I dispatched 100 earsavers to the frontliners of Quezon City Health Department District 6. This batch is close to my heart because I reside in this district. It is my own way of supporting the brave men and women who tirelessly work to fight Covid-19 in my area.
I am still volunteering for Earsavers for Lifesavers PH. I invite you to join our Facebook group to volunteer as a crafter, materials sponsor, or delivery angel.
Thank you and God bless us all!
We are still under Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ), and things have been pretty quiet for me in general. I am still crocheting earsavers for frontliners, and I have reached some hospitals in provincial locations. I focus on my workouts, books, and movies to stay sane during these uncertain times. Of course, my days would not be complete without my favorite beverage: coffee!
Luckily, my late father’s favorite Starbucks drink is on a bundle promo at the moment, so I was able to order a couple for me and my mom. It was delicious! The comforting drink cheered me up and energized me to continue making earsavers.
I am grateful for the chance to help others and enjoy coffee from home. Let us all stay safe and be kind to one another!
Singer-songwriter and producer Zack Tabudlo finds renewed perspective on time’s delicate role in shaping your own destiny, setting an ultimatum on fear with his newest single, “Nangangamba,” out this Friday, August 7, on digital platforms worldwide.
On his first release under Island Records Philippines, Zack urges listeners to take ownership of their own feelings: that inaction may shield you from pain, yes, but ultimately it’ll get you nowhere. He brings love songs up a notch, infusing pop and R&B elements to his powerful vocals—a testament to his ever-evolving songwriting and production style. But moreover, it signals a shift on his creative choices in keeping his individual artistry as dynamic as his growth in the music industry. “With these new tracks, I'm sure people who have experienced these would relate so much more… [the latest single] is very different, music-wise and in terms of maturity,” he shares.
Part of this artistic growth is Zack’s experience of writing “Nangangamba,” a song he wrote a year ago. He cites an earlier failed romance as the inspiration behind the song. “I wrote down some lyrics about the things I was going through at the time. I was in a situation where I felt like someone I liked was playing too hard to get, and the song pretty much circles around that idea: that sometimes when we play too hard to get, we lose people who really love us or people who [turn out to] feel the same way.” The process of writing the actual song didn’t take long once the idea set in. “It all started with a melody that popped into my head while I was in class. Every time melodies or ideas pop in my head, I always grab my phone to record them just to make sure I won't forget. But this time, I knew I needed at least a couple of chords on any instrument just to seal the idea. I recorded all the chords I needed using a ukulele. When I got home I went straight to my home studio and finished the production with my vocals and everything. Five to six hours later, ‘Nangangamba’ was born.”
Now finally set to be released, “Nangangamba” unintentionally—and fittingly—became a case of practicing what you preach, as he sings, “Ito na ang pagkakataon / Wala nang pipigil sa’yo / ‘Wag ka nang mahihiya / Sabihin na ang totoo.” In some ways, the lockdown allowed him to reprioritize. “I have a home studio and all the equipment I need. Having all the time in the world made me focus more and be motivated to write lots of songs compared to when I was also studying at the same time.”
Acquiring skills over time also made it possible to avoid tremendous adjustments to recording and producing the single despite limitations during the quarantine. “Just like in my old tracks, I’ve worked on them from top to bottom. I'm the producer, writer, singer, arranger, as well as the mixing and mastering engineer. It was really fun experimenting with different genres and I really like the vibe of each and every song I've been making lately. There are samples I've worked on from scratch with these tracks and I really can't wait for everyone to hear it.”
His latest career step as part of the brand-new Island Records roster excites the multi-disciplinary artist. “Everyone in MCA Music Philippines and Island Records Philippines are amazing… They've been very supportive and very creative when it comes to ideas or projects, and I know I have a very strong team behind me.”
About Zack Tabudlo
Zack Tabudlo is a singer-songwriter and producer from Manila, Philippines. He joined The Voice Kids in 2014 and went on to establish his solo career, writing and performing his own music. His first single, “Stay Here,” was released in 2018 and was featured on several Spotify playlists, including “Men of OPM,” “Philippines Viral 50,” and “OPM Says Chillax.” His subsequent single, “Mahal O Biro,” was again included in “Men of OPM” and “Pinoy Love Ballads” playlists. Zack premiered his first single of 2020, the chill-pop track “This Is Love,” in February.
