainty into something physical, freeing, and ultimately empowering.

Speaking about the track, Icona Pop’s Aino and Carolinereveal, “When one of our best friends was going through a crisis, she went to a shaman in New York and searched for answers. He asked, ‘Do you want to live in your body? It feels cold — you have to dance and eat hot food to bring it back to life.’ It was so vivid that we included it in the song.”

They continue, “The last couple of years really put us through a lot — we questioned everything. Now, in retrospect, it really proves how strong our friendship is and the love we have for our band. It would have been so much easier to give up, but we did the work and came out on the other side. It was like we chose each other again, and now we are closer than ever.”

“This song, ‘Ritual,’ really represents what this new chapter is about — that search: Who am I now? How do I move forward? The little rituals you do every day to keep going. For us, it’s a kind of spiritual journey,” they add.

On her collaboration with Icona Pop, Daya says, “‘Ritual’ has such a fresh and inspiring energy, and when I first heard it, I knew I wanted to be on it. It just makes me want to dance and sweat at the club all night. I’m such a fan of Icona Pop and so grateful to the girls for bringing me in on this one. I hope people love it!”

In celebration of the release, Icona Pop will make an appearance at Daybreaker’s Othership Williamsburg“HEATWAVE” event in New York on April 23, for a special guest performance. The immersive, sauna-driven gathering—built around heat, cold, and music as pathways to presence—echoes the core themes of “Ritual,” bringing the track’s ideas of movement, release, and reconnection into a live, embodied setting. For more information, visit HERE.

In addition to new music, Icona Pop are set to join Meghan Trainor on “The Get In Girl Tour,” produced by Live Nation, kicking off June 12, 2026. The 33-date North American run will see the duo perform in major markets including Toronto, Cincinnati, St. Louis, Raleigh, Orlando, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Nashville, Houston, Denver, Seattle, San Francisco, Phoenix, and more as well as at iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden in New York City and the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. Tickets are available HERE.

“Ritual” marks Icona Pop’s first new music since the release of their third studio album, CLUB ROMANTECH, in 2023—their first full-length project in a decade. The album was met with widespread acclaim, delivering a bold, genre-blurring collection of club-ready pop anthems, including standout tracks like “Stick Your Tongue Out,” “I Want You” (with Galantis), and fan favorites “Faster” and “You’re Free” (with Ultra Naté), reaffirming the duo’s place at the forefront of global dance music. Following the album, the duo released CLUB ROMANTECH (Deluxe), expanding the project with new tracks, remixes, and alternate versions—further showcasing their versatility across both pop and harder-edged electronic sounds.

Rather than slowing down, Icona Pop have remained firmly in motion—returning to the studio and continuing to evolve their sound while staying true to the emotional core that has always defined their music. With “Ritual,” they step confidently into their next chapter, once again blurring the lines between catharsis and celebration.

At the heart of everything Icona Pop do is a shared philosophy: turning real emotion into something you can move to. Whether rooted in heartbreak, transformation, or self-discovery, their music has always embraced the tension between darkness and light—creating space for listeners to feel, release, and ultimately come alive.

“Ritual” is a powerful continuation of that ethos—an invitation to step onto the dancefloor, let go, and find your way back to yourself.

Stay tuned for more exciting news and new music coming soon.

“Ritual,” the new single from Icona Pop featuring Daya, is available now on all streaming platforms.

Photo Credit: Teitur Ardal

ICONA POP

ABOUT ICONA POP
Icona Pop has always represented the ultimate freedom of expression for its two members and longtime friends, Caroline Hjelt and Aino Jawo. Their fearless approach as women and artists has fueled their impact as one of pop music’s most innovative and irresistible multiplatinum, chart-topping forces. Today, they continue to evolve—owning who they are as mothers, creative partners, entrepreneurs, and leaders, while bringing that same sense of empowerment and authenticity to everything they create. Caroline and Aino went from being club kids in Stockholm to commanding clubs, arenas, and festivals around the world. Following an independent grind, Icona Pop first reached critical mass in 2012 with their breakout single “I Love It” [feat. Charli XCX], a generational anthem that went 5x Platinum, sold over 10 million copies, and surpassed 1 billion global streams. Their 2013 debut This Is… Icona Pop earned widespread acclaim and was followed by a run of Gold-certified singles, sold-out tours, and major support slots alongside artists including Miley Cyrus, One Direction, The Chainsmokers, and the late Avicii. Beyond music, they’ve delivered standout performances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, Good Morning America, and America’s Got Talent, and appeared on HBO’s Girls, Saturday Night Live, and as Satin and Chenille in the Trolls film franchise. Known for their dynamic collaborations with Joel Corry, Galantis, Sofi Tukker, and more, Icona Pop returned in 2023 with CLUB ROMANTECH, their first album in a decade, which received critical praise from The Guardian, Forbes, Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, and beyond. Now, with new music including their latest single “Ritual” featuring Daya, Icona Pop continue to push forward—blending emotional honesty with euphoric, club-ready production. Their music remains rooted in connection, transformation, and the power of the dancefloor, capturing the spirit of two artists at the height of their creative confidence.