He has also collaborated with several OPM artists, undertaking writer and producer roles. He’s most recently been credited in arranging and producing Carlo Aquino’s single “Balisong” and Sharlene San Pedro’s “Everything Will Be Alright” and “Pusong Naliligaw.”
Now on a fresh path in his career, Zack sets his sights to winning the hearts of his audience both locally and internationally as one of the bold new signees to Island Records Philippines.
Follow Zack on Facebook · Twitter · Instagram
Source: Nyou
The Covid-19 pandemic has been challenging for all of us. Personally, I struggled during the first few weeks of staying at home because I was so used to going out almost everyday. One of my pastimes before was having a cup or two of coffee. I enjoyed crocheting while enjoying a cuppa at a cafe.
When the quarantine was imposed, I found myself at home with my stash of instant coffee. While I also have my own instant favorites, I craved for freshly brewed coffee as I was accustomed to. Luckily, I found Coffee Buddy online.
I initially purchased their Kalinga Dark Roast, Sagada Dark Roast, and french press. I learned to brew my own coffee, and it was definitely a game changer! It enhanced my quarantine experience as it brought back my coffee shop vibes. I also drastically cut down on my sugar intake, as I prefer enjoying my brewed coffee black.
I love Coffee Buddy’s local coffee selection so much, that I restocked from their shop yesterday. This time, I got Benguet Dark Roast and Espresso Dark Roast.
This is not a sponsored post. I am simply a fan of Coffee Buddy’s dark roast flavors. Learning to brew my own coffee has improved my home life, and has enabled me to enjoy my favorite beverage while on lockdown.
I hope that you will also find your perfect brew soon!
As Metro Manila and some parts of the Philippines reverted back to Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ), I dispatched 100 earsavers to the frontliners of Villaflor Hospital at Dagupan, Pangasinan. I am delighted to still have the means to help our modern-day heroes in my own small way.
The pandemic has taught me to be resilient through crochet. I am grateful for the opportunity to use my skill to uplift our frontliners from home.
Please support Earsavers for Lifesavers Community PH by joining our Facebook page! We are still in need of crafters, delivery angels, and materals sponsors. Please support us and help our frontliners from home.
God bless us all!
After reaching more than a million subscribers on YouTube, multi-awarded nine-piece collective Ben&Ben have heeded the call of fans for more exclusive content in the coming days.
The acclaimed band has recently announced the launch of their upcoming weekly series, BBTV on July 31, Friday to celebrate this important milestone in their career.
“We've been making vlogs that showed our life behind the scenes, but eventually the band and its team came up with the idea,” vocalist and guitarist Miguel Benjamin shares. “Its primary goal is to simply find more ways to connect to people through more varied content.”
Extensive range of content
Aside from themed music performances and collaborations, expect an intimate look at the band’s more personal and entertaining side as they share their journey of living together under one roof. “We decided to live together to eliminate or at least greatly lessen the risks involved with working outside,” says Miguel. “We always had the idea of living together in the future to create content and write music, but with the situation now we realized that now was the best time to actually give it a shot.”
Ben&Ben also revealed about their plans to drop a “head bang” version of their smash single “Pagtingin,” as well as cover select K-Pop songs in the future.
The online series, which airs every Wednesday, will also feature a more extensive range of content for people to connect to, including but not limited to games, competitions, challenges and other forms of entertainment.
Sophomore Album
Ben&Ben are currently working on the follow-up to their platinum-selling debut album, Limasawa Street, which produced generation-defining songs such as “Pagtingin,” “Fall,” “Araw-Araw,” “War,” and more.
Paolo confirms in a statement that one of the reasons for moving in was to start writing for their second album to be released under Sony Music. “We wanted the process to be as organic and as involved as possible, and we're so excited to see what we can come up with where distance and time isn't a hindrance.”
Source: Nyou
New episodes of BBTV will drop every Wednesday of the week on the Ben&Ben YouTube Channel, starting August 5, 2020.
I recenly purchased a Love, Susie crescent ring in gold vermeil. I chose it because it is a) adjustable, b) locally handmade, and c) made to last as the base metal is sterling silver. Since Love, Susie is the sister brand of local handmade jewelry brand Pulseras by Kim, I am sure of the quality and craftsmanship behind this piece.
This is not a sponsored post. I am just a fan and happy customer! My ring came with free stud earrings as Pulseras by Kim is moving to a new physical store soon. I am happy that I was able to visit their Maginhawa space one last time. It was a special location for me, as it was right beside my alma mater, Holy Family School.
I am grateful to still have the luxury to enjoy handmade jewelry this pandemic. We are all struggling with the Covid-19 crisis, so it helps to have some sparkle in our lives right now.
I hope that you will also find a piece or two from Love, Susie to inspire you to stay positive during trying times.
Filipina rock icon Barbie Almalbis hopes to encourage and inspire listeners to rise above the extraordinary times.
With the official release of “Umagang Kay Ganda,” the third single of her upcoming new album under Sony Music Philippines, the Dahilan singer-songwriter uses her platform to pay tribute to the courage and optimism of the Filipino people.
“The current situation has made so many of us experience such a profound sense of loss, and it has also given us a rare chance to stop and reassess our lives and consider the things that we really value,” the acclaimed pop-rock artist shares. “I hope Umagang Kay Ganda will be a blessing especially to our frontliners. It is our little way to say thank you for the selflessness that they have continually shown and the sacrifices that they have made to help us get through this together.”
With the help of constant collaborators, Barbie and her bandmates put a creative stamp in reimagining “Umagang Kay Ganda,” while making sure that its empowering message shines through the intricate arrangement. “Karel and I initially jammed it and he wrote lines for the instrumental section, then we arranged the rest with Nikko on keyboard and Jonard on drums. We were able to record the rhythm section just a few weeks before the lockdown.” As a result, the new version conveys the timeless appeal of the original, while exuding a warmer approach in terms of production details.
Inspiring music video
The official release of Barbie Almalbis’ latest single comes with an accompanying music video that brings to light everyday stories of hope and love for the country amidst the global health crisis.
Interspersed with scenes of the new normal, the visuals for “Umagang Kay Ganda” also showcase the heroic deeds of our frontliners and several acts of compassion and resilience from ordinary Filipino folks.
Barbie adds, “Although some people consider music and visual arts as non-essentials these days, I’ve found that many are actually turning to the arts as a way of coping and feeling connected to others. We want to remind people of the real hope that we have and can hold on to, even as we confront the invisible enemy on a day to day basis. We’ll be able to stand above difficult situations and hurdle these atrocities with the gift of love and compassion.”
The music video is also part of Magnolia Dari Creme’s campaign reminding us that in extraordinary times as in the normal times, tomorrow always brings us new chances for a brighter day as long as we are with the ones we love.
Source: Nyou
Sponge Cola has officially signed to Sony Music—the record label that released their debut album, Palabas.
To mark this return, the award-winning band drops a new song entitled “Lumipas Ang Tag-araw,” out today on all digital platforms worldwide.
Capturing the essence of a belated summer anthem in less than four minutes, Sponge Cola’s latest single soars into the fast lane with verses that turn romantic yearning into an inescapable sing-along, and a power pop surge that packs a ton of punch.
Connection in separation
The captivating and relatable lyrics echo the collective frustration of not being with the people we deeply care about and love. But on the other side of the narrative, the song presents an opportunity to weather the insurmountable odds through perseverance and resilience to get through life—thanks to the support and kindness of friends and family. “It's a story of connection in separation, and how we can be a source of comfort for each other during difficult times,” guitarist Armo Armovit adds.
Vocalist and guitarist Yael Yuzon fondly recalls the inspiration behind “Lumipas Ang Tag-araw” after driving his wife to work one morning under the new normal. He remembers becoming intensely emotional out of nowhere. “It was a strange feeling: a realization about everything that has or hasn’t happened since Covid-19, which yanked us away from our usual. And at that moment, this bright and happy melody just came to me, then some words and harmonies. When I got home, I fleshed everything out and recorded a demo within a few minutes. I guess I just needed to uplift myself, so I wrote something uplifting-- something that doesn't highlight the struggle everyone has been trying to deal with during the pandemic and the lockdown.” The creative and emotional surge led to writing the initial draft of “Lumipas Ang Tag-araw”—a love song that deals with the struggles of physical connection in the time of pandemic.