For more information, contact:

Mark Bonifacio | blackstar PH –

mabuhay@blackstar.space

Central Cee releases highly anticipated EP “ALL ROADS LEAD HOME”

March 27, 2026

Featuring “Iceman Freestyle” & “Slaughter” Ft. J Hus

MORE PHOTOS HERE

Central Cee releases his highly anticipated EP, ALL ROADS LEAD HOME. The seven-track project arrives in the wake of two stand-out records, “Iceman Freestyle” and “Slaughter” featuring J Hus.

“Slaughter” saw two of the UK’s most influential voices unite on record for the first time, a landmark collaboration for Cench, whose work with UK artist collaborations have been notably selective to date. The track has quickly emerged as a fan favourite, underlining the chemistry between the pair and setting the tone for the wider project.

The EP’s accompanying artwork sees Central Cee standing at a recognisable bus stop in Shepherd’s Bush, a visual nod to his West London roots and the journey that has shaped his rise.

ALL ROADS LEAD HOME captures Central Cee at a pivotal moment in his career, balancing global ambition with a return to his roots. Across seven tracks, the EP blends introspection with sharp lyricism and genre-fluid production, reinforcing his position at the forefront of British rap’s global evolution.

The release caps off an extraordinary run for Central Cee. It follows the one-year anniversary of his chart-topping debut album Can’t Rush Greatness and lands as he continues the Asia leg of his Can’t Rush Greatness tour.

With ALL ROADS LEAD HOME, Central Cee continues to push boundaries, delivering a project that reflects both his journey so far and the road ahead.

TRACKLIST

1. ICEMAN

2. SLAUGHTER FT J HUS

3. WAGWAN

4. FEELINGS

5. DC-10

6. MAKA FT A2ANTI

7. Y FI DAT

More on Central Cee:

Central Cee is one of the most visionary figures in contemporary British rap and hip-hop, an artist who has not only dominated charts at home but also broken unprecedented ground on the global stage. Emerging from Shepherd’s Bush with a unique voice and undeniable ambition, Central Cee has rapidly become one of Britain’s greatest rap exports, consistently shaping the sound of UK hip-hop.

He first made waves in 2020 with “Day in the Life” and “Loading”, breakout singles that helped establish drill as a mainstream sound in the UK. His debut mixtape Wild West (2021) landed at #2 on the UK Albums Chart, followed by his second mixtape 23 (2022) which soared to #1, marking a landmark moment for British rap. Tracks such as “Commitment Issues” and “Obsessed With You” quickly became anthems, signalling his ability to fuse sharp lyricism with global appeal.

In 2022, Cee released “Doja”, a track that became the most streamed UK rap song on Spotify at the time, peaking at #2 in the UK and charting worldwide. The following year he joined forces with Dave on “Sprinter”, which debuted at #1 on the UK Singles Chart and stayed there for a record-breaking 10 consecutive weeks, becoming the longest-running rap Number One in UK chart history. Today, “Sprinter” has surpassed 950 million streams, while “Doja” has cleared 850 million, asserting him as a key force in the rap scene.

By 2025, Central Cee had firmly broken into the United States with the release of his debut album Can’t Rush Greatness. The record entered at #1 on the UK Albums Chart and at #9 on the Billboard 200 - making history as the first UK rap album ever to break into the US Top Ten. With nearly 20 million Spotify streams in its first day and #1 debuts across multiple international markets including Germany, Ireland, New Zealand and the Netherlands, the album confirmed his rare ability to resonate on a global level. Today, the album has accumulated over a billion streams already.

Across his career to date, Central Cee has already amassed over 10 billion global streams. His collaborations with international heavyweights including Lil Baby, 21 Savage and Drake highlight his ambition to build bridges between UK and US rap, and his presence on global festival stages has made him one of the most in-demand artists of his generation.

Beyond the numbers, Central Cee’s impact lies in how he has redefined British rap’s place on the world stage. He has been instrumental in taking drill and UK hip-hop from London’s streets to arenas and charts across the globe, while his creative versatility and uncompromising authenticity have made him a voice of his generation. His songs reflect the contradictions of modern fame - brash confidence paired with vulnerable reflection, creating a duality that has made him both relatable and aspirational to millions of fans worldwide.