“Virtual” recording
The upbeat pop-rock tune is the first song that the band arranged and recorded in the comforts of their home, without being together in the same place. Armovit shares the challenging process that transpired during the preliminary stages of the recording. “We sent demos and voice memos to each other back and forth, tweaking parts, creating variations, until we all agreed on a final arrangement. Everyone then had to record their own parts at home and send it to a communal online drive for the producer, Angee Rozul, to bring everything together for the final track.”
Under normal circumstances, Sponge Cola would usually write the song, arrange it in a rehearsal space, and record it together in a studio. But due to the nationwide lockdown imposed in the previous months, the alternative rock quartet decided to use the time and resources available at their disposal to record individually at their own place. “There was a lot of self-editing because you're not being policed by your bandmates or a producer constantly keeping tabs on possible mistakes or improvements, at least in person,” says Yael Yuzon. “It was all about laying in your parts when the song was passed on to you, and you had the responsibility to keep things right and easy for the next guy to add on to.”
Music video
According to Armovit, the lockdown-inspired music video of “Lumipas ang Tag-Araw” takes an intimate look into the fictional and real-life character’s personal worlds—their bedrooms, living spaces, confined homes—and the routine that they’re up to, in hopes of coping with the situation under quarantine. “It was also our first time working under special conditions, where we had to film all the scenes ourselves with our own phones and cameras. I'm very thankful for the help and guidance from King Palisoc, our director, and the creative ideas from his team.”
The music video will be released on August 1, Saturday via the band’s official YouTube page.
Source: Nyou
I dispatched 30 earsavers to the frontliners of Imap Lying-In Clinic, Bohol. It was a joy to crochet this batch as it coincided with a rainy weekend and Taylor Swift’s Folklore drop. The dreamy combo enabled me to crochet with ease.
Volunteering for Earsavers for Lifesavers PH has been the highlight of my quarantine so far. To help us reach more frontliners, please search for our Facebook group. Thank you and God bless!
Pia Wurtzbach interviews candidates who wish to be part of online English platform 51Talk. The live stream, with hints of a reality and talent show, aims to attract 30,000 new online English teachers to join the platform.
Manila, Philippines – 51Talk, together with their new Philippine brand ambassador, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, held its first-ever live stream interview via Facebook after hundreds of aspiring online English teachers signed-up to get a chance to be part of the show. The live stream is part of 51Talk’s campaign to invite qualified Filipinos who are interested to take advantage of the 30,000 home-based online teaching opportunities offered by 51Talk where people can teach, learn and most importantly – earn.
Listed in the New York Stock Exchange, 51Talk is the leading online English education platform that connects thousands of Filipino teachers to foreign English language learners via an interactive virtual classroom.
More than 70,000 viewers tuned in and joined the fun and inspiring live stream which allowed them to learn more about the teach at home opportunity and acquainted them with the application process that can be completed in as fast as three days. Pia interviewed nine pre-selected candidates from different backgrounds who shared their heartwarming stories on how they found hope in 51Talk after losing their jobs or livelihood.
Several of the candidates expressed how the pandemic has affected their current livelihood, especially those who belong to the travel and events industries.
Paula, a professional dancer and instructor who has been performing and teaching for 14 years, had a lot of her events and classes cancelled due to COVID-19. She came across the 51Talk online teaching opportunity and decided to give it a shot since she has teaching experience.
“I want to be able to translate my teaching skills from dance and performance arts into teaching English. I just love sharing what I know and see my students grow into the best versions of themselves,” shared Paula.
Trina, a professional events host, found herself in the same boat as a lot of her hosting gigs were cancelled or postponed indefinitely.
“While the situation we are in can be very disheartening, I decided to try out as a 51Talk teacher and I’m happy that I made it to this fun interview with no less than Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach!” exclaimed Trina. Trina gave the viewers a taste of her fun, entertaining energy as she sang songs both in English and Chinese
Pearl, another one of the candidates, candidly shared how the past few months have been very tough for those in the travel industry. She was about to return as a flight attendant after her maternity leave but her retraining was put on hold as travel restrictions are still in place. Having no income, Pearl said she had to find a stable and sustainable livelihood that would allow her to help her husband, especially now that they have their first child.
“When I learned about the opportunity in 51Talk, it gave me hope and made me revisit my childhood dream of becoming an educator,” shared Pearl. “Even if I don’t have any teaching experience, I didn’t hesitate to sign-up. I borrowed my sister’s laptop just so I could apply. I’m very excited to start teaching in 51Talk.”
According to 51Talk teacher Angelo Lex who co-hosted the show, being an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher is very profitable as he gets to earn at the comfort and safety of his own home in his preferred schedule. He also shared his excitement when he learned of the platform’s recent announcement about the 20 million pesos incentive program exclusively for 51Talk teachers this month.
Pia felt ecstatic and inspired since this is her first stint in interviewing candidates online. “It’s a humbling experience to interview such incredible candidates from all walks of life, to hear their unique stories and to witness how talented and passionate they all are,” shared Pia.
Towards the end of the show, Pia said she was moved after hearing the story of one of the candidates, Pearl, the flight attendant who borrowed her sister’s laptop just so she could sign-up to be a teacher at 51Talk. Pia surprised everyone as she decided to personally give Pearl a laptop to help her get started in her online teaching career.
“We see your hard work and we’re very sorry for what you’re going through as a young mom. I find you very engaging and who has so much potential,” said Pia.
Aspiring online English teacher Pearl became emotional when Pia Wurtzbach surprisingly announced she would give Pearl a laptop so she can start earning from home to support her family. Pearl was a flight attendant who lost her job but found hope in 51Talk.
“It’s such an honor to represent 51Talk as their brand ambassador and to be able to connect to thousands of Filipinos through this live stream. I hope it inspired them and gave them joy.”
Pia considers empowering Filipinos as her top advocacy, now more than ever when thousands of Filipinos have lost their livelihood due to the pandemic.
“I am encouraging all qualified individuals to sign-up and to seize this wonderful livelihood opportunity. See you in our next live stream!” exclaimed Pia.
Next month, 51Talk will be doing another round of interviews with a new set of candidates via their official Facebook page. To get a chance to be interviewed, showcase your talent, and have a #DateWithPiaAt51Talk, sign-up via 51Talk’s website at www.51Talk.ph.
I dispatched 100 earsavers to the frontliners of the St. Luke’s Medical Center CT Scan Department yesterday. Finishing this batch was momentous for me as it marked my 2,000th earsaver this pandemic. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve during the quarantine, and to reach my personal goal of making 2,000 earsavers for frontliners was truly special.
If you also want to donate earsavers or help out with our cause to assist frontliners by easing their discomfort, please join the Earsavers for Lifesavers PH Community. We are still in need of crafters, materials sponsors, and delivery angels.
God bless us all!
Yesterday, I visited the Padre Pio Chapel at Libis, Quezon City. The pandemic may have prevented me from hearing mass and visiting the churches that I frequent, but that does not mean that my faith has diminished. In fact, the prevalence of uncertainty has enabled me to cling to my faith and believe more in an unseen God.
I prayed, purchased dinner from Cucina di Francesco (their Italian sausage pizza and carbonara are both to die for!), and reflected on the number of ways that the pandemic has humbled me. I am still grateful to be able to do the things I enjoy. I am thankful for my family, friends, and loved ones. I am happy to still be thriving. And while there is fear at times, I know that I will be able to make it through this.
I hope that you will also find the faith that can save you during these difficult times. Take care, everyone!
(July 24, 2020 — Manila, Philippines) OPM hit-making band Juan Karlos (stylized juan karlos) channels their inner strength with their newest single, “BLESS Ü,” out on all digital and streaming worldwide this July 24, 2020 (Friday) via Island Records Philippines. The pop-R&B track delves into our collective toughness of spirit during these challenging times and hopes to ease some of our worries and fears.