Central Cee’s achievements have already been recognised with multiple MOBO Awards and BRIT Award nominations, but it is his role as a cultural pioneer that stands apart. He has modernised British rap’s identity, set record-breaking benchmarks, and paved the way for others to follow.

Central Cee is not just one of the UK’s most successful rap exports - he is a visionary, a standard-bearer for a new era of British music.

Follow Central Cee: HERE

Source: Nyou

It’s out: SB19 releases sophomore album, Wakas at Simula

March 27, 2026

Watch the music video of “Emoji,” featuring Queen of C-Pop, JOLIN

P-Pop trailblazers SB19 has officially dropped Wakas at Simula—a 24-track release that serves as a closure of their formative era in music and the beginning of a new imperial phase. Their second full-length album chronicles their path to self-discovery, identity building, and the cultivation of public trust, all fortified through years of experience and learning.

[PRE-SAVE LINK]

[DOWNLOAD KEY VISUAL HERE]

“At the same time, this marks a new beginning,” SB19 adds. “We hope to express ourselves more openly, explore deeper and more relatable themes, and move forward with clarity, care, and creative freedom, ready to face new challenges together.”

Wakas at Simula stands as a cohesive anthology, weaving together key selections from the group’s trilogy of acclaimed EPs (Pagsibol, Pagtatag, and Simula at Wakas), alongside six new tracks that showcase a reinvigorated approach in production and songwriting. The result is a future-forward pop record that embraces genre fluidity and maximalism, made more compelling by SB19’s unmistakable energy and charisma.

Pablo, SB19’s leader and chief producer, emphasizes the intention behind the album’s sonic direction, putting into consideration the history behind these songs. “We did not want to simply remake them; we aimed to reintroduce them with greater depth. We explored more mature arrangements, stronger dynamics, and a careful balance of raw emotion and refinement. Sonically, I focused on warmth, atmosphere, and storytelling, ensuring that every choice reflected who we are today. This approach allowed the music to honor its origins while also showcasing our growth as artists.”

SB19’s sophomore album also features international collaborations with some of the pop greats this side of the hemisphere. Queen of C-Pop JOLIN is prominently featured in “Emoji,” a euphoric club anthem with a little bit of Brazilian funk thrown in the mix.

SB19’s Ken, who co-produced the track with PLAYERTWO’s Luke April, offered an insight into its creation. “I thought this was a fresh and exciting sound for us, so I created a Brazilian phonk inspired track with the help of my friend Luke. Pablo, JOLIN, and I wrote the lyrics together. The song explores social media and how people often mask their true emotions behind emojis. It reflects on the contrast between online personas and genuine feelings, highlighting the subtle ways technology shapes human expression.”

The release of “Emoji’ will be accompanied by a music video set in what looks like two versions of an underground dungeon. SB19’s Justin explains, “The direction for the music video was to keep it simple and accessible while maintaining high quality and showcasing an impressive performance. Our creative director carefully ensured that the set designs and overall concept subtly reinforced the song’s message. The video features two distinct layouts: one glamorous and polished, the other messy and chaotic, representing the contrast between the idealized image people present online and the reality they often hide behind emojis.”

Another highlight of the album is a collaboration with Japanese pop group BE:FIRST, who joined SB19 on the floor-thumping jam “Toyfriend.” Other new songs in the album include the catchy R&B tune “Memories,” the sonically daring but refreshing “Everblack,” and the emotional ballad “Wakas,” which showcases SB19’s extraordinary vocal abilities and heartfelt delivery.

The award-winning P-Pop boyband also reworked the songs from their 2021 EP, Pagsibol, incorporating new arrangements with layers of nuance and artistic growth. With more experience and perspective, SB19 admits that the new versions offer a more refined direction, with emotions naturally running deeper and the lyrics carrying greater meaning.

“For us, it was about respect and progression,” Pablo explains. “We wanted the songs people already love to retain their emotional core, while the newer tracks pushed the album forward. Nostalgia gave the project its roots, and the new songs gave it momentum. The goal was to make the album feel familiar while still showing growth and evolution.”

Ahead of the release, SB19 revealed the official track list for Wakas at Simula during a press conference on March 23, 2026, which was simultaneously streamed live on Weverse. The video has amassed more than 300,000 views and 30 million likes within 24 hours, cementing their popularity on the global fandom platform.

The P-Pop powerhouse is also scheduled to perform in two of most prominent music festivals in the world: Lollapalooza in Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois, which will run from July 30 to August 2, 2026, and the recently announced Summer Sonicin Tokyo, Japan, happening on Saturday, August 15, 2026.

SB19’s “Wakas at Simula” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch out for the music video release of “Emoji” (Feat. JOLIN) today at 7:00 PM via SB19’s official YouTube page.