The song’s uplifting message was something juan karlos strives to bring forth to the public whenever we’re faced with adversity, but more so and critically, during a health crisis with seemingly no end in sight right now. “The song, or at least the idea of it, was already made prior to the lockdown. Basically, it was just on standby. But when the pandemic happened, all gigs were cancelled,” frontman JK Labajo shares. “We thought it’d be a good idea to record something different from the music people are already familiar with from us.” While the circumstances then and now are vastly different, their intentions remain the same: finding hope. “Just hold on tight / For in the end of every tunnel / baby there’s light,” he croons.
The songwriting and recording process for “BLESS Ü” had its fair share of unique, unprecedented challenges. Completing it during the lockdown meant adjusting to several limitations. “Not all of our members have their own home setup so [doing it separately] was just not feasible,” according to JK. “But when the lockdown was lifted, we were able to record it properly.” The band welcomed the experience, knowing that ultimately, the song is bigger than their own. JK hopes for listeners to trust in our ability to overcome and that together, we’ll get through.
In just a few years that the band has been making music, they’re not one to shy away from shedding light on critical and necessary topics, often drawing from their own lived experience. “I’ve experienced depression and anxiety… and it’s really frustrating, the feeling of being down all the time,” JK describes. With “BLESS Ü,” they wanted to offer people going through the same mental health situation some comfort, to “help them feel somehow lighter,” he adds.
In addition, the band pledged part of the revenue streams of “BLESS Ü” to help fund COVID-19 relief efforts, as well as hold a special online fundraising concert to support our countrymen and connect with fans virtually.
“BLESS Ü” also follows the release of the band’s debut album Diwa and the emotionally charged single” Sampaguita,” which emphasizes the hardships faced by OFWs. A lot has changed since the album’s release, but his fearless message on these topics remains embedded in his music.
Music has always been one of the most powerful forms of culture due to its ability to rally people’s spirits. Right now, what we need is a resounding feeling of hope and compassion more than ever. If you believe that this song has that very power, then honey, God BLESS Ü.
About Juan Karlos
Juan Karlos is a Filipino band and six-time Platinum awardee signed under MCA Music composed of JK Labajo on vocals and guitar, Jeriko Aguilar on guitar, Louise Bayas on bass, and Gian Hipolito on drums. Formed in 2018, the eponymous band went under several personnel changes and ultimately released their smash hit, “Buwan” in the same year. Frontman JK Labajo shared that his solo music career is currently inactive. Hailing from Cebu, he first gained recognition as a finalist on The Voice Kids Philippines and went on to pursue a career in music and acting. Following the release of his albums under MCA Music, JK (2015) and JKL (2017), he realized that he has to stop settling and commit to what he really wants: to write, produce, and perform his own songs the way he hears it in his head and heart and be part of a band. Juan Karlos aims to “dream big or go home” and to make a mark in OPM and globally. “I want to be able to make a change, a difference,” he said. I want to show people the importance and beauty of music. I'm in music for the art, to earn in order to fund my daily needs and dreams, and for recognition so I can have reach and to be heard.”
Source: Nyou
Get to know the international record label’s roster of established and upcoming Filipino acts.
Having earned its reputation for building a music empire that housed the discovery and management of today’s most prominent legends and stars in the music industry, Island Records is finally making its way to the local shores with the launch of its first regional headquarters in Southeast Asia.
The British-Jamaican record label is looking to reinforce its position as a global powerhouse and expand its domestic reach via Island Records Philippines, the newest subsidiary based in Manila.
In a recent virtual presser last July 21, 2020 (Tuesday), Managing Director of Universal Music Philippines Enzo Valdez takes pride of the record label’s efforts in trailblazing a new era of music culture. According to him, “Island Records is an iconic label that represents creativity, adventure, and authenticity. It celebrates artistry, individuality, and style, while also amplifying the voice of the artists.”
With the record label’s initiative to give partner artists an opportunity to make history and be part of something big, expect only the best in terms of talent and artistry from its maiden roster of exciting, innovative and fresh new discoveries.
The first six members in the Island Records Philippines’ family continue to take the country by storm as they answer the call to help redefine Original Pinoy Music and stand out in the global music arena with their unique brand and authenticity.
Singer-songwriter and producer Fern and alt-pop outfit One Click Straight push their sound into new music horizons by incorporating indie and electronic sensibilities with heartfelt anthems that connect the personal with the universal. Both Lala Vinzon and Zack Tabudlo reinvent their pop past with impeccable showmanship and stylistic excursion into new musical directions. Over October heralds an easy-listening sound with cleverly crafted lyrics and emotionally resonant appeal that wouldn’t feel out of place in today’s most-streamed mood playlists. To complete the pioneering batch, multi-platinum band juan karlos plans to create an impact in the international and local music markets with the release of his newest single ““BLESS Ü.”
Island Records Philippines’ impressive roster of homegrown acts took the virtual stage on July 23 (Thursday) to give listeners a preview of their new music releases.
The 90-minute digital launch, which was streamed live via MCA Music’s Facebook and YouTube channel, was hosted by top actor and celebrity endorser Tony Labrusca, and also featured several surprise international guests from the Island Records global family such as PUBLIC, Skip Marley, Johnny Orlando, Olivier O’Brien, Keshi, Jack Ross and Banners.
About Island Records
More than 61 years from its birth in Jamaica, Island Records maintains its position as one of the world’s legendary record labels, a coveted destination for new and established artists of every description.
Today, Island is home to a varied roster across the world, from U2 to Queen, Elton John to Amy Winehouse. Its unique ethos has provided the platform for launching some of the biggest artists from across the musical spectrum, including contemporary international acts such as Shawn Mendes, Demi Lovato, Mike Posner, Bon Jovi, Mumford & Sons, Florence and the Machine, The Killers, Nick Jonas, Jessie Reyez, Bishop Briggs, Jack & Jack, Skip Marley, and many more.
Source: Nyou
If you’re one of the 1 million Filipinos leaving the country every year to seek a better life abroad, you must be full of excitement for your new adventure. With the excitement comes trepidation but here’s good news: a new book is written with you in mind! The Overseas Fabulous Pinay: A Modern Filipina’s Guide on How to Thrive Abroad by Donna Avellana Künzler is the comprehensive guide for the modern and professional Filipina determined to succeed abroad.
A native of Cavite, author Avellana Künzler has spent almost 20 years abroad in a successful career in finance. Her many adventures and misadventures across the world made her want to write a guidebook that can help her fellow Pinays conquer the world like she did. The result is The Overseas Fabulous Pinay—an easy-to-read handbook jam packed with useful tips, light-hearted anecdotes, and detailed guides on moving abroad. By the end of its 130 pages, you can expect to come up with a battle plan on how to move abroad efficiently, settle in and adjust to your new work culture, beat homesickness, and ultimately to enjoy your fabulous life overseas.
Avellana Künzler says, “Through my book, it is my goal to empower Filipina women by sharing my knowledge and years of experience of living abroad. My aim is to inspire and uplift the image of Overseas Filipina Women by being a role model to show that living abroad can be an enlightening and rewarding experience.”
This book is truly relevant for all its practical tips to not just survive abroad but to thrive as well. You will be equipped with useful information to create a fabulous life overseas—from a list of survival skills and necessary documents to compassionate advice on how to overcome homesickness and make new friends in your new home.
Critics agree! On June 3, 2020, the Nonfiction Authors Association honored The Overseas Fabulous Pinay with a GOLD AWARD in its Nonfiction Book Awards.* The official editorial review notes of the debut book of Avellana Künzler: “This is a really up-beat book that is helpful and inspiring for anyone considering moving overseas. It has lots of tips, lists and questions to consider both before and after a move.”
More than just helping professional Filipinas moving abroad, Avellana Künzler also wants to focus on uplifting Pinays here. She says, “I want to use my author platform to support my advocacies on education, women empowerment, and the promotion of Philippine indigenous products which support local communities and the well-being of Filipinos overseas.” To support this cause, part of the proceeds from the book sales of The Overseas Fabulous Pinay will be donated to the Assumption Mission Schools.
The Overseas Fabulous Pinay: A Modern Filipina’s Guide on How to Thrive Abroad by Donna Avellana Künzler is available at major online book retailers Barnes & Noble, Kobo and Amazon for P750. Check www.ovfabpinay.com for announcements for book events and to get to know the author more through her blog. Be part of the #ovfabpinay Facebook community [www.facebook.com/ovfabpinay] and follow @ovfabpinay on Instagram [www.instagram.com/ovfabpinay] for more updates.
About the Author
DONNA AVELLANA KÜNZLER was born and raised in Cavite, Philippines. An accounting degree holder and Information Technology Auditor/Consultant for most of her career, her #ovfabpinay life started in 2001 when she relocated to Singapore for work. She continued her adventures in the US (San Jose, California) and then across the pond in the UK (London) before finally ending up in Switzerland (Basel and then Zurich). She works for a Swiss global company, and is responsible for finance process governance and standardisation in the finance organization. She and her husband currently live in Zurich where she is transitioning from #ovfabpinay to #ovfabpinaymom with the recent addition of their daughter to the family. The Overseas Fabulous Pinay: A Modern Filipina’s Guide on How to Thrive Abroad is her first book.
I dispatched 150 earsavers to the Rizal District Hospital at Palawan. Volunteering as a crocheter during the pandemic has given me the opportunity to help our frontliners who bravely put their lives at risk just to heal the sick. Their resilience inspires me to keep going amidst these chaotic times.
It is also through crochet that I was able to find inner peace and strength.
To help us reach more frontliners, please consider joining the Earsavers for Lifesavers PH group. We need more crafters, delivery angels, and materials sponsors.
Stay safe and God bless us all!
I dispatched 100 earsavers to the ER frontliners of St. Vincent General Hospital, Cebu City. I am grateful for this opportunity to help this region again, which is currently the center of Covid-19 in the country.
Crocheting for our frontliners has given this quarantine season a sense of purpose. Lately, I’ve been taking longer breaks in between batches because I need to rest my wrists. I’m sure that my Earsavers for Lifesavers PH team would understand.
To support our cause by being a crafter, materials sponsor, or delivery angel, please follow Earsavers for Lifesavers PH on Facebook.
Stay safe, everyone!
I dispatched 100 earsavers to the frontliners of the Makati Medical Center’s Cath lab, NCV ICU, and Telemetry departments. It was an honor to serve these brave men and women who risk their lives everyday to keep us safe from the Covid-19 virus.
As more establishments open their doors to the public once again, and more people return to work, let us not forget to stay cautious as the virus is still upon us. Always wash your hands, practice social distancing, and wear a face mask. Let us not increase the heavy burden that our healthcare frontliners are already carrying.
To continue our advocacy of dispatching more earsavers to frontliners, please connect with us at the Earsavers for Lifesavers PH Community. We are constantly in need of crafters, delivery angels, and materials sponsors.
Stay safe, everyone!
R&B/soul singer-songwriter Gail Belmonte has released her debut single ‘Tonight’, via Singapore-based indie label Umami Records.
A chill track with that feel-good fairy dust sprinkled on top, ‘Tonight’ is about enjoying the night, slowing down and taking the time to soak in its magical beauty.
“I’m quite the night owl and work best during the nighttime, so I decided to write a whole song about how much I love the night,” Gail shares the details about her new song. “In writing ‘Tonight’, I felt a sense of safety in the night, and I wanted to portray that in the most comfortable and magical way possible - and that’s throwing a bit of love in there. The most important thing to me is that it’s completely okay to feel vulnerable on your own in the dark of night, and it is okay to slow down every once in a while and let the night time take over.”
Gail’s voice is a formidable instrument that fits the song’s easygoing charm and brimming sensuality. Her singing style works pretty well in the context of flowy arrangements and vintage sounds, and it somehow finds fascinating corners within Tonight’s urban pop appeal.
Born and raised in Singapore, of Filipino descent, Gail Belmonte started singing and performing from an early age, and has won and appeared in numerous singing competitions in Singapore and Philippines since 2016. The upcoming singer-songwriter made her theatre debut in Pangdemonium’s staging of the Tony award-winning musical, Fun Home, in 2017.
Gail Belmonte has been featured on tracks by artists like fulses, thecolorfractal, Fingerfunk and Tim De Cotta. The R&B artist is finally ready to put out her own music with 3 singles planned for release in 2020, in which she explores the effects of love, heartache, falling apart and putting yourself back together again.
Tonight by Gail Belmonte is available everywhere at this link: https://www.umamirecords.sg/tonight/
Source: Nyou